Experimental and Computational Characterization of Transcatheter Aortic Valve Mechanics Using Digital Image Correlation and Finite Element Modeling

Date of Award

Fall 11-21-2025

Document Type

Masters Thesis

Degree Name

M.S. in Mechanical Engineering

Organizational Unit

Daniel Felix Ritchie School of Engineering and Computer Science, Mechanical and Materials Engineering

First Advisor

Ali N. Azadani

Second Advisor

Peter J. Laz

Third Advisor

Rui Fan

Copyright Statement / License for Reuse

All Rights Reserved
All Rights Reserved.

Keywords

Heart valve mechanics, digital image correlation, Trancatheter aortic valves, Finite element analysis, Material optimization, Tissue mechanics

Abstract

Young, low-risk patients undergoing transcatheter heart valve replacement procedures have longer life expectancies that demand valves with superior durability, functionality, and long-term performance. Two transcatheter aortic valves, the Evolut FX and ACURATE neo2, were analyzed in finite element and digital image correlation experiments to determine their mechanical responses to normotensive and hypertensive conditions. Digital image correlation was used to evaluate the strain and displacement fields across the valve leaflets and as input data to conduct material parameter optimization. Finite element analyses were used to indicate the stress fields experienced by the valves. The maximum in-plane principal stress at the commissure level for Evolut FX was 0.53 MPa and 0.54 MPa for circular and elliptical configurations, respectively, under hypertensive conditions. For ACURATE neo2, these values were 3.97 MPa and 3.27 MPa. The results indicated that the unique characteristics of the Evolut FX may allow for better short-term functionality and long-term durability.

Copyright Date

11-2025

Publication Statement

Copyright is held by the author. Permanently suppressed.

Rights Holder

Steven Said

Provenance

Received from Author

File Format

application/pdf

Language

English (eng)

Extent

132 pgs

File Size

9.3 MB

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