title: Evaluation of a shape memory alloy reinforced annuloplasty band for minimally invasive mitral valve repair.
abstract: 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.
authors.affiliation: Edward P Fitts Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695, USA.
authors.forename: Molly F
authors.initials: MF
authors.lastname: Purser
authors.forename: Andrew L
authors.initials: AL
authors.lastname: Richards
authors.forename: Richard C
authors.initials: RC
authors.lastname: Cook
authors.forename: Jason A
authors.initials: JA
authors.lastname: Osborne
authors.forename: Denis R
authors.initials: DR
authors.lastname: Cormier
authors.forename: Gregory D
authors.initials: GD
authors.lastname: Buckner
mesh_terms: 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