US6752813B2
Expired / Lapsed
US
⏱️ 0.0 years remaining
Methods and devices for capturing and fixing leaflets in valve repair
Assignee: Evalve Inc
•
Filing: 2001-06-27
•
Granted: 2004-06-22
•
Expires: 2021-06-27
Abstract
Abstract The present invention provides methods and devices for grasping, and optional repositioning and fixation of the valve leaflets to treat cardiac valve regurgitation, particularly mitral valve regurgitation. Such grasping will typically be atraumatic providing a number of benefits. For example, atraumatic grasping may allow repositioning of the devices relative to the leaflets and repositioning of the leaflets themselves without damage to the leaflets. However, in some cases it may be necessary or desired to include grasping which pierces or otherwise permanently affects the leaflets. In some of these cases, the grasping step includes fixation.
Inventors
- 👤 Eric A. Goldfarb
- 👤 Kent D. Dell
- 👤 Sylvia Wen-Chin Fan
- 👤 Brian B. Martin
- 👤 Ferolyn T. Powell
- 👤 Alfred H. Raschdorf
- 👤 Troy L. Thornton
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-10-23 04:21
CPC Classifications
A; A61; A61B; A61B17/00; A61B17/00234; A61B17/04; A61B17/0469; A61B17/06; A61B17/062; A61B17/0625; A61B17/12; A61B17/122; A61B18/00; A61B18/04; A61B18/12; A61B18/14; A61B18/1492; A61B50/00; A61B50/30; A61B17/0401; A61B17/0482; A61B17/0487; A61B17/064; A61B17/0643; A61B17/0644; A61B17/068; A61B17/072; A61B17/07207; A61B17/08; A61B17/1227; A61B17/128; A61B17/1285; A61B17/28; A61B17/29; A61B18/18; A61B18/20; A61B2017/00238; A61B2017/00243; A61B17/0057; A61B2017/00575; A61B2017/00579; A61B2017/00588; A61B2017/00592; A61B2017/00606; A61B2017/00623; A61B2017/00743; A61B2017/00778; A61B2017/00783; A61B2017/00831; A61B2017/00867; A61B2017/00982; A61B2017/00986; A61B2017/0404; A61B2017/0409; A61B2017/0417; A61B2017/0419; A61B2017/044; A61B2017/0443; A61B2017/0446; A61B2017/0458; A61B2017/0464; A61B2017/047; A61B2017/0472; A61B2017/0474; A61B2017/0488; A61B2017/0496; A61B2017/06052; A61B2017/06057; A61B17/06066; A61B2017/06076; A61B2017/061; A61B17/06166; A61B2017/06171; A61B2017/0641; A61B2017/088; A61B2017/2901; A61B2017/2908; A61B2017/2926; A61B8/00; A61B8/10; A61F; A61F2/00; A61F2/02; A61F2/24; A61F2/2442; A61F2/246; A61F2/2463
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 158
Claim 1
Independent Claim
109 words
A method for repairing a cardiac valve having valve leaflets, said method comprising: accessing a patient's vasculature remote from the heart; advancing an interventional tool having a capturing device through the vasculature to a location near the cardiac valve, wherein the capture device comprises at least one distal element, wherein each distal element is capable of independently protruding radially outward from the shaft; capturing at least one leaflet with the capturing device by atraumatically pressing the at least one distal element against the leaflet; repositioning the captured leaflets independently of each other by applying an upward force against a downstream surface of each leaflet; and fixing the leaflets together.
Claim 2
Independent Claim
109 words
A method for repairing a cardiac valve having valve leaflets, said method comprising: accessing a patient's vasculature remote from the heart; advancing an interventional tool having a capturing device through the vasculature to a location near the cardiac valve, wherein the capture device comprises at least one distal element, wherein each distal element is capable of independently protruding radially outward from the shaft; capturing at least one leaflet with the capturing device by atraumatically pressing the at least one distal element against the leaflet; repositioning the captured leaflets independently of each other by applying an upward force against a downstream surface of each leaflet; and fixing the leaflets together.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
18 words
A method as in claim 1 , wherein the repositioning step comprises retracting or extending the distal element.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
47 words
A method as in claim 1 , wherein the capture device comprises at least one proximal element and at least one distal element each capable of protruding radially outward from the shaft and wherein the capturing step comprises holding the leaflet between the proximal and distal elements.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
31 words
A method as in claim 3 , wherein the proximal element has at least one friction accessory and the capturing step includes applying friction to the leaflet with the friction accessory.
Claim 6
Dependent Claim
18 words
A method as in claim 3 , wherein the repositioning step comprises retracting or extending the proximal element.
Claim 7
Dependent Claim
29 words
A method as in claim 3 , wherein the repositioning step comprises simultaneously retracting or extending the proximal element and distal element disposed on opposite sides of the leaflet.
Claim 8
Dependent Claim
15 words
A method as in claim 3 , further comprising interlocking the proximal and distal elements.
Claim 9
Independent Claim
108 words
A method for repairing a cardiac valve having valve leaflets, each leaflet comprising a proximal side and a distal side, said method comprising: penetrating a first leaflet from the proximal side to the distal side with a penetrating device; deploying at least a portion of a first anchor having a first attached suture on the distal side of the first leaflet; penetrating a second leaflet from the proximal side to the distal side with a penetrating device; deploying at least a portion of a second anchor having a second attached suture on the distal side of the second leaflet; securing the first suture and the second suture together.
