Dr. Magdi Yacoub Is Making History! Patients Could Be Fitted With Heart Valves Which Grows In The Body

Malak Nazir

Dr. Magdi Yacoub is literally breaking through history!

Heart patients might soon have a reason to celebrate—thanks to a groundbreaking discovery led by renowned heart surgeon Professor Sir Magdi Yacoub. Imagine heart valves that grow naturally inside the body, eliminating the need for repeated surgeries. Sounds like science fiction? Not anymore!

Dr. Magdi Yacoub’s team has developed temporary heart valve scaffolds made of fibers, which are implanted into the body. Over time, these scaffolds dissolve, leaving behind a fully functional, living valve made entirely of the patient’s own tissue.

Are the current heart valve treatments an issue? If so, why?

Today’s treatments for damaged heart valves are far from perfect. Valves taken from cows, pigs, or human donors typically last about 10 years and may still be rejected by the body’s immune system. Mechanical valves are another option, but they require patients to take blood-thinning medications for life.

The challenge is even greater for children with heart defects. As their bodies grow, traditional valves can’t grow with them, leading to repeated surgeries. Sir Magdi’s innovation offers a valve that grows with the patient, potentially solving this long-standing issue.

Biology is magical! It almost doesn’t sound real

Reflecting on this breakthrough, Sir Magdi Yacoub emphasized the beauty of natural design. “I always say that nature is the greatest technology. It’s so superior to anything we can make. Once something is alive—whether it’s a cell, a tissue, or a valve—it adapts by itself. Biology is like magic.”

Big things are coming soon!

With human trials set to start soon, this innovation could completely transform how we treat heart valve disease. From children born with defects to older adults suffering from heart complications, living heart valves may offer a safer, longer-lasting, and more natural solution.

For now, all eyes—and hearts—are on Sir Magdi Yacoub and his team as they prepare to test their life-changing discovery. The future of heart health has never looked so promising!

Next: Top 5 Hidden Gems in Egypt to Explore This Winter

Shopping
See more
More like this

Support Lovin

Loyal Lovin readers can support Lovin so we can continue to share the stories of all amazing cities

Minimum custom amount to enter is AED 2

By donating, you agree to the Privacy Policy and Terms of Service