PhD defence M.E. (Marguerite) Faure

Below is a brief summary of the dissertation:

Every year, more than 300,000 artificial heart valves are implanted worldwide. This number is expected to grow because people are living longer and less invasive procedures, such as catheter-based valve replacements, are becoming more common.

Medical imaging plays a key role in checking whether these artificial valves are working properly. Ultrasound of the heart (echocardiography) is usually the first and most important test for regular follow-up. However, ultrasound does not always provide enough detail. In those cases, doctors use advanced imaging techniques such as CT scans and MRI scans (CMR).

This thesis focuses on improving and expanding the use of CT and MRI to better evaluate artificial heart valves. A new CT scanning method was developed that reduces radiation exposure while still providing clear images of both the valve and surrounding structures. CT scans are especially useful for detecting problems such as blood clots, tissue overgrowth (pannus), infections, or wear and tear of biological valves. Importantly, CT can help doctors distinguish between different causes of valve dysfunction, which is crucial because treatments differ.

The research also showed that after certain minimally invasive valve procedures (such as TAVR and PPVI), CT and advanced MRI techniques can help assess blood flow and detect potential complications. For example, in some patients, small clots were found without immediate symptoms, but these findings may indicate a higher future risk of stroke.

Overall, modern imaging techniques, supported by new technologies and artificial intelligence, are becoming increasingly important in ensuring artificial heart valves function safely and effectively over time.