Human and Porcine Marginal Chordal Forces in a Vacuum Based Physiological In Vitro Mitral Valve Model

Introduction This study aimed to quantitatively investigate the role of marginal chordae of the mitral valve during static closure by analyzing the force within these chordae and its potential correlation with the transvalvular pressure. Materials and Methods Porcine (n = 10) and human (n = 4) mitral valves were mounted in a saddle-shaped annulus clamp, while an in vitro system was utilized to replicate a physiological systolic blood pressure by vacuum pressure applied to the atrial side of the valve. A Millar pressure catheter and force transducers (“C-gauges”) were used to acquire the data. Strut chordal force was recorded simultaneously with the marginal chordal force, to serve as a verification of the employed equipment. Results The marginal chordal force in porcine and human averaged to 0.012 N ± 0.008 N and 0.006 N ± 0.008 N respectively at peak systolic pressure of 120 mmHg. Additionally, a simplified finite element study was conducted and supports low marginal forces relative to intermediary chords. Discussion & Conclusion This low force calls into question the traditionally-described role of the marginal chordae in preventing mitral prolapse at closure. The chords do, however, still show signs of assisting with the leaflets’ positioning. The relationship between marginal chordal forces and transvalvular pressure varies significantly across experiments, further obfuscating their role in normal valvular function.