NiTi-Cu Bimetallic Structure Fabrication through Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing.

This study endeavors to comprehensively explore and elucidate the seamless integration of NiTi shape memory alloys (SMAs) into multifaceted applications through the utilization of novel joining techniques. The primary focus lies in the utilization of wire arc additive manufacturing (WAAM) to deposit Nitinol (NiTi) onto Copper (Cu), thereby introducing a transformative approach for their integration into electro-mechanical systems and beyond. Through a detailed examination of the NiTi/Cu bimetallic junction, using advanced analytical techniques including SEM, XRD, and DSC analyses, this research aims to unravel the intricate complexities inherent within the interface.

Mechanical Properties, Microstructure, and Actuation Behavior of Wire Arc Additive Manufactured Nitinol: Titanium Bimetallic Structures.

Nitinol (NiTi) is well known for its corrosion resistance, shape memory effect, superelasticity, and biocompatibility, whereas Titanium (Ti) is well known for its high specific strength, corrosion resistance, and biocompatibility. The bimetallic joint of NiTi and Ti is required for applications that require tailored properties at different locations within the same component, as well as to increase design flexibility while reducing material costs. However, because of the formation of brittle intermetallic phases, connecting NiTi and Ti is difficult.

Bicuspid Morphology and Rapid Deployment Valve Replacement: Is This Still a Contraindication?

When using rapid deployment surgical aortic valve replacement (RD SAVR) in treating bicuspid aortic valve morphology (BAV), several challenges are faced due to annular asymmetry. The Sievers classification has been traditionally used for the description of BAV morphology. In this study, we aimed to conduct a retrospective feasibility analysis of RD SAVR in relation to the Sievers classification.

Evaluation of a rapid deployment prosthesis strategy for the treatment of aortic valve endocarditis.

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the surgical outcome of patients suffering from native aortic valve (NVE) or prosthetic aortic valve endocarditis (PVE) treated with the EDWARDS INTUITY Elite rapid-deployment valve prosthesis.

Methods: Between February 2019 and June 2020, 25 patients suffering from NVE (n = 9; 36%) and PVE (n = 16; 64%) of the aortic valve received an INTUITY valve at our institution. Preoperative, operative and follow-up data were collected.

Interdisciplinary Management of the Emergency Treatment in an Atrioesophageal Fistula.

The atrioesophageal fistula is a fulminant complication of radiofrequency ablation in atrial fibrillation, with a mortality as high as 80%. Surgical approaches have been insufficiently dealt with in literature. Treating a 42-year-old male patient, we developed an interdisciplinary two-step concept: (1) resection of the affected third of the esophagus and closing of the atrial defect using cardiopulmonary bypass and cardioplegic cardiac arrest; and (2) a second surgery to restore gastrointestinal continuity after an adequate term.