Claim 10
Independent Claim
108 words
A method for repairing a cardiac valve having valve leaflets, each leaflet comprising a proximal side and a distal side, said method comprising: penetrating a first leaflet from the proximal side to the distal side with a penetrating device; deploying at least a portion of a first anchor having a first attached suture on the distal side of the first leaflet; penetrating a second leaflet from the proximal side to the distal side with a penetrating device; deploying at least a portion of a second anchor having a second attached suture on the distal side of the second leaflet; securing the first suture and the second suture together.
Claim 11
Dependent Claim
31 words
A method as in claim 8 , wherein the anchors are disposed on or in the penetrating devices and the deploying steps comprise releasing the anchors from the respective penetrating devices.
Claim 12
Dependent Claim
16 words
A method as in claim 9 , wherein the deploying steps further comprise expanding the anchors.
Claim 13
Dependent Claim
27 words
A method as in claim 8 , wherein the penetrations are located from 1 mm to 12 mm inward from a free edge of the valve leaflet.
Claim 14
Dependent Claim
63 words
A method as in claim 8 , further comprising: penetrating the first leaflet from the proximal side to the distal side with a penetrating device; deploying a snare on the distal side of the leaflet so that the snare captures at least part of the first anchor; and retracting the snare so that the anchor is drawn through the penetration of the snare.
Claim 15
Dependent Claim
63 words
A method as in claim 12 , further comprising: penetrating the second leaflet from the proximal side to the distal side with a penetrating device; deploying a snare on the distal side of the leaflet so that the snare captures at least part of the second anchor; and retracting the snare so that the anchor is drawn through the penetration of the snare.
Claim 16
Dependent Claim
63 words
A method as in claim 8 , further comprising: penetrating the second leaflet from the proximal side to the distal side with a penetrating device; deploying a snare on the distal side of the leaflet so that the snare captures at least part of the first anchor; and retracting the snare so that the anchor is drawn through the penetration of the snare.
Claim 17
Dependent Claim
63 words
A method as in claim 14 , further comprising: penetrating the first leaflet from the proximal side to the distal side with a penetrating device; deploying a snare on the distal side of the leaflet so that the snare captures at least part of the second anchor; and retracting the snare so that the anchor is drawn through the penetration of the snare.
Claim 18
Dependent Claim
51 words
A method as in claim 8 , further comprising: accessing a patient's vasculature remote from the heart; advancing an interventional tool having at least one guide conduit through the vasculature to a location near the cardiac valve; and advancing the penetration devices through the guide conduits prior to the penetrating steps.
Claim 19
Dependent Claim
21 words
A method as in claim 16 , further comprising extending the guide conduits to desired positions prior to the penetrating steps.
Claim 20
Dependent Claim
76 words
A method as in claim 16 , wherein the interventional tool further comprises a capture device comprising at least one loop which is protrudable radially outward from a shaft, the method further comprising: protruding the loop(s) radially outward from the shaft; positioning the guide conduit(s) so that the conduit guides the penetration device through the loop upon advancement of the penetration device; and advancing the penetration device so that the leaflet is penetrated within the loop.
Claim 21
Dependent Claim
26 words
A method as in claim 18 , further comprising retracting one or more loops to radially translate the penetration devices and penetrated leaflets toward the shaft.
Claim 22
Independent Claim
113 words
A device for repairing a cardiac valve, said device comprising: an interventional catheter configured to pass from the remote vasculature of a patient to a position within the heart adjacent to the cardiac valve; and a capture device on the interventional catheter comprising at least one distal element, wherein the distal element is protrudable radially outward and has a loop shape configured for pressing against a downstream surface of at least one leaflet, wherein the interventional tool further comprises at least one fixation tool for fixing the valve leaflet together, wherein the fixation tool comprises a penetrating device which has a suture and an anchor disposed at the distal end of the suture.
Claim 23
Independent Claim
113 words
A device for repairing a cardiac valve, said device comprising: an interventional catheter configured to pass from the remote vasculature of a patient to a position within the heart adjacent to the cardiac valve; and a capture device on the interventional catheter comprising at least one distal element, wherein the distal element is protrudable radially outward and has a loop shape configured for pressing against a downstream surface of at least one leaflet, wherein the interventional tool further comprises at least one fixation tool for fixing the valve leaflet together, wherein the fixation tool comprises a penetrating device which has a suture and an anchor disposed at the distal end of the suture.
Claim 24
Dependent Claim
35 words
A device as in claim 20 , wherein the interventional tool comprises a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end, and the capture device is disposed near the distal end of the shaft.
Claim 25
Dependent Claim
18 words
A device as in claim 20 , wherein the length of protrusion of the distal element is adjustable.
Claim 26
Dependent Claim
18 words
A device as in claim 20 , wherein the radius of curvature of the distal element is adjustable.
Claim 27
Dependent Claim
17 words
A device as in claim 22 or 23 , wherein the distal element is extendable or retractable.
Claim 28
Dependent Claim
22 words
A device as in claim 20 , wherein the capture device comprises two distal elements disposed on opposite sides of the shaft.
