Gefässprothese mit Drahtverstärkung

Selbstexpandierender Stent zur Einführung einer medizinischen Vorrichtung in eine Körperhöhle und Herstellungsverfahren

A non-occlusive dilation and deployment catheter device

Implantable medical device with flexible connection

An implantable double-ended medical device 10 such as a filter or occluder has first and second conical material capture filter baskets 12, 14 disposed in opposing orientations with their narrow ends 18 facing one another in an hourglass arrangement and connected by a flexible connector 26, which enables the implantable medical device 10 to curve within a curved vessel of a patient. The flexible connector 26 may be a coiled wire, helically cut cannula, made from a flexible material, formed by a flexible rod with transverse grooves, channels or recesses or be integral with shape memory alloy or spring steel framework of the material capture baskets - and is either closed or has a lumen passing therethrough with a closure element such as valve or incorporating thrombogenic fibres for closing the lumen after deployment of the device 10 within a patient.

Stent graft

STENTIMPLANTATE WITH WINDOWS

DEVICE FOR THE PREVENTION OF NOT DESIRED FLOW OF THE EMBOLIS OF THE VENEN INTO THE ARTERIEN

NARROWING IMPLANT

PROCEDURE FOR THE PRODUCTION OF MEDICAL DEVICES; INTRAVASKULÄROKKLUSIONSVORRICHTUNG

ONE-WAY STRÖMUNGSPROSTHETI IMPLANT BASED ON A MULTI-LAMELLA FRAMEWORK

VALVE PROSTHESIS WITH CONTAINER MOUNTING DEVICE

KARDIA STENT

REVERSIBLE INTRAVASKULÄRER FILTER

HERZKLAPPENERSATZ STENTVENTILE ONE AS WELL AS EQUIVALENT SURGERY PROCEDURE AND - SYSTEMS

IN TWO DIRECTIONS FOLDED IMPLANT

SUPRANIERENPROTHESE AND KIDNEY ARTERIENBYPASS

STENT WITH MORE STEER EXPAND-BARNESS

WOVEN INTRAVASKUL�RE DEVICE AND PROCEDURE FOR THE PRODUCTION

STENT GRAFT WITH A SCHR�GABZWEIG

PROCEDURE AND DEVICES FOR THE PRODUCTION OF KOLLATERALEN CHANNELS IN THE LUNGS

STENT FOR THE OESOPHAGUS

Valve docking devices, systems and methods

MITRAL VALVE DOCKING DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS A helical anchor (72) for docking a mitral valve prosthesis (120), the helical anchor (72) adapted to be received in and delivered from a coil guide catheter (68), and comprising: a plurality of coils (104, 108) having a preformed, coiled configuration after being delivered from the coil guide catheter (68) and adapted to support the prosthetic mitral valve upon being fully delivered from the coil guide catheter (68) and implanted with respective coil portions above and below the mitral valve annulus, wherein the helical anchor (72) includes a distal end portion and the distal end portion is formed to extend downward and radially outward relative to a next adjacent coil such that the distal end portion is spaced from the next adjacent coil and is configured to be delivered between the commissures of the native mitral valve (44).

Endovascular heart valve replacement comprising tissue grasping elements

Therapeutic agent delivery system, device and method for localized application of therapeutic substances to a biological conduit

The invention provides a system, device and method for localized application of therapeutic substances within a biological conduit. In various embodiments, a dissolvable bag or bolus of at least one therapeutic agent is introduced and pressed and/or sealed against the wall of conduit. In other embodiments, dissolvable barbs formed from at least one therapeutic agent are ejected from a catheter by fluid pressure, embedding in the wall of conduit.

Stent structures for use with valve replacements

The present embodiments provide a valve for implantation in a patient, for example, an aortic valve. The valve comprises a proximal region comprising a cylindrical shape, and a distal region having a generally rectangular shape comprising opposing flat surfaces that are separated by narrower flat sides. A tapered region is disposed between the proximal and distal regions, where the tapered region comprises two opposing flat surfaces that transition into the opposing flat surfaces of the distal region. The opposing flat surfaces of the tapered region are angled relative to the proximal and distal regions. The opposing flat surfaces at the distal end of the valve allow fluid flow therethrough during antegrade flow and are generally adjacent to one another to inhibit blood flow through the valve during retrograde flow. Optionally, at least one reinforcement member may be coupled to the valve to prevent prolapse of the valve during retrograde flow.

Stents for prosthetic heart valves

A prosthetic valve including a wire frame having a generally tubular body portion, an interior area, a longitudinal axis, a first end comprising a plurality of crowns, and a second end comprising a greater number of crowns than the first end. The wire frame includes a plurality of adjacent rows of modified diamond-shaped structures extending between the first and second ends. The prosthetic valve further includes a valve structure that includes a plurality of leaflets and that is attached within the interior area of the wire frame.

Artificial valve prosthesis with improved flow dynamics

Flexible vascular occluding device

Stent graft and introducer assembly

A stent graft (40) for treating Type-A dissections in the ascending aorta (22) is provided with a plurality of diameter-reducing suture loops (56-60) operable to constrain the stent graft during deployment thereof in a patient's aorta. The diameter-reducing loops (56-60) allow the stent graft (40) to be partially deployed, in such a manner that its location can be precisely adjusted in the patient's lumen. In this manner, the stent graft can be placed just by the coronary arteries (26, 28) with confidence that these will not be blocked. The stent graft (40) is also provided with proximal and distal bare stents (44,52) for anchoring purposes.

QUICK-CONNECT PROSTHETIC HEART VALVE AND METHODS

A prosthetic heart valve system includes a valve component including a non-expandable, non-collapsible prosthetic valve (34), the valve component further including an expandable coupling stent (36) extending from an inflow end thereof, the coupling stent (36) having a contracted state for delivery to an implant position and an expanded state configured for outward connection to a heart valve annulus. Oo) ...

Infundibular reducer devices

Wavily deformable stent and method for producing the same

Method and device for optimizing vision via customization of spherical aberration of eye

Artificial lenses and methods for optimizing vision in an eye of a patient comprising the steps of determining a target optical configuration including the optimum defocus and aberrations that the patients' eye should have in order to match or approximate the original optical configuration of the patient; determining the refractive change of the patient's eye required to achieve the optical configuration best corresponding to target optical configuration for the patient; and implementing the selected refractive change to achieve the target optical configuration.

INTRAVASCULAR CUFF

Abstract An intravascular cuff acts as a lining between a native vessel and an intravascular prosthetic device. During deployment, the ends of the cuff curl back upon themselves and are capable of trapping native tissue, such as valve leaflet tissue, between the ends. The cuff creates a seal between the vessel and the prosthetic, thereby preventing leakage around the prosthetic. The cuff also traps any embolic material dislodged from the vessel during expansion of the prosthetic.

Endolumenal stent-graft with leak-resistant seal

Multi-stage expandable stent-graft

A by-pass graft

An implant comprising a support structure and a transition material made of porous plastics material

FENESTRATED STENT GRAFTS

A stent graft (1) with at least one fenestration (40) including a peripheral (37) reinforcement around at least part of the fenestration. There can also be a tubular extension (15). The side arm includes a stent (19) and a cover (17) and extends from and is in fluid communication with the fenestration and the stent graft. The stent may be a self expanding stent. The ring and/or tubular extension provides better support and sealing for an extension arm. The fenestratîon (40) can be circular or if towards the ends of the stent graft may be in the form of a U-shape (50) with an open end.

INVERTIBLE INTRAVASCULAR FILTER

NARROWING IMPLANT

A reducer implant for insertion in a blood vessel, for reducing an inner diameter of said vessel and flow therethrough, having at least one narrowed section having a first diameter; and at least one flared section having a diameter substantially greater than said first diameter. Optionally, the reducer is formed of a material and has a geometry that does not cause coagulation of blood in its vicinity.

FLUID FLOW PROSTHETIC DEVICE

... ²²²Apparatus is provided, including a prosthetic device, having a single flow ²field therethrough, adapted for implantation in a subject, and shaped so as to ²define a fluid inlet and a diverging section, distal to the fluid inlet. The ²prosthetic device includes a plurality of axially-extending struts (112) which ²extend along at least a portion of the diverging section and diverge ²outwardly, such that distal ends of the struts are spaced further from one ²another than proximal ends of the struts thoughout a cardiac cycle of the ²subject. The diverging section includes a diverging envelope (111), coupled to ²the struts, which is adapted to assume an open position thereof during ²systole, permitting blood flow through the device, and which is adapted to ²collapse to a closed position thereof during diastole, inhibiting blood flow ²through the device.² ...

INTRAVASCULAR FILTER RETRIEVAL DEVICE AND METHOD

A thrombus filter configured for placement in within a blood vessel lumen defined by a blood vessel wall. Methods and devices for selectively removing the thrombus filter when the presence of a filter in the vascular system is no longer desired. The thrombus filter includes a first strand formation, a second strand formation, and a joined portion.

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR REPLACING A PROSTHETIC VALVE

In one aspect, the present disclosure concerns a percutancously delivered adapter stent that is deployed within a previously implanted prosthetic valve and serves as an anchor or platform for implanting a percutaneously delivered replacement valve within the previously implanted valve. The adapter stent can be delivered to the implantation site via the patient's vasculature and positioned within the previously implanted valve. The stent can then be deployed to cause the stent to expand and become anchored to the inner surface of the previously implanted valve. Subsequently, the replacement valve can be positioned within the adapter stent and deployed to cause the replacement valve to expand and become anchored to the adapter stent. The adapter stent and the replacement valve can be mounted on the same catheter for delivery to the implantation site.

METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR DIRECT CORONARY REVASCULARIZATION

Described herein are methods and apparatus relating to a conduit placed in the heart wall between the left ventricle and the coronary artery. More particularly, the methods and apparatus accomplish one or more of the following goals, namely: (1) to accurately engage and align a conduit with the coronary artery; (2) to deliver a conduit into position in the heart wall; (3) to increase net forward flow through an opening or conduit from the left ventricle to the coronary artery; (4) to increase long term patency of a conduit between the left ventricle and coronary artery; (5) to accommodate wall thickness changes of the heart; and (6) to prevent migration of the conduit.

MULTI-STAGE EXPANDABLE STENT-GRAFT

... ▓▓▓An improved device for use in a conduit, such as a blood vessel, is provided. ▓The device uniquely combines desirable properties from two distinct previous ▓devices. The device (10) of the present invention assumes and is constrained ▓to a first diametrical dimension (14) for insertion into the conduit. Once ▓inserted and properly positioned in the conduit the device (10) expands to a ▓second diametrical dimension within the conduit when the constraint is ▓removed. The device (10) can then be dilated to one or more enlarged third ▓diametrical dimensions by using a balloon catheter or similar device. The ▓result is a device (10) that provides desirable properties of both self-▓expanding stents and balloon-expandable endoprostheses. The device (10) can be ▓employed in a variety of applications.▓ ...

REPOSITIONABLE HEART VALVE

A method is described for endovascularly replacing a heart valve of a patient including the steps of delivering a valve (20) and an expandable anchor (30) to a deployed configuration in which the anchor (30) contacts tissue at an anchor site; optionally repositioning the anchor (30) in the anchor site; and deploying the anchor (30). Some embodiments include the steps of foreshortening the anchor (30) via an actuation delivered by a deployment tool and thereafter releasing the anchor from the deployment tool. The delivering step may include the step of delivering the replacement heart valve coupled to, or separate from, the anchor (30), in which case the method further includes the step of attaching the valve (20) to the anchor (30). The anchor may be made from an expandable braid. In some embodiments, the apparatus further includes one or more locks configured to maintain expansion of the braid.

ENDOLUMINAL GRAFT WITH A PROSTHETIC VALVE

An endoluminal prosthesis (122) is provided for restricting fluid flow in a lumen. The endoluminal prosthesis has a tubular graft having a flexible body with at least one stent (130) coupled thereto. The endoluminal prosthesis also includes a prosthetic valve (138) coupled to the inside the tubular graft. The prosthetic valve can be made of a synthetic or an organic material, such as an extracellular matrix, and can operate to limit fluid flow in one direction, but allow fluid flow in the other direction.

PROSTHETIC HEART VALVE DEVICES, PROSTHETIC MITRAL VALVES AND ASSOCIATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS

DEVICE AND METHOD FOR ATRAUMATIC AND PERCUTANEOUS FORMATION OF AN ARTERIOVENOUS FISTULA

Provided herein are novel devices for the formation of arteriovenous fistulas, which may aid subjects in need of hemodialysis. The novel devices are provided in a non-surgical procedure, greatly decreasing the cost and increasing the convenience of placing an arteriovenous fistula. The devices are atraumatic, and consist of a sutureless anastomosis device and conduit. Methods and tools for placing the devices in vivo are disclosed, including a magnetic-assisted method.

TRANSCATHETER VALVE PROSTHESIS

A heart valve system, the system including a radially self-expandable tubular body and a valve. The tubular body having an inflow end and an outflow end, and the tubular body including a proximal-most end at the inflow end and a distal-most end at the outflow end. The tubular body including a plurality of arched beams at the outflow end of the tubular body such that the arched beams form the distal-most end of the tubular body. Connection points linking the inflow end of the tubular body and the arched beams, a number of connection points being equivalent to a number of the valve leaflets. Each arched beam being directly attached to an adjacent arched beam such that the arched beams are continuous along the entire circumference of the tubular body at the outflow end. The valve being coupled to the tubular body and including a plurality of valve leaflets.

STENT WITH CONTROLLED EXPANSION

An intraluminal prosthesis composed of a self-expandable stent and a biodegradable constraining element being capable of biodegrading in vivo over a predetermined period of time to permit radial expansion of the stent. The constraining elements are applied to the stent to produce a compressed configuration. Dissolution of the constraining elements in vivo allows for expansion of the stent to an expanded configuration.

FLEXIBLE VASCULAR OCCLUDING DEVICE

A vascular occluding device for modifying blood flow in a vessel, while maintaining blood flow to the surrounding tissue. The occluding device includes a flexible, easily compressible and bendable occluding device that is particularly suited for treating aneurysms in the brain. The neurovascular occluding device and be deployed using a micro-catheter. The occluding device can be formed braiding wires in a helical fashion and can have varying lattice densities along the length of the occluding device. The occluding device could also have different lattice densities for surfaces on the same radial plane.

SELF-EXPANDABLE MEDICAL INSTRUMENT FOR TREATING DEFECTS IN A PATIENT'S HEART

The invention relates to a self-expandable medical instrument (100) for treating defects in a patient's heart, in particular for the transvascular implantation of a prosthetic heart valve (30), wherein the medical instrument (100) is introducible into the body of a patient in a minimally-invasive procedure using a catheter system (40) and comprises a stent (1) made of a flexible mesh (2) of thin wires or filaments (2'). In order to realize a position-ing of medical instrument (100) in the patient's heart which is as precise as possible and to securely anchor same there, it is provided for the stent (1) composed of the flexible mesh (2) to exhibit in the expanded state of the medical instrument (100) a distal reten-tion area (10) with a laterally-inverted beaded portion (12) which is engageable in at least one pocket (51) of the patient's defective heart valve (50), a proximal retention area (20), and a center area (15) positioned between the distal and the proximal retention area (10, 20 ...

BLADE-LIKE SHAFT OF A HIP-JOINT PROSTHESIS

Blade-like shaft (10) of a hip-joint prosthesis for anchoring in the femur, with, on the one hand, a portion (19) that comprises a prosthesis neck (18), and with, on the other hand, a femoral anchoring portion (21) which narrows towards a distal end (20) and whose lateral narrow side (22) includes a dist al rectilinear portion (23) and a proximal curved portion (11), wherein the rectilinear portion (23) extends along a length (LD) of 60% to 75% of the total length (LG) of the shaft (10).

METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR ENDOVASCULAR HEART VALVE REPLACEMENT COMPRISING TISSUE GRASPING ELEMENTS

The present invention provides an apparatus for endovascularly replacing a patient's heart valve. In some embodiments, the apparatus includes an expandable anchor supporting a replacement valve, the anchor and replacement valve being adapted for percutaneous delivery and deployment to replace the patient's heart valve, the anchor having a braid having atraumatic grasping elements adapted to grasp tissue in a vicinity of the patient's heart valve.

STENT WITH MECHANICAL OR BIOLOGICAL HEART VALVE FOR MINIMALLY INVASIVE VALVE REPLACEMENT PROCEDURE, AND APPLICATOR

The present invention patent application discloses a heart stent provided with support ledges for a heart valve replacement procedure, which allows positioning a mechanical or biological valve in an adapter secured to the inner part of the stent. The stent is positioned inside heart valves and is supported on a mechanical support ring having an annular or ovoid shape. The stent can be mounted and kept ready for use inside an applicator developed for positioning the stent in the valve.

TRANSCATHETER VALVE PROSTHESIS

A system for implanting a heart valve includes a radially self-expandable tubular body having a preformed groove disposed al m outer surface of the tubular body, and a valve disposed within the tubular body. The preformed groove extends at least partially around the tubular body, and has a circumferential opening facing radially outward. A trapping member is configured to be disposed within the preformed groove on the outer surface of the tubular body and form at least a partial loop around the tubular body, The circumferential opening of the preformed, groove is relatively larger when m outflow end of the tubular body has been deployed from a catheter and so inflow end of the tubular body is disposed within the catheter, and the circumferential opening of the preformed groove is relatively smaller when both the outflow end are inflow end are fully deployed from the catheter.

PROSTHETIC MITRAL OR TRICUSPID HEART VALVE

Cette prothèse (1) comprend une armature tubulaire expansible (2) à structure maillée et une valve prothétique (3) montée sur cette armature. Selon l'invention: - la portion ventriculaire (2v) de l'armature (2) présente une large échancrure (6) sur un côté, s'étendant en longueur depuis l'extrémité de cette portion ventriculaire (2v) qui est opposée à la portion annulaire (2i) jusqu'à la partie de cette portion ventriculaire (2v) proche de la portion annulaire (2i), cette échancrure (6) s'étendant sur un secteur de la circonférence de la prothèse (1) de l'ordre de 90 à 140°; - la portion atriale (2a) va en s'évasant vers l'extérieur de la prothèse depuis ladite portion annulaire (2i) vers l'extrémité de cette portion atriale opposée à cette portion annulaire, et comprend des pointes d'ancrage(5a) du côté de la portion annulaire (2i); et - ladite portion ventriculaire (2v)présente une forme sensiblement sphérique ou ovoïde et comprend des pointes d'ancrage (5v)du côté de ladite portion annulaire ...

EMBOLIC PROTECTION DEVICE

An embolic protection device includes an expandable and contractible filter that can be supported by one or more struts. The struts can be connected to the filter or interwoven into the filter, so as to assist in the expansion and contraction of the filter. In one embodiment, the proximal ends of the struts connect to a joint that is fixed in position relative to a delivery wire, while the distal end of the filter connect to a joint that slides relative to the delivery wire.

VASCULAR IMPLANT

An implant for implantation in a lumen includes a plurality of struts, with intervening openings therebetween. The implant also includes narrow connecting pieces, bridging at least some of the openings so as to interconnect the struts. Exertion of a first outward radial force on the struts causes the implant to open to a first diameter by opening the intervening openings between the struts. The narrow connecting pieces are adapted to break under exertion on the struts of a second outward radial force, greater than the first outward radial force, so that the implant opens to a second diameter, greater than the first diameter.

FLOW REDUCING IMPLANT

A flow reducing implant which includes a flared section adapted to contact a blood vessel wall. The flow reducing implant also includes at least one narrowed section continuous with the flared section. The implant is defined by a sheet material with slots and wherein a width of the slots varies over the implant to control a geometry of the implant.

TRANSCATHETER VALVE PROSTHESIS

A transcatheter atrio-ventricular valve prosthesis (1) for functional replacement of an atrio-ventricular heart valve in a connection channel ( 10), having a circumferential connection channel wall structure (25), between the atrial chamber (15) and the ventricular chamber (20) of a heart, comprising a radially expandable tubular body (30) to be disposed in the interior of the connection channel (10) and extending along an axis (35), and a valve (40) arranged within and attached to the tubular body (30), wherein the tubular body (30) is provided with an outer circumferential groove (45) which is open to the radial outside of the tubular body (30) and which defines a groove bottom (46), whereby the tubular body (30) is separated by the outer circumferential groove into first (31) and second (32) body sections, and wherein the tubular body (30) is provided with a first plurality of projections (50, 55) which extend from the first or second body section (31, 32) in an axial direction of the ...

