Fig. 2. Design of a biomimetic geometrically adaptable heart valve.

(A) Biomimetic valve design inspired by the geometric profile of the human venous valve. Design is defined by leaflet dimensions, leaflet attachment geometry, and valve expansion geometry. Key leaflet dimensions include the baseline aspect ratio (2:1), leaflet mid-height (1/2h), and free-edge length (red line). The leaflet attachment geometry replicates the 3-dimensional geometric curve created by the venous valve leaflet attachment to the vein wall. The leaflet attachment perimeter is fixed in length, therefore radial expansion is accompanied by a reduction in valve height (aspect ratio decreases to 0.8:1 at 2X expansion; expansion shown on right). (B) Schematic representation of the dynamic biomimetic valve geometry as it adapts to the increasing heart dimensions of a growing child via periodic mechanical balloon expansion.