From Professor to Founder: Reinventing the Aortic Valve

May 14, 2025
41 min MedTech Unboxed

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[5:11 PM]

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In this episode of MedTech Unboxed: Presented by Chamfr, I sit down with Dr. Tubakar, a former professor turned founder, who shares his remarkable journey from academia to entrepreneurship. We delve into the world of Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) and the pressing issue of valve durability, especially as TAVIs are increasingly indicated for younger patients. Dr. Tubakar recounts how a personal encounter with a concerned mother inspired him to create a more natural and durable aortic valve. We explore the challenges of current market leaders, Edwards and Medtronic, and how Dr. Tubakar’s Optimum TAVI design addresses these concerns with innovative solutions. Join us as we uncover the science and passion driving this groundbreaking advancement in heart valve technology.

Guests

Steve Maxson
Steve Maxson
VP of Growth
With over two decades of experience in the medical extrusion and the MedTech industry, Steve specialize in transforming innovative concepts into scalable solutions.
Mano Thubrikar
Mano Thubrikar
President at Thubrikar Aortic Valve
Dr. Thubrikar founded Thubrikar Aortic Valve in 2010. Prior to that, he served as Director of the Biomedical Engineering Program and Professor of Mechanical Engineering at the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology (2007-2010).
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