Abstract
In this study, three type of Xenograft valves have been hydraulically evaluated under the steady flow condition as well as pulsatile condition in a pulse duplicator. Image analysis of valve-leaflet motion has been also undertaken to obtain the actual orifice area and the opening characteristics by using high speed cinecamera and ITV system. Regarding hydraulic energy loss and the observed actual orifice area, Ionescu-Shiley Xenograft showed the best hydraulic function among them, however it should be noted that the dynamic function, particularly transient characteristics of the Xenografts are greatly dependent on the structure and mechanical properties of the valve leaflets.
