Finite element simulations explore a novel strategy for surgical repair of congenital aortic valve insufficiency

Abstract

For aortic valve reconstruction in the child, techniques are favored that minimize the introduction of foreign material and graft tissues that do not grow with the child. In this study we use computer simulation to study a potential method for conservatively repairing an aortic valve that is regurgitant due to a congenitally undersized leaflet. The surgical approach consists of resecting portions of the aortic root in order to allow the valve leaflets to close completely. We use a structural finite element model of the aortic valve to simulate valve closure following different strategies for resecting portions of the aortic root (e.g., triangular versus rectangular resection). Results show that rectangular resection of the root is able to eliminate regurgitation and produce a viable repair.