PROSTHETIC VALVE WITH AN ELASTIC STENT AND A SEALING STRUCTURE

The present disclosure concerns a prosthetic valve comprising a tubular elastic stent having a distal end and a proximal end with a passage extending from the distal end to the proximal end of the elastic stent, a valve positioned within the passage, and an annular sealing structure positioned on an exterior of the elastic stent at the distal end of the elastic stent, the sealing structure forming a protrusion and comprising an inflatable cuff.

ANTI-MIGRATION MICROPATTERNED STENT COATING

An endoprosthesis has an expanded state and a contracted state, the endoprosthesis includes a stent having an inner surface defining a lumen and an outer surface; and a polymeric coating adhered to the outer surface of the stent. The polymeric coating includes a base and a plurality of protrusions extending outwardly from the base. When the endoprosthesis is expanded to the expanded state in a lumen defined by a vessel wall, the protrusions apply a force that creates an interlock between the vessel wall and the endoprosthesis.

PROSTHETIC VALVE FOR REPLACING MITRAL VALVE

Embodiments of prosthetic valves for implantation within a native mitral valve are provided. One embodiment of a prosthetic valve includes a radially compressible main body and a one-way valve member. In some cases, the prosthetic valves also include ventricular anchors and/or an atrial portion coupled to and disposed outside of the main body. Methods, devices, and systems for delivering such prosthetic valves to the native mitral valve and implanting them therein are also provided.

THROMBOSIS FILTER

A thrombosis filter (I, II) that has an improved filtering function and can be securely anchored at a desired location and be removed through an endovenous route even after the growth of neointima. The thrombosis filter (I, II) of this invention includes a first and a second filtering and holding unit, each unit including a coupling mechanism (41, 42) at its outer extremity in the form of a hook, and a plurality of resilient struts (31, 32) which radiate from a central hub (51, 52) and lie on the surfaces of cones. The units are interconnected by a core shaft (1) which consists of a compression spring and a pair of core wires.

SELF-EXPANDING STENT FOR A MEDICAL DEVICE TO BE INTRODUCED INTO A CAVITY OF A BODY, AND METHOD FOR ITS PREPARATION

A self-expanding stent for a medical device to be introduced into a cavity of a human body, is disclosed and includes a radially expandable and axially retractable tubular body (1), characterized in that the tubular body comprises first flexible rigid filaments (2, 3) which are arranged side by side in a number at least equal to two, wound along a first helicoid direction around a longitudinal axis (4) of the tubular body, and second flexible rigid filaments (5, 6) which are arranged side by side in a number at least equal to two, wound along a second helicoid direction opposite to the first, each multiple filament wound in one of the said directions crossing multiple filaments wound in the other direction according to a plaited arrangement. Methods for reproducibly forming the stent of the invention are disclosed.

EXPANDABLE SUPPORTIVE BIFURCATED ENDOLUMINAL GRAFTS

An endoluminal graft which is both expandable and supportive is provided in a form suitable for use in a bifurcated body vessel location. The graft expands between a first diameter and a second, larger diameter . The support component is an expandable stent endoprosthesis. A cover, a liner, or both a cover and a liner are applied to the endoprosthesis in the form of a stretchable wall material that is porous, elastomeric and biocompatible in order to allow normal cellular invasion upon implantation, without stenosis, when the expandable and supportive graft is at its second diameter. The supportive endoluminal graft is preferably provided as a plurality of components that are deployed separately at the bifurcated body vessel location.

METHOD OF FORMING MEDICAL DEVICES, INTRAVASCULAR OCCLUSION DEVICES

The present invention provides a method of forming a medical device and medical devices which can be formed in accordance with the method. In one embodiment, the method includes the steps of: a) providing a metal fabric (10) formed of a plurality of strands (14) formed of a metal which can be heat treated to substantially set a desired shape; b) deforming the metal fabric (10) to generally conform to a surface of a molding element (20); c) heat treating the metal fabric (10) in contact with the surface of the molding element (20) to substantially set the shape of the fabric (10) in its deformed state; and d) removing the metal fabric (10) from contact with the molding element. The resulting metal fabric will define a medical device which can be collapsed for passage through a catheter or the like for deployment in a channel of a patient's body. Medical devices made in accordance with this method can have varying structures.

PERCUTANEOUS CATHETER DIRECTED INTRAVASCULAR OCCLUSION DEVICES

This invention is an intravascular occlusion device (10) for Atrial Septal Defects (ASD), and Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) treatment. The device (10) is constructed of resilient metal fabric (14, 14'), and is capable of assumi ng both an expanded configuration and a collapsed configuration. Once expelled out of a delivery catheter (314) the device returns to its expanded configuration in either a generally barbell configuration or a generally bel l- shaped configuration.

MODULAR ENDOLUMINAL STENT-GRAFTS AND METHODS FOR THEIR USE

Modular endoluminal stent-grafts include at least two different sized stent- grafts which are deployed one within the other. According to one embodiment of the invention, a first stent-graft is provided having a flared end which is expandable to a first diameter and a midsection which is expandable to a second diameter smaller than the first diameter. A second stent-graft is also provided having an end which is expandable to a diameter which engages the midsection of the first stent-graft. The first embodiment of the invention i s deployed by expanding the first stent-graft such that its flared end engages a large diameter vessel, then expanding the second stent-graft inside the midsection of the first stent graft and inside a small diameter vessel such that the second stent graft engages the small diameter vessel and the midsection of the first stent-graft. According to a second embodiment of the invention, the midsection of the first stent-graft is reinforced with a flexible member to ...

MODULAR ENDOLUMINAL STENT-GRAFTS AND METHODS FOR THEIR USE

Modular endoluminal stent-grafts include at least two different sized stent-graf ts which are deployed one within the other. According to one embodiment of the invention, a first stent-graft is provided having a flared end which is expandable to a first diame ter and a midsection which is expandable to a second diameter smaller than the first diame ter. A second stent-graft is also provided having an end which is expandable to a diameter whi ch engages the midsection of the first stent-graft. The first embodiment of the invention is de ployed by expanding the first stent-graft such that its flared end engages a large diamete r vessel, then expanding the second stent-graft inside the midsection of the first stent graft and inside a small diameter vessel such that the second stent graft engages the small diameter vess el and the midsection of the first stent-graft. According to a second embodiment of the inv ention, the midsection of the first stent-graft is reinforced with a flexible member ...

WIRE REINFORCED VASCULAR PROSTHESIS

What is described herein is a endovascular tube or bifurcated prosthesis used for the repair of aneurysms or other vessel disease. This can be soft or hard occlusive disease. This prosthesis is constructed by fabricating a structure that consists of a textile or other polymeric material and through which is threaded a superelastic metal wire such as a nitinol, a ductile wire or other filament material. The textile can be a polymeric material. The wire provides the self-expandability of the current device. Ideally, the thickness of the device should be minimized, so that it can be delivered to the diseased site using a percutaneous procedure.

PERCUTANEOUS CATHETER DIRECTED OCCLUSION DEVICES

A collapsible medical device (10) and associated methods for occluding an abnormal opening wherein the medical device (10) is shaped from a heat treatable metal fabric. The metal fabric is formed from a plurality of metal strands and is heat treated within a mold (30) in order to substantially set a desired shape of the device (10). The medical device (10) includes a fastener (22) for attaching to the end of a guide wire or delivery catheter, wherein the shape of the medical device (10) is formed such that the fastener (22) is attached to the metal fabric within a recess formed in the shape of the medical device (10).

ИНТРАВАСКУЛЯРНОЕ ОККЛЮЗИОННОЕ ПРИСПОСОБЛЕНИЕ, НАПРАВЛЯЕМОЕ С ПОМОЩЬЮ ЧРЕСКОЖНОГО КАТЕТЕРА

Предлагаемое изобретение представляет собой интраваскулярное окклюзионное приспособление (1) для лечения дефектов (незаращений) предсердной перегородки (atrial septal defects) и незаращенного артериального протока (patent ductus arteriosus). Приспособление (1) изготовляется из упругой металлической переплетенной структуры (2), (2') и способно принимать как некоторое развернутое устойчивое состояние, так и некоторое сложенное состояние. Как только приспособление (1) выталкивается из доставочного катетера (66), оно возвращается в свое развернутое устойчивое состояние, в котором оно, в зависимости от варианта осуществления, имеет либо преимущественно гантелеобразную, либо преимущественно колоколообразную форму.

PERCUTANEOUS CATHETER, DIRECTED OCCLUSION DEVICES

PERCUTANEOUS CATHETER DIRECTED OCCLUSION DEVICES

Valve prosthesis and delivery method

Perfectionnement aux dispositifs de pose dans un conduit vasculaire d'un élément largable tel un filtre expansible largable

Dispositif de pose dans un conduit notamment vasculaire 3 d'un élément largable 2, lequel dispositif de pose comprend : - d'une part, au moins un cathéter 4 de diamètre interne D1; - d'autre part, au moins un poussoir 7 de diamètre D2 légèrement inférieur à celui D1 interne dudit cathéter, de manière à pouvoir y être monté coulissant, l'élément largable présentant quant à lui au moins une portée globalement cylindrique 14 de diamètre d'enveloppe D3 inférieur à celui D2 du poussoir 7. Ce dispositif étant caractérisé en ce que : - l'extrémité distale 9 du poussoir d'une part, comprend, au moins lorsqu'elle est observée en position engagée dans le cathéter un alésage 17 sensiblement axial qui, lorsqu'il est vide, est de diamètre D4 légèrement inférieur au diamètre D3 de la portée cylindrique 14 de l'élément largable 2; - d'autre part, au moins au niveau de cet alésage distal 17, la paroi 18 du poussoir qui le délimite est au moins diamétralement élastiquement déformable. Application à l'industrie ...

BLOOD CLOT FILTER DEVICE

DEVICE FOR ANCHORING A PROSTHETIC HEART VALVE.

Prosthetic valve fitting assembly comprises valve and support with supple tubular portion, fastenings and lengthwise reinforcing elements

Cet ensemble (1) comprend la valve prothétique (3) à implanter et un support (2) recevant cette valve (3), Selon l'invention, le support (2) comprend : - au moins une portion tubulaire (4) en matériau souple faiblement étirable dans le sens circonférentiel; - des moyens (6) de fixation de cette portion tubulaire (4) à la paroi du conduit corporel, et - une pluralité d'éléments allongés d'armature (5), disposés sur la circonférence de ladite portion tubulaire (4) et reliés à cette portion tubulaire (4) de manière indépendante les uns des autres; la valve (3) est reliée au moins partiellement à ces éléments allongés d'armature (5), notamment au niveau des commissures (3a) de ses valvules, et ces éléments allongés d'armature (5) forment conjointement, en position déployée, une structure ayant un diamètre prédéterminé qui assure le déploiement adéquat de cette valve (3).

VASCULAR STENTING FOR ANEURYSMS

DEVICE AND METHOD FOR MITRAL VALVE REGURGITATION METHOD

Dispositivos intravasculares tecidos e métodos para fabricar os mesmos e aparelho para o fornecimento dos mesmos

ATTACHMENT OF MATERIAL TO AN IMPLANTABLE FRAME BY CROSS-LINKING

Medical devices for implantation in a body vessel, and methods of using and making the same, are provided. A medical device includes a frame and a cross-linkable material having at least one cross-linked region and a non cross-linked region, where the cross-linked region maintains the cross-linkable material in connection to the frame. A method of making an implantable medical device includes providing a frame and covering the frame with a cross-linkable material. The method also includes cross-linking at least one region of the cross-linkable material by joining a first region of the cross-linkable material to a second region of the cross- linkable material to form a point of attachment. A method of treating a subject includes the step of implanting the medical device at a point of treatment.

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR TRANSAPICAL DELIVERY OF AN ANNULUS ANCHORED SELF-EXPANDING VALVE

A prosthetic valve assembly for use in replacing a deficient native valve comprises a replacement valve (820) supported on an expandable prosthesis frame. The valve (820) may be delivered transluminally or transmyocardially using a thorascopic or other limited access approach using a delivery catheter (920). Preferably, the initial partial expansion of the valve (820) is performed against the native valve annulus (916) to provide adequate anchoring and positioning of the valve (820) as the remaining portions of the valve (820) expand. The valve (820) may be be delivered using a retrograde or antegrade approach. When delivered using a retrograde approach, a delivery catheter (920) with a pull-back sheath (922) may be used, while antegrade delivery is preferably performed with a delivery catheter (920) with a push- forward sheath (922) that releases the proximal end of the valve (820) first.

HEART VALVE PROSTHESIS AND SUTURELESS IMPLANTATION OF A HEART VALVE PROSTHESIS

A heart valve prosthesis (10, 50, 100, 200, 300, 350, 470, 540, 570, 702, 748, 800, 850, 918, 950) and method of implanting the prosthesis are disclosed. A valve (12, 52, 98, 472, 542, 590, 754, 854, 920) is mounted within a support apparatus (14, 54, 80, 400,420, 500, 752, 860, 572, 574, 752, 860, 900) that is deformable between a first condition and a second condition. The prosthesis has a cross-sectional dimension in the second condition that is less than a cross-sectional dimension of the supported valve when in first condition. The prosthesis can be implanted into a patient's heart, such as during a direct vision procedure through a tubular implantation apparatus that maintains the prosthesis in its second condition until discharged from the tubular apparatus.

GASTRIC PSEUDOCYST DRAINAGE AND STENT DELIVERY SYSTEM FOR USE THEREIN

Method for draining pseudocysts and stent delivery system for use therein. In one embodiment, the system comprises an inner catheter provided with a pair of longitudinal lumens. A guide wire is slidably disposed in one lumen, and a retractable needle is slidably disposed in the other lumen. A self-expandable stent is coaxially mounted around the inner catheter near its distal end, and an outer catheter is coaxially mounted around the inner catheter and the stent, the outer catheter being adapted for axial movement relative to the inner catheter and being dimensioned to maintain the stent in a compressed state. In use, an endoscope is intraorally introduced into a patient's stomach, and the distal end of the system is inserted therethrough. The needle is advanced to form perforations in the stomach and pseudocyst. The inner catheter is then inserted through the perforations, and the outer catheter is retracted, allowing the stent to expand and interconnect the stomach and pseudocyst. The ...

BODY LUMEN FILTER

The present invention concerns a luminal filter (10). The filter is formed to include: a plurality of filter elements (14) interconnected to form a filter body (12) shaped in a free recovery form and having a plurality of apertures (15) disposed between and defined by the interconnected filter elements. The apertures are dimensioned to inhibit particulates of a selected size from passing through the apertures and being dimensioned to allow blood components smaller than the selected size to pass through the apertures. The filter body can include a first funnel (44) and second funnel (56) at least indirectly coupled together at their small ends. A polymeric wall contact (78a, b, 82a, b) can be coupled to the filter and disposed on an external surface thereof. A fastener (80a, b) can be used to secure the wall contact to the filter.

IMPLANTABLE BIOABSORBABLE VALVE SUPPORT FRAME

Medical devices for implantation within a body vessel comprising a frame formed at least in part from a metallic bioabsorbable material are provided. The devices can be pushed from a delivery catheter into the lumen of a duct or vessel and may include one or more barbs for anchoring purposes. A full or partial covering of fabric or other flexible material, or a bioabsorbable material, including a collagen-based material such as small intestinal submucosa (SIS), may be attached to the frame to form an occlusion device, a graft, or an implantable, intraluminal valve such as for correcting incompetent venous valves.

FRAME BASED UNIDIRECTIONAL FLOW PROSTHETIC IMPLANT

The present invention relates to a medical device, and in particular, to a stent-based valve. The valve includes a radially expandable structural frame comprising a proximal and distal anchors formed from a lattice of interconnected elements, and having a substantially cylindrical configuration with first and second open ends and a longitudinal axis extending there between. One or more cantilevered valve struts are attached directly or indirectly to the proximal anchor. The stent based valve also comprises one or more connecting members attached between the proximal and distal anchors. A biocompatible valve assembly is coaxially disposed and attached to the proximal anchor and extends in the longitudinal direction along the one or more connecting members.

TETHERS FOR PROSTHETIC MITRAL VALVE

This invention relates to the design and function of a single-tether compressible valve replacement prosthesis which can be deployed into a beating heart without extracorporeal circulation using a transcatheter delivery system. The design as discussed combats the process of wear on anchoring tethers over time by using a plurality of stent-attached, centering tethers, which are themselves attached to a single anchoring tether, which extends through the ventricle and is anchored to a securing device located on the epicardium.

Stent-valves for valve replacement and associated methods and systems for surgery

Stent-valves (e.g., single-stent-valves and double-stent-valves), associated methods and systems for their delivery via minimally-invasive surgery, and guide-wire compatible closure devices for sealing access orifices are provided.

Methods and apparatus for endovascularly replacing a heart valve

The invention includes methods of and apparatus for endovascularly replacing a heart valve of a patient. One aspect of the invention provides a method including the steps of endovascularly delivering a replacement valve and an expandable anchor to a vicinity of the heart valve in an unexpanded configuration; and applying an external non-hydraulically expanding or non-pneumatically expanding actuation force on the anchor to change the shape of the anchor, such as by applying proximally and/or distally directed force on the anchor using a releasable deployment tool to expand and contract the anchor or parts of the anchor. Another aspect of the invention provides an apparatus including a replacement valve; an anchor; and a deployment tool comprising a plurality of anchor actuation elements adapted to apply a non-hydraulically expanding or non-pneumatically expanding actuation force on the anchor to reshape the anchor.

Assembly comprising a blood filter for temporary or definitive use and device for implanting it, corresponding filter and method of implanting such a filter

The invention relates to an assembly using a vascular filter accommodated in an implanting sleeve from which it can be partially expelled in the case of temporary filtration. It is used by means of a maneuvering rod to which the filter is connected in a separable manner so that the filter is separated therefrom, and then expelled into the sleeve. The filter may have legs in the shape of a corolla and extensions for retaining it in place in the blood vessel, which naturally define a cylinder. Its use is for the treatment of risk of embolism.

Transcatheter valve prosthesis

A system for implanting a heart valve that includes a radially self-expandable tubular body having an inflow end and a preformed groove disposed at an outer surface of the tubular body between the inflow end and the outflow end, wherein the preformed groove extends at least partially around the tubular body and having a circumferential opening facing radially outward of the tubular body. A valve may be disposed within and attached to the tubular body. Additionally, a trapping member may be configured to form at least a partial loop encircling the preformed groove so as to trap portions of native valve leaflets and/or chords in the preformed groove, the trapping member including one or more barbs.

PROSTHETIC HEART VALVE DEVICES, PROSTHETIC MITRAL VALVES AND ASSOCIATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS

Prosthetic heart valve devices for percutaneous replacement of native heart valves and associated systems and method are disclosed herein. A prosthetic heart valve device configured in accordance with a particular embodiment of the present technology can include an anchoring member having a first portion configured to engage with tissue on or near the annulus of the native heart valve and to deform in a non-circular shape to conform to the tissue. The device can also include a valve support coupled to a second portion of the anchoring member, configured to support a prosthetic valve and having a cross-sectional shape. In some embodiments, the first portion of the anchoring member is mechanically isolated from the valve support such that the cross-sectional shape of the valve support remains sufficiently stable that the prosthetic valve remains competent when the anchoring member is deformed in the non-circular shape.

Methods and Devices for Repairing and/or Preventing Paravalvular Leakage Post-Implantation of a Valve Prosthesis

Devices and methods for delivering a sealing element post-implantation of valve prosthesis that functions to occlude or fill gaps present between the valve prosthesis and the native valve tissue, thereby reducing, minimizing, or eliminating leaks there through. In a first method, an injectable material is placed within a native valve sinus to form a sealing element that presses native valve leaflets against an outer surface of a heart valve prosthesis. In a second method, an injectable sealing material or a preformed annular sealing component is positioned between the outer surface or perimeter of a heart valve prosthesis and native heart valve tissue. In a third method, a preformed sealing element or component is placed within a heart valve prosthesis to press the prosthesis against native valve tissue.

Truncated Cone Heart Valve Stent

A heart valve stent having a section with a heart valve implant and several proximally disposed tissue anchors, also comprising a plurality of anchoring threats, each with a proximate end fastened to the stent or valve and a distal end attached to tissue within a heart chamber to provide tension between the heart chamber tissue and the stent.

