Study of in vitro mitral valve filling flow

Diastolic function is a good indicator of overall cardiac health. This study is in support of a non-invasive technique to measure diastolic function. Interpretation of mitral flow, and early diagnosis of normality or dysfunction, can be enhanced by improved understanding of the fluid dynamics. A simple in-vitro model of mitral flow is being used to illustrate vortex dynamics associated with diastolic inflow. A range of tailored mitral flow waveforms are being developed to mimic normal velocity profiles. Laser Doppler velocimetry (LDV) is being used to measure the flow speed. By combining flow visualization, particle image velocimetry and LDV, vortex ring signatures including size, circulation, and propagation speed are being examined as possible metrics for diastolic dysfunction. The detection of these signatures in the downstream flow will be compared to clinical waveforms derived from Doppler ultrasound.