Actively-engageable movement-restriction mechanism for use with an annuloplasty structure
US8353956B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 17, 2010 |
| Grant date | Jan 15, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 17, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61F2250/0007
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Apparatus is provided, including a locking mechanism, an implant, and a flexible strip within the implant having a plurality of recesses. A perimeter of the strip shortens and expands when the first end of the strip is advanced bidirectionally with respect to a second end of the strip. The locking mechanism includes a moveable recess-engaging portion, a mechanical support removably coupled to the recess-engaging portion, and a force applicator which maintains the recess-engaging portion in a position in which the recess-engaging portion is not disposed in any of the recesses. Upon decoupling of the mechanical support from the recess-engaging portion, the force applicator restricts motion of the plurality of recesses of the strip with respect to the second end of the strip, by facilitating positioning of the recess-engaging portion in one of the plurality of recesses. Other embodiments are also described.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.