Heart valve prosthesis and method

A heart valve prosthesis ( 100 ) comprises a housing component ( 110 ) and a valve component ( 130 ). The housing component ( 110 ) comprises a housing body ( 111 ) having a housing passage ( 112 ) extending therethrough. The housing body ( 111 ) is configured to be located in, or adjacent to and communicating with, a native valve orifice ( 16 ) of a heart ( 10 ) and to engage structure of the heart ( 10 ) to fix the housing body ( 111 ) in relation to the valve orifice ( 161 ). The housing component ( 111 ) is collapsible for delivery via catheter ( 2 ). The valve component ( 130 ) comprises a valve body ( 131 ) having a valve passage ( 132 ) extending therethrough. The valve body ( 131 ) is configured to be fixed within the housing passage ( 112 ) with the valve passage ( 132 ) extending along the housing passage ( 112 ). One or more flexible valve elements ( 131 ) is/are secured to the valve body and extend across the valve passage ( 132 ) for blocking blood flow in a first direction through the valve passage ( 132 ) whilst allowing blood flow in the opposing direction. The valve component ( 130 ) is collapsible for delivery via catheter ( 2 ) separate to the housing component ( 110 ). An associated method of replacing a failed or failing heart valve utilising the heart valve prosthesis ( 100 ) is also disclosed.

Stent designs having enhanced radiopacity

The present embodiments provide stents for use in medical procedures. In one embodiment, a stent comprises a first flanged region and a body region. A first diameter of the first flanged region is greater than a second diameter of the body region when the stent is in an expanded deployed state. A proximal junction is formed between the first flanged region and the body region. The proximal junction comprises at least one strut extending from the distal end of the first flanged region in a distal direction towards the proximal end of the body region. A strut at the proximal end of the body region is disposed around at least a portion of the strut of the proximal junction. The overlap between the strut at the proximal end of the body region with the strut of the proximal junction causes an increased radiopaque effect at the proximal junction.

Device and method for replacing mitral valve

A prosthetic mitral valve assembly is disclosed. The assembly comprises a radially-expandable stent including a lower portion sized for deployment between leaflets of a native mitral valve and an upper portion having a flared end. The upper portion is sized for deployment within the annulus of the mitral valve and the flared end is configured to extend above the annulus. The stent is formed with a substantially D-shape cross-section for conforming to the native mitral valve. The D-shape cross-section includes a substantially straight portion for extending along an anterior side of the native mitral valve and a substantially curved portion for extending along a posterior side of the native mitral valve. The assembly further includes a valve portion formed of pericardial tissue and mounted within an interior portion of the stent for occluding blood flow in one direction.

Apparatus and method for stent shaping

An apparatus for crimping a radially expandable stent includes a pressure vessel, shaping balloon, and mandrel. The mandrel is configured to slidingly receive a stent thereon, and to be slidingly advanced into the pressure vessel. The shaping balloon is inflated to radially compress the stent onto the form of the mandrel; such compression need not be uniform. Pressurization of the shaping balloon facilitates the expansion of the balloon to achieve compression of the stent, with depressurization of the shaping balloon causing the balloon to return to an unexpanded state.

Tethers for Prosthetic Mitral Valve

This invention relates to the design and function of a single-tether compressible valve replacement prosthesis which can be deployed into a beating heart without extracorporeal circulation using a transcatheter delivery system. The design as discussed combats the process of wear on anchoring tethers over time by using a plurality of stent-attached, centering tethers, which are themselves attached to a single anchoring tether, which extends through the ventricle and is anchored to a securing device located on the epicardium.

Disintegrating stent and method of making same

A temporary stent endoprosthesis that does not require an interventional procedure for removal. The disintegrating stent is preferably made from a bioabsorbable polymer, such as by braiding polymer monofilaments into a tubular mesh shape, and the polymer has fracture initiation sites within it that promotes the disintegration of the stent into small pieces that are harmlessly transported out of the body by the vessel contents. Fracture initiation sites may be created by controlling the heterogenous structure of amorphous and crystalline regions, by introducing internal or surface fracture initiation sites, or use of multiple strands with small section size.

Medical device delivery system and deployment method

An aortic stent-graft may include a tubular graft extending from a proximal end to a distal end, the graft comprising a proximal sealing portion and an intermediate portion, wherein a proximal end of the intermediate portion abuts the distal end of the proximal sealing portion. At least one sealing stent may be attached to the proximal sealing portion. A first fenestration window is disposed in the intermediate portion. The first fenestration window has a length determined by the equation L=1.23*D−24 millimeters, where L is the length of the first fenestration window. D is between about 24 millimeters and 45 millimeters.

Collapsible valve prosthesis

A collapsible valve prosthesis includes an armature and a set of prosthetic valve leaflets supported by the armature. The armature is expandable from a contracted condition to an expanded condition for anchoring at an annulus of a natural valve site, and includes a tubular intra-annular portion defining a blood flow lumen having an inflow side and an outflow side. The tubular intra-annular portion supports the prosthetic valve leaflets in the blood flow lumen and is provided with outward formations for coupling with the natural valve site. The armature includes an over-annular portion linked to the intra-annular portion to extend collar-like over the annulus of the natural valve site at the inflow side of the blood flow lumen. The armature may also include an under-annular portion to extend collar-like at the outflow side of the blood flow lumen. The prosthesis may permit mitral valve replacement (MVR) without removing the native valve leaflets and the chordae tendineae.

Prosthetic heart valve devices, prosthetic mitral valves and associated systems and methods

Devices and methods for implantation at a native mitral valve having a non-circular annulus and leaflets. One embodiment of the device includes a valve support having a first region configured to be attached to a prosthetic valve with a plurality of prosthetic leaflets and a second region, and an anchoring member having a longitudinal dimension with a first portion configured to contact tissue at the non-circular annulus, a second portion configured to be attached to the valve support, and a lateral portion transverse to the longitudinal dimension between the first portion and the second portion. The anchoring member and the valve support are configured to move from a low-profile configuration to an expanded configuration in which a shape of the first region of the valve support is at least partially independent of a shape of the first portion of the anchoring member.

Fenestrated stent grafts

A stent graft ( 1 ) including a tubular wall ( 3 ) with at least one fenestration ( 40 ) including a peripheral ( 37 ) reinforcement around at least part of the fenestration. There can also be a tubular extension ( 15 ). The side arm includes a stent ( 19 ) and a cover ( 17 ) and extends from and is in fluid communication with the fenestration and the stent graft. The stent may be a self expanding stent. The ring and/or tubular extension provides better support and sealing for an extension arm. The fenestration ( 40 ) can be circular or if towards the ends of the stent graft may be in the form of a U-shape ( 50 ) with an open end.

Prosthetic Heart Valve Systems

A heart valve that can be expanded following its implantation in a patient, such as to accommodate the growth of a patient and the corresponding growth of the area where the valve is implanted, and to minimize paravalvular leakage. In one aspect, the invention may maximize the orifice size of the surgical valve. The invention includes expandable implantable conduits and expandable bioprosthetic stented valves. In one aspect of the invention, the valve may be adapted to accommodate growth of a patient to address limitation on bioprosthetic valve lifespans.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR HEART VALVE THERAPY

Prosthetic mitral valves described herein can be deployed using a transcatheter mitral valve delivery system and technique to interface and anchor in cooperation with the anatomical structures of a native mitral valve. This document describes prosthetic heart valve designs that interface with native mitral valve structures to create a fluid seal, thereby minimizing mitral regurgitation and paravalvular leaks. This document also describes prosthetic heart valve designs and techniques to manage blood flow through the left ventricular outflow tract. In addition, this document describes prosthetic heart valve designs and techniques that reduce the risk of interference between the prosthetic valves and chordae tendineae. 1. A prosthetic mitral valve system comprising: a frame member defining an outer profile and an interior frame member space; and', 'an occluder disposed within the interior frame member space, the occluder having an open configuration and a closed configuration,, 'a valve assembly comprisingwherein the frame member comprises a proximal end frame portion and a distal end frame portion, wherein an outer periphery of the distal end frame portion comprises a generally flat region and a generally round region, and wherein at least some portions of the generally flat region extend distally toward the interior frame member space.2. The prosthetic mitral valve of claim 1 , further comprising an anchor assembly defining an interior anchor assembly space claim 1 , wherein the valve assembly is selectively mate-able with the interior anchor assembly space.3. The prosthetic mitral valve of claim 2 , wherein the anchor assembly comprises an expandable anchor frame including a hub and a sub-annular support arm extending from the hub claim 2 , wherein the sub-annular support arm extends to an anchor foot having a surface configured for engagement with a sub-annular gutter of a native mitral valve.4. The prosthetic mitral valve of claim 3 , wherein a distance measured ...

Devices and methods for closure of transvascular or transcameral access ports

The present disclosure provides a variety of prostheses, delivery systems and techniques to facilitate closure of transvascular or transcameral access ports. Various embodiments of prostheses are provided including a plurality of radially expandable discs that can be filled with material to facilitate coagulation and to reduce or stop leakage from punctures in vessel walls.

REPLACEMENT PROSTHETIC HEART VALVE, SYSTEM AND METHOD OF IMPLANT

A prosthetic heart valve for functionally replacing a previously implanted prosthetic heart valve is disclosed. The prosthetic heart valve includes a collapsible support structure with leaflets and anchors mounted to the support structure. The support structure also includes an inflow end and an outflow end. The anchors include a radially outwardly extending first anchor proximate to the inflow end and a radially outwardly extending second anchor proximate to the outflow end. The first anchor includes a first configuration and the second anchor includes a second configuration where the first configuration is different than the second configuration. The previously implanted prosthetic heart valve serves as a platform for securement of the prosthetic heart valve to the patient's native tissue. 1. A prosthetic heart valve comprising: 'a diameter of the intermediate portion is less than a diameter of the first end; and', 'a tubular stent structure terminating at a first end longitudinally opposite a second end, the stent structure defining an intermediate portion between the first and second ends, wherein the stent structure is transitionable between a contracted state and an expanded state, and further wherein the expanded state includesat least one leaflet secured to an interior of the stent structure.2. The prosthetic heart valve of claim 1 , wherein the stent structure includes a plurality of interconnected wires.3. The prosthetic heart valve of claim 1 , wherein the stent structure defines a plurality of open cells.4. The prosthetic heart valve of claim 1 , wherein the at least one leaflet is directly secured to the intermediate portion.5. The prosthetic heart valve of claim 1 , wherein the at least one leaflet is free of direct securement to the first end.6. The prosthetic heart valve of claim 1 , wherein the stent structure further defines a first end portion extending from the intermediate portion to the first end claim 1 , and further wherein the expanded state ...

BALLOON DILATION CATHETER

An apparatus for performing a balloon dilation procedure at the site of a stenosis or for deploying a stent in a patient, the apparatus including a single lumen catheter having a proximal end and a distal end, and a high pressure balloon attached to the distal end of the catheter. The high pressure balloon is fabricated from a semi-compliant material that has an average rated burst pressure of between about 15 and about 27 atmospheres of pressure and exhibits a dumbbell-shaped outer periphery when inflated to a first atmospheric pressure and a substantially linear outer periphery when inflated to a second atmospheric pressure. 1. A method of manufacturing a device for performing a balloon dilation procedure at the site of a stenosis within the airway of a patient , comprising:providing a single lumen catheter having a proximal end and a distal end;forming a high pressure balloon from a semi-compliant material having an average rated burst pressure of between about 15 and about 27 atmospheres of pressure and a recommended inflation pressure, the balloon having a central portion positioned between proximal and distal hubbed ends that maintains a substantially linear profile when the balloon is inflated to an atmospheric pressure between about 1 and 6 atmospheres; andcoupling the high pressure balloon to the distal end of the catheter.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising coupling radiopaque markers to the single lumen catheter.3. The method of claim 1 , further wherein the central portion of the high pressure balloon is formed to have a first wall thickness that is greater than a second wall thickness of the distal and proximal ends.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the high pressure balloon is formed to have a diameter of between about 5 millimeters and about 10 millimeters when filled with a fluid to an atmospheric pressure of between about 14 and 19.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the high pressure balloon is formed to have a diameter of between about 5 ...

AXIALLY-SHORTENING PROSTHETIC VALVE

A catheter is transluminally advanced to a heart of a subject. Via the catheter, a prosthetic valve is advanced to the native valve. The prosthetic valve includes an upstream skirt, and a downstream skirt that has a first portion and a second portion. The first portion defines a lumen therethrough. The second portion circumscribes the first portion, and defines a plurality of anchoring arms that are coupled to the second portion. A plurality of prosthetic leaflets, within the lumen, are attached to the first portion. The upstream skirt is expanded in the atrium, and the anchoring arms are expanded in the ventricle, the anchoring arms extending radially outward and toward the upstream skirt. Subsequently, native valve tissue is squeezed between the upstream skirt and the anchoring arms by causing the anchoring arms to move with respect to the prosthetic leaflets, and toward the upstream skirt. 1. A method for use at an atrioventricular valve disposed between an atrium and a ventricle of a heart of a subject , the method comprising:transluminally advancing a catheter to the heart; an upstream annular skirt,', the first portion defining a lumen therethrough, and', (i) circumscribing the first portion, and', '(ii) defining a plurality of anchoring arms that are coupled to the second portion, and, 'the second portion], 'a downstream skirt having a first portion and a second portion,'}, 'a plurality of prosthetic leaflets attached to the first portion and disposed within the lumen;, 'via the catheter, advancing to the heart a prosthetic valve includingexpanding the upstream annular skirt in the atrium and expanding the anchoring arms in the ventricle such that the anchoring arms extend radially outward and toward the upstream skirt; and (i) with respect to the prosthetic leaflets, and', '(ii) toward the upstream skirt., 'subsequently, squeezing tissue of the atrioventricular valve between the upstream annular skirt and the anchoring arms by causing the anchoring arms to ...

TRANSCATHETER VALVE PROSTHESIS

A transcatheter atrio-ventricular valve prosthesis for functional replacement of an atrio-ventricular heart valve in a connection channel, the prosthesis comprising a radially expandable tubular body extending along an axis, and a valve arranged within and attached to the tubular body. The tubular body is provided with an outer circumferential groove which is open to the radial outside of the tubular body, whereby the tubular body is separated by the outer circumferential groove into first and second body sections. The tubular body is provided with a first plurality of projections which extend from the first or second body section in an axial direction of the tubular body and each of which has a free end arranged to overlap the outer circumferential groove. An elongate outer member may be disposed at the exterior of the connection channel wall structure at a level of the circumferential groove. 1. A system for implanting a heart valve , comprising:a radially self-expandable tubular body having an inflow end and an outflow end and a preformed groove disposed at an outer surface of the tubular body between the inflow end and the outflow end, the preformed groove extending at least partially around the tubular body and having a circumferential opening facing radially outward of the tubular body;a valve disposed within and attached to the tubular body;a guidewire configured to guide portions of native valve leaflets and/or chords into the groove; anda trapping member configured to form a partial loop around the preformed groove when the tubular body is fully expanded.2. The system according to claim 1 , wherein the trapping member comprises:a tubular structure having a central longitudinal axis so as to extend in the groove in a circumferential direction of the tubular body; anda cross-sectional diameter transverse to the central longitudinal axis that is greater than 2 mm and less than 15 mm.3. The system according to claim 1 , wherein the trapping member comprises an ...

Collapsible-Expandable Prosthetic Heart Valves With Structures for Clamping Native Tissue

A prosthetic heart valve is designed to be circumferentially collapsible for less invasive delivery into the patient. At the implant site the valve re-expands to a larger circumferential size, i.e., the size that it has for operation as a replacement for one of the patient's native heart valves. The valve includes structures that, at the implant site, extend radially outwardly to engage tissue structures above and below the native heart valve annulus. These radially outwardly extending structures clamp the native tissue between them and thereby help to anchor the prosthetic valve at the desired location in the patient. 1. (canceled)2. A prosthetic heart valve , comprising:a stent having an inflow end, an outflow end, an expanded condition and a collapsed condition, the stent including an annularly continuous annulus portion adjacent the inflow end and a plurality of commissure posts each having a connected end connected to the annulus portion and a free end, the annulus portion including a plurality of closed perimeter diamond-shaped cells, each cell having an upstream apex portion directly connected to a downstream apex portion at connection points, the upstream apex portion having an upstream apex and the downstream apex portion having a downstream apex, the stent being devoid of structure between adjacent ones of the commissure posts from the connected ends to the free ends, the upstream apex portion of each cell in a group of the cells being resiliently biased to deflect radially outwardly from the connection points and the downstream apex portion of each cell in the group of the cells being resiliently biased to deflect radially outwardly from the connection points;an expandable and collapsible valve element mounted within the stent; anda skirt connected to the annulus portion of the stent.3. The prosthetic heart valve as claimed in claim 2 , wherein the skirt extends annularly around the annulus portion and has a first annular edge positioned downstream from ...

Stent-valves for valve replacement and associated methods and systems for surgery

Stent-valves (e.g., single-stent-valves and double-stent-valves), associated methods and systems for their delivery via minimally-invasive surgery, and guide-wire compatible closure devices for sealing access orifices are provided.

Heart Valve Assembly

A heart valve assembly has a heart valve assembly that has a wire frame comprising an anchor section, a generally cylindrical valve support section, and a neck section that transitions between the anchor section and the valve support section. The wire frame includes a plurality of supports extending radially outwardly in an annular manner about an upper end of the valve support section, and the anchor section has an annular flange that extends radially therefrom, so that an annular space is defined between the annular flange and the annular supports for receiving or capturing the native annulus when the heart valve is deployed. The heart valve assembly also includes a leaflet assembly having a plurality of leaflets that are stitched to the valve support section and which are positioned on an inflow side of the neck section.

System and Method for Treatment of Anal Incontinence and Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Using a sling that includes a central portion and at least two arms extending from the central portion, a method of treating anal incontinence may include positioning the central portion posteriorly to the rectum and/or anus of a subject, and extending each arm of the sling to a respective obturator region. Using a sling having the same or similar structure, a method of treating pelvic organ prolapse may include positioning the central portion beneath the ano-rectum of a subject, and extending each arm of the sling to a respective thigh incision near the obturator region. 1. An implant system for use in treating defecatory dysfunctions of a patient , comprising:a sling including a central portion, the central portion having first and second elongate straps extending therefrom and an extension member sized and structured for attachment to a coccyx of the patient; anda needle device adapted to engage with and facilitate deployment of the sling.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the central portion includes an inflatable sac.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein at least one of the first and second elongate straps is formed of a mesh material.4. The system of claim 1 , wherein at least one of the first and second elongate straps is formed of tension-free vaginal tape.5. The system of claim 1 , wherein at least one of the first and second elongate straps includes a filament.6. The system of claim 5 , wherein the filament comprises a suture.7. The system of claim 1 , wherein at least one of the first and second elongate straps includes serrations.8. The system of claim 1 , further comprising at least one anchor associated at least one of the first and second elongate straps.9. The system of claim 1 , wherein the first and second elongate straps are constructed of a synthetic mesh material and at least a portion of the central portion is constructed of a biodegradable material.10. The system of claim 1 , wherein the central portion has a generally hyperbolic paraboloid shape ...

DELIVERY SYSTEMS HAVING A TEMPORARY VALVE AND METHODS OF USE

A delivery system for percutaneously delivering a heart valve prosthesis to a site of a native heart valve includes a delivery catheter and a heart valve prosthesis. The delivery catheter includes an outer sheath, an inner shaft, and an orifice restriction mechanism. The heart valve prosthesis has a valve member and a docking member. When the orifice restriction mechanism is positioned within the docking member within an annulus of the native heart valve, the orifice restriction mechanism temporarily replicates the operation of the native heart valve until the valve member is positioned within the docking member. 120-. (canceled).22. The delivery system of claim 21 , wherein the orifice restriction mechanism is configured to temporarily replicate the operation of the native heart valve by alternating between the first state and the radially expanded second state.23. The delivery system of claim 21 , wherein the heart valve prosthesis is a mitral heart valve prosthesis and the native heart valve is a native mitral valve.24. The delivery system of claim 23 , wherein the orifice restriction mechanism is configured to temporarily replicate the operation of the native valve by transitioning to the first state during diastole and transitioning to the radially expanded second state during systole of the cardiac cycle of a heart.25. The delivery system of claim 21 , wherein the orifice restriction mechanism comprises a balloon attached to the inner shaft.26. The delivery system of claim 25 , wherein:the heart valve prosthesis comprises a docking member and a valve member;the docking member is balloon expandable and is mounted on the balloon in the delivery configuration; andthe balloon is configured to radially expand the docking member and then temporarily replicate the operation of the native heart valve within the docking member until the valve member is deployed within the docking member.27. The delivery system of claim 21 , wherein the orifice restriction mechanism ...

