Design of a sterile organ culture system for the ex vivo study of aortic heart valves.

The biological response of valves to mechanical forces is not well understood. The aim of this study was to design a pulsatile system to enable the ex vivo study of aortic valves when subjected to various hemodynamic conditions. A bioreactor was designed to subject porcine aortic valves to physiological and pathophysiological pressure and flow conditions, while maintaining viability and sterility. Pressure and flow rate could be independently controlled to produce clinically relevant mechanical conditions. The oxygen transfer rate was characterized and sterile operation was achieved over 96 hours. The oxygenation capabilities ensure sufficient oxygen transport to valves, allowing operation for extended periods.