Minimally invasive mitral valve repair method and apparatus
US6626930B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 1, 2000 |
| Grant date | Sep 30, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 1, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61F2/246
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
The present invention is directed to an apparatus and method for the stabilization and fastening of two pieces of tissue. A single device may be used to both stabilize and fasten the two pieces of tissue, or a separate stabilizing device may be used in conjunction with a fastening device. The stabilizing device may comprise a probe with vacuum ports and/or mechanical clamps disposed at the distal end to approximate the two pieces of tissue. After the pieces of tissue are stabilized, they are fastened together using sutures or clips. One exemplary embodiment of a suture-based fastener comprises a toggle and suture arrangement deployed by a needle, wherein the needle enters the front side of the tissue and exits the blind side. In a second exemplary embodiment, the suture-based fastener comprises a needle connected to a suture. The needle enters the blind side of the tissue and exits the front side. The suture is then tied in a knot to secure the pieces of tissue. One example of a clip-based fastener comprises a spring-loaded clip having two arms with tapered distal ends and barbs. The probe includes a deployment mechanism which causes the clip to pierce and lockingly secure the two …
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.