Laboratory Assessment of the Design, Function, and Durability of Pericardial Bioprostheses

The design, function, and durability of four pericardial bioprostheses have been studied in the laboratory. Variations in design and construction affected both the pressure difference across the valves and the leaflet dynamics. In the durability tests tissue failure was found in all valves, with tears at the edge of the leaflets caused by abrasion on the cloth-covered inner frames. In the Ionescu–Shiley standard valves, tears were also detected at the coaption sutures. These results have been compared with failure modes in explanted clinical valves.