Programa del congreso

Blood flow through the mitral valve is essential for the proper functioning of the cardiovascular system. Pathologies such as prolapse or regurgitation can alter flow dynamics and affect its function, highlighting the interest for studying its biomechanical behaviour. Understanding these mechanisms allows for improved diagnosis and interventions such as MitraClip device placement.

This work focuses on the creation of a customised finite element model (FEM) to simulate mitral valve closure, using transesophageal echocardiography images obtained in collaboration with the Hospital Universitario Puerta de Hierro de Majadahonda to generate a 3D model of the mitral valve. A finite element analysis is performed in Abaqus to study valve closure and the implantation and efficiency of the MitraClip device, a percutaneous intervention increasingly used in patients with mitral regurgitation.

Three ventricular time pressure profiles (linear, concave and sigmoid) and different valve tissue thicknesses (1, 2 and 3 mm ) are analysed. The results show first that the most suitable time regime for achieving valve closure is the concave one, as it allows closure with a lower peak pressure and distributes the stresses and strains more homogeneously. Additionally, the cases with increased leaflet thickness fail to provide proper closure unless a device such as Mitraclip

is fitted. These results suggest that both mechanical loading conditions and tissue morphology play a key role in the efficiency of mitral valve function. The methodology developed in this study supports future patient specific studies, improving the interventions and the side effects

derived from them.