Protocol for Relative Hydrodynamic Assessment of Tri-leaflet Polymer Valves

作者： Sharan Ramaswamy1, Manuel Salinas1, Rob Carrol2, Karla Landaburo1, Xavier Ryans1, Cynthia Crespo1, Ailyn Rivero1, Faris Al-Mousily3,4, Curt DeGroff3, Mark Bleiweis3, Hitomi Yamaguchi2 1Tissue Engineered Mechanics, Imaging and Materials Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering,Florida International University, 2Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering,University of Florida , 3College of Medicine,University of Florida , 4King Faisal Specialty Hospital and Research Center,Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

简介：

Overview

This study demonstrates the feasibility of modifying a commercial pulse duplicator to accommodate tri-leaflet polymer heart valves. It also defines a protocol for evaluating hydrodynamic metrics of these valves in comparison to native and mechanical valves.

Key Study Components

Area of Science

• Biomedical Engineering
• Cardiovascular Devices
• Hydrodynamics

Background

• Emerging polymer heart valve technologies require thorough evaluation.
• Hydrodynamic metrics are critical for assessing valve performance.
• Existing methods may not adequately cover the complexities involved.
• Understanding these metrics can lead to improved prosthetic designs.

Purpose of Study

• To modify a pulse duplicator for tri-leaflet valve testing.
• To establish a protocol for hydrodynamic assessment.
• To compare polymer valves with native and mechanical counterparts.

Methods Used

• Assembly of a valve holder and tube for tri-leaflet configuration.
• Suturing polymer valves and preparing for hydrodynamic testing.
• Calibration of the pulse duplicator system with saline and glycerin solutions.
• Testing of native porcine and mechanical valves for validation.

Main Results

• The modified pulse duplicator effectively evaluates polymer valve hydrodynamics.
• Insights gained can inform future polymer valve designs.
• Challenges in methodology highlight the need for specialized training.
• The study provides a foundation for further research in valve prosthetics.

Conclusions

• Hydrodynamic assessment is crucial for the development of polymer valves.
• Modified systems can bridge gaps in current evaluation techniques.
• Future work should focus on refining these methods for broader application.

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