TECHNIQUES FOR SECURING PROSTHETIC VALVES USING HELICAL ANCHORS

A distal portion of a catheter is transluminally advanced to a heart of a subject. Via an atrium of the heart, a ventricular anchor-helix is transluminally advanced out of the distal portion of the catheter to a ventricular site in a ventricle of the heart. An atrial anchor-helix is transluminally advanced out of the distal portion of the catheter to an atrial site. A prosthetic valve, in a compressed state thereof, is transluminally delivered to a mitral valve of the heart. The prosthetic valve is expanded at the mitral valve and held in place using the ventricular anchor-helix and the atrial anchor-helix, such that an upstream portion of the prosthetic valve is disposed in the atrium, and a downstream portion of the prosthetic valve is disposed in the ventricle. Other embodiments are also described. 145-. (canceled)46. A method for use at a mitral valve disposed between an atrium and a ventricle of a heart of a subject , the method comprising:transluminally advancing a distal portion of a catheter to the heart;transluminally advancing, via the atrium, a ventricular anchor-helix out of the distal portion of the catheter to a ventricular site;transluminally advancing an atrial anchor-helix out of the distal portion of the catheter to an atrial site;transluminally delivering, to the mitral valve, a prosthetic valve in a compressed state thereof; andexpanding the prosthetic valve at the mitral valve and holding the prosthetic valve in place using the ventricular anchor-helix and the atrial anchor-helix, such that an upstream portion of the prosthetic valve is disposed in the atrium, and a downstream portion of the prosthetic valve is disposed in the ventricle.47. The method according to claim 46 , wherein transluminally advancing the atrial anchor-helix out of the distal portion of the catheter to the atrial site comprises using a tool claim 46 , extended out of the distal end of the catheter claim 46 , to transluminally advance the atrial anchor-helix to the atrial ...

Flexible vascular occluding device

A vascular occluding device for modifying blood flow in a vessel, while maintaining blood flow to the surrounding tissue. The occluding device includes a flexible, easily compressible and bendable occluding device that is particularly suited for treating aneurysms in the brain. The neurovascular occluding device can be deployed using a micro-catheter. The occluding device can be formed by braiding wires in a helical fashion and can have varying lattice densities along the length of the occluding device. The occluding device could also have different lattice densities for surfaces on the same radial plane.

METHOD FOR REPLACEMENT OF HEART VALVE

A method for implanting a replacement heart valve within a diseased valve includes accessing a patient's heart by piercing a myocardium, advancing a guidewire into the patient's heart, and installing an access device in a wall of the heart. The access device preferably has at least one valve mechanism. A valve delivery device is advanced over the guidewire and through the access device. The valve delivery device has a replacement heart valve disposed along a distal end portion thereof. The replacement heart valve preferably includes an outer support structure and a leaflet valve disposed within the outer support structure. The replacement heart valve is radially expanded within the diseased valve. During implantation, the outer support structure conforms to a diameter of the diseased valve and the leaflet valve expands to a fixed size having a diameter smaller than the diameter of the diseased valve. 1. A method for implanting a replacement heart valve within a diseased valve , the method comprising:accessing a patient's heart by piercing a myocardium;advancing a guidewire into the patient's heart;installing an access device in a wall of the heart, the access device having at least one valve mechanism for preventing blood from escaping the patient's heart;advancing a valve delivery device over the guidewire and through the access device, the valve delivery device having a replacement heart valve disposed along a distal end portion thereof, the replacement heart valve including an outer support structure and a leaflet valve disposed within the outer support structure; andradially expanding the replacement heart valve in the diseased valve;wherein the outer support structure conforms to a diameter of the diseased valve and the leaflet valve expands to a fixed size with a diameter smaller than the diameter of the diseased valve.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the leaflet valve comprises leaflets made from pericardium.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the outer ...

Anti-migration stent with quill filaments

A stent that includes a plurality of quill filaments. Each quill filament includes filament material, a surface, and a plurality of quills. Each quill has a tip, a body, and a base where the body extends from the base to the tip. The quill filaments can be interwoven to form the stent or the quill filaments can be engaged to the framework of a stent.

VALVE DOCKING DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS

Various systems, devices and methods associated with the placement of a dock or anchor for a prosthetic valve. The anchor can comprise a plurality of coils adapted to support a valve prosthesis, the plurality of coils including an upper coil, one or more middle coils, and a lower coil. The upper coil can have a larger diameter than the one or more middle coils and the lower coil, and the upper coil is configured to engage a wall of an atrium of the heart at a position superior to and spaced axially from the mitral valve annulus after the plurality of coils have been fully delivered from the coil guide catheter. 1. A helical anchor for docking a mitral valve prosthesis , the helical anchor adapted to be received in and delivered from a coil guide catheter and comprising:a plurality of coils having a preformed, coiled configuration after being delivered from the coil guide catheter and adapted to support the mitral valve prosthesis upon being fully delivered from the coil guide catheter and implanted with coil portions above and below a mitral valve annulus of a native mitral valve of a heart, wherein the plurality of coils comprises an upper coil, one or more middle coils, and a lower coil, wherein the upper coil has a larger diameter than the one or more middle coils and the lower coil, and wherein the upper coil is configured to engage a wall of an atrium of the heart at a position superior to and spaced axially from the mitral valve annulus after the plurality of coils have been fully delivered from the coil guide catheter.2. The helical anchor of claim 1 , wherein the helical anchor comprises a solid wire.3. The helical anchor of claim 1 , wherein the helical anchor comprises a hollow wire configured to be delivered over a guide wire.4. The helical anchor of claim 1 , wherein the one or more middle coils and the lower coil are configured to be positioned below the mitral valve annulus in a ventricle of the heart claim 1 , after being delivered from the coil guide ...

Anchoring device for a prosthetic heart valve

The invention relates to an anchoring device ( 1, 100 ) for implanting a prosthetic heart valve at a valve annulus of a patient. According to the invention, such a device comprises: a compressible and expandable sealed ring member ( 2, 200 ); a compressible and expandable anchoring element ( 3, 300 ) having a ventricular skirt ( 33, 303 ) and an atrial skirt ( 31, 301 ) linked by a tubular portion ( 32, 302 ); said ring member ( 2, 200 ) surrounding said tubular portion ( 32, 302 ) of said anchoring element ( 3, 300 ) and said anchoring element clamping said prosthetic heart valve.

VALVE PROSTHESIS AND METHOD FOR DELIVERY

In some embodiments, a valve prosthesis includes an inlet portion that is substantially s-shaped and configured to engage the floor of the outflow tract of the native heart atrium. In some embodiments, a valve prosthesis includes a chordae guiding element configured to reduce bending of the chordae to reduce stress on the chordae during the cardiac cycle. In some embodiments, a valve prosthesis includes a central portion having an hourglass shape configured to pinch a native annulus in order to provide axial fixation of the valve prosthesis within a valve site. In some embodiments, a valve prosthesis includes a frame having an outflow end that is flared to provide a gap between an outflow end of the frame and an outflow end of prosthetic leaflets when the prosthetic leaflets are fully opened. 128-. (canceled)29. A heart valve repair device , comprising: a central portion configured to be positioned against a native leaflet of a native mitral valve, and', 'an inlet portion extending laterally outwardly from the central portion and then back inwardly towards the central portion, wherein the inlet portion has a curved shape and is configured to engage a floor of an outflow tract of a native heart atrium and restrict movement of the heart valve repair device in a downstream direction of blood flow at the native mitral valve; and, 'a frame including'}a support arm extending outwardly from the frame and configured to extend around and clamp a native leaflet of the native mitral valve between the support arm and the central portion of the frame.30. The heart valve repair device of claim 29 , wherein the central portion has a substantially oval or circular shape in a deployed configuration and defines a central lumen.31. The heart valve repair device of claim 30 , wherein the central portion includes a flared portion that diverges away from a longitudinal axis of the frame.32. The heart valve repair device of claim 29 , wherein the inlet portion has an S-shape.33. The heart ...

Valve Prosthesis

The present disclosure relates to valve replacement devices that are foldable for catheter-based deployment to the site of implantation, as well as systems for the delivery of valve prostheses, including prostheses having the special characteristics of the disclosed valve replacement devices. The devices include highly effective adhering mechanisms for secure and enduring precision implantation. The adhering mechanisms may employ a unique sealing mechanism that includes a cuff that expands slowly whereby the device is not secured in place until the completion of the implantation procedure. The implanted device, optionally together with the cuff, prevents perivalvular leaks and incorporate an appropriate leaflet system for reliable functioning in situ. 1. A prosthetic device comprising: an expanded and an unexpanded state;', 'a long axis;', 'a middle region having first and second ends and comprising a framework that defines inner and outer surfaces;', 'a lower flange portion at the first end of the middle region that comprises a plurality of flange elements, each of said elements having a first end that is attached to the middle region and an opposed second end that is spaced from the first end;', 'an upper flange portion at the second end of the middle region that comprises a plurality of flange elements, each of said elements having a first end that is attached to the middle region and an opposed second end that is spaced from the first end;, 'an at least partially self-expanding stent adapted for percutaneous delivery and anchoring in a mitral valve annulus, said stent comprising'} 'when said stent is in the unexpanded state, the upper and lower flange portions are oriented substantially along the long axis of the stent;', 'wherein,'} the lower flange portion is adapted to anchor the stent within the mitral annulus by grasping tissue at the ventricular side of the annulus by enfolding it between the lower flange portion and the outer surface of the middle region ...

ENDOLUMINAL CARDIAC AND VENOUS VALVE PROSTHESES AND METHODS OF MANUFACTURE AND DELIVERY THEREOF

This invention relates to prosthetic cardiac and venous valves and a single catheter device and minimally invasive techniques for percutaneous and transluminal valvuloplasty and prosthetic valve implantation. 1. A method of endoluminally delivering a valvular prosthesis within an anatomic passageway to replace an anatomic valve using a catheter , the valvular prosthesis carried on a distal end of the catheter , the valvular prosthesis comprising an distal anchor section , a proximal anchor section and an intermediate section , the method comprising the step of:passing the catheter through an anatomic passageway so that the distal anchor section of the valvular prosthesis is positioned distal the anatomic valve;positioning the intermediate section within the anatomic valve; andreleasing the valvular prosthesis from the catheter into a space occupied by the anatomic valve such that the distal anchor section is distal the anatomic valve, the proximal anchor section is proximal the anatomic valve and the intermediate section operates to exclude and replace the anatomic valve.2. The method of endoluminally delivering a valvular prosthesis according to claim 1 , wherein the positioning step comprises withdrawing the catheter to allow the intermediate section to exclude the anatomic valve.3. The method of endoluminally delivering a valvular prosthesis according to claim 1 , wherein the valvular prosthesis is self-expanding and has anchoring flanges projecting substantially radially outwardly from the valvular prosthesis and positioned at a distal end of the valvular prosthesis claim 1 , and wherein the withdrawing step further comprises the steps of:withdrawing a sheath to deploy the anchoring flanges, andengaging the anchoring flanges to a distal end of the anatomic valve, thereby positioning the valvular prosthesis within the anatomic valve.412. The method of claim 1 , wherein the catheter has a delivery profile of French size or smaller.5. The method of claim 1 , ...

VALVE STENT USED SAFELY AND VALVE REPLACEMENT DEVICE HAVING THE SAME

The present invention provides a valve stent used safely comprising a supporting net frame, and a flared section connected to an end of the supporting net frame; wherein the flared section is connected to all end nodes located at a corresponding side of the supporting net frame, the flared section is grid shaped, and a number of intersection points of the grids decreases along an axial direction away from the supporting net frame. The present invention also provides a valve replacement device comprising an above valve stent and a prosthesis valve fixed inside the supporting net frame. 1. A valve stent used safely , comprising:a supporting net frame, anda flared section connected to an end of the supporting net frame;wherein the flared section is connected to all end nodes located at a corresponding side of the supporting net frame, the flared section is grid shaped, and a number of intersection points of the grids decreases along an axial direction away from the supporting net frame.2. The valve stent used safely according to claim 1 , wherein the flared section is located at a precedent release end of the valve stent.3. The valve stent used safely according to claim 1 , wherein an outer rim of the flared section is formed by a plurality of curved supporting bars claim 1 , and the end nodes of the supporting net frame corresponding to the positions of the supporting bars are all connected to the supporting bars.4. The valve stent used safely according to claim 3 , wherein the end nodes intersect the supporting bars claim 3 , or are connected with the supporting bars tangentially and intersectingly by guiding bars.5. The valve stent used safely according to claim 4 , wherein each of the guiding bars is curved and has at least one inflection point.6. The valve stent used safely according to claim 5 , wherein each guiding bar is formed by two arc sections and the at least one inflection comprises a first inflection point.7. The valve stent used safely according to ...

DISSOLVABLE ON-COMMAND IMPLANT

The purpose of the “Dissolvable on-command Implant” is to act as a pressure equalizer tube in the eardrum, which has the unique characteristic that the tube can be dissolved with a specially formulated drop solution on-command. This tube can have various shapes and sizes, although the tube is usually a cylindrical tube with a hollow center, which maintains a ventilatory port for the middle ear space. With this design, the ear tube promotes drainage of middle ear fluid, lets air enter the middle ear, and allows for instillation of antibiotic drops. 1. A middle ear aeration system , comprising:a tympanostomy tube composed of a first material and that is insertable into an eardrum of an ear of a patient; anda solution composed of a second material,wherein disintegration of the tympanostomy tube is induced in response to introduction of the solution into the ear of the patient, andwherein the first material reacts with the second material to instigate the disintegration.2. A tympanostomy tube that is insertable into an eardrum comprising:a tube having two flared ends,wherein the tube is comprised of a first material that begins to disintegrate when the first material is in contact with a second material, based on a chemical reaction between the first and second materials.3. The tympanostomy tube of claim 2 , wherein the tube further comprises an inner flange and an outer flange as the two flared ends claim 2 , the inner and outer flanges being connected by a connecting member having a through-hole that extends from the inner flange through the connecting member to the outer flange.4. The tympanostomy tube of claim 3 , wherein the inner flange has a larger diameter than the outer flange.5. The tympanostomy tube of claim 3 , wherein the inner flange is tailed.6. The tympanostomy tube of claim 3 , wherein an inner portion that includes the inner flange and a portion of the connecting member near the inner flange are made of the first material claim 3 , and an outer portion ...

VENA CAVA FILTER WITH DUAL RETRIEVAL

An intravascular filter assembly has an expanded state for capturing thrombi in a patient's blood vessel, a first a collapsed state for removal from the patient's blood vessel in a first direction and a second collapsed state for removal from the patient's blood vessel in a second direction. A plurality of first struts extends from a first axial side of a fixed hub, and a plurality of second struts extends from the opposite axial side of the fixed hub. An axially movable hub has a first position radially surrounding the tubular body, a second position axially spaced apart from the fixed hub along the first struts, and a third position axially spaced apart from the fixed hub along the second struts. The first struts are collapsed when the movable hub is in the second position, and the second struts are collapsed when the movable hub is in the third position. 1. A method of removing an intravascular filter assembly from a body vessel , the filter assembly having a fixed hub defining a tubular body; a plurality of first struts extending from a first axial side of the fixed hub , the first struts having an expanded configuration when the filter is in an expanded state and a collapsed configuration when the filter is in a first collapsed state; a plurality of second struts extending from a second axial side of the fixed hub opposite the first axial side of the fixed hub , the second struts having an expanded configuration when the filter is in the expanded state and a collapsed configuration when the filter is in a second collapsed state; an axially movable hub having a first position radially surrounding at least an axial portion of the tubular body , a second position axially spaced apart from the fixed hub along the first struts , and a third position axially spaced apart from the fixed hub along the second struts , the first struts being in the collapsed configuration when the movable hub is in the second position , and the second struts being in the collapsed ...

Gender-specific mesh implant with barrier for inguinal hernia repair

Disclosed herein are gender-specific implantable mesh for inguinal hernia repair in a patient, comprising: a fabric layer comprising a side defining a surface area wherein the fabric layer is configured to enable tissue adhesion to said mesh; an anti-adhesive barrier comprising a shape configured to prevent direct contact between the fabric layer and both a spermatic cord and a genital nerve upon implantation, wherein the shape covers a part of the surface area on the side of the fabric layer, the part being less than 25%, and wherein the shape is oblique to a horizontally-oriented centerline and a vertically-oriented centerline; and a keyhole configured to fit the genital nerve and the spermatic cord of the patient therethrough without constriction, wherein the keyhole is oblique and inferior to a horizontally-oriented centerline and medial to a vertically-oriented centerline.

GENDER-SPECIFIC MESH IMPLANT WITH BARRIER FOR INGUINAL HERNIA REPAIR

Disclosed herein are gender-specific implantable mesh for inguinal hernia repair in a patient, comprising: a fabric layer comprising a side defining a surface area wherein the fabric layer is configured to enable tissue adhesion to said mesh; an anti-adhesive barrier comprising a shape configured to prevent direct contact between the fabric layer and both a spermatic cord and a genital nerve upon implantation, wherein the shape covers a part of the surface area on the side of the fabric layer, the part being less than 25%, and wherein the shape is oblique to a horizontally-oriented centerline and a vertically-oriented centerline; and a keyhole configured to fit the genital nerve and the spermatic cord of the patient therethrough without constriction, wherein the keyhole is oblique and inferior to a horizontally-oriented centerline and medial to a vertically-oriented centerline. 1146.-. (canceled)147. An implantable mesh for sublay inguinal hernia repair in a male patient , comprising:a) a fabric layer comprising an anterior side and a posterior side, wherein the posterior side comprises a surface area that is configured to enable tissue adhesion to the fabric layer; andb) an anti-adhesive barrier disposed on the anterior side of the fabric layer in a position inferior to a horizontally-oriented centerline, wherein a width of an inferior portion of the barrier is greater than a width of a superior portion of the barrier, and wherein the anti-adhesive barrier is configured to prevent adhesion of a spermatic chord and a genital nerve of the male patient to the fabric layer upon implantation of the implantable mesh.148. The implantable mesh of claim 147 , wherein the anti-adhesive barrier is disposed medial to a vertically-oriented centerline.149. The implantable mesh of claim 147 , wherein the fabric layer comprises a mesh shape with a curved superior edge and a curved inferior edge claim 147 , wherein the curved superior edge and the curved inferior edge are ...

SURGICAL METHODS OF REPLACING PROSTHETIC HEART VALVES

A two-stage or component-based valve prosthesis that can be quickly and easily implanted during a surgical procedure is provided. The prosthetic valve comprises a support structure that is deployed at a treatment site. The prosthetic valve further comprises a valve member configured to be quickly connected to the support structure. The support structure may take the form of a stent that is expanded at the site of a native valve. If desired, the native leaflets may remain and the stent may be used to hold the native valve open. In this case, the stent may be balloon expandable and configured to resist the powerful recoil force of the native leaflets. The support structure is provided with a coupling means for attachment to the valve member, thereby fixing the position of the valve member in the body. The valve member may be a non-expandable type, or may be expandable from a compressed state to an expanded state. The system is particularly suited for rapid deployment of heart valves in a conventional open-heart surgical environment. 1providing an expandable anchoring member having a generally tubular expandable body, the anchoring member being adapted to be constricted to a collapsed state for advancement through the vasculature and adapted to be enlarged to an expanded state sized for contacting the heart valve annulus;providing a prosthetic valve member sized to be supported within the anchoring member, the prosthetic valve member including a metallic support structure and three leaflets configured to permit flow in an outflow direction through the prosthetic valve member;creating a direct access pathway through an apex of the heart;delivering the anchoring member to a position within the heart valve annulus while the anchoring member is in the collapsed state; andenlarging the anchoring member to the expanded state and into contact with the heart valve annulus;wherein the prosthetic valve member is supported within the anchoring member during use and the leaflets ...

METHOD OF IMPLANTING A SPACER BODY IN A MITRAL VALVE

A method of implanting a prosthetic apparatus preferably includes delivering the prosthetic apparatus to a native mitral valve and exposing ventricular anchors and a spacer body of the prosthetic apparatus from a distal end portion of a delivery apparatus. The ventricular anchors are controllably and forcibly expanded outwardly from the spacer body to an expanded configuration. The prosthetic apparatus is positioned relative to the native mitral valve such that native mitral valve leaflets are located between the ventricular anchors and the spacer body. The ventricular anchors are then contracted radially inwardly toward the spacer body to a compressed configuration. In the compressed configuration, the native mitral valve leaflets are secured between the ventricular anchors and the spacer body. After implantation, the spacer body is held between the native mitral valve leaflets, thereby blocking regurgitation and improving the function of the native mitral valve. 1. A method of implanting a prosthetic apparatus , the method comprising:delivering the prosthetic apparatus to a native mitral valve using a transseptal delivery approach, wherein the prosthetic apparatus is releasably coupled to a steerable catheter of a delivery apparatus and disposed within a sheath at a distal end portion of the delivery apparatus, wherein the prosthetic apparatus comprises a spacer body and a plurality of ventricular anchors, wherein the spacer body is configured to reduce regurgitation through the native mitral valve, wherein the ventricular anchors are coupled to the spacer body and configured to secure the prosthetic apparatus to native mitral valve leaflets, wherein the ventricular anchors comprise a U-shaped support structure covered with a fabric, and wherein the fabric is configured to promote tissue in-growth between the native mitral valve leaflets and the ventricular anchors;exposing the ventricular anchors and the spacer body of the prosthetic apparatus from the distal end ...

