Dev Amatya and David Walker
David Walker, co-founder of Vivitro Systems with Larry Scotten, stopped by recently to catch up and meet new employees. He graciously agreed to an interview so we could bring readers up to speed on his current activities and adventures.
Life after Vivitro Systems: Since selling the business I have a new mode of operation. I still go into the office every day, but I spend most of my time on research and a dwindling amount on the busyness of business.
Current Research Focus: I’m working on a simple computer model of the left heart system with a view to simulating the performance of the Vivitro laboratory model. I would like to assess the performance of heart valves under conditions that are difficult to create and perhaps impossible to measure in the physical model. The nice part is I don’t get my hands wet with test fluid!
How’s it going: I’m taking a more measured approach, with the plan to write a book. It’s nice for me that “publish or perish” is no longer a consideration. I am rapidly, it seems, approaching three score and 10 years. It would be nice to complete the project soon but, “the best laid plans of mice and men …..”! Its an enjoyable time but different. I miss the “buzz” of business and interacting with customers. I don’t miss deadlines and the filling of forms.
Thoughts on the industry: I try to follow what’s going on in the industry. My interest is piqued by the progress of people and companies I’ve known over the years.
Thoughts on ViVitro Labs: Very pleased with what has happened. The last newsletter caught my eye regarding recent sales. I think Scott has done a great job of taking the ball and running with it. Excellent and getting better!
Editor’s note: This interview was the inspiration for our continuing series of conversations with cardiovascular pioneers.
Research conducted by David Walker using ViVitro equipment or services includes:
A Database Obtained From In Vitro Function Testing of Mechanical Heart Valves:
Quantification of mitral regurgitation with MR phase-velocity mapping using a control volume method
Modified gorlin equation for the diagnosis of mixed aortic valve pathology
Slice location dependence of aortic regurgitation measurements with MR phase velocity mapping
Evaluation of the Precision of Magnetic Resonance Phase Velocity Mapping for Blood Flow Measurements
Hydrodynamic function of the second-generation mitroflow pericardial bioprosthesis
Motion correction for the quantification of mitral regurgitation using the control volume method