As the worldwide leader in heart valve replacement and repair, Edwards is redefining the state of the art and driving the continuing shift to tissue valves based on their  significant quality-of-life advantages over mechanical valves. The latest addition to our portfolio is the Carpentier-Edwards PERIMOUNT Magna aortic heart valve, launched in Europe and Canada in 2002, with a U.S. approval expected in 2003. Because of their proven durability and performance, Edwards’ PERIMOUNT pericardial tissue valves are particularly welcomed by patients who wish to maintain their normal active lifestyles. The Perimount Magna valve incorporates technological advancements gained in Edwards’ 20 years of pericardial experience, resulting in a valve uniquely engineered for maximized blood flow for an individual patient’s anatomy. The Perimount Magna valve illustrates Edwards’ continuing commitment to develop innovative heart valve therapies for clinicians and their patients. S14