STENTS, VALVED-STENTS AND METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR DELIVERY THEREOF

Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to stents, valved-stents, (e.g., single-stent-valves and double stent/valved-stent systems) and associated methods and systems for their delivery via minimally-invasive surgery. The stent component comprises a first stent section () a second stent section () a third stent section () and a fourth stent section (). 113.-. (canceled)14. A delivery system , comprising:a delivery catheter;a prosthetic valve coupled to the delivery catheter, the prosthetic valve including a stent and a plurality of leaflets coupled to the stent;wherein the stent has an inflow end region and an outflow end region;wherein the inflow end region, the outflow end region, or both are flared; andone or more fixation elements disposed along the stent, the fixation elements being designed to releasably secure the stent to the delivery catheter.15. The delivery system of claim 14 , wherein the fixation elements secure the stent to the delivery catheter when the stent is in a collapsed configuration and wherein the fixation elements are released from the delivery catheter when the stent shifts to an expanded configuration.16. The delivery system of claim 14 , wherein the delivery catheter includes a projection designed to engage at least one of the one or more fixation elements.17. The delivery system of claim 16 , wherein at least some of the one or more fixation elements include a fixation aperture and wherein the projection is designed to extend through the fixation aperture.18. The delivery system of claim 14 , wherein the inflow end region is flared.19. The delivery system of claim 14 , wherein the outflow end region is flared.20. The delivery system of claim 14 , wherein the inflow end region has an inflow outer diameter claim 14 , wherein the outflow end region has an outflow outer diameter claim 14 , and wherein the inflow outer diameter is different from the outflow outer diameter.21. The delivery system of claim 20 , wherein the stent has ...

Vascular implant

A medical implant ( 20 ) includes first and second ring members ( 22, 24 ), each including a resilient framework ( 26 ) having a generally cylindrical form. A tubular sleeve ( 28 ) is fixed to the first and second ring members so as to hold the ring members in mutual longitudinal alignment, thereby defining a lumen ( 32 ) passing through the ring members. A constricting element ( 30 ) is fit around the sleeve at a location intermediate the first and second ring members so as to reduce a diameter of the lumen at the location.

HEART VALVE PROSTHESIS AND METHOD

A heart valve prosthesis for replacing a native atrioventricular valve of the heart. The prosthesis includes a housing component that is configured to be radially expandable and compressible between a radially compressed state and a radially expanded state to engage structure of the native atrioventricular valve to fix the housing component relative to the native atrioventricular valve. The housing component includes a housing body and an annular sealing element connected to an atrial end of the housing body. The annular sealing element is made of polyester and is reinforced with wire. A valve component is configured to be radially expandable and compressible between a radially compressed state and a radially expanded state within the housing component. The valve component includes a valve body having a valve passage extending therethrough and three leaflets made from pericardium secured to the valve body. 1. A heart valve prosthesis for replacing a native atrioventricular valve of the heart , the heart valve prosthesis comprising:a housing component that is configured to be radially expandable and compressible between a radially compressed state and a radially expanded state to engage structure of the native atrioventricular valve to fix the housing component relative to the native atrioventricular valve;wherein the housing component comprises a housing body having an atrial end, a ventricular end, and a housing passage extending from the atrial end to the ventricular end, the housing component further comprising a plurality of barbs secured to and spaced about the housing body, and an annular sealing element connected to the atrial end of the housing body, wherein the annular sealing element is made of polyester and is reinforced with wire, wherein when the housing component is in the radially expanded state, the annular sealing element extends radially outwardly from the atrial end of the housing body over tissue surrounding the native atrioventricular valve ...

RAPID IMPLANT PROSTHETIC HEART VALVE SYSTEM

A heart valve prosthesis that can be quickly and easily implanted during a surgical procedure is provided. The prosthetic valve has a base stent that is deployed at a treatment site, and a valve component configured to quickly connect to the base stent. The base stent may take the form of a self- or balloon-expandable stent that expands outward against the native valve with or without leaflet excision. The valve component has a non-expandable prosthetic valve and a self- or balloon-expandable coupling stent for attachment to the base stent, thereby fixing the position of the valve component relative to the base stent. The prosthetic valve may be a commercially available to valve with a sewing ring and the coupling stent attaches to the sewing ring. The system is particularly suited for rapid deployment of heart valves in a conventional open-heart surgical environment. A catheter-based system and method for deployment is provided. 1. A prosthetic heart valve and deployment system , comprising:a delivery handle; and a non-expandable, non-collapsible valve member having commissures and defining a flow orifice therethrough and valve leaflets configured to permit one-way blood flow through the flow orifice from an inflow end to an outflow end of the valve member, and a sewing ring surrounding the inflow end thereof, and', 'an expandable coupling stent having a proximal end attached to the inflow end of the valve member, the coupling stent extending away from the valve member in a distal direction and having a free distal end convertible between a contracted state and an expanded state., 'a hybrid prosthetic heart valve held on a distal end of the delivery handle, the heart valve including2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the coupling stent is plastically expandable and the catheter has a balloon on a distal end thereof configured to convert the coupling stent between the contracted state and the expanded state.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the coupling stent is ...

STENTS FOR PROSTHETIC HEART VALVES

A prosthetic valve including a wire frame having a generally tubular body portion, an interior area, a longitudinal axis, a first end comprising a plurality of crowns, and a second end comprising a greater number of crowns than the first end. The wire frame includes a plurality of adjacent rows of modified diamond-shaped structures extending between the first and second ends. The prosthetic valve further includes a valve structure that includes a plurality of leaflets and that is attached within the interior area of the wire frame. 116-. (canceled)17. A prosthetic valve comprising:a stent frame having a radially collapsed configuration and a radially expanded configuration, the stent frame comprising a generally tubular body portion, an interior area, a longitudinal axis, an inflow end comprising a plurality of crowns, an outflow end comprising a plurality of crowns, a first row of inflow end cells formed at the inflow end of the stent frame, a second row of cells spaced from the inflow end of stent frame, each cell of the second row of cells being larger than each inflow end cell; anda tissue valve attached within the interior area of the stent frame, wherein the tissue valve is positioned closer to the inflow end of the stent frame than to the outflow end of the stent frame.18. The prosthetic valve of claim 17 , further comprising a connector configured to couple the prosthetic valve to a delivery system claim 17 , the connector extending from at least one of the plurality of crowns of the outflow end in a direction away from the inflow end.19. The prosthetic valve of claim 18 , wherein the connector includes a post having a first end extending from the crown and a half-dome portion at a second end opposite the first end.20. The prosthetic valve of claim 18 , wherein the wherein the connector includes a post having a first end extending from the crown and a tee portion at a second end opposite the first end.21. The prosthetic valve of claim 17 , wherein in the ...

Intravascular Cuff

An intravascular cuff acts as a lining between a native vessel and an intravascular prosthetic device. During deployment, the ends of the cuff curl back upon themselves and are capable of trapping native tissue, such as valve leaflet tissue, between the ends. The cuff creates a seal between the vessel and the prosthetic, thereby preventing leakage around the prosthetic. The cuff also traps any embolic material dislodged from the vessel during expansion of the prosthetic.

Collapsible-expandable prosthetic heart valves with structures for clamping native tissue

A prosthetic heart valve is designed to be circumferentially collapsible for less invasive delivery into the patient. At the implant site the valve re-expands to a larger circumferential size, i.e., the size that it has for operation as a replacement for one of the patient's native heart valves. The valve includes structures that, at the implant site, extend radially outwardly to engage tissue structures above and below the native heart valve annulus. These radially outwardly extending structures clamp the native tissue between them and thereby help to anchor the prosthetic valve at the desired location in the patient.

DUAL ENDOVASCULAR FILTER AND METHODS OF USE

Blood filter devices and methods of use. 1a frame having a delivery configuration and a deployed configuration; a first filter portion and a second filter portion, wherein the first and second filter portions are secured to the frame, and wherein the first and second filter portions each have an open portion and a closed portion, wherein the open portion is adapted to allow foreign particles to 10 pass therethrough and the closed portion is adapted to trap foreign particles therein.. An embolic filter device, comprising: This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 14/644,083, filed Mar. 10, 2015, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 13/383,488 filed Mar. 23, 2012, now issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,974,489, which a continuation of a national stage application under 35 U.S.C. § 371 of PCT Application No. PCT/US2010/043390, filed on Jul. 27, 2010, which published in English as WO 2011/017103 A2 on Feb. 10, 2011 and which claims priority benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/228,703, filed Jul. 27, 2009, entitled “Dual Endovascular Filter and Methods of Use,” the entire contents of which applications and publication are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety.All publications and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.Endovascular procedures are being used more and more frequently to treat various cardiac and vascular surgical problems. Blocked arteries can be treated with angioplasty, endarterectomy, and/or stenting, using minimally invasive endovascular approaches. Aneurysms can be repaired by endovascular techniques. Another use for endovascular surgery is the treatment of cardiac valvular disease. A common problem in endovascular catheterization is that plaque found in the diseased vessels and valves can be dislodged ...

APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR DELIVERY OF PROSTHETIC MITRAL VALVE

In some embodiments, a method for delivery and deployment of a prosthetic mitral valve into a heart includes inserting an introducer sheath having a prosthetic mitral valve disposed therein in a collapsed configuration into the left atrium of a patient's heart, through a gap between the native mitral valve leaflets, the left ventricle and apex of the heart. An epicardial pad device coupled to the prosthetic valve via a tether is moved distally out of the sheath. The introducer sheath is withdrawn into the left atrium of the heart. An inner delivery sheath is extended distally from within the introducer sheath and disposed within the left atrium. The prosthetic mitral valve is moved distally out of the inner delivery sheath and assumes a biased expanded configuration. The valve is positioned within the mitral annulus of the heart, and secured in place via the tether and epicardial pad device. 1. A method , comprising:inverting an outer frame of a prosthetic mitral valve when the prosthetic mitral valve is in a biased expanded configuration, the prosthetic mitral valve being formed with a shape-memory material;after the inverting, inserting the prosthetic mitral valve into a lumen of a delivery sheath such that the prosthetic mitral valve is moved to a collapsed configuration, while remaining inverted;inserting the delivery sheath through a trans-atrial entry site directly into a left atrium of a patient;moving the prosthetic mitral valve distally out of the lumen of the delivery sheath such that the inverted outer frame of the prosthetic mitral valve reverts and the prosthetic mitral valve assumes its biased expanded configuration; andpositioning the prosthetic mitral valve within a mitral annulus of the heart.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:inserting a catheter through an opening in an apex of the heart and positioning a distal end portion of the catheter in a left ventricle of the heart;inserting a snare device through the catheter and into the left ...

METHOD FOR STENT SHAPING

An apparatus for crimping a radially expandable stent includes a pressure vessel, shaping balloon, and mandrel. The mandrel is configured to slidingly receive a stent thereon, and to be slidingly advanced into the pressure vessel. The shaping balloon is inflated to radially compress the stent onto the form of the mandrel; such compression need not be uniform. Pressurization of the shaping balloon facilitates the expansion of the balloon to achieve compression of the stent, with depressurization of the shaping balloon causing the balloon to return to an unexpanded state. 1. A method of shaping a stent , the method comprising:providing a pressure vessel, the pressure vessel comprising a pressure vessel lumen, the pressure vessel further comprising a shaping balloon having a balloon opening, the shaping balloon positioned circumferentially about the pressure vessel lumen and defining an central inner wall portion of the pressure vessel lumen, wherein the shaping balloon comprises a balloon interior chamber and wherein the balloon opening defines a central lumen portion of the pressure vessel lumen, the pressure vessel further comprising a fluid lumen in fluid communication with the balloon interior chamber; providing a mandrel comprising a stent-receiving portion, wherein the mandrel is sized and configured to be slidingly advanced into the pressure vessel lumen to a position where the stent-receiving portion is positioned within the balloon opening;positioning a stent onto the stent-receiving portion of the mandrel;slidingly advancing the mandrel into the pressure vessel lumen to a position where the stent-receiving portion is positioned within the balloon opening;inflating the shaping balloon with sufficient pressure to cause the balloon to expand to its expanded configuration, whereby the balloon compresses against the stent to compress the stent onto the stent-receiving portion of the mandrel, whereby the stent conforms to and assumes the shape of the stent- ...

STENT INCLUDING ANTI-MIGRATION CAPABILITIES

An example medical device for treating a body lumen is disclosed. The medical device includes an expandable scaffold including first and second regions, each of the first and second regions include a plurality of interstices located therein. The medical device also includes a covering spanning each of the plurality of interstices of the first region. The second region is free of the covering. A biodegradable gripping material is disposed on an outer surface of the covering. Further, the expandable scaffold is configured to shift from a collapsed state to an expanded state and the second region is configured to contact an inner surface of the body lumen in the expanded state. Additionally, the gripping material is designed to initially prevent migration of the expandable scaffold upon implantation in the body lumen until the second region is secured to the inner surface of the body lumen.

REPLACEMENT PROSTHETIC HEART VALVES

A two-stage or component-based valve prosthesis that can be quickly and easily implanted during a surgical procedure is provided. The prosthetic valve comprises a support structure that is deployed at a treatment site. The prosthetic valve further comprises a valve member configured to be quickly connected to the support structure. The support structure may take the form of a stent that is expanded at the site of a native valve. If desired, the native leaflets may remain and the stent may be used to hold the native valve open. In this case, the stent may be balloon expandable and configured to resist the powerful recoil force of the native leaflets. The support structure is provided with a coupling means for attachment to the valve member, thereby fixing the position of the valve member in the body. The valve member may be a non-expandable type, or may be expandable from a compressed state to an expanded state. The system is particularly suited for rapid deployment of heart valves in a conventional open-heart surgical environment. 1. A prosthetic heart valve system comprising: an inflow end, an outflow end, and an axial axis;', 'an expandable valve member having three flexible, bioprosthetic leaflets arranged to permit blood flow from the inflow end to the outflow end of the prosthetic heart valve and to prevent blood flow from the outflow end to the inflow end thereof;', 'an expandable anchoring member including a nitinol stent having an inflow portion, an outflow portion, and, a tubular structure, the nitinol stent expandable from a delivery diameter to an implantation diameter;', 'a cover disposed on the stent; and', 'three latch assemblies, each latch assembly including a first member and a second member,', 'the first member having a first end and a second end, the first end coupled to the inflow portion of the stent and the second end extending towards the outflow end of the heart valve, the first member including a pair of parallel, spaced apart upstanding ...

STENT

A stent () configured to be placed in a body lumen and having a tubular shape formed by a structure that is expandable and contractible skeleton () in a radial direction, the skeleton () having a heteromorphic structure due to changes of a cross section shape thereof in a thickness direction. A stent () that is expandable and contractible in the radial direction while being configured to be placed in a body lumen, the stent () having a heteromorphic tubular shape, a cross section shape of which changes in a lengthwise direction, and having a metal skeleton () formed by at least one of electroforming and etching. 114.-. (canceled)15. A stent comprising a structure of a skeleton that is expandable and contractible in a radial direction so as to have a tubular shape , the stent being configured to be placed in a body lumen , wherein:the skeleton has a heteromorphic structure due to changes of a cross section shape thereof in a thickness direction; anda thickness dimension of at least one axial end part of the skeleton is greater than a thickness dimension of an axial center part of the skeleton so that at least one end part of the stent in an axial direction has a greater rigidity than that of a center part of the stent.16. The stent according to claim 15 , wherein:the skeleton comprises a plurality of annular parts provided at a designated distance from each other in the axial direction, and link parts linking adjacent annular parts in the axial direction; andthe link parts have a thickness dimension that is less than a thickness dimension of the annular parts.17. The stent according to claim 16 , wherein at least one of the link parts is positioned at a center part in a thickness direction of the annular parts.18. The stent according to claim 15 , wherein a recess is provided on a surface of the skeleton claim 15 , and the recess is formed by a through hole.19. The stent according to claim 15 , wherein with the cross section shape of the skeleton claim 15 , a width ...

Valve Prosthesis

A heart valve prosthesis and delivery systems are provided for replacing a cardiac valve. The heart valve prosthesis includes a self-expanding frame includes a portion having a crimp that provides additional flexibility to the self-expanding frame in the collapsed configuration. 120-. (canceled)21. A valve prosthesis comprising:a frame including an outflow section, an inflow section and a valve section therebetween, the frame having a plurality of concave depressions formed therein with each concave depression being localized and unconnected to another of the concave depressions, wherein an outer diameter of the frame is reduced at the location of each concave depression; anda valve body including a plurality of valve leaflets attached to the frame in the valve section.22. The valve prosthesis of claim 21 , wherein each concave depression circumferentially spans only a respective portion of a circumference of the frame.23. The valve prosthesis of claim 22 , wherein the respective portion of the circumference of the frame that is spanned by each of the concave depressions consists of a respective cell of a radially repeating cell pattern of the frame.24. The valve prosthesis of claim 22 , wherein the respective portion of the circumference of the frame that is spanned by each of the concave depressions consists of three adjacent cells claim 22 , respectively claim 22 , of a radially repeating cell pattern of the frame.25. The valve prosthesis of claim 22 , wherein the respective portion of the circumference of the frame that is spanned by each of the concave depressions is located within one of the outflow section and the inflow section of the frame.26. The valve prosthesis of claim 25 , wherein the outer diameter of the outflow section of the frame is greater than the outer diameter of the inflow section of the frame.2721. The valve prosthesis of claim 25 , wherein when the frame is in an expanded configuration the plurality of concave depressions are separated from ...

Delivery System for a Valve Prosthesis

A heart valve prosthesis and delivery systems are provided for replacing a cardiac valve. The heart valve prosthesis includes a self-expanding frame includes a portion having a crimp that provides additional flexibility to the self-expanding frame in the collapsed configuration. 120-. (canceled)21. A delivery system for implanting a valve prosthesis , the device comprising:an inner shaft assembly including a shaft and a valve prosthesis retainer hub; anda capsule slidably received over the inner shaft assembly, wherein the capsule is configured to compressibly retain a self-expanding valve prosthesis, the capsule having a distal portion having a circular cross-section and a proximal portion having an ovaled cross-section, wherein the proximal portion is configured to bend in a single plane at the ovaled cross-section during delivery of a self-expanding valve prosthesis.22. The delivery system of claim 21 , wherein the delivery device is configured to provide a delivery condition in which a self-expanding valve prosthesis is compressed over the shaft of the inner shaft assembly and retained within the capsule.23. The delivery system of claim 22 , wherein the delivery device is further configured to provide a deployment condition in which the capsule is proximally withdrawn over a self-expanding valve prosthesis.24. The delivery system of claim 21 , wherein an outer diameter of the distal portion has the circular cross-section.25. The delivery system of claim 21 , wherein an outer diameter of the proximal portion has the ovaled cross-section.26. The delivery system of claim 21 , wherein an inner diameter of the distal portion has the circular cross-section.27. The delivery system of claim 21 , wherein an inner diameter of the proximal portion has the ovaled cross-section.28. The delivery system of claim 21 , wherein the proximal portion has an inner diameter having the ovaled cross-section and an outer diameter having a circular cross-section.29. The delivery system ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MAKING ENCAPSULATED HOURGLASS SHAPED STENTS

Systems and methods for the manufacture of an hourglass shaped stent-graft assembly having an hourglass shaped stent, graft layers, and an assembly mandrel having an hourglass shaped mandrel portion. Hourglass shaped stent may have superelastic and self-expanding properties. Hourglass shaped stent may be encapsulated using hourglass shaped mandrel assembly coupled to a dilation mandrel used for depositing graft layers upon hourglass shaped mandrel assembly. Hourglass shaped mandrel assembly may have removably coupled conical portions. The stent-graft assembly may be compressed and heated to form a monolithic layer of biocompatible material. Encapsulated hourglass shaped stents may be used to treat subjects suffering from heart failure by implanting the encapsulated stent securely in the atrial septum to allow blood flow from the left atrium to the right atrium when blood pressure in the left atrium exceeds that on the right atrium. The encapsulated stents may also be used to treat pulmonary hypertension. 1. A stent-graft assembly comprising:an expandable stent comprising a first flared region, a neck region, and a second flared region, the neck region positioned between the first flared region and the second flared region; and the first flared region is covered by two layers of biocompatible material comprising the second graft portion and the third graft portion,', 'the neck region is covered by three layers of biocompatible material comprising the first graft portion, the second graft portion, and the third graft portion, and', 'the second flared region is covered by two layers of biocompatible material comprising the second graft portion and the first graft portion., 'a continuous biocompatible graft-tube covering the expandable stent, the continuous biocompatible graft tube comprising a first end and a second end, and first, second, and third portions, the first end of the biocompatible graft tube being an end of the first graft portion and the second end of the ...

