Innovation and Challenges in Materials for Transcatheter Aortic Valves

Transcatheter Aortic valve implantation (TAVI) procedure has been revolutionizing the Aortic Stenosis (AS) treatment over the last 20 years, because of its minimally invasive approach and fast postoperative recovery. However, innovation in valve material compatible with TAVI procedure present significant challenges, as they must endure the demanding conditions of catheter-based delivery. This review outlines the fundamental material requirements and challenges in the design and manufacturing of TAVI valves. It compares the existing TAVI devices made from animal tissues and polymers, and identifies the key factors that are limiting their adoption for widespread clinical use. While biological valves remain the predominant choice in current clinical TAVI practice, major future innovation is likely to arise from advances in polymer science aimed at overcoming the key limitations like calcification and limited durability. Fully polymeric valve systems are still at an early stage of development, but they hold considerable long-term potential due to their tunable mechanical properties, resistance to calcification, and potential for scalable manufacturing, that could revolutionize the field.