Numerical Simulation of the Dynamics of Heart Valves: A Literature Review

Abstract

Imaging techniques allow the visualization of the heart valves, but do not yields any information regarding the load applied to the heart valve information that provides key clues to the cause of valve deterioration. Numerical simulation, which is able to replicate and understand the dynamics of the valve, would benefit studies on heart valves surgical repair and prostheses design. Modeling and simulation of heart valves dynamics is a challenging biomechanical problem. Many researchers have taken various approaches to model the heart valve. But systematical categorization and development tendency of their research have never been discussed before. This paper reviews their models and divides them into wet models or dry models, in the light of whether considering blood flow and valve interaction. These simulations also can be categorized as native heart valve or artificial heart valve simulation by a different model prototype. The critical issues for future research are presented.