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Abstract

A fixture for testing a circumferentially compliant bioprosthetic valve. The fixture comprises a silicone rubber simulated aorta which approximates the geometry of a healthy human aorta and a cradle for the aorta. The compliance characteristics of the aorta can be selected by varying the proportions of ingredients in the silicone rubber, so that simulated aortas of different compliance but identical geometries can be provided. The compliant valve is disposed inside the aorta and held in place by suturing or the like. In one embodiment, the aorta and valve are supported by means of a cylindrical cradle, with the inflow and outflow ends of the aorta being folded over cylindrical rims on the respective inflow and outflow ends of the cradle. End caps are then fitted in place over the folded-over ends of the aorta, the end caps having holes therein to allow flow through the aorta and valve. The end caps are provided with O-rings on their outer surfaces, so that the assembled fixture can be inserted into a testing apparatus, with the aorta and valve held in place in the sealed flow loop of the apparatus. In another embodiment, adapter rings are provided for the inflow and outflow ends of the aorta, with the ends of the aorta being folded over cylindrical rims disposed around the inner circumference of each of the adapter rings. The adapter rings are also provided with O-rings, allowing the ends of the aorta to be received in a testing apparatus so that the aorta and valve are disposed along the sealed flow loop of the apparatus.

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First Claim