Shortness of breath, dizziness and a feeling of pressure in the chest – if the pockets, or leaflets of the aortic valve no longer open sufficiently for the blood to flow, it is known as aortic valve stenosis. This heart defect can only be treated with an artificial aortic valve. The Italian company Corcym from Saluggia uses its extensive expertise to produce the implants, helping people to improve their quality of life and saving lives. Tolerances in the micron range and materials that are difficult to machine are the order of the day for the production of these small marvels. In order to machine them productively, the company relies on tools from HORN and technical advice from Febametal.