[Computerized hydrodynamic system "Flow" for testing artificial heart valves]

The computerized mock circulation system is described for analyzing the hydrodynamic characteristics of artificial heart valves. Flow studies have been carried out on 6 mechanical valves of various types. The volumetric flow, pressure upstream and downstream were measured and the mean systolic pressure drop and energy losses were calculated. The commercial model of the EMIKS valve shows much lower values of pressure drop and one of the smallest value of energy losses among the tested artificial heart valves.