Impact of tricuspid annuloplasty device shape and size on valve mechanics—a computational study

The Texas TriValve 1.0, a high-fidelity patient-specific model of the human tricuspid valve, was modified to induce functional tricuspid regurgitation. Twenty-four virtual annuloplasty surgeries were conducted to investigate the impact of device shape and size on repair outcomes. The contoured devices were better at restoring end-systolic leaflet angles whereas the flat device maximized coaptation area and minimized leaflet stress and chordal forces. In all virtual repairs, annuloplasty device shape and size had a significant impact on tricuspid valve mechanics.