Mitral valve geometrical echocardiographic analysis and 3D computational modeling of a normal mitral valve.

This research aims to develop a consistent computational model of a normal mitral valve (MV) and describe mitral regurgitation (MR) geometry based on Carpentier's classification. MV geometry was assessed by 2D transthoracic echocardiogram in 100 individuals. A 3D parametric geometric model of the MV was developed. A computational model of a normal MV was performed. The simulation of the valve function was successfully accomplished and its kinematics was analyzed. Differences in geometry were revealed between normal and type III MR. 3D computational models of the normal MV can be constructed relying on standard measurements performed by 2D echocardiography. Certain geometrical differences exist among the normal and the most severe type of MR.