The use of bioprosthetic valves fabricated from fixed heterograft tissue (porcine aortic valves
or bovine pericardium) in heart valve replacement surgery is limited because of calcification-
related failures. The mechanism of calcification of bioprosthetic valves is quite complex and
has a variety of determinants, including host factors, tissue fixation conditions, and
mechanical effects. Currently, there is no effective therapy to prevent calcification in clinical
settings. This article reviews a variety of anticalcification strategies that are under …