In silico modelling of aortic valve implants - predicting in vitro performance using finite element analysis

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Cardiovascular Device Development
• Computational Fluid Dynamics

Background:

• Traditional valve development relies heavily on iterative in vitro testing.
• Finite element analysis (FEA) is underutilized for predicting hemodynamic performance.
• Optimizing valve design requires balancing structural and hemodynamic factors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate the predictive capability of FEA for in vitro hydrodynamic performance of tri-leaflet aortic valves.
• To establish correlations between in silico parameters and in vitro hydrodynamic measurements.
• To reduce reliance on extensive trial-and-error prototyping in valve design.

Main Methods:

• Designed and manufactured multiple tri-leaflet aortic valve variations from synthetic polymer.
• Conducted in vitro hydrodynamic testing using a pulsatile flow rig (ISO 5840).
• Developed in silico FEA models concurrently with physical prototypes.

Main Results:

• Identified leaflet coaptation area as a predictor for regurgitant fraction.
• Geometric orifice area correlated with effective orifice area.
• Opening pressure effectively predicted transvalvular pressure drop.

Conclusions:

• FEA offers a valuable tool for predicting key hydrodynamic parameters of tri-leaflet aortic valves.
• In silico surrogate measures can accurately indicate in vitro performance.
• FEA can streamline the aortic valve development process, enhancing efficiency.