Intra-annular hemispherical frame for aortic valve geometry reconstruction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for repairing aortic valves, such as supra- or infra-annular rings, are not effective for long-term improvement and often require complex surgical procedures, as they do not accurately account for the three-dimensional geometry of the aortic valve, leading to potential worsening of valve leaks and distortion of valve cusps.
Innovation Solution
An intra-annular hemispherical mounting frame is designed to match the three-dimensional anatomy of the aortic valve, with curvatures and interconnecting points that restore normal cusp and commissure relationships, allowing for proper coaptation, and can be implanted using various materials and techniques to ensure valve competence.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If supra- or infra-annular rings are used for aortic valve repair, then the procedure can be performed, but the three-dimensional geometry of the aortic valve is not accurately accounted for, leading to potential worsening of valve leaks and distortion of valve cusps
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting frame employs a hemispherical curvature that precisely matches the three-dimensional anatomy of the aortic valve annulus. This spherical geometry allows the frame to conform to the natural curvature of the valve, accurately restoring cusp and commissure relationships without distorting valve structure, thereby maintaining valve competence while achieving geometric precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting frame is designed with specific geometric parameters including a hemispherical shape with a diameter of approximately 20-25mm and a height of approximately 5-10mm. These parameter changes from traditional flat or cylindrical rings enable the frame to accurately replicate the three-dimensional geometry of the aortic valve, preventing valve leak worsening and cusp distortion.
2Length of stationary object
If traditional annuloplasty rings are used, then the annular circumference can be reduced, but the entire annulus is not fixed and further dilatation and recurrent aortic insufficiency can occur
Solution Approach 1:
The hemispherical mounting frame provides three-dimensional stabilization of the entire aortic annulus by conforming to its natural curvature. Unlike traditional rings that only address circumference, the spherical geometry distributes support across the entire annular structure, preventing further dilatation and recurrent aortic insufficiency while maintaining reduced annular circumference.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting frame is constructed from composite materials combining a rigid hemispherical support structure with flexible attachment mechanisms. This composite design allows the frame to provide stable annular support while adapting to the dynamic nature of the heart, ensuring long-term fixation of the entire annulus against dilatation.
3Manufacturing precision
If an intra-annular hemispherical mounting frame is implanted, then the aortic valve geometry can be reconstructed with proper three-dimensional relationships, but the surgical procedure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The hemispherical mounting frame's simple spherical geometry, while providing complex three-dimensional valve reconstruction, actually simplifies the surgical procedure. The uniform curvature allows for straightforward positioning and alignment within the aortic annulus, reducing surgical complexity despite achieving precise valve geometry reconstruction.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting frame serves multiple functions simultaneously: it reconstructs valve geometry, stabilizes the annulus, supports cusp coaptation, and prevents recurrent dilatation. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require multiple separate devices or procedures, reducing overall surgical complexity while achieving comprehensive valve repair.
Data Source
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Figure 2b~2c
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AI summary
An intra-annular mounting frame (10) useful for, inter alia, restoring the geometry of a valve to achieve proper coaptation. Intra-annular hemispherical mounting frame (10) is inserted into the aortic valve annulus and provides for the reconstruction of the native aortic valve. Intra-annular hemispherical mounting frame (10) includes a plurality of curvatures (12) and also interconnecting points (14). Generally, curvature (12) conforms to the annular cusp geometry with interconnecting points (14) conforming to the geometry of the commissures. Curvatures (12) curve in about a first plane and a second plane of hemispherical mounting frame (10) to correspond to the three-dimensional geometry of the cusps of an aortic valve.