Claim 29
Dependent Claim
24 words
A device as in claim 20 , wherein the capture device further comprises at least one proximal element disposed proximal to the distal element.
Claim 30
Dependent Claim
18 words
A device as in claim 26 , wherein the proximal element is protrudable radially outward from the shaft.
Claim 31
Dependent Claim
34 words
A device as in claim 26 , wherein the proximal or distal elements are made from a material comprising stainless steel, metals, nitinol, shape-memory alloy, polymer, silk, polyester, nylon or a combination of these.
Claim 32
Dependent Claim
17 words
A device as in claim 26 , wherein the proximal element is interlockable with the distal element.
Claim 33
Dependent Claim
17 words
A device as in claim 26 , wherein the capture device is detachable from the interventional tool.
Claim 34
Dependent Claim
25 words
A device as in claim 20 , wherein the fixation tool is adapted for fastening, suturing, clipping, stapling, riveting, gluing, or fusing the leaflets together.
Claim 35
Dependent Claim
18 words
A device as in claim 20 , wherein the anchor is mountable on or in the penetrating device.
Claim 36
Dependent Claim
16 words
A device as in claim 32 , wherein the anchor is deployable from the penetrating device.
Claim 37
Dependent Claim
12 words
A device as in claim 20 , wherein the anchor is expandable.
Claim 38
Dependent Claim
18 words
A device as in claim 20 , wherein the anchor comprises a wire curved into a ring shape.
Claim 39
Dependent Claim
38 words
A device as in claim 35 , wherein the wire has a first end and a second end wherein the first end is disposed on top of the ring and the second end is disposed underneath the ring.
Claim 40
Dependent Claim
14 words
A device as in claim 20 , wherein the penetrating device comprises a snare.
Claim 41
Dependent Claim
20 words
A device as in claim 20 , wherein the penetrating device has a slot through which a suture is passable.
Claim 42
Dependent Claim
18 words
A device as in claim 20 , wherein the interventional tool further comprises at least one guide conduit.
Claim 43
Dependent Claim
20 words
A device as in claim 39 , wherein each guide conduit is capable of extending angularly outward from the shaft.
Claim 44
Dependent Claim
33 words
A device as in claim 39 , wherein the guide conduit is positionable so that a tool advanced through the guide tube is directed toward the inside of the loop shaped distal element.
Claim 45
Dependent Claim
17 words
A device as in claim 20 , wherein the capture device is detachable from the interventional tool.
Claim 46
Dependent Claim
17 words
A device as in claim 20 , wherein the distal element has at least one friction accessory.
Claim 47
Dependent Claim
17 words
A device as in claim 43 , wherein the friction accessory comprises prongs, windings, bands or barbs.
Claim 48
Independent Claim
159 words
A method for repairing a cardiac valve having valve leaflets, said method comprising: accessing a patient's vasculature remote from the heart; advancing an interventional tool having a capturing device through the vasculature to a location near the cardiac valve; applying an upward force against a downstream surface of at least one leaflet with the capturing device to reposition at least one leaflet so as to reduce leakage through the valve during ventricular systole, wherein the interventional tool comprises an elongate shaft having a proximal end and a distal end and the capture device is disposed near the distal end, wherein the capture device comprises at least one distal element capable of protruding radially outward from the shaft and wherein the applying step includes atraumatically pressing the distal element against the downstream surface of the leaflet; and adjusting the length of protrusion of the distal element from the shaft, wherein adjusting the length comprises retracting or extending the distal element.
Claim 49
Independent Claim
159 words
A method for repairing a cardiac valve having valve leaflets, said method comprising: accessing a patient's vasculature remote from the heart; advancing an interventional tool having a capturing device through the vasculature to a location near the cardiac valve; applying an upward force against a downstream surface of at least one leaflet with the capturing device to reposition at least one leaflet so as to reduce leakage through the valve during ventricular systole, wherein the interventional tool comprises an elongate shaft having a proximal end and a distal end and the capture device is disposed near the distal end, wherein the capture device comprises at least one distal element capable of protruding radially outward from the shaft and wherein the applying step includes atraumatically pressing the distal element against the downstream surface of the leaflet; and adjusting the length of protrusion of the distal element from the shaft, wherein adjusting the length comprises retracting or extending the distal element.
Claim 50
Dependent Claim
21 words
A method as in claim 45 , further comprising observing flow through the leaflets to determine if regurgitation has been inhibited.
Claim 51
Dependent Claim
19 words
A method as in claim 46 , further comprising fixing the leaflets together if regurgitation has been sufficiently inhibited.
Claim 52
Dependent Claim
33 words
A method as in claim 46 , further comprising adjusting the application of upward force on at least one valve leaflet with the capturing device if the regurgitation has not been sufficiently inhibited.
Claim 53
Dependent Claim
35 words
A method as in claim 45 , wherein the adjusting the length step is performed after the applying step which serves to adjust the position of the leaflet to which the distal element is applied.
Claim 54
Dependent Claim
16 words
A method as in claim 45 , further comprising adjusting the curvature of the distal element.
Claim 55
Dependent Claim
18 words
A method as in claim 50 , wherein adjusting the curvature comprises retracting or extending the distal element.
