One of the concepts recently quoted in a meeting was that one should look at using relatively cheaper heart valves on the shelf, rather than go for a more expensive valve, even though it may be the "Ferrari" of valves. What are your thoughts on this?
That's a tough one, 'cause price of valves varies, according to several factors: a) total amount of valves sold to your institution/ group, b) country (even local area or region) where you practice, c) time-frame of payment (hospital to company), d) whether the company/ agent sells other fungibles or expendables to your hospital/ group (can afford to sell cheaper valves if fringe benefits on other entries, i.e. pacemakers).
The center I work in buys mechanicals (SJM, Carbomedix) for somewhere in between 2500 and 2800 Euro, slightly less for BPV's (periardial or porcine). Then again, this is a public institution, with all nuances you might think of. These are well-functioning valves, beyond all doubt, as are ATS, On-X and most BPV's.
Choose your pick of both types, at least two providers on each, and be confident and comfortable with them.
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