DEVELOPMENT OF 3D PRINTED CARDIOVASCULAR STENT PROTOTYPE WITH FILAMENT FABRICATION OF PU/PCL OR PLA/PCL BLEND USING SOLIDWORKS, AND HEMODYNAMIC ANALYSIS WITH ANSYS SOFTWARE

Abstract

Every year, heart problems take the lives of about 600,000 people and cost the American healthcare system a staggering $108.9 billion. Every year, coronary heart disease alone claims the lives of nearly 350,000 people. Atheroma is a result of atherosclerosis that is characterized by the accumulation of materials, lipids, and cells in the walls of the arteries. It can lead to decreased blood flow, hardening, or rupture of the arteries. One of the complications associated with angioplasty, an invasive technique that uses a balloon-tipped catheter to open restricted arteries, is the potential for vascular re-closure. Stents—metal mesh tubes inserted into arteries to offer long-lasting support and address issues related to angioplasty for long-term cardiac care—reduce this risk. Using capabilities for drawing, surface, and solid modelling, SolidWorks makes it easier to construct complex cardiovascular stents in three dimensions. Effective design iterations and modifications are made possible by SolidWorks' support for both parametric and direct modelling methodologies. The assembly design features of the program, such as mates, constraints, and smart components, make it easier to simulate the movements and interactions of joined elements. To analyze the mechanics of stents inside coronary arteries, SolidWorks also has simulation capabilities for evaluating fluid flow parameters, thermal behavior, and structural integrity. The study assesses various stent materials taking into account their reactions to different loads and temperatures. Blends of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and polycaprolactone (PCL) that include hydroxyapatite (HA) at weight percentages of 5%, 10%, and 20% demonstrate noteworthy biological properties. Elastic modulus values up to around 100 MPa are enhanced by the HA reinforcement in these blends, which behave in an intermediate manner between pure TPU and PCL, according to mechanical, rheological, and thermal characterizations. Using 3D printing technology, a novel self-expandable biodegradable vascular stent composed of shape memory polylactide (PLA) was created, addressing issues with conventional stents. Because this stent expands to its natural shape upon heating from a brief compressed state at room temperature, it makes implantation easier. Under operational conditions, its radial expansion and longitudinal contraction are validated by finite element analysis. By providing insights into the non-Newtonian blood flow behavior in coronary arteries concerning different stent materials, the thesis helps to improve patient outcomes and cardiovascular care by directing the selection of materials that will increase the efficacy and lifespan of coronary therapies.