Claim 56
Dependent Claim
35 words
A method as in claim 50 , wherein the adjusting the curvature step is performed after the applying step which serves to adjust the position of the leaflet to which the distal element is applied.
Claim 57
Dependent Claim
43 words
A method as in claim 45 , wherein the capture device further comprises at least one proximal element capable of protruding radially outward from the shaft and wherein the method further comprises holding one or more leaflets between the proximal and distal elements.
Claim 58
Dependent Claim
21 words
A method as in claim 53 , further comprising adjusting the length of protrusion of the proximal element from the shaft.
Claim 59
Dependent Claim
28 words
A method as in claim 54 , wherein the adjusting the length step is performed after the applying step which serves to adjust the position of the leaflet.
Claim 60
Dependent Claim
22 words
A method as in claim 55 , further comprising simultaneously adjusting the length of protrusion of the distal element from the shaft.
Claim 61
Dependent Claim
15 words
A method as in claim 53 , further comprising interlocking the proximal and distal elements.
Claim 62
Dependent Claim
27 words
A method as in claim 53 , further comprising detaching the capture tool from the interventional tool so that the capture tool serves as a fixation device.
Claim 63
Dependent Claim
136 words
A kit for repairing a cardiac valve having valve leaflets, said kit comprising: an interventional catheter configured to pass from the remote vasculature of a patient to a position within the heart adjacent to the cardiac valve, said catheter having a capture device comprising at least one distal element; a fixation tool comprising a penetrating device having a suture and an anchor disposed at the distal end of the suture; and instructions for use setting forth a method comprising accessing a patient's vasculature remote from the heart, advancing the interventional tool through the vasculature to a location near the cardiac valve, and applying an upward force against a downstream surface of at least one leaflet with the capturing device to reposition at least one leaflet so as to reduce leakage through the valve during ventricular systole.
Claim 64
Dependent Claim
136 words
A kit for repairing a cardiac valve having valve leaflets, said kit comprising: an interventional catheter configured to pass from the remote vasculature of a patient to a position within the heart adjacent to the cardiac valve, said catheter having a capture device comprising at least one distal element; a fixation tool comprising a penetrating device having a suture and an anchor disposed at the distal end of the suture; and instructions for use setting forth a method comprising accessing a patient's vasculature remote from the heart, advancing the interventional tool through the vasculature to a location near the cardiac valve, and applying an upward force against a downstream surface of at least one leaflet with the capturing device to reposition at least one leaflet so as to reduce leakage through the valve during ventricular systole.
Claim 65
Dependent Claim
42 words
A kit as in claim 59 , further comprising a guide catheter configured to pass from the remote vasculature to a position within the heart adjacent to the cardiac valve, said guide catheter having a lumen sized to accept the interventional catheter.
Claim 66
Dependent Claim
123 words
A kit for repairing a cardiac valve having valve leaflets, said kit comprising: an interventional catheter configured to pass from the remote vasculature of a patient to a position within the heart adjacent to the cardiac valve, said catheter having a capture device comprising at least one distal element; a fixation tool comprising a penetrating device having a suture and an anchor disposed at the distal end of the suture; and instructions for use setting forth a method comprising accessing a patient's vasculature remote from the heart; advancing an interventional tool having a capturing device through the vasculature to a location near the cardiac valve; capturing at least one leaflet with the capturing device; and repositioning the captured leaflets independently of each other.
Claim 67
Dependent Claim
123 words
A kit for repairing a cardiac valve having valve leaflets, said kit comprising: an interventional catheter configured to pass from the remote vasculature of a patient to a position within the heart adjacent to the cardiac valve, said catheter having a capture device comprising at least one distal element; a fixation tool comprising a penetrating device having a suture and an anchor disposed at the distal end of the suture; and instructions for use setting forth a method comprising accessing a patient's vasculature remote from the heart; advancing an interventional tool having a capturing device through the vasculature to a location near the cardiac valve; capturing at least one leaflet with the capturing device; and repositioning the captured leaflets independently of each other.
Claim 68
Dependent Claim
42 words
A kit as in claim 61 , further comprising a guide catheter configured to pass from the remote vasculature to a position within the heart adjacent to the cardiac valve, said guide catheter having a lumen sized to accept the interventional catheter.
Claim 69
Dependent Claim
99 words
A kit for repairing a cardiac valve having valve leaflets, said kit comprising: an interventional catheter configured to pass from the remote vasculature of a patient to a position within the heart adjacent to the cardiac valve, said catheter having a capture device comprising at least one distal element, wherein the distal element is protrudable radially outward and has a loop shape configured for pressing against a downstream surface of at least one leaflet; a fixation tool comprising a penetrating device having a suture and an anchor disposed at the distal end of the suture; and instructions for use.
Claim 70
Dependent Claim
99 words
A kit for repairing a cardiac valve having valve leaflets, said kit comprising: an interventional catheter configured to pass from the remote vasculature of a patient to a position within the heart adjacent to the cardiac valve, said catheter having a capture device comprising at least one distal element, wherein the distal element is protrudable radially outward and has a loop shape configured for pressing against a downstream surface of at least one leaflet; a fixation tool comprising a penetrating device having a suture and an anchor disposed at the distal end of the suture; and instructions for use.