PROSTHETIC MITRAL OR TRICUSPID HEART VALVE

This prosthesis (), comprises an expandable tubular frame () with a mesh structure and a prosthetic valve () mounted on this frame; 1. A mitral or tricuspid heart valve prosthesis , comprising an expandable tubular frame with a mesh structure and a prosthetic valve mounted on the frame , said frame comprising an atrial portion , a ventricular portion and an annular portion situated between these atrial and ventricular portions;{'b': '2', 'i': 'vm', 'said ventricular portion has a large indentation on one side, extending lengthwise from the end of this ventricular portion that is opposite said annular portion to the part () of this ventricular portion close to the annular portion, this indentation extending over a sector of the circumference of the prosthesis of about 90 to 140°;'}said atrial portion flares toward the outside of the prosthesis, from said annular portion toward the end of this atrial portion opposite this annular portion, and comprises, on the side of said annular portion, on at least part of its circumference, anchoring spikes protruding from its outer face; andsaid ventricular portion has a substantially spherical or ovoid shape and comprises, on the side of said annular portion, on at least part of its circumference, anchoring spikes protruding from its outer face.2. The prosthesis according to claim 1 , wherein said indentation extends over a sector of the circumference of the prosthesis of about 120°.355a,v. The prosthesis according to or claim 1 , wherein said anchoring spikes () are in the form of curved claws developing toward the outside of the prosthesis from their bases toward their pointed free ends.455a,v. The prosthesis according to one of to claim 1 , wherein the anchoring spikes () are present on the entire circumference of the prosthesis.555a,v. The prosthesis according to claim 4 , wherein the anchoring spikes () are regularly distributed on this circumference.6. The prosthesis according to one of to claim 4 , wherein the anchoring ...

VASCULAR FILTRATION DEVICE

Vascular filtering devices and methods for their use are disclosed. In some embodiments, the vascular filtering devices include an elongate member having an unsupported membrane bag portion attached thereto. The membrane may be porous in some examples. Multiple elongate extensions may also extend from the membrane, and may extend along the elongate member, such as to a proximal region of the elongate member. The unsupported membrane bag portion may be configured to inflate or otherwise radially expand away from the elongate member as a result of blood flowing through the vessel within which the vascular filtering device is positioned. 1. A method of vascular filtration , comprising:advancing a vascular filtration device to a deployment site within a blood vessel, the vascular filtration device including an elongate member and an unsupported bag portion positioned along a distal portion of the elongate member and having a plurality of elongate extensions extending to a proximal end of the elongate member, the vascular filtration device being advanced to the deployment site with the bag portion collapsed against the elongate member with the elongate extensions secured against translation relative to the elongate member; andreleasing the elongate extensions such that the elongate extensions are free to translate relative to the elongate member, wherein blood flow through the blood vessel causes the bag portion to expand radially away from the elongate member.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein expansion of the bag portion radially away from the elongate member does not require use of an expansion aid.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the bag portion is radially unsupported.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the elongate extensions translate relative to the elongate member as the bag portion expands radially away from the elongate member.5. The method of claim 1 , further comprising applying a proximally-directed force to the plurality of elongate extensions of the bag ...

FLEXIBLE VASCULAR OCCLUDING DEVICE

A vascular occluding device for modifying blood flow in a vessel, while maintaining blood flow to the surrounding tissue. The occluding device includes a flexible, easily compressible and bendable occluding device that is particularly suited for treating aneurysms in the brain. The neurovascular occluding device can be deployed using a micro-catheter. The occluding device can be formed by braiding wires in a helical fashion and can have varying lattice densities along the length of the occluding device. The occluding device could also have different lattice densities for surfaces on the same radial plane. 120-. (canceled)21. A device for positioning within a blood vessel for treatment of an aneurysm , the device comprising:a plurality of braided members, wherein the braided members form a lattice structure along the length of the device, each of the braided members comprising an inner surface and an outer surface, the outer surface being configured for positioning adjacent an inner wall of a vessel, and the outer surface forming a portion of an outer circumference of the device between first and second ends of the device, the plurality of braided members forming a plurality of openings extending between adjacent members of the device, the outer surfaces of the plurality of braided members comprising between about 20 percent to about 50 percent of a total circumferential area of the device,wherein the device in configured to freely bend 90 degrees about a fulcrum upon application of a bending moment of 0.005 lb-in to the device, and to be compressed to 50% of an original diameter of the device upon application of a force of less than 10 grams, when the device is fully deployed from a delivery catheter.22. The device of claim 21 , wherein the openings occupy between about 50 to about 80 percent of the total circumferential area of the device.23. The device of claim 21 , comprising a length that can be adjusted during deployment such that the deployed length of the ...

STENT

A stent for transluminal implantation comprises a first, second and third stent section for splinting and/or keeping open a hollow organ which are connected to each other via elastic tubular sections. The stent combines at least three different stent designs in one stent and can therefore be adjusted to the motion behavior of a hollow organ in an improved fashion. 1. A stent comprising:a proximal woven or braided tubular stent section having a first diameter, a proximal end, a distal end, and a tubular polymeric cover extending between the proximal end and the distal end of the proximal woven or braided tubular stent section;a first tapered polymeric stent section devoid of a woven or braided element and having a proximal end and a distal end,wherein the proximal end of the first tapered polymeric stent section has a second diameter equal to the first diameter and the distal end of the first tapered polymeric stent section has a third diameter;a central woven or braided tubular stent section having a fourth diameter equal to the third diameter, a proximal end, a distal end, and a tubular polymeric cover extending between the proximal end and the distal end of the central woven or braided tubular stent section;a second tapered polymeric stent section devoid of a woven or braided element and having a proximal end and a distal end,wherein the proximal end of the second tapered polymeric tubular stent section has a fifth diameter equal to the fourth diameter and the distal end of the second tapered polymeric tubular stent section has a sixth diameter; anda distal woven or braided tubular stent section having a seventh diameter equal to the sixth diameter, a proximal end, a distal end, and a tubular polymeric cover extending between the proximal end and the distal end of the distal woven or braided tubular stent section,wherein the proximal end of the first tapered polymeric stent section is joined to the distal end of the proximal woven or braided tubular stent section, ...

REPLACEMENT VALVE AND ANCHOR

Apparatus for endovascularly replacing a patient's heart valve, including: a replacement valve adapted to be delivered endovascularly to a vicinity of the heart valve; an expandable anchor adapted to be delivered endovascularly to the vicinity of the heart valve; and a lock mechanism configured to maintain a minimum amount of anchor expansion. The invention also includes a method for endovascularly replacing a patient's heart valve. In some embodiments the method includes the steps of: endovascularly delivering a replacement valve and an expandable anchor to a vicinity of the heart valve; expanding the anchor to a deployed configuration; and locking the anchor in the deployed configuration. 1. A prosthetic heart valve , comprising:a stent having an outer surface;a plurality of leaflets coupled to the stent;a sealing member disposed along the outer surface of the stent; andwherein the sealing member is designed to shift between a first configuration and a bunched configuration.2. The prosthetic heart valve of claim 1 , wherein the stent includes a nickel-titanium alloy.3. The prosthetic heart valve of claim 1 , wherein the stent includes a cobalt-chromium alloy.4. The prosthetic heart valve of claim 1 , wherein the sealing member includes a fabric.5. The prosthetic heart valve of claim 1 , wherein the sealing member includes one or more flaps.6. The prosthetic heart valve of claim 1 , wherein the sealing member includes one or more pockets.7. The prosthetic heart valve of claim 1 , wherein the sealing member includes one or more sacs.8. A prosthetic heart valve claim 1 , comprising:a stent having an outer surface;a plurality of leaflets coupled to the stent; anda sealing member disposed along the outer surface of the stent, the sealing member including a bunched region.9. The prosthetic heart valve of claim 8 , wherein the stent includes a nickel-titanium alloy.10. The prosthetic heart valve of claim 8 , wherein the stent includes a cobalt-chromium alloy.11. The ...

REPLACEMENT VALVE AND ANCHOR

Apparatus for endovascularly replacing a patient's heart valve, including: a replacement valve adapted to be delivered endovascularly to a vicinity of the heart valve; an expandable anchor adapted to be delivered endovascularly to the vicinity of the heart valve; and a lock mechanism configured to maintain a minimum amount of anchor expansion. The invention also includes a method for endovascularly replacing a patient's heart valve. In some embodiments the method includes the steps of: endovascularly delivering a replacement valve and an expandable anchor to a vicinity of the heart valve; expanding the anchor to a deployed configuration; and locking the anchor in the deployed configuration. 1. A prosthetic heart valve , comprising:a stent having an inflow region, outflow region, a central region disposed between the inflow region and the outflow region, and an outflow end;a plurality of leaflets coupled to the stent;wherein the outflow region includes a first portion having a first outer diameter, a second portion closer to the outflow end than the first portion and having a second outer diameter, and a third portion closer to the outflow end than the second portion and having a third outer diameter;wherein the second outer diameter is greater than the first outer diameter; andwherein the third outer diameter is less than the second outer diameter.2. The prosthetic heart valve of claim 1 , wherein the stent includes a self-expanding material.3. The prosthetic heart valve of claim 1 , wherein the stent includes a nickel-titanium alloy.4. The prosthetic heart valve of claim 1 , wherein the stent includes a cobalt-chromium alloy.5. The prosthetic heart valve of claim 1 , further comprising a sealing member coupled to the stent.6. The prosthetic heart valve of claim 5 , wherein the sealing member includes a fabric.7. The prosthetic heart valve of claim 5 , wherein the sealing member includes a pocket.8. The prosthetic heart valve of claim 5 , wherein the sealing member ...

STENT STRUCTURES FOR USE WITH VALVE REPLACEMENTS

The present embodiments provide a medical device for implantation in a patient-comprising a stent and a valve. The stent comprises a proximal region comprising a cylindrical shape having a first outer diameter in an expanded state, and a distal region comprising a cylindrical shape having a second outer diameter in the expanded state. The second outer diameter is greater than the first outer diameter. A proximal region of the valve is at least partially positioned within the proximal region of the stent, and the distal region of the valve is at least partially positioned within one of tapered and distal regions of the stent. When implanted, the proximal region of the stent and the proximal region of the valve are aligned with a native valve, and the distal region of the valve is distally spaced-apart from the native valve. 120-. (canceled)21. A medical device for implantation in a patient , the medical device comprising:a stent having proximal and distal regions, and further comprising delivery and expanded states;a plurality of closed cells disposed at various locations between the proximal and distal regions of the stent; anda valve coupled to the stent,where the stent comprises at least four longitudinal regions in which a plurality of closed cells are disposed around a perimeter of the stent, where the first longitudinal region is disposed proximal to the second longitudinal region, the second longitudinal region is disposed proximal to the third longitudinal region, and the third longitudinal region is disposed proximal to the fourth longitudinal region,where an overall length of each of the closed cells of the first longitudinal region is less than an overall length of each of the closed cells of the second longitudinal region, and where the overall length of each of the closed cells of the second longitudinal region is less than an overall length of each of the closed cells of the third longitudinal region, and where the overall length of each of the closed ...

EVERTING HEART VALVE

The present invention provides methods and apparatus for endovascularly replacing a patient's heart valve. The apparatus includes a replacement valve and an expandable anchor configured for endovascular delivery to a vicinity of the patient's heart valve. In some embodiments, the replacement valve is adapted to wrap about the anchor, for example, by everting during endovascular deployment. In some embodiments, the replacement valve is not connected to expandable portions of the anchor. In some embodiments, the anchor is configured for active foreshortening during endovascular deployment. In some embodiments, the anchor includes expandable lip and skirt regions for engaging the patient's heart valve during deployment. In some embodiments, the anchor comprises a braid fabricated from a single strand of wire. In some embodiments, the apparatus includes a lock configured to maintain anchor expansion. The invention also includes methods for endovascularly replacing a patient's heart valve. In some embodiments, the method includes the steps of endovascularly delivering a replacement valve and an expandable anchor to a vicinity of the heart valve, wrapping at least a portion of the replacement valve about the anchor, and expanding the anchor to a deployed, configuration. 1. A prosthetic heart valve , comprising:an expandable stent having an inflow end region and an outflow end region;wherein the expandable stent is designed to shift between a first configuration and a second configuration, the first configuration being suitable for delivery of the expandable stent with a delivery device to the native heart valve of the patient, the second configuration being a deployed configuration where the expandable stent is expanded at the native heart valve of the patient;a plurality of leaflets coupled to the expandable stent, the plurality of leaflets defining a valve assembly that is designed to shift between an open configuration and a closed configuration;a sealing member ...

Low profile heart valve and delivery system

Apparatus for endovascularly replacing a patient's heart valve, including: a delivery catheter having a diameter of 21 french or less; an expandable anchor disposed within the delivery catheter; and a replacement valve disposed within the delivery catheter. The invention also includes a method for endovascularly replacing a heart valve of a patient. In some embodiments the method includes the steps of: inserting a catheter having a diameter no more than 21 french into the patient; endovascularly delivering a replacement valve and an expandable anchor to a vicinity of the heart valve through the catheter; and deploying the anchor and the replacement valve.

ACTIVELY CONTROLLABLE STENT, STENT GRAFT, HEART VALVE AND METHOD OF CONTROLLING SAME

A delivery apparatus comprises a handle portion and at least one rotatable drive shaft. The handle portion has an actuation mechanism and a display. The actuation mechanism includes a motor and one or more actuators. The rotatable drive shaft has a proximal end portion and a distal end portion. The proximal end portion is coupled to the motor, and the distal end portion is configured to be releasably coupled to a prosthetic heart valve. The actuation mechanism is configured to control and monitor expansion of the prosthetic heart valve, and the display is configured to display a diameter of the prosthetic heart valve. 1. A delivery apparatus , comprising:a handle portion having an actuation mechanism and a display, wherein the actuation mechanism includes a motor and one or more actuators; andat least one rotatable drive shaft having a proximal end portion and a distal end portion, wherein the proximal end portion is coupled to the motor, and the distal end portion is configured to be releasably coupled to a prosthetic heart valve,wherein the actuation mechanism is configured to control and monitor expansion of the prosthetic heart valve, andwherein the display is configured to display a diameter of the prosthetic heart valve.2. The delivery apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the display is configured to display a radial force imparted to native heart valve tissue by the prosthetic heart valve.3. The delivery apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the display is a digital display.4. The delivery apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the displayed diameter of the prosthetic heart valve is a real-time diameter of the prosthetic heart valve.5. The delivery apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the display is configured to display the diameter of the prosthetic heart valve as a circle that has a diameter that is the same as the diameter of the prosthetic heart valve.6. The delivery apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the actuation mechanism is configured to expand the prosthetic heart valve from a ...

Double Cone Biodegradable Filter

The present disclosure provides for a double cone filter and a delivery apparatus for deploying the filter within the body. The filter may have superior and inferior rings connected to each other by a plurality of connectors. The rings may have a first degradation rate, and the connectors may have a second degradation rate. The second degradation rate may be faster than the first degradation rate, such that the connectors degrade faster than the rings. In this way, the filter has a filtering state when the connectors are present. After the connectors degrade or partially degrade, the rings may relax against the vessel wall in an open state. After a sufficient length of time, the rings also degrade such that the filter is completely removed from the body.

Prosthetic heart valve devices, prosthetic mitral valves and associated systems and methods

Devices and methods for implantation at a native mitral valve having a non-circular annulus and leaflets. One embodiment of the device includes a valve support having a first region configured to be attached to a prosthetic valve with a plurality of prosthetic leaflets and a second region. The device can further include an anchoring member having a longitudinal dimension and including a first portion configured to contact tissue at the non-circular annulus, a second portion configured to be attached to the valve support, and a lateral portion between the first portion and the second portion. The second portion of the anchoring member is attached to the second region of the valve support while in a low-profile configuration in which the anchoring member and the valve support are configured to pass through vasculature of a human. The lateral portion is transverse to the longitudinal dimension. The anchoring member and the valve support are configured to move from the low-profile configuration to an expanded configuration in which the first portion of the anchoring member at least partially adapts to the non-circular annulus of the native mitral valve and the first region of the valve support is spaced inwardly from the first portion of the anchoring member relative to the longitudinal dimension of the anchoring member such that a shape of the first region of the valve support is at least partially independent of a shape of the first portion of the anchoring member.

FLARED PROSTHETIC CARDIAC VALVE DELIVERY DEVICES AND SYSTEMS

A device for treating a diseased native valve in a patient is provided, the device including a frame structure; a valve segment positioned radially within the frame structure, the valve segment comprising a plurality of leaflets, and a plurality of commissure attachment mechanisms coupling the leaflets to the frame structure, each commissure attachment mechanism extending radially inwards from an outflow end of the frame structure as to create a gap between an interior diameter of the outflow end and an outflow edge of the valve segment. Other embodiments and methods of use are also provided. 1. A device for treating a diseased native valve in a patient , the device comprising:a frame structure;a valve segment positioned radially within the frame structure, the valve segment comprising a plurality of leaflets; anda plurality of commissure attachment mechanisms coupling the leaflets to the frame structure, each commissure attachment mechanism extending radially inwards from an outflow end of the frame structure as to create a gap between an interior perimeter of the outflow end and an outflow edge of the valve segment.2. The device of claim 1 , wherein an inflow edge of the valve segment is unsupported by the frame structure.3. The device of claim 2 , wherein the inflow edge is spaced radially inwards from an inflow end of the frame structure.4. The device of claim 1 , wherein an inflow end of the frame structure is flared radially outwards.5. The device of claim 1 , wherein the outflow end of the frame structure is flared radially outwards claim 1 , and wherein tips of the outflow end point substantially axially.6. The device of claim 1 , wherein the commissure attachment mechanisms each comprise a paddle claim 1 , the paddle including a slot therein through which tabs of the leaflet commissures pass.7. The device of claim 6 , wherein the paddle further comprises a plurality of holes therethrough for sewing attachment of the tabs to the paddle.8. The device of claim ...

REPLACEMENT VALVE AND ANCHOR

Apparatus for endovascularly replacing a patient's heart valve, including: a replacement valve adapted to be delivered endovascularly to a vicinity of the heart valve; an expandable anchor adapted to be delivered endovascularly to the vicinity of the heart valve; and a lock mechanism configured to maintain a minimum amount of anchor expansion. The invention also includes a method for endovascularly replacing a patient's heart valve. In some embodiments the method includes the steps of: endovascularly delivering a replacement valve and an expandable anchor to a vicinity of the heart valve; expanding the anchor to a deployed configuration; and locking the anchor in the deployed configuration. 1. A repositionable prosthetic heart valve , comprising:an expandable stent having an elongated configuration, an expanded configuration, and a repositionable configuration;wherein the stent is designed to shift between the elongated configuration and the expanded configuration;wherein the stent is designed to shift between the expanded configuration and the repositionable configuration so that the stent can be repositioned after being expanded;wherein the stent is designed to shift between the elongated configuration and the repositionable configuration; anda plurality of leaflets coupled to the stent.2. The repositionable prosthetic heart valve of claim 1 , wherein the stent includes a self-expanding material.3. The repositionable prosthetic heart valve of claim 1 , wherein the stent includes a nickel-titanium alloy.4. The repositionable prosthetic heart valve of claim 1 , wherein the stent includes a cobalt-chromium alloy.5. The repositionable prosthetic heart valve of claim 1 , further comprising a sealing member coupled to the stent.6. The repositionable prosthetic heart valve of claim 5 , wherein at least a portion of the sealing member is disposed along an outer surface of the stent.7. The repositionable prosthetic heart valve of claim 5 , wherein the sealing member ...

