Methods and apparatus for cardiac valve repair

US8323334B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• EVALVE, INC. · US

Inventors

• Mark Deem · Mountain View, US
• Hanson S. Gifford, III · Woodside, US
• Martin Dieck · Cupertino, US
• James I. Fann · Menlo Park, US
• Frederick G. St. Goar · Menlo Park, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jan 28, 2009
• Grant date: Dec 4, 2012
• Expiry date: Jan 28, 2029

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A61F2/2457
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

The methods, devices, and systems are provided for performing endovascular repair of atrioventricular and other cardiac valves in the heart. Regurgitation of an atrioventricular valve, particularly a mitral valve, can be repaired by modifying a tissue structure selected from the valve leaflets, the valve annulus, the valve chordae, and the papillary muscles. These structures may be modified by suturing, stapling, snaring, or shortening, using interventional tools which are introduced to a heart chamber. Preferably, the tissue structures will be temporarily modified prior to permanent modification. For example, opposed valve leaflets may be temporarily grasped and held into position prior to permanent attachment.