Evaluation of a shape memory alloy reinforced annuloplasty band for minimally invasive mitral valve repair.

Full Abstract

PURPOSE: An in vitro study using explanted porcine hearts was conducted to evaluate a novel annuloplasty band, reinforced with a two-phase, shape memory alloy, designed specifically for minimally invasive mitral valve repair. DESCRIPTION: In its rigid (austenitic) phase, this band provides the same mechanical properties as the commercial semi-rigid bands. In its compliant (martensitic) phase, this band is flexible enough to be introduced through an 8-mm trocar and is easily manipulated within the heart. EVALUATION: In its rigid phase, the prototype band displayed similar mechanical properties to commercially available semi-rigid rings. Dynamic flow testing demonstrated no statistical differences in the reduction of mitral valve regurgitation. In its flexible phase, the band was easily deployed through an 8-mm trocar, robotically manipulated and sutured into place. CONCLUSIONS: Experimental results suggest that the shape memory alloy reinforced band could be a viable alternative to flexible and semi-rigid bands in minimally invasive mitral valve repair.

Author information

Author/s: Purser, Molly F (MF); Richards, Andrew L (AL); Cook, Richard C (RC); Osborne, Jason A (JA); Cormier, Denis R (DR); Buckner, Gregory D (GD);

Affiliation: Edward P Fitts Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695, USA.

Grants: 1 R01 HL075489-03A1 (Agency:NHLBI NIH HHS)

Journal and publication information

Publication Type: Evaluation Studies; Journal Article; Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

Journal: The Annals of thoracic surgery (Ann Thorac Surg), published in Netherlands. (Language: eng)

Reference: 2009-Oct; vol 88 (issue 4) : pp 1312-6

Dates: Created 2009/09/21; Completed 2009/10/08;

PMID: 19766827, status: MEDLINE (last retrieval date: 10/8/2009, IMS Date: )

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