Valve Prosthesis and Method for Delivery

In some embodiments, a valve prosthesis includes an inlet portion that is substantially s-shaped and configured to engage the floor of the outflow tract of the native heart atrium. In some embodiments, a valve prosthesis includes a chordae guiding element configured to reduce bending of the chordae to reduce stress on the chordae during the cardiac cycle. In some embodiments, a valve prosthesis includes a central portion having an hourglass shape configured to pinch a native annulus in order to provide axial fixation of the valve prosthesis within a valve site. In some embodiments, a valve prosthesis includes a frame having an outflow end that is flared to provide a gap between an outflow end of the frame and an outflow end of prosthetic leaflets when the prosthetic leaflets are fully opened. 128-. (canceled)29. A valve prosthesis comprising: a central portion,', 'a support member extending from the central portion, the support member having an engagement portion configured to engage and tension at least one native chorda to thereby restrict movement of the valve prosthesis in an upstream direction of blood flow, and', 'an inlet portion extending radially outward from the central portion and configured to engage a floor of an outflow tract of a native heart atrium to thereby restrict movement of the valve prosthesis in a downstream direction of blood flow; and, 'a frame including'}a prosthetic valve secured to the central portion.30. The valve prosthesis of claim 29 , wherein the support member and the inlet portion act in opposition to create a seal between the inlet portion and a floor of an outflow tract of a native heart atrium after implantation of the valve prosthesis.31. The valve prosthesis of claim 30 , wherein the seal is maintained throughout a cardiac cycle of a patient.32. The valve prosthesis of claim 30 , wherein the seal is maintained during changes in chordal tension throughout a cardiac cycle of a patient.33. The valve prosthesis of claim 29 , ...

METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR ENDOVASCULAR HEART VALVE REPLACEMENT COMPRISING TISSUE GRASPING ELEMENTS

A method for endovascularly replacing a patient's heart valve including the following steps: endovascularly delivering an anchor and a replacement valve supported within the anchor to a vicinity of the heart valve in a collapsed delivery configuration, the anchor having grasping elements adapted to grasp tissue in a vicinity of the heart valve; expanding the anchor, thereby rotating the grasping elements; and grasping the tissue with the rotating grasping elements. 1. A method for endovascularly replacing a patient's native heart valve, the method comprising: delivering an expandable anchor and a replacement valve to a vicinity of the native heart valve, wherein leaflet engagement elements extend distally from the anchor at a location which is proximal to a distal end of the anchor; sandwiching native valve leaflets between the distally extending leaflet engagement elements and the anchor; and expanding the anchor from a collapsed delivery configuration to an expanded configuration to secure the anchor within the native heart valve; and positioning a proximal end of the anchor further from a left ventricle than the distal end of the anchor; wherein the replacement valve allows the flow of blood through the replacement valve in a first configuration and prevents the flow of blood through the valve in a second configuration. This application is a continuation application of U.S. application Ser. No. 13/282,247, filed Oct. 26, 2011, which is a continuation application of U.S. application Ser. No. 11/232,441, filed Sep. 20, 2005, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,828,078, which is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/972,287, filed Oct. 21, 2004, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,748,389, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/746,240, filed Dec. 23, 2003, which is abandoned, all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties and to which applications we claim priority under 35 USC .sctn.120.The present invention relates to ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MAKING ENCAPSULATED HOURGLASS SHAPED STENTS

Systems and methods for the manufacture of an hourglass shaped stent-graft assembly comprising an hourglass shaped stent, graft layers, and an assembly mandrel having an hourglass shaped mandrel portion. Hourglass shaped stent may have superelastic and self-expanding properties. Hourglass shaped stent may be encapsulated using hourglass shaped mandrel assembly coupled to a dilation mandrel used for depositing graft layers upon hourglass shaped mandrel assembly. Hourglass shaped mandrel assembly may have removably coupled conical portions. The stent-graft assembly may be compressed and heated to form a monolithic layer of biocompatible material. Encapsulated hourglass shaped stents may be used to treat subjects suffering from heart failure by implanting the encapsulated stent securely in the atrial septum to allow blood flow from the left atrium to the right atrium when blood pressure in the left atrium exceeds that on the right atrium. The encapsulated stents may also be used to treat pulmonary hypertension. 1. A method for making an encapsulated stent-graft , the method comprising:compressing a stent comprising a first flared region, a second flared region, and a neck region situated between the first flared region and the second flared region, into a compressed state;positioning the second flared region and the neck region within a graft tube comprising a first end and a second end;releasing the second flared region to an expanded state within the graft tube thereby depositing a first layer of graft material over the neck region and the second flared region;releasing the first flared region to expand to the expanded state;guiding the second end of the graft tube through an interior portion of the stent such that the second end of the graft tube extends beyond the first flared region, thereby depositing a second layer of graft material along the interior portion;selecting a mandrel comprising a first portion comprising a first mandrel end that is removably coupled ...

REPLACEMENT VALVE AND ANCHOR

Apparatus for endovascularly replacing a patient's heart valve, including: a replacement valve adapted to be delivered endovascularly to a vicinity of the heart valve; an expandable anchor adapted to be delivered endovascularly to the vicinity of the heart valve; and a lock mechanism configured to maintain a minimum amount of anchor expansion. The invention also includes a method for endovascularly replacing a patient's heart valve. In some embodiments the method includes the steps of: endovascularly delivering a replacement valve and an expandable anchor to a vicinity of the heart valve; expanding the anchor to a deployed configuration; and locking the anchor in the deployed configuration. 1. A prosthetic heart valve , comprising:a stent having an inflow end region and an outflow end region;wherein the inflow end region has an inflow outer diameter;wherein the outflow end region has an outflow outer diameter;wherein the outflow outer diameter is greater than the inflow outer diameter;a plurality of leaflets coupled to the stent; anda sealing member coupled to the stent.2. The prosthetic heart valve of claim 1 , wherein the sealing member is designed to shift between a first configuration and a bunched configuration.3. The prosthetic heart valve of claim 1 , wherein the stent includes a self-expanding material.4. The prosthetic heart valve of claim 1 , wherein the stent includes a nickel-titanium alloy.5. The prosthetic heart valve of claim 1 , wherein the stent includes a cobalt-chromium alloy.6. The prosthetic heart valve of claim 1 , wherein the sealing member includes a fabric.7. The prosthetic heart valve of claim 1 , wherein the sealing member includes a pocket.8. The prosthetic heart valve of claim 1 , wherein the sealing member includes a sac.9. An implantable prosthetic heart valve claim 1 , comprising:a stent having an inflow region, a central region, and an outflow region;a plurality of leaflets coupled to the stent;wherein the outflow region has an ...

REPLACEMENT VALVE AND ANCHOR

Apparatus for endovascularly replacing a patient's heart valve, including: a replacement valve adapted to be delivered endovascularly to a vicinity of the heart valve; an expandable anchor adapted to be delivered endovascularly to the vicinity of the heart valve; and a lock mechanism configured to maintain a minimum amount of anchor expansion. The invention also includes a method for endovascularly replacing a patient's heart valve. In some embodiments the method includes the steps of: endovascularly delivering a replacement valve and an expandable anchor to a vicinity of the heart valve; expanding the anchor to a deployed configuration; and locking the anchor in the deployed configuration. 1. A prosthetic heart valve , comprising:an expandable stent having an outer surface, the stent including a cobalt-chromium alloy;a plurality of leaflets coupled to the stent; anda sealing member disposed along the outer surface of the stent.2. The prosthetic heart valve of claim 1 , wherein the sealing member includes one or more flaps.3. The prosthetic heart valve of claim 1 , wherein the sealing member includes one or more pockets.4. The prosthetic heart valve of claim 1 , wherein the sealing member includes one or more sacs.5. The prosthetic heart valve of claim 1 , wherein the sealing member includes a fabric.6. The prosthetic heart valve of claim 1 , wherein the stent has a flared inflow end region.7. The prosthetic heart valve of claim 1 , wherein the stent has a flared outflow end region.8. The prosthetic heart valve of claim 1 , wherein the stent is balloon-expandable.9. A balloon-expandable prosthetic aortic heart valve claim 1 , comprising:an expandable stent frame having an outer surface, the stent frame including a balloon-expandable material;wherein the expandable stent frame is designed to be deployed adjacent to a native aortic heart valve;a plurality of leaflets coupled to the stent frame; anda sealing member disposed along the outer surface of the stent frame.10 ...

Systems and methods for delivering a medical implant

The present invention relates to apparatus and methods for endovascularly delivering and releasing a prosthesis, e.g., an aortic prosthesis, within and/or across a patient's native heart valve, referred to hereinafter as replacing the patient's heart valve. In some embodiments the delivery system comprises a plurality of first actuatable element adapted to engage a plurality of second elements in a first configuration to capture the implant within the delivery system, and wherein the plurality of first actuatable element are adapted to engage the plurality of second elements in a second configuration and to release the implant from the delivery system.

INFERIOR VENA CAVA FILTER WITH STABILITY FEATURES

A filter having a first set of members and a second set of members defining a trap sized to fit into a blood vessel. Each of the first and second members are configured to resiliently extend from the trap. At least one of the first set of members includes a first surface for engaging the vessel wall such that the at least one of the first set of members resists downstream movement within the vessel. At least one of the second set of members includes a second surface for engaging the vessel wall such that the at least one second member resists upstream movement within the vessel. 142-. (canceled)43. A blood clot filter configured for placement in a vessel having a vessel wall surrounding a wider channel of larger diameter or in a vessel having a vessel wall surrounding a narrower channel of a smaller diameter that is smaller than said larger diameter and having a filter longitudinal axis , a filter proximal end and a filter distal end , comprising:a) a hub having a central longitudinal axis;b) a first trap extending in a first direction from said hub;c) a second trap extending from said hub in a second direction that is opposite said first direction;d) each said trap having a plurality of elongated members;e) wherein each said trap is sized to fit into a blood vessel having a vessel wall surrounding a blood vessel channel and wherein each said trap is configured to hold an embolus;f) wherein each said elongated member includes a distal end portion spaced away from said hub configured for engaging the vessel wall;g) wherein the end portions of the elongated members of said first trap include protrusions that resist downstream movement within the vessel, wherein further the end portions of the elongated members of the second trap include protrusions that resist upstream movement within the vessel;h) wherein said protrusions have recesses in between said protrusions, each protrusion having a convexly curved outer portion that is positioned to engage the vessel wall;i) a ...

DEVICES FOR DELIVERING SUBSTANCES THROUGH AN EXTRA-ANATOMIC OPENING CREATED IN AN AIRWAY

Devices and methods for delivering substances to lung tissue through an extra-anatomic passage created in an airway. 1. A system for performing a procedure on a patient through a bronchoscope in an area of a lung beyond and remote from an airway in the lung , the system comprising:an inspecting device configured to be advanced through the bronchoscope into the airway;a piercing member configured to extend through the bronchoscope to create an opening through the airway wall;a tubular member located about the piercing member, the tubular member configured to extend through the opening of the airway wall;a second device comprising an elongate flexible proximal shaft to access a treatment site in the lung beyond the airway wall, the second device configured to extend through the passageway of the tubular member when the piercing member is removed from the tubular member; andwherein the second device is further configured to perform the procedure at the treatment site.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the second device comprises a needle.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the second device is a biopsy tool for performing a biopsy.4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the tubular member comprises a polymer.5. The system of claim 1 , further comprising the bronchoscope.6. The system of claim 1 , wherein the piercing member comprises a piercing device having a conical tip and a lumen extending therethrough claim 1 , and an elongate wire extendable past the conical tip claim 1 , and wherein after the elongate wire creates the opening the conical tip may be driven into the opening gradually expanding the opening to allow the tubular member to be subsequently placed therethrough.7. The system of claim 1 , wherein the inspecting device is an imaging or ultrasound based device. This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/451,597 filed Jun. 25, 2019, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/336,686 filed on Jul. 21, 2014 (now U.S. ...

PROCEDURES FOR VASCULAR OCCLUSION

A method of reducing blood flow within an aneurysm includes: injecting a contrast agent into a blood vessel including an aneurysm; expanding a stent, from a delivery device, across the aneurysm; and confirming that a stagnated area forms in the aneurysm. The stagnated area can form a crescent shape, a mushroom shape, a hemispherical shape, and/or a flat side. Upon confirming that the stagnated area forms in the aneurysm, the delivery device can be withdrawn from the blood vessel. The stagnated area can include the contrast agent. If the stagnated area does not form in the aneurysm, a second occluding device may be deployed. After withdrawing the delivery device, substantially all of the aneurysm progressively thromboses. 1. (canceled)2. A method of reducing blood flow within an aneurysm comprising:injecting a contrast agent into a blood vessel comprising an aneurysm, at least a portion of the contrast agent flowing into the aneurysm;deploying an occlusion device from a delivery device in the blood vessel at the aneurysm;stagnating the portion of the contrast agent in the aneurysm;producing an image of the aneurysm including the portion of the contrast agent;observing a shape formed by the portion of the contrast agent in the aneurysm after deploying the occlusion device; andwithdrawing the delivery device from the blood vessel after observing the shape.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the shape comprises a crescent shape claim 2 , a mushroom shape claim 2 , a hemispherical shape claim 2 , and/or a flat side.4. The method of claim 2 , wherein the shape formed by the contrast agent comprises a stagnated area in the aneurysm.5. The method of claim 2 , wherein after withdrawing the delivery device claim 2 , substantially all of the aneurysm progressively thromboses.6. The method of claim 2 , wherein the confirming is sufficient to determine that the deploying the occlusion device is sufficient to lead to thrombosis of the aneurysm.7. The method of claim 2 , wherein ...

LEAFLET ENGAGEMENT ELEMENTS AND METHODS FOR USE THEREOF

The present invention relates to apparatus for methods for endovascularly replacing a patient's heart valve. The apparatus includes an expandable anchor with leaflet engagement elements on the proximal end of the anchor and a replacement valve. The leaflet engagement elements can be used to prevent distal migration and insure proper positioning of the apparatus 1. An apparatus for endovascularly replacing a patient's heart valve , the apparatus comprising:an expandable anchor supporting a replacement valve disposed within a lumen of the expandable anchor; anda delivery catheter defining a lumen, the delivery catheter being adapted to deliver the anchor and replacement valve to a vicinity of the patient's heart valve within the lumen in a collapsed configuration;wherein the anchor and replacement valve are adapted for percutaneous delivery and deployment to replace the patient's heart valve;wherein the expandable anchor comprises a plurality of closed cells forming a body portion of the expandable anchor and a proximal flange portion of the expandable anchor in a deployed configuration, the proximal flange portion extending radially outward from the body portion in the deployed configuration;wherein closed cells forming the proximal flange portion are larger than closed cells forming the body portion.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the proximal flange portion is adapted to be positioned proximally of native heart valve leaflets of the patient's heart valve in the deployed configuration.3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein an exterior surface of the expandable anchor is covered by a seal.4. The apparatus of claim 3 , wherein the expandable anchor and the replacement valve are further adapted to permit blood flow through the replacement valve and to prevent blood backflow through the replacement valve after the replacement valve exits the delivery catheter and before the proximal flange portion exits the delivery catheter.5. The apparatus of claim 3 , wherein ...

FEMALE URINARY INCONTINENCE DEVICE

A device is provided for applying pressure on a vaginal wall of a female subject, said device being configured for insertion into a vaginal cavity of said female subject. The device includes a first deformable element, a second deformable element and a transmission element. The first deformable element has a resting-state and at least one deformed state and is configured for undergoing deformation in response to an inner body pressure. When in the resting state, the first deformable element is configured to anchor the device inside the vaginal cavity. The second deformable element has a resting-state and at least one deformed state, and is configured for undergoing deformation to apply a second pressure on the vaginal wall, such second pressure being operable to narrow a urethral portion the female subject. The transmission element has a first end connected to the first deformable element and a second end connected to the second deformable element, and is configured for converting the deformation of the first deformable element to a deformation of the second deformable element, and for returning the first and second deformable elements to their respective resting states. 1. A device for applying pressure on a vaginal wall of a female subject , said device being configured for insertion into a vaginal cavity of said female subject , the device comprising:a first deformable element having a resting-state and at least one deformed state, said first deformable element configured to anchor said device when in said resting-state inside the vaginal cavity and for undergoing deformation in response to an inner body pressure;a second deformable element having a resting-state and at least one deformed state, said second deformable element configured for undergoing deformation to apply a second pressure on said vaginal wall operable to narrow an urethral portion said female subject; anda transmission element having a first end connected to said first deformable element and a ...

PROSTHETIC VALVE DEVICE RESISTANT TO BACKFOLDING AND BUCKLING

A prosthesis includes a tubular graft, a prosthetic valve component, an inflow stent, an outflow stent, and a plurality of body stents disposed between the inflow and outflow stents. Each stent is a sinusoidal patterned radially-expandable ring having a first set of crowns and a second set of crowns, with the first set of crowns disposed closer to an inflow end of the tubular graft than the second set of crowns. The prosthesis is configured to be resistant to backfolding and/or buckling during deployment thereof. 1. A prosthesis for implantation within a body lumen , the prosthesis having a radially expanded configuration and a radially compressed configuration , the prosthesis comprising:a tubular graft defining a lumen that extends from an inflow end to an outflow end thereof, wherein a longitudinal axis of the prosthesis is defined by the lumen of the tubular graft;a prosthetic valve component disposed within the lumen of the tubular graft;an inflow stent attached to the inflow end of the tubular graft;an outflow stent attached to the outflow end of the tubular graft; anda plurality of body stents attached to the tubular graft and disposed between the inflow stent and the outflow stent, a first body stent of the plurality of body stents being disposed directly adjacent to the inflow stent and a second body stent of the plurality of body stents being disposed directly adjacent to the outflow stent,wherein each of the inflow stent, the outflow stent, and each stent of the plurality of body stents is a sinusoidal patterned radially-expandable ring having a first set of crowns and a second set of crowns, the first set of crowns being disposed closer to the inflow end of the tubular graft than the second set of crowns, andwherein the second set of crowns of each of the inflow stent and each body stent of the plurality of body stents is disposed against and attached to the first set of crowns of an adjacent stent, andwherein each of the second body stent and the ...

Stent including anti-migration capabilities

An example medical device for treating a body lumen is disclosed. The medical device includes an expandable scaffold including first and second regions, each of the first and second regions include a plurality of interstices located therein. The medical device also includes a covering spanning each of the plurality of interstices of the first region. The second region is free of the covering. A biodegradable gripping material is disposed on an outer surface of the covering. Further, the expandable scaffold is configured to shift from a collapsed state to an expanded state and the second region is configured to contact an inner surface of the body lumen in the expanded state. Additionally, the gripping material is designed to initially prevent migration of the expandable scaffold upon implantation in the body lumen until the second region is secured to the inner surface of the body lumen.

FLEXIBLE VASCULAR OCCLUDING DEVICE

A vascular occluding device for modifying blood flow in a vessel, while maintaining blood flow to the surrounding tissue. The occluding device includes a flexible, easily compressible and bendable occluding device that is particularly suited for treating aneurysms in the brain. The neurovascular occluding device can be deployed using a micro-catheter. The occluding device can be formed by braiding wires in a helical fashion and can have varying lattice densities along the length of the occluding device. The occluding device could also have different lattice densities for surfaces on the same radial plane. 1. A medical device comprising:expanding, from a delivery catheter, a device to an expanded state within a blood vessel, the device comprising a plurality of strands forming a lattice structure along the length of the device;wherein, while in the expanded state, the density of the lattice structure is between about 25 to about 50 picks per inch, the plurality of strands form a plurality of openings extending between adjacent strands of the device, outer surfaces of the plurality of strands comprising between about 20 percent to about 50 percent of a total circumferential area of the device; the device being configured to bend 90 degrees about a fulcrum upon application of a bending moment of 0.005 lb-in to the device, and the device being configured to be compressed to 50% of an original diameter of the device upon application of a force of less than 10 grams.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the openings occupy between about 50 to about 80 percent of the total circumferential area of the device.3. The method of claim 1 , further comprising adjusting the length of the device after the device is loaded within the delivery catheter.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the expanding comprises aligning regions of the device proximate a branch or feeder portion of the vessel claim 1 , the regions having a lesser lattice density relative to a region positioned proximate ...

