Container and method for storing and delivering minimally-invasive heart valves
US6723122B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 30, 2001 |
| Grant date | Apr 20, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 19, 2022 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61F2/9522
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Storage containers for expandable heart valves for minimally invasive valve replacement surgeries are disclosed. The containers permit an expandable valve to be stored in its expanded configuration and then converted to its contracted configuration while still in the container. A mechanism incorporated into the container facilitates the conversion. For example, the container may have a base and a lid, and a crank manipulable from outside. The lid actuates a key within the container that engages the valve to perform the contraction. If the valve is a spirally wound type of expandable valve, the key may be attached to an inner side edge and rotated to wind the valve into a tight spiral. A drain in the container may facilitate removal of a preservative solution so that the valve can be seen during the contraction process, or so that the valve can be rinsed while still within the container.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.