Novel stent design for percutaneous aortic valve replacement

Abstract

Background: Vascular support structures are important devices for treating valve stenosis. Large population of patients are treated for valvular disease and the principal mode of treatment is the use of Percutaneous Valvuloplasty. Stent devices are proving to be an improved technology in minimal invasive cardiac surgery. This stent technology now accounts for 20% of treatments in Europe. This new technology provides highly Effective results at minimal cost and short duration of hospitalization. Methods: This paper discusses the design of vascular support structures (stents) for Percutaneous Aortic Valve Replacement. The improved model design was carried out to meet the functional and surgical requirements. Results: Different geometrical models were generated and their physical, mechanical and behavioral properties were studied. Structural analysis and simulation of these models enhanced the designer to optimize the geometry suitable for performance during and after implantation. Conclusion: The blunt hooks discussed in the designs enable the aorta to take the shape of the stent thus preventing its migration in either directions without injuring its endothelium. The stent port size prevents obstruction of the coronary blood flow. Future studies will determine if this novel stent design will fulfill the unmet clinical needs in Percutaneous Aortic Valve Replacement. © 2008 Springer-Verlag.