The operating pressures in the right heart are significantly lower than those of the left heart and with marked differences in the circulation impedances. The pulmonary circulation shows a tolerance for mild regurgitation and pressure gradient [1]. Pulmonary regurgitation fractions on the order of 20% and transvalvular pressure gradients of less than 25mm Hg are considered mild [2]. Given this tolerance, we examine the concept of using a motionless valve to regulate flow in the pulmonary position. In a previous study, the use of fluid diodes was shown to be a promising concept for use as a pulmonary valve [3]. In this study, we test a fluid diode both in a bench top circulatory system [4] and in a swine model and compare the pressure gradients and regurgitant fractions.

This content is only available via PDF.
You do not currently have access to this content.