The Long and Winding Road to Innovation

New Insights into Valve Hemodynamics

Heart valve diseases are common disorders with five million annual diagnoses being made in the United States alone. All heart valve disorders alter cardiac hemodynamic performance; therefore, treatments aim to restore normal flow. This paper reviews the state-of-the-art clinical and engineering advancements in heart valve treatments with a focus on hemodynamics. We review engineering studies and clinical literature on the experience with devices for aortic valve treatment, as well as the latest advancements in mitral valve treatments and the pulmonic and tricuspid valves on the right side of the heart. Upcoming innovations will potentially revolutionize treatment of heart valve disorders. These advancements, and more gradual enhancements in the procedural techniques and imaging modalities, could improve the quality of life of patients suffering from valvular disease who currently cannot be treated.

Evaluation of the Spatial Position and Correlation of Mandibular Ramus in Skeletal Class III Patients With Mandibular Asymmetry

PURPOSE

To evaluate the position and bilateral difference of mandibular ramus region, specifically the condyle, sigmoid notch, and mandibular angle in skeletal class III patients with mandibular asymmetry.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

3D-CT images were performed in 50 patients with skeletal class III malocclusion. According to the severity of mandibular asymmetry, 22 cases were included in the control group and 28 cases were included in the symmetry group. The 3D landmarks were measured relative to 6 reference planes and the outcomes among different groups were compared.

RESULTS

There are significant differences in the position of mandibular ramus region between both sides in the asymmetry group. The position of condyle was more posterior and internal on the deviated side; and the positions of sigmoid notch and gonion were more posterior, superior, and lateral on the deviated side. Furthermore, the degree of mandibular asymmetry was more highly correlated with the height of ramus and the position of mandibular angle than it was with the height of condyle and the position of sigmoid notch.

CONCLUSION

When evaluating mandibular asymmetry and making surgical plans, the position of mandibular ramus should be taken into consideration.