Computer simulation: a diagnostic method in comparative studies of valve prostheses.
Computer simulation was used to compare flow characteristics through Starr-Edwards and Björk-Shiley valves in the mitral and aortic positions. Pressure and velocity determinations were mathematically computed with the use of a model based on the recognition that blood is a non-Newtonian fluid. The results were displayed in two-dimensional graphic form. In both the mitral and aortic positions the Björk-Shiley prosthesis showed a more favorable laminar flow pattern, producing fewer eddies and smaller pressure and velocity gradients through the occluder. Computer simulation is a valuable adjunct in the comparative testing of the hemodynamic properties of artificial heart valves and offers several advantages over physical simulators.
D001021:Aortic Valve / Q000502:physiology; D003201:Computers; D006350:Heart Valve Prosthesis; D006439:Hemodynamics; D006801:Humans; D008943:Mitral Valve / Q000502:physiology; D012212:Rheology