Claim 71
Independent Claim
60 words
A method for repairing a cardiac valve having leaflets, said method comprising: accessing a patient's vasculature remote from the heart; advancing an interventional tool having a detachable capturing device through the vasculature to a location near the cardiac valve; atraumatically capturing the valve leaflets with the capture device; and detaching the capture device to leave the valve leaflets permanently affixed.
Claim 72
Independent Claim
60 words
A method for repairing a cardiac valve having leaflets, said method comprising: accessing a patient's vasculature remote from the heart; advancing an interventional tool having a detachable capturing device through the vasculature to a location near the cardiac valve; atraumatically capturing the valve leaflets with the capture device; and detaching the capture device to leave the valve leaflets permanently affixed.
Claim 73
Dependent Claim
41 words
A method as in claim 64 , wherein the capture device comprises at least one radially deployable distal element and at least one radially deployable proximal element and wherein atraumatically capturing comprises capturing a portion of the leaflets between the elements.
Claim 74
Dependent Claim
19 words
A method as in claim 65 , further comprising radially deploying the distal or proximal elements prior to capturing.
Claim 75
Dependent Claim
27 words
A method as in claim 65 , further comprising radially expanding or retracting the distal or proximal elements after capturing to adjust the position of the leaflets.
Claim 76
Dependent Claim
21 words
A method as in claim 67 , wherein radially expanding or retracting of the distal and proximal elements is achieved independently.
Claim 77
Independent Claim
153 words
A method for repairing a cardiac valve having valve leaflets, said method comprising: accessing a patient's vasculature remote from the heart; advancing an interventional tool having a capturing device through the vasculature to a location near the cardiac valve; applying an upward force against a downstream surface of at least one leaflet with the capturing device to reposition at least one leaflet so as to reduce leakage through the valve during ventricular systole, wherein the interventional tool comprises an elongate shaft having a proximal end and a distal end and the capture device is disposed near the distal end, wherein the capture device comprises at least one distal element capable of protruding radially outward from the shaft and wherein the applying step includes pressing the distal element against the downstream surface of the leaflet; and adjusting the curvature of the distal element, wherein adjusting the curvature comprises retracting or extending the distal element.
Claim 78
Independent Claim
153 words
A method for repairing a cardiac valve having valve leaflets, said method comprising: accessing a patient's vasculature remote from the heart; advancing an interventional tool having a capturing device through the vasculature to a location near the cardiac valve; applying an upward force against a downstream surface of at least one leaflet with the capturing device to reposition at least one leaflet so as to reduce leakage through the valve during ventricular systole, wherein the interventional tool comprises an elongate shaft having a proximal end and a distal end and the capture device is disposed near the distal end, wherein the capture device comprises at least one distal element capable of protruding radially outward from the shaft and wherein the applying step includes pressing the distal element against the downstream surface of the leaflet; and adjusting the curvature of the distal element, wherein adjusting the curvature comprises retracting or extending the distal element.
Claim 79
Dependent Claim
21 words
A method as in claim 69 , further comprising observing flow through the leaflets to determine if regurgitation has been inhibited.
Claim 80
Dependent Claim
19 words
A method as in claim 70 , further comprising fixing the leaflets together if regurgitation has been sufficiently inhibited.
Claim 81
Dependent Claim
33 words
A method as in claim 70 , further comprising adjusting the application of upward force on at least one valve leaflet with the capturing device if the regurgitation has not been sufficiently inhibited.
Claim 82
Dependent Claim
21 words
A method as in claim 69 , further comprising adjusting the length of protrusion of the distal element from the shaft.
Claim 83
Dependent Claim
18 words
A method as in claim 73 , wherein adjusting the length comprises retracting or extending the distal element.
Claim 84
Dependent Claim
35 words
A method as in claim 73 , wherein the adjusting the length step is performed after the applying step which serves to adjust the position of the leaflet to which the distal element is applied.
Claim 85
Dependent Claim
35 words
A method as in claim 69 , wherein the adjusting the curvature step is performed after the applying step which serves to adjust the position of the leaflet to which the distal element is applied.
Claim 86
Dependent Claim
43 words
A method as in claim 69 , wherein the capture device further comprises at least one proximal element capable of protruding radially outward from the shaft and wherein the method further comprises holding one or more leaflets between the proximal and distal elements.
Claim 87
Dependent Claim
21 words
A method as in claim 77 , further comprising adjusting the length of protrusion of the proximal element from the shaft.
Claim 88
Dependent Claim
28 words
A method as in claim 78 , wherein the adjusting the length step is performed after the applying step which serves to adjust the position of the leaflet.
Claim 89
Dependent Claim
22 words
A method as in claim 79 , further comprising simultaneously adjusting the length of protrusion of the distal element from the shaft.
Claim 90
Dependent Claim
15 words
A method as in claim 77 , further comprising interlocking the proximal and distal elements.
Claim 91
Dependent Claim
27 words
A method as in claim 77 , further comprising detaching the capture tool from the interventional tool so that the capture tool serves as a fixation device.
