Computational fluid dynamics insights in the design of mechanical heart valves.

Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis can provide detailed, three-dimensional predictions of blood flow through mechanical heart valves, which can help to optimize valve hemodynamics and reduce the potential for blood clotting. A number of CFD studies, considering both forward and retrograde flow through valves, have been published. In this paper, a geometrically accurate CFD model capable of predicting the three-dimensional, time-dependent flow through an open ATS bileaflet valve is presented.