| abstract |
In some embodiments, a method for processing tissue comprises the application of a directional load to modify the properties of the tissue. In particular, the directional force is sufficient to increase the rigidity of the tissue asymmetrically relative to an unaligned tissue equivalently processed without being subjected to a load. In some embodiments, a sufficient directional load is applied to increase the rigidity of the tissue relative to an unaligned tissue equivalently processed that is not subjected to the load, in which the load is applied with a load applicator. A connector transfers the load from the load applicator to the tissue. Selectively aligned tissue having asymmetric mechanical properties can be used to form a prosthetic valve. The leaflets are matched with respect to each of their properties to have improved coaptation relative to corresponding tissue leaflets with symmetrical mechanical properties. |