Github Repository

I developed a custom in-vitro platform to study how transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (TEER) alters annular forces. The system integrates a dilatable heart mount with strain gauges bonded to 3D-printed structures acting as load cells at the annulus, enabling high-resolution measurement of local forces under physiologic loading. Explanted hearts were mounted and pressurized via the pulmonary artery to simulate ventricular filling and systolic conditions.

Methodology

• Disease Model - Mechanically dilated the annulus and applied controlled pressures to simulate tricuspid regurgitation.

• Clip Deployment - Used a custom 3D-printed device for repeated placement of a normally single-use TriClip.

• Data Acquisition - Recorded annular forces, ventricular pressure, and flow rate for each clip configuration.

• Analysis - Processed and analyzed data in MATLAB and R.

Key Contributions

• Designed and built a dilatable heart mount with embedded load cells.

• Developed a reusable 3D-printed deployment system for controlled TEER interventions.

• Conducted all testing, including sample preparation, deployment, and data collection.

• Built the analysis pipeline for quantitative assessment of annular forces.

Impact

This setup provides a reproducible in-vitro environment for directly assessing how TEER interventions affect annular mechanics, enabling comparison of different clip placements and supporting the design of more effective repair strategies.