| 摘要 |
Implantable biocompatible devices such as synthetic prosthetic heart valves are disclosed. The trileaflet aortic heart valve design has three valve leaflets supported on a frame. The leaflets are made up of a number of layers, each layer being formed by drying a layer of polymer solution in a preferred shape, different to the preferred shape of other layers. This allows the valve to have different configurations in which one or more of the layers are in a minimal stress configuration. This can provide the leaflets with improved flexibility. Furthermore, a partially open valve configuration is described, providing the valve with upstream bulge portions in the sub-commissural regions of the valve, allowing improved opening and washout of the valve. Still further, a method of manufacturing the valve is disclosed, in which a layer of the valve is distended in order to apply a layer of porous material by electrostatic spinning. |
