Geometric Optimization of a Tissue Pattern for Semilunar Valve Reconstruction
James G. Hanlon MS, Robert W. Suggit BS, Evan Gibbs MS,
Robert M. McMeeking PhD, Jack W. Love DPhil

The challenge of geometric optimization is to define a two-dimensional tissue pattern that can be transformed into a three-dimensional semilunar valve reconstruction. An initial requirement of any biomaterial chosen for the reconstruction is sufficient plasticity to accommodate the deformations and large strains required of such a transformation. Pericardium, a biomaterial used successfully for valve repair and construction, meets that requirement. Using computer-assisted design (CAD), it has been possible to create optimized two-dimensional geometry for a tissue pattern that will deform under loading into three-dimensional semilunar valve geometry suitable for reconstruction of a diseased native valve. The key requirements for the optimization work have been knowledge of normal valve anatomy and a translation of that anatomy to a two-dimensional shape that takes into account the compliance of lightly tanned pericardium.