Evaluation of a shape memory alloy reinforced annuloplasty band for minimally invasive mitral valve repair.
OBJECTIVE
An in vitro study using explanted porcine hearts was conducted to evaluate a novel annuloplasty band, reinforced with a two-phase, shape memory alloy, designed specifically for minimally invasive mitral valve repair.


METHODS
In its rigid (austenitic) phase, this band provides the same mechanical properties as the commercial semi-rigid bands. In its compliant (martensitic) phase, this band is flexible enough to be introduced through an 8-mm trocar and is easily manipulated within the heart.


RESULTS
In its rigid phase, the prototype band displayed similar mechanical properties to commercially available semi-rigid rings. Dynamic flow testing demonstrated no statistical differences in the reduction of mitral valve regurgitation. In its flexible phase, the band was easily deployed through an 8-mm trocar, robotically manipulated and sutured into place.


CONCLUSIONS
Experimental results suggest that the shape memory alloy reinforced band could be a viable alternative to flexible and semi-rigid bands in minimally invasive mitral valve repair.
Purser
Molly F
MF
Edward P Fitts Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695, USA.
Richards
Andrew L
AL
Cook
Richard C
RC
Osborne
Jason A
JA
Cormier
Denis R
DR
Buckner
Gregory D
GD
D000818:Animals; D004195:Disease Models, Animal; D006350:Heart Valve Prosthesis; D019918:Heart Valve Prosthesis Implantation / Q000295:instrumentation*; D008422:Materials Testing / Q000379:methods*; D019060:Minimally Invasive Surgical Procedures / Q000379:methods*; D008944:Mitral Valve Insufficiency / Q000601:surgery*; D008962:Models, Theoretical; D011474:Prosthesis Design; D012371:Robotics; D013552:Swine