The Critical Role of Biomedical Textiles in Structural Valve Therapies

Structural heart innovations, such as TAVR, TMVR, and TTVR, have driven significant advancements in the treatment of valve disease. As progress and innovation continue, we thought it was a good time to look at the textiles that are anchoring some of these exciting new technologies and treatments.

Textiles at the Heart of TAVR
In Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR), textiles play a crucial role in the design and functionality of the replacement valve. For example, polyester or ePTFE textiles are used in valve skirts to prevent paravalvular leakage and support endothelialization. Textiles also reinforce the leaflets and anchoring systems, ensuring secure placement and long-term durability in the aorta’s high-pressure environment. In the delivery system, braided textiles guide the catheter and control valve release. Cortland Biomedical’s braids offer unmatched torque response, strength, and flexibility, which is critical for navigating tight, difficult pathways with precision.

TMVR’s Unique Textile Demands
The mitral valve’s irregular shape and high-pressure environment require highly adaptive textiles. Cortland Biomedical’s precision textiles conform to the mitral annulus, distribute mechanical tension, and support leaflet function without compromising durability. During deployment, our braided structures allow smooth, controlled navigation through the vasculature and across the left atrium, ensuring that the larger TMVR device reaches its target intact and aligns accurately within the heart.

Meeting the Challenges of TTVR
TTVR procedures face complex anatomy and variable pressure conditions. Cortland Biomedical’s textiles deliver flexibility and conformity to seal against the tricuspid annulus, minimize regurgitation, and secure the device in a shifting environment. For the delivery system, our braids excel in maneuverability and friction reduction, which is especially important when advancing the valve through the vena cava and positioning it precisely in the heart.

As valve therapies evolve, biomedical textiles are doing more than holding components together – they’re enabling the next generation of minimally invasive treatment. From performance-critical skirts to precision-engineered braids, Cortland Biomedical’s solutions are woven into the future of structural heart care. Want to go deeper? Download our overview sheet to learn how our textiles are engineered to meet the mechanical, biological, and clinical needs of today’s leading valve systems.