In real life, an artificial heart valve functions by mimicking the natural opening and closing of a biological heart valve, allowing blood to flow properly through the heart chambers. When a person undergoes heart valve replacement surgery, a mechanical or biological valve is implanted. After surgery, patients are typically monitored for any complications, and many need to follow a specific care regimen that may include blood-thinning medications or regular check-ups to ensure the valve is functioning correctly.

Real-Life Functionality

1. Blood Flow Regulation: The artificial valve opens and closes with each heartbeat, allowing blood to flow forward and preventing backflow.


2. Lifespan and Maintenance: Depending on the type, the valve may last a lifetime (mechanical) or need replacement within 10-20 years (biological).


3. Challenges: Mechanical valves require lifelong anticoagulation therapy, and biological valves may eventually deteriorate, which means patients often need monitoring and follow-up care.


4. Physical Sensations: Some patients with mechanical valves report a faint clicking sound as the valve opens and closes, which can be heard, especially in quiet environments.



Simulations of Artificial Heart Valves

Simulation plays a crucial role in designing, testing, and training with artificial heart valves. These simulations use advanced technology to model and predict how a valve will perform in the human heart under various conditions.

1. Computer Simulations: Engineers and researchers use 3D modeling and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to simulate blood flow through artificial valves. These models allow them to study how different valve designs will function and identify issues like potential blood clot formation or stress points on the valve.


2. Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality: These technologies enable medical students and doctors to visualize and interact with a heart valve in a virtual environment. VR can simulate the procedure of implanting the valve, giving surgeons realistic practice without needing a patient.


3. Physical Models for Training: Advanced mannequins and heart models can simulate the heart’s anatomy and the mechanical actions of artificial valves. Trainees can practice surgical techniques on these models to gain confidence and precision.


4. Patient-Specific Simulations: For some patients, personalized simulations based on medical imaging (like CT or MRI scans) are created to plan a procedure. This approach helps predict how a specific valve will fit within a patient’s anatomy and function post-surgery.



Overall, both real-life functionality and simulations of artificial heart valves are vital in ensuring patients receive the safest and most effective treatment possible.