Claim 92
Independent Claim
205 words
A method for repairing a cardiac valve having valve leaflets, said method comprising: accessing a patient's vasculature remote from the heart; advancing an interventional tool having a capturing device through the vasculature to a location near the cardiac valve; applying an upward force against a downstream surface of at least one leaflet with the capturing device to reposition at least one leaflet so as to reduce leakage through the valve during ventricular systole, wherein the interventional tool comprises an elongate shaft having a proximal end and a distal end and the capture device is disposed near the distal end, wherein the capture device comprises at least one distal element capable of protruding radially outward from the shaft and wherein the applying step includes pressing the distal element against the downstream surface of the leaflet, and wherein the capture device further comprises at least one proximal element capable of protruding radially outward from the shaft and wherein the method further comprises holding one or more leaflets between the proximal and distal elements; and adjusting the length of protrusion of the proximal element from the shaft, wherein the adjusting the length step is performed after the applying step which serves to adjust the position of the leaflet.
Claim 93
Independent Claim
205 words
A method for repairing a cardiac valve having valve leaflets, said method comprising: accessing a patient's vasculature remote from the heart; advancing an interventional tool having a capturing device through the vasculature to a location near the cardiac valve; applying an upward force against a downstream surface of at least one leaflet with the capturing device to reposition at least one leaflet so as to reduce leakage through the valve during ventricular systole, wherein the interventional tool comprises an elongate shaft having a proximal end and a distal end and the capture device is disposed near the distal end, wherein the capture device comprises at least one distal element capable of protruding radially outward from the shaft and wherein the applying step includes pressing the distal element against the downstream surface of the leaflet, and wherein the capture device further comprises at least one proximal element capable of protruding radially outward from the shaft and wherein the method further comprises holding one or more leaflets between the proximal and distal elements; and adjusting the length of protrusion of the proximal element from the shaft, wherein the adjusting the length step is performed after the applying step which serves to adjust the position of the leaflet.
Claim 94
Dependent Claim
21 words
A method as in claim 83 , further comprising observing flow through the leaflets to determine if regurgitation has been inhibited.
Claim 95
Dependent Claim
19 words
A method as in claim 84 , further comprising fixing the leaflets together if regurgitation has been sufficiently inhibited.
Claim 96
Dependent Claim
33 words
A method as in claim 84 , further comprising adjusting the application of upward force on at least one valve leaflet with the capturing device if the regurgitation has not been sufficiently inhibited.
Claim 97
Dependent Claim
21 words
A method as in claim 83 , further comprising adjusting the length of protrusion of the distal element from the shaft.
Claim 98
Dependent Claim
18 words
A method as in claim 87 , wherein adjusting the length comprises retracting or extending the distal element.
Claim 99
Dependent Claim
35 words
A method as in claim 87 , wherein the adjusting the length step is performed after the applying step which serves to adjust the position of the leaflet to which the distal element is applied.
Claim 100
Dependent Claim
16 words
A method as in claim 83 , further comprising adjusting the curvature of the distal element.
Claim 101
Dependent Claim
18 words
A method as in claim 90 , wherein adjusting the curvature comprises retracting or extending the distal element.
Claim 102
Dependent Claim
35 words
A method as in claim 90 , wherein the adjusting the curvature step is performed after the applying step which serves to adjust the position of the leaflet to which the distal element is applied.
Claim 103
Dependent Claim
22 words
A method as in claim 83 , further comprising simultaneously adjusting the length of protrusion of the distal element from the shaft.
Claim 104
Dependent Claim
15 words
A method as in claim 83 , further comprising interlocking the proximal and distal elements.
Claim 105
Dependent Claim
27 words
A method as in claim 83 , further comprising detaching the capture tool from the interventional tool so that the capture tool serves as a fixation device.
Claim 106
Independent Claim
191 words
A method for repairing a cardiac valve having valve leaflets, said method comprising: accessing a patient's vasculature remote from the heart; advancing an interventional tool having a capturing device through the vasculature to a location near the cardiac valve; and applying an upward force against a downstream surface of at least one leaflet with the capturing device to reposition at least one leaflet so as to reduce leakage through the valve during ventricular systole, wherein the interventional tool comprises an elongate shaft having a proximal end and a distal end and the capture device is disposed near the distal end, wherein the capture device comprises at least one distal element capable of protruding radially outward from the shaft and wherein the applying step includes pressing the distal element against the downstream surface of the leaflet, and wherein the capture device further comprises at least one proximal element capable of protruding radially outward from the shaft and wherein the method further comprises holding one or more leaflets between the proximal and distal elements; and detaching the capture tool from the interventional tool so that the capture tool serves as a fixation device.
Claim 107
Independent Claim
191 words
A method for repairing a cardiac valve having valve leaflets, said method comprising: accessing a patient's vasculature remote from the heart; advancing an interventional tool having a capturing device through the vasculature to a location near the cardiac valve; and applying an upward force against a downstream surface of at least one leaflet with the capturing device to reposition at least one leaflet so as to reduce leakage through the valve during ventricular systole, wherein the interventional tool comprises an elongate shaft having a proximal end and a distal end and the capture device is disposed near the distal end, wherein the capture device comprises at least one distal element capable of protruding radially outward from the shaft and wherein the applying step includes pressing the distal element against the downstream surface of the leaflet, and wherein the capture device further comprises at least one proximal element capable of protruding radially outward from the shaft and wherein the method further comprises holding one or more leaflets between the proximal and distal elements; and detaching the capture tool from the interventional tool so that the capture tool serves as a fixation device.
