Optimizing mitral valve repair using biomechanical testing
Biomechanical Optimization of Mitral Valve Repair Operations
This work uses a 3D‑printed beating heart simulator and advanced imaging to find better ways to repair leaking mitral valves so patients get longer-lasting repairs and fewer complications.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11227750 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
You would see researchers use a novel 3D‑printed heart simulator that mounts real mitral valves and reproduces valve leakage throughout the heartbeat so repairs can be tested under realistic conditions. They add biomechanical sensors and 4D flow MRI to measure valve stresses and blood flow precisely during different repair techniques. The team will test existing surgical repairs and prototype minimally invasive devices to find approaches that are mechanically stronger and more durable. The intention is to translate those engineering results into surgical methods and devices that reduce repeat operations and the need for long-term anticoagulation.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with primary (degenerative) mitral regurgitation who are candidates for valve repair—especially those considering minimally invasive repair—are the ideal group connected to this work.
Not a fit: Patients with non-repairable valves requiring replacement, those with other valve diseases, or individuals too frail for surgery may not benefit directly from these findings.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could lead to more durable mitral valve repairs that lower the risk of reoperation and reduce anticoagulation-related complications.
How similar studies have performed: Standard mitral valve repair techniques are clinically successful, but using 3D‑printed simulators combined with biomechanical sensors and 4D flow imaging to design and optimize repairs is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Stanford, United States
- Stanford University — Stanford, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Woo, Y Joseph — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Woo, Y Joseph
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.