Sensor-Based Bioprosthetic Valve Monitoring: Numerical Simulation and Experimental Design

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) was developed to treat adult patients, but the progressive deterioration of biological valve leaflets poses challenges for extending TAVI to younger individuals. This study aims to develop a computational and experimental approach to design photoplethysmography (PPG) sensor for monitoring transcatheter heart valve (THV) performance. Fluid-solid interaction analysis is conducted on an idealized aortic vessel after virtual deployment of the SAPIEN 3 Ultra (S3) device. Numerical findings are compared with in-vitro data using a 3D-printed aortic phantom in a mock loop system. Computational flow data are then used for developing an analytical estimate of PPG signals, compared against experimental results from in vitro testing. Results show good agreement between analytical and experimental data, with a relative error on the pulse transient of 7.7%. Investigation into sensor positioning reveals placing sensors upstream and downstream of the bioprosthesis effectively assesses pressure gradients across the valve, aiding in developing an affordable monitoring system for detecting valve deterioration.