This study reports the first high-resolution numerical study of the hinge flow fields under physiologic aortic conditions. Results highlight the complexity and three-dimensionality of the flow within the hinge recess, with regions of stagnation, recirculating flow and leakage jets clearly visible. Such a space and time accurate numerical approach allows for a thorough analysis of the flow field from a blood cell standpoint by computing shear stress and particle trajectories. Put in perspective with existing literature on flow-induced blood cell trauma, numerical results can provide essential information to estimate the thromboembolic potential associated with the hinge recess and to eventually improve existing hinge designs.
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