ABSTRACT
ObjectiveT o explore the influence of patch shape for intraventricular tunnel (IVT) construction on biomechanical performance of the double outlet right ventricle after correction. Methods Based on the idealized IVT model, a two-dimensional IVT patch was designed. Six groups of patch models with the rhombic long-to-short axis ratio of 1∶0.625, 1∶0.3, 1∶0.2, 1∶0.15, 1∶0.125, 1∶0.1 were established according to the difference between the long and short axis of the rhombus patch in the turning part, and finite element analysis method was used to numerically simulate the process of stitching, holding and propping up the patch into a three-dimensional (3D) IVT model. Results The maximum stresses on suture line of 6 patch models were mainly concentrated at acute-angle corners of the rhombus. As rhombic long-to-short axis ratio of the patch increased, the maximum stress of the IVT suture line first decreased and then increased, and the volume showed an increasing trend. The pressure difference between two ends of the tunnel first decreased and then increased. The patch with the long-to-short axis ratio of 1∶0.15 had a uniform surface stress distribution, and the maximum stress on the suture line was the smallest. Meanwhile the right ventricular volume was less encroached on, and the pressure difference at both ends of the tunnel was small. Conclusions The IVT shape can influence stresses of suture line, the right ventricle volume and the pressure difference of IVT with non-monotonic variations. The suture effect of the patch with the long-to-short axis ratio of 1∶0.15 is relatively better among the constructed models.