
8
Additional Equipment:
•
20 cc syringe or larger (x2)
•
50 cc syringe or larger
•
High-pressure 3-way stopcock (x2)
•
Standard cardiac catheterization lab equipment
•
Fluoroscopy (fixed, mobile or semi-mobile fluoroscopy systems appropriate for use in percutaneous
coronary interventions)
•
Transesophageal or transthoracic echocardiography capabilities
•
Exchange length 0.035 inch (0.89 mm) extra-stiff guidewire
•
Temporary pacemaker (PM) and pacing lead
•
Sterile rinsing basins, physiological saline, heparinized saline, 15% diluted radiopaque contrast
medium
•
Sterile table for valve and device preparation
7.2 Valve Handling and Preparation
Follow sterile technique during device preparation and implantation.
7.2.1 Valve Rinsing Procedure
Before opening the valve jar, carefully examine for evidence of damage (e.g. a cracked jar or lid, leakage,
or broken or missing seals).
CAUTION: Valves from containers found to be damaged, leaking, without adequate sterilant, or
missing intact seals must not be used for implantation.
Step
Procedure
1
Set up two (2) sterile bowls with at least 500 mL of sterile physiological saline to thoroughly rinse the
glutaraldehyde sterilant from the valve.
2
Carefully remove the valve/holder assembly from the jar without touching the tissue. Verify the valve
serial identification number with the number on the jar lid and record in the patient information
documents. Inspect the valve for any signs of damage to the frame or tissue.
3
Rinse the valve as follows: Place the valve in the first bowl of sterile, physiological saline. Be sure the
saline solution completely covers the valve and holder. With the valve and holder submerged, slowly
agitate (to gently swirl the valve and holder) back and forth for a minimum of 1 minute. Transfer the
valve and holder to the second rinsing bowl of physiological saline and gently agitate for at least one
more minute. Ensure the rinse solution in the first bowl is not used. The valve should be left in the final
rinse solution until needed to prevent the tissue from drying.
CAUTION: Do not allow the valve to come into contact with the bottom or sides of the rinse bowl
during agitation or swirling in the rinse solution. Direct contact between the identification tag and
valve is also to be avoided during the rinse procedure. No other objects should be placed in the rinse
bowls. The valve should be kept hydrated to prevent the tissue from drying.
7.2.2 Prepare the Components
Refer to the Edwards Dilator Kit, Edwards Expandable Introducer Sheath Set, Edwards Crimper and
Edwards Balloon Catheter instructions for use for device preparation.
Step
Procedure
1
Visually inspect all components for damage. Ensure the N delivery system is fully unflexed and
the valve alignment wheel is adjacent to the handle.
2
Flush the flex catheter.
3
Carefully remove the distal balloon cover from the delivery system.