US Patent 9398952 Planar zone in prosthetic heart valve leaflet

Described embodiments are directed toward prosthetic valves having leaflets of a particular shape that improves bending character without requiring a long length valve. In accordance with an embodiment, a prosthetic valve comprises a leaflet frame, a plurality of leaflets coupled to the leaflet frame, where each leaflet has a free edge and a base. Each leaflet has a planar zone in a central portion, wherein the planar zone is substantially planar. The planar zone defines a shape having an area, wherein the area is larger nearer the base than the free edge.