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR REPLACING A DISEASED CARDIAC VALVE

An apparatus is provided for replacing a native cardiac valve. The native cardiac valve has at least one leaflet and is surrounded by a native cardiac valve annulus having superior and inferior aspects. The apparatus comprises a barbell-shaped, expandable anchoring member including first, second, and main body portions extending between the end portions. The main body portion includes a channel defined by inner and outer surfaces. Each of the first and second end portions has a diameter greater than the diameter of the main body portion. The first and second end portions are sized to respectively contact the superior and inferior aspects of the native cardiac valve annulus when the expandable anchoring member is in an expanded configuration. The apparatus also includes an expandable support member operably disposed within the main body portion of the expandable anchoring member, and a prosthetic cardiac valve secured within the expandable support member. 125-. (canceled)26. An apparatus for replacing a native cardiac valve , the native cardiac valve having at least one leaflet and being surrounded by a native cardiac valve annulus , the native cardiac valve annulus having a superior aspect and an inferior aspect , said apparatus comprising:an expandable securing member comprising a first end portion and a second end portions sized to contact-the superior and the inferior aspects of the native cardiac valve annulus respectively and integrally formed with a main body portion extending between said first end portion and said second end portions, wherein the first and second end portions are comprised of an anchoring having a diameter larger than the main body portion and being disposed parallel to the expandable securing member in a collapsed configuration and extending radially away from the expandable securing member in an expanded configuration and wherein the first and second end portions have a symmetrical shape with respect to an axial plane of the main body ...

Device and method for regulating pressure in a heart chamber

A device for regulating blood pressure in a heart chamber is provided. The device includes a shunt positionable within a septum of the heart. The shunt is designed for enabling blood flow between a left heart chamber and a right heart chamber, wherein the flow rate capacity of the device is mostly a function of pressure in the left heart chamber.

LOW PROFILE HEART VALVE AND DELIVERY SYSTEM

Apparatus for endovascularly replacing a patient's heart valve, including: a delivery catheter having a diameter of 21 french or less; an expandable anchor disposed within the delivery catheter; and a replacement valve disposed within the delivery catheter. The invention also includes a method for endovascularly replacing a heart valve of a patient. In some embodiments the method includes the steps of: inserting a catheter having a diameter no more than 21 french into the patient; endovascularly delivering a replacement valve and an expandable anchor to a vicinity of the heart valve through the catheter; and deploying the anchor and the replacement valve. 1. (canceled)2. A replacement heart valve , comprising:an expandable anchor configured for delivery to a vicinity of a patient's heart valve, the expandable anchor having a body section defining a lumen extending therethrough from an upstream end to a downstream end;a plurality of valve leaflets coupled to the expandable anchor; anda leaflet engagement structure coupled to the downstream end of the expandable anchor and extending toward the upstream end of the expandable anchor.3. The replacement heart valve of claim 2 , wherein the replacement heart valve is configured to sandwich a native valve leaflet of the patient's heart valve between the expandable anchor and the leaflet engagement structure when the replacement heart valve is in a deployed configuration.4. The replacement heart valve of claim 2 , wherein the leaflet engagement structure is configured to engage a native valve leaflet of the patient's heart valve claim 2 , thereby providing positive registration of the expandable anchor relative to the native valve leaflet.5. The replacement heart valve of claim 2 , wherein the expandable anchor further includes a skirt section coupled to the upstream end of the expandable anchor.6. The replacement heart valve of claim 5 , wherein the skirt section extends radially outward from the body section when the ...

PROSTHETIC HEART VALVE DEVICES, PROSTHETIC MITRAL VALVES AND ASSOCIATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS

A prosthetic heart valve () includes a flexible anchoring member () at least partially surrounding and coupled to an inner valve support (). The device can further include a prosthetic valve () coupled to, mounted within, or otherwise carried by the valve support. The valve support includes a plurality of posts () connected circumferentially by a plurality of struts (), where the posts extend along an axial direction generally parallel to the longitudinal axis () and the struts extend circumferentially around and transverse to the longitudinal axis. The posts extend an entire longitudinal height HI of the valve support . The device also includes one or more sealing members () and tissue engaging elements () like spikes. 16-. (canceled)7. A prosthetic heart valve device for implantation at a native mitral valve , the native mitral valve having an annulus and leaflets , comprising:an anchoring member positionable in a location between the leaflets, the anchoring member having a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion of the anchoring member is expandable to a deployed configuration having a dimension larger than a corresponding dimension of the annulus such that upstream movement of the anchoring member is blocked by engagement of the first portion of the anchoring member with tissue on or near the annulus on an inward-facing side of the leaflets, wherein the first portion of the anchoring member comprises an upstream portion and the second portion of the anchoring member comprises a downstream portion; anda valve support coupled to the second portion of the anchoring member and configured to support a prosthetic valve, the valve support having an expanded configuration in which the prosthetic valve is competent, wherein when the valve support is in the expanded configuration and the anchoring member is in the deployed configuration an upstream region of the valve support is spaced radially inward from the first portion of the anchoring member ...

Valve prosthesis

The present disclosure relates to valve replacement devices that are foldable for catheter-based deployment to the site of implantation, as well as systems for the delivery of valve prostheses, including prostheses having the special characteristics of the disclosed valve replacement devices. The devices include highly effective adhering mechanisms for secure and enduring precision implantation. The adhering mechanisms may employ a unique sealing mechanism that includes a cuff that expands slowly whereby the device is not secured in place until the completion of the implantation procedure. The implanted device, optionally together with the cuff, prevents perivalvular leaks and incorporate an appropriate leaflet system for reliable functioning in situ.

Straddle Mitral Valve Device and Methods

A method for providing blood flow across a surface of a mitral stent-valve frame. A portion of the stent-valve frame is placed into the left atrium and into the left ventricle with a securement band located intermediate that is attached to either the annulus or to a second support frame that is placed initially and above the mitral annulus without affecting native leaflet function. Portions of the frame above the securement band allow blood flow radially inwards to reduce stagnation regions in the atrium or outwards below the securement band to help cleanse native leaflets. 1. The method for providing a passage for blood flow through a surface of an expandable stent-valve frame that is implanted via transcatheter implantation into native mitral valvular tissues of a heart , said stent-valve frame having two or more replacement leaflets attached to said stent-valve frame , said stent-valve frame having a covering attached to at least a portion of said stent-valve frame , said method comprising ,A. providing said stent-valve frame wherein said replacement leaflets are attached to said stent-valve frame along a crown-shaped attachment path extending from leaflet nadirs at upstream ends of said replacement leaflets to leaflet commissures at downstream ends of said replacement leaflets,B. delivering said stent-valve frame within the heart such that a ventricular portion of said stent-valve frame extends into a ventricle and an atrial portion extends into an atrium,C. positioning said stent-valve frame proximate to the native mitral valvular tissues such that a securement band extending around a perimeter of said stent-valve frame is located intermediate between said atrial portion and said ventricular portion, said securement band securing said stent-valve frame to prevent migration relative to the native mitral valvular tissues and preventing leakage of blood around an outer surface of said stent-valve frame,D. providing a ventricular passage for blood flow in an ...

Tethers For Prosthetic Mitral Valve

This invention relates to the design and function of a single-tether compressible valve replacement prosthesis which can be deployed into a beating heart without extracorporeal circulation using a transcatheter delivery system. The design as discussed combats the process of wear on anchoring tethers over time by using a plurality of stent-attached, centering tethers, which are themselves attached to a single anchoring tether, which extends through the ventricle and is anchored to a securing device located on the epicardium. 1. A system for tethering a prosthetic heart valve comprising a transcatheter prosthetic heart valve , wherein the transcatheter prosthetic heart valve comprises:an expandable stent having a cuff comprised of wire covered with stabilized tissue or synthetic material, wherein the cuff is positioned with the stent at a first end of the stent, wherein a second end of the stent comprises a tether nexus structure and a first end of a single anchoring tether is attached to the tether nexus structure;an expandable internal leaflet assembly disposed within the stent and comprised of stabilized tissue or synthetic material; anda tether securing device including at least one laterally extending pin hole and a pin configured to be received within the pin hole, the tether securing device configured to receive the single anchoring tether and to secure a second end of the single anchoring tether by piercing the single anchoring tether with a first end of the pin so that an entirety of the pin is positioned within the pin hole, the pin having a second free end opposite the first end.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the prosthetic heart valve is elastic and is compressed into a delivery catheter for deployment within a patient claim 1 , and whereby upon expelling the prosthetic heart valve from the delivery catheter claim 1 , the valve expands to its functional shape.3. The system of claim 1 , further comprising wherein the tether nexus structure is comprised ...

Bowed Runners and Corresponding Valve Assemblies for Paravalvular Leak Protection

A prosthetic heart valve for replacing a native valve includes a stent extending between a proximal end and a distal end and including a plurality of struts forming cells, the stent having a collapsed condition and an expanded condition. At least one runner is coupled a cell, the at least one runner being configured to transition from a first configuration to a second configuration when the stent moves from the collapsed condition to the expanded condition, the at least one runner projecting radially outwardly from the cell in the second configuration. A valve assembly is disposed within the stent, the valve assembly including a plurality of leaflets, a cuff at least partially disposed on a luminal surface of the stent, and a covering material disposed on an abluminal surface of the stent and covering the at least one runner in the second configuration. 1. A prosthetic heart valve for replacing a native valve , comprising:a stent extending between a proximal end and a distal end along a longitudinal axis, the stent having a collapsed condition and an expanded condition and including a plurality of struts forming cells;a valve assembly disposed within the stent and at least partially coupled to a luminal surface of the stent;a cuff disposed on an abluminal surface of the stent; andat least one runner coupled to a respective cell of the stent, the at least one runner being configured to transition from a first configuration to a second configuration when the stent moves from the collapsed condition to the expanded condition,wherein the at least one runner pushes the cuff outwardly when the at least one runner transitions from the first configuration to the second configuration.2. The prosthetic heart valve of claim 1 , wherein each of the cells include a lower vertex adjacent the proximal end claim 1 , an upper vertex adjacent the distal end claim 1 , and two side vertices disposed longitudinally between the upper vertex and the lower vertex.3. The prosthetic heart ...

PROCEDURES FOR VASCULAR OCCLUSION

A method of reducing blood flow within an aneurysm includes: injecting a contrast agent into a blood vessel including an aneurysm; expanding a stent, from a delivery device, across the aneurysm; and confirming that a stagnated area forms in the aneurysm. The stagnated area can form a crescent shape, a mushroom shape, a hemispherical shape, and/or a flat side. Upon confirming that the stagnated area forms in the aneurysm, the delivery device can be withdrawn from the blood vessel. The stagnated area can include the contrast agent. If the stagnated area does not form in the aneurysm, a second occluding device may be deployed. After withdrawing the delivery device, substantially all of the aneurysm progressively thromboses 1. A method of reducing blood flow within an aneurysm comprising:injecting a contrast agent into a blood vessel comprising an aneurysm;deploying an occlusion device from a delivery device in the vessel next to the aneurysm;producing an image of the aneurysm including the contrast agent;confirming that the contrast agent forms a shape after deploying the occlusion device; andwhile the contrast agent has formed the shape, withdrawing the delivery device from the vessel.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the shape comprises a crescent shape claim 1 , a mushroom shape claim 1 , a hemispherical shape claim 1 , and/or a flat side.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the shape formed by the contrast agent comprises a stagnated area in the aneurysm.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein after withdrawing the delivery device claim 1 , substantially all of the aneurysm progressively thromboses.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the confirming is sufficient to determine that the deploying the occlusion device is sufficient to lead to thrombosis of the aneurysm.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the confirming comprises comparing a first image of the aneurysm before deploying the occlusion device to a second image of the aneurysm after deploying the occlusion device.7 ...

METHODS FOR STENT SHAPING

An apparatus for crimping a radially expandable stent includes a pressure vessel, shaping balloon, and mandrel. The mandrel is configured to slidingly receive a stent thereon, and to be slidingly advanced into the pressure vessel. The shaping balloon is inflated to radially compress the stent onto the form of the mandrel; such compression need not be uniform. Pressurization of the shaping balloon facilitates the expansion of the balloon to achieve compression of the stent, with depressurization of the shaping balloon causing the balloon to return to an unexpanded state. 1. A method of shaping a stent , the method comprising:providing a pressure vessel having a shaping balloon having a radially inwardly facing balloon opening;providing a mandrel comprising a non-cylindrical stent-receiving portion, wherein the mandrel is sized and configured to be slidingly advanced into the pressure vessel to a position where the stent-receiving portion is positioned within the balloon opening;positioning a stent onto the stent-receiving portion of the mandrel;slidingly advancing the mandrel into the pressure vessel lumen to a position where the stent-receiving portion is positioned within the balloon opening;inflating the shaping balloon with sufficient pressure to cause the balloon opening to compress the stent against the stent-receiving portion of the mandrel and deform the stent into the non-cylindrical shape of the stent-receiving portion;after or during the step of inflating the shaping balloon, exposing the stent to a desired shape-setting temperature;after exposing the stent to the desired shape-setting temperature, exposing the stent to a desired reduced temperature that is below the desired shape-setting temperature;deflating the shaping balloon;withdrawing the mandrel from the pressure vessel; andremoving the stent from the mandrel.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the stent comprises Nitinol.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the shaping balloon has a balloon interior ...

PROSTHETIC HEART VALVE DELIVERY SYSTEM WITH CONTROLLED EXPANSION

A system for repairing a defective heart valve. The system includes a delivery device, a balloon and a prosthetic heart valve. The delivery device includes an inner shaft assembly and a delivery sheath assembly. The delivery sheath assembly provides a capsule terminating at a distal end. The prosthesis includes a stent carrying a prosthetic valve. In a delivery state, the capsule maintains the prosthesis in a collapsed condition over the inner shaft assembly, and the balloon is in a deflated arrangement radially between the prosthetic heart valve and the capsule. In a deployment state, at least a portion of the balloon and at least a portion of the prosthetic heart valve are distal the capsule. Further, the balloon is inflated and surrounds an exterior of at least a portion of the prosthetic heart valve. The balloon controls self-expansion of the prosthetic heart valve. 1. A system for repairing a defective heart valve of a patient , the system comprising: an inner shaft assembly,', 'a delivery sheath assembly slidably disposed over the inner shaft assembly, the delivery sheath assembly including a capsule terminating at a distal end;, 'a delivery device includinga balloon; anda prosthetic heart valve including a self-deploying stent carrying a prosthetic valve; a delivery state in which the capsule maintains the prosthetic heart valve in a collapsed condition over the inner shaft assembly, and the balloon is in a deflated arrangement radially between the prosthetic heart valve and the capsule,', 'an initial deployment state in which at least a portion of the balloon and at least a portion of the prosthetic heart valve are located distal the distal end, with the at least a portion of the balloon in an inflated arrangement and surrounding an exterior of the at least a portion of the prosthetic heart valve., 'wherein the system is configured to provide2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the system is configured to further provide an intermediate deployment state in ...

Methods for quickly implanting a prosthetic heart valve

A heart valve prosthesis that can be quickly and easily implanted during a surgical procedure is provided. The prosthetic valve has a base stent that is deployed at a treatment site, and a valve component configured to quickly connect to the base stent. The base stent may take the form of a self- or balloon-expandable stent that expands outward against the native valve with or without leaflet excision. The valve component has a non-expandable prosthetic valve and a self- or balloon-expandable coupling stent for attachment to the base stent, thereby fixing the position of the valve component relative to the base stent. The prosthetic valve may be a commercially available to valve with a sewing ring and the coupling stent attaches to the sewing ring. The system is particularly suited for rapid deployment of heart valves in a conventional open-heart surgical environment. A catheter-based system and method for deployment is provided.

DELIVERY SYSTEMS HAVING A TEMPORARY VALVE AND METHODS OF USE

A delivery system for percutaneously delivering a heart valve prosthesis to a site of a native heart valve includes a delivery catheter and a heart valve prosthesis. The delivery catheter includes an outer sheath, an inner shaft, and an orifice restriction mechanism. The heart valve prosthesis has a valve member and a docking member. When the orifice restriction mechanism is positioned within the docking member within an annulus of the native heart valve, the orifice restriction mechanism temporarily replicates the operation of the native heart valve until the valve member is positioned within the docking member. 1. A delivery system for percutaneously delivering a heart valve prosthesis to a site of a native heart valve , the delivery system comprising: an outer sheath;', 'an inner shaft slidably disposed within the outer sheath; and', 'an orifice restriction mechanism coupled to a distal portion of the inner shaft, wherein the orifice restriction mechanism has a first state and an inflated second state; and, 'a delivery catheter includinga heart valve prosthesis including a valve member having a radially collapsed configuration and a radially expanded configuration, and a docking member having a radially collapsed configuration and a radially expanded configuration,wherein the orifice restriction mechanism is configured to be positioned within the docking member of the heart valve prosthesis after the docking member is in the radially expanded configuration within an annulus of the native heart valve, and wherein the orifice restriction mechanism is configured to temporarily replicate the operation of the native heart valve until the valve member is positioned within the docking member.2. The delivery system of claim 1 , wherein the orifice restriction mechanism is configured to temporarily replicate the operation of the native heart valve by alternating between the first state and the inflated second state.3. The delivery system of claim 1 , wherein the heart ...

Bronchoscopic Lung Volume Reduction Valve

A valve to perform lung volume reduction procedures is described. The valve is formed of a braided structure that is adapted for endoscopic insertion in a bronchial passage of a patient's lung. The braided structure has a proximal end and a distal end and is covered with a non porous coating adapted to prevent flow of air into the . A constricted portion of the braided structure is used to prevent flow of air through a central lumen of the structure, and to define at least one funnel shaped portion. The funnel shaped portion blocks the flow of air towards the constriction, i.e. towards the core of the lung. At least one hole is formed in the braided structure to permit flow of mucus from the distal end to the proximal end, to be expelled out of the lungs. 129-. (canceled)30. A one way valve for a biological flow passage , comprising:a braided structure extending longitudinally from a proximal end to a distal end, the braided structure movable from a constrained configuration to an expanded configuration so that, upon insertion of the braided structure in the biological flow passage, the braided structure is maintained in the expanded configuration, the braided structure including a constricted portion at the distal end thereof, the constricted portion closing off a channel of the braided structure to define a funnel shape which prevents flow towards the distal end;a non porous coating extending over a portion of the braided structure to prevent passage of fluids through the braided structure; andan anchoring portion extending distally from the distal end of the braided structure to anchor the braided structure within the biological flow passage.31. The one way valve of claim 30 , wherein the anchoring portion includes a plurality of grasping wires including tips configured to engage tissue of the biological flow passage.32. The one way valve of claim 30 , wherein the grasping wires retain a selected shape after being deformed during insertion.33. The one way valve ...

APPARATUSES FOR STENT SHAPING

An apparatus for crimping a radially expandable stent includes a pressure vessel, shaping balloon, and mandrel. The mandrel is configured to slidingly receive a stent thereon, and to be slidingly advanced into the pressure vessel. The shaping balloon is inflated to radially compress the stent onto the form of the mandrel; such compression need not be uniform. Pressurization of the shaping balloon facilitates the expansion of the balloon to achieve compression of the stent, with depressurization of the shaping balloon causing the balloon to return to an unexpanded state. 1. An apparatus for shaping stents , comprising:a pressure vessel comprising upper and lower walls and a pressure vessel lumen extending axially through the pressure vessel defined by upper and lower openings in the upper and lower walls, respectively, the pressure vessel further including an annular shaping balloon held between the upper and lower walls and positioned circumferentially about the pressure vessel lumen and defining an inner balloon opening, the pressure vessel defining a balloon inflation passage open to an interior chamber of the shaping balloon which has an inflated configuration and a deflated configuration, wherein in the deflated configuration of the shaping balloon the inner balloon opening has a greater diameter than both the upper and lower openings so as not to extend into the pressure vessel lumen; anda mandrel having a mandrel longitudinal axis and a stent-receiving portion between two opposite ends and having a non-cylindrical shape, the mandrel sized to be received co-axially within the pressure vessel lumen, such that when a stent is positioned onto the stent-receiving portion of the mandrel and the mandrel is received co-axially within the pressure vessel lumen, inflation of the shaping balloon causes the balloon opening to compress the stent against the stent-receiving portion of the mandrel and deform the stent into the non-cylindrical shape of the stent-receiving ...

Methods and Apparatus for Endovascular Heart Valve Replacement Comprising Tissue Grasping Elements

The present invention provides an apparatus for endovascularly replacing a patient's heart valve. In some embodiments, the apparatus includes an expandable anchor supporting a replacement valve, the anchor and replacement valve being adapted for percutaneous delivery and deployment to replace the patient's heart valve, the anchor having a braid having atraumatic grasping elements adapted to grasp tissue in a vicinity of the patient's heart valve.