Innovative Mechanical Heart Valve Promises Enhanced Blood Flow and Durability

A team of researchers at the University of British Columbia (UBC) has developed a new generation of mechanical heart valves that aim to improve blood flow and durability. Led by Associate Professor Dr. Hadi Mohammadi, the Heart Valve Performance Laboratory has been testing a novel valve design created in their lab, showing promising results that could surpass existing models.

This innovative valve, known as the iValve, was evaluated through extensive in vitro testing involving pulse duplicator systems that simulate real heart conditions. Compared to traditional mechanical valves, the iValve demonstrated significantly lower reverse blood flow and more streamlined blood movement. Notably, it features a unique design allowing blood to flow through a single central orifice, mimicking natural tissue valves and potentially reducing flow-related complications.

The study, published in the Journal of Biomechanics, indicates that the iValve and another emerging valve, Triflo MHV, perform better in terms of pressure regulation and blood flow dynamics than many current models. These advancements could reduce the risk of blood clots and diminish the need for lifelong blood-thinning medication associated with conventional mechanical valves.

Current options for aortic valve replacement include mechanical valves and those made from natural materials like bovine or porcine tissues. While tissue valves often perform better in blood flow, they typically last only 10 to 15 years, which may necessitate additional surgeries. Mechanical valves are long-lasting but can impair blood flow and require patients to take anticoagulants. The development of valves like the iValve seeks to bridge these gaps, offering both durability and improved hemodynamics.

Dr. Mohammadi emphasizes that this research represents a significant step toward creating prosthetic valves that combine the benefits of natural tissue function with the longevity of mechanical devices. The iValve is currently moving toward animal testing and clinical trials, bringing it closer to potential clinical use.

In addition to structural innovations, these valves could significantly impact patients with calcific valvular heart disease, projected to affect millions worldwide by 2030. As the field advances, more refined and longer-lasting prosthetic valves may become available, improving quality of life and reducing the need for multiple surgeries.

Overall, this breakthrough demonstrates the potential for new mechanical heart valves to better emulate natural heart function, offering safer, smoother blood flow and enhanced durability for patients worldwide.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-05-advanced-mechanical-heart-valve-smoother.html