Table 4 Table highlights future key improvements suggested by participants for the idealised and anatomical models. Quotation marks denote text directly taken from participants’ feedback, while unquoted text is a paraphrased synthesis of participants’ responses
Idealised model | Anatomical model |
|---|---|
“Leaflets and IVC” need to be sturdier and “concrete” | “Transseptal puncture holes are not easy for manoeuvring with steerable guide catheter” |
“Also, ability to choose angles to simulate challenging anatomy” | Attachment of camera visualisation to system for improved visualisation. “Cameras to replicate 3D echo views of bicomissural, LVOT and LA views” |
“Not representative of anatomy” seen in fluoroscopy | “Patient-specific pathology in valves” |
“Attachment of camera visualisation to system for improved visualisation. Cameras to replicate 3D echo views of bicomissural, LVOT and LA views” | “More suited to those with more confidence or experience in controlling the MitraClip™” |
“3D modelling could develop more realistic parts”, to replicate intra- and extracardiac structures | “Current mitral valve leaflets are paediatric and should be representative of normal adult mitral valves with ant. Leaflet being 1/3 in circumference and post. Leaflet 2/3 in circumference” |
More grip at the bottom to prevent slipping | “Mitral valve mobility could be improved” |