fig13

Figure 13. Projected deformed leaflet configurations for the four aortic root models. The normalized cusp coaptation area (NCCA) - defined as the coaptation area relative to total leaflet area - measured 30.6% in the healthy model and 13.3%, 28.2%, and 13.5% in Cases 2-4, respectively. Optimal coaptation occurred in the healthy root. Loss of the sinotubular junction had minimal impact, whereas annular dilation, alone or combined with STJ loss, markedly reduced coaptation and accentuated the leaflet belly region. (A) Top view; (B) Top view. Reproduced from Ref.^[28] with permission. STJ: Sinotubular junction.