Biomedical Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
possibility to perform complex MV repair; however, a deeper investigation of the
biomechanical effects associated with different NCIs is necessary since, as high-
lighted, the magnitude and distribution of mechanical stress on MV leaflets proved
to be technique-dependent, potentially impacting on the mid- and long- term the
surgical outcome of the procedure.
The proposed FEM approach may represent a useful tool of investigation in order
to elucidate the biomechanical effects of different NCIs: biomechanical information
about MV functional improvements after NCI may help surgeons to determine the
proper surgical approach to MVP repair according to each clinical scenario, thus
improving and optimizing the clinical application of NCI techniques.
5 Conclusions
The presented approach offers a deeper insight into the biomechanical aspects
involved in MVP repair: apart from the “macroscopic” assessment of the coaptation
area and length, FE models may provide physicians with a detailed quantification
of MV biomechanics after NCIs; highlighted biomechanical differences in post-
operative models may potentially impact on the clinical outcome of the procedure
and promoting, if extensively and successfully tested, a patient-specific optimization
of NCI techniques for MVP repair.
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