Development of a Simple Analytical Model to Facilitate Preoperative Surgical Planning in Valve-Sparing Aortic Root Replacement.

Purpose: Valve-sparing root replacement (VSRR) is attractive for aortic root dilation as it preserves the native aortic valve (AoV). Low effective height (eH) after reconstruction is a risk factor for repair failure and reoperation. We developed and validated a quantitative AoV repair strategy to reliably restore normal valve proportions to promote long-term function.

Fiberscope-Based Measurement of Coaptation Height for Intraoperative Assessment of Mitral Valve Repair.

Background: Restoring adequate coaptation height is a key principle of mitral valve (MV) repair. This study aimed to evaluate the utility of fiberscope (FS) technology to assess MV coaptation height for intraoperative use.

Methods: Ex-vivo testing was performed on five adult porcine hearts.

Mechanical failure analysis of patch materials used in aortic arch reconstruction: implications for clinical practice.

Objectives: Thick-patch pulmonary homograft, autologous pericardium and CardioCel Neo are common patch materials for aortic arch reconstruction. Insufficient data exist on sutured patch strength and limits of use. We evaluated failure strength of these materials to develop a failure prediction model for clinical guidance.