Dynamic response of closed bioprosthetic valve leaflets

Abstract The dynamic response of the leaflets of a closed bioprosthetic valve was determined using triangular shell elements. The damping ratio of the system was estimated using a one-dimensional spring-mass system and was found to be 0.02. This damping ratio was used in estimating the transient response of the three-dimensional leaflets that occurs due to the normal pressure gradient during diastole. The maximal deflection with a Young's modulus of 600 kPa was 3.71 mm. Stiffening of the leaflet was shown to reduce the maximal deflection. A perforation in one of the leaflets (20% area of a single leaflet) did not change the response appreciably.