Claim 108
Dependent Claim
21 words
A method as in claim 96 , further comprising observing flow through the leaflets to determine if regurgitation has been inhibited.
Claim 109
Dependent Claim
19 words
A method as in claim 97 , further comprising fixing the leaflets together if regurgitation has been sufficiently inhibited.
Claim 110
Dependent Claim
33 words
A method as in claim 97 , further comprising adjusting the application of upward force on at least one valve leaflet with the capturing device if the regurgitation has not been sufficiently inhibited.
Claim 111
Dependent Claim
21 words
A method as in claim 96 , further comprising adjusting the length of protrusion of the distal element from the shaft.
Claim 112
Dependent Claim
18 words
A method as in claim 100 , wherein adjusting the length comprises retracting or extending the distal element.
Claim 113
Dependent Claim
35 words
A method as in claim 100 , wherein the adjusting the length step is performed after the applying step which serves to adjust the position of the leaflet to which the distal element is applied.
Claim 114
Dependent Claim
16 words
A method as in claim 96 , further comprising adjusting the curvature of the distal element.
Claim 115
Dependent Claim
18 words
A method as in claim 103 , wherein adjusting the curvature comprises retracting or extending the distal element.
Claim 116
Dependent Claim
35 words
A method as in claim 103 , wherein the adjusting the curvature step is performed after the applying step which serves to adjust the position of the leaflet to which the distal element is applied.
Claim 117
Dependent Claim
21 words
A method as in claim 96 , further comprising adjusting the length of protrusion of the proximal element from the shaft.
Claim 118
Dependent Claim
28 words
A method as in claim 106 , wherein the adjusting the length step is performed after the applying step which serves to adjust the position of the leaflet.
Claim 119
Dependent Claim
22 words
A method as in claim 107 , further comprising simultaneously adjusting the length of protrusion of the distal element from the shaft.
Claim 120
Dependent Claim
15 words
A method as in claim 96 , further comprising interlocking the proximal and distal elements.
Claim 121
Independent Claim
119 words
A method for repairing a cardiac valve having valve leaflets, said method comprising: accessing a patient's vasculature remote from the heart; advancing an interventional tool having a capturing device through the vasculature to a location near the cardiac valve; capturing at least one leaflet with the capturing device, wherein the capture device comprises at least one proximal element which has at least one friction accessory and at least one distal element, the proximal and distal elements each capable of protruding radially outward from the shaft and wherein the capturing step comprises holding the leaflet between the proximal and distal elements and applying friction to the leaflet with the friction accessory; and repositioning the captured leaflets independently of each other.
Claim 122
Independent Claim
119 words
A method for repairing a cardiac valve having valve leaflets, said method comprising: accessing a patient's vasculature remote from the heart; advancing an interventional tool having a capturing device through the vasculature to a location near the cardiac valve; capturing at least one leaflet with the capturing device, wherein the capture device comprises at least one proximal element which has at least one friction accessory and at least one distal element, the proximal and distal elements each capable of protruding radially outward from the shaft and wherein the capturing step comprises holding the leaflet between the proximal and distal elements and applying friction to the leaflet with the friction accessory; and repositioning the captured leaflets independently of each other.
Claim 123
Independent Claim
101 words
A device for repairing a cardiac valve, said device comprising: an interventional catheter configured to pass from the remote vasculature of a patient to a position within the heart adjacent to the cardiac valve; and a capture device on the interventional catheter comprising at least one distal element, wherein the distal element is protrudable radially outward and has a loop shape configured for pressing against a downstream surface of at least one leaflet, wherein the interventional tool further comprises at least one fixation tool for fixing the valve leaflet together, wherein the fixation tool comprises a penetrating device comprising a snare.
Claim 124
Independent Claim
101 words
A device for repairing a cardiac valve, said device comprising: an interventional catheter configured to pass from the remote vasculature of a patient to a position within the heart adjacent to the cardiac valve; and a capture device on the interventional catheter comprising at least one distal element, wherein the distal element is protrudable radially outward and has a loop shape configured for pressing against a downstream surface of at least one leaflet, wherein the interventional tool further comprises at least one fixation tool for fixing the valve leaflet together, wherein the fixation tool comprises a penetrating device comprising a snare.
Claim 125
Independent Claim
108 words
A device for repairing a cardiac valve, said device comprising: an interventional catheter configured to pass from the remote vasculature of a patient to a position within the heart adjacent to the cardiac valve; and a capture device on the interventional catheter comprising at least one distal element, wherein the distal element is protrudable radially outward and has a loop shape configured for pressing against a downstream surface of at least one leaflet, wherein the interventional tool further comprises at least one fixation tool for fixing the valve leaflet together, wherein the fixation tool comprises a penetrating device which has a slot through which a suture is passable.
Claim 126
Independent Claim
108 words
A device for repairing a cardiac valve, said device comprising: an interventional catheter configured to pass from the remote vasculature of a patient to a position within the heart adjacent to the cardiac valve; and a capture device on the interventional catheter comprising at least one distal element, wherein the distal element is protrudable radially outward and has a loop shape configured for pressing against a downstream surface of at least one leaflet, wherein the interventional tool further comprises at least one fixation tool for fixing the valve leaflet together, wherein the fixation tool comprises a penetrating device which has a slot through which a suture is passable.
Claim 127
Independent Claim
82 words
A device for repairing a cardiac valve, said device comprising: an interventional catheter comprising at least one guide conduit, the interventional catheter configured to pass from the remote vasculature of a patient to a position within the heart adjacent to the cardiac valve; and a capture device on the interventional catheter comprising at least one distal element, wherein the distal element is protrudable radially outward and has a loop shape configured for pressing against a downstream surface of at least one leaflet.
Claim 128
Independent Claim
82 words
A device for repairing a cardiac valve, said device comprising: an interventional catheter comprising at least one guide conduit, the interventional catheter configured to pass from the remote vasculature of a patient to a position within the heart adjacent to the cardiac valve; and a capture device on the interventional catheter comprising at least one distal element, wherein the distal element is protrudable radially outward and has a loop shape configured for pressing against a downstream surface of at least one leaflet.
Claim 129
Dependent Claim
35 words
A device as in claim 113 , wherein the interventional tool comprises a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end, and the capture device is disposed near the distal end of the shaft.
Claim 130
Dependent Claim
18 words
A device as in claim 113 , wherein the length of protrusion of the distal element is adjustable.
Claim 131
Dependent Claim
18 words
A device as in claim 113 , wherein the radius of curvature of the distal element is adjustable.
Claim 132
Dependent Claim
17 words
A device as in claim 115 or 116 , wherein the distal element is extendable or retractable.
Claim 133
Dependent Claim
22 words
A device as in claim 113 , wherein the capture device comprises two distal elements disposed on opposite sides of the shaft.
Claim 134
Dependent Claim
24 words
A device as in claim 113 , wherein the capture device further comprises at least one proximal element disposed proximal to the distal element.
Claim 135
Dependent Claim
18 words
A device as in claim 119 , wherein the proximal element is protrudable radially outward from the shaft.
Claim 136
Dependent Claim
34 words
A device as in claim 119 , wherein the proximal or distal elements are made from a material comprising stainless steel, metals, nitinol, shape-memory alloy, polymer, silk, polyester, nylon or a combination of these.
Claim 137
Dependent Claim
17 words
A device as in claim 119 , wherein the proximal element is interlockable with the distal element.
Claim 138
Dependent Claim
17 words
A device as in claim 119 , wherein the capture device is detachable from the interventional tool.
Claim 139
Dependent Claim
24 words
A device as in claim 113 , wherein the interventional tool further comprises at least one fixation tool for fixing the valve leaflet together.
Claim 140
Dependent Claim
25 words
A device as in claim 124 , wherein the fixation tool is adapted for fastening, suturing, clipping, stapling, riveting, gluing, or fusing the leaflets together.
Claim 141
Dependent Claim
15 words
A device as in claim 124 , wherein the fixation tool comprises a penetrating device.
Claim 142
Dependent Claim
20 words
A device as in claim 113 , wherein each guide conduit is capable of extending angularly outward from the shaft.
Claim 143
Dependent Claim
33 words
A device as in claim 113 , wherein the guide conduit is positionable so that a tool advanced through the guide tube is directed toward the inside of the loop shaped distal element.
Claim 144
Dependent Claim
17 words
A device as in claim 113 , wherein the capture device is detachable from the interventional tool.
Claim 145
Independent Claim
90 words
A device for repairing a cardiac valve, said device comprising: an interventional catheter configured to pass from the remote vasculature of a patient to a position within the heart adjacent to the cardiac valve; and a capture device on the interventional catheter comprising at least one distal element, wherein the distal element is protrudable radially outward and has a loop shape configured for pressing against a downstream surface of at least one leaflet and wherein the distal element has at least one friction accessory comprising prongs, windings, bands or barbs.
Claim 146
Independent Claim
90 words
A device for repairing a cardiac valve, said device comprising: an interventional catheter configured to pass from the remote vasculature of a patient to a position within the heart adjacent to the cardiac valve; and a capture device on the interventional catheter comprising at least one distal element, wherein the distal element is protrudable radially outward and has a loop shape configured for pressing against a downstream surface of at least one leaflet and wherein the distal element has at least one friction accessory comprising prongs, windings, bands or barbs.
Claim 147
Dependent Claim
35 words
A device as in claim 130 , wherein the interventional tool comprises a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end, and the capture device is disposed near the distal end of the shaft.
Claim 148
Dependent Claim
18 words
A device as in claim 130 , wherein the length of protrusion of the distal element is adjustable.
Claim 149
Dependent Claim
18 words
A device as in claim 130 , wherein the radius of curvature of the distal element is adjustable.
Claim 150
Dependent Claim
22 words
A device as in claim 130 , wherein the capture device comprises two distal elements disposed on opposite sides of the shaft.
Claim 151
Dependent Claim
24 words
A device as in claim 130 , wherein the capture device further comprises at least one proximal element disposed proximal to the distal element.
Claim 152
Dependent Claim
18 words
A device as in claim 135 , wherein the proximal element is protrudable radially outward from the shaft.
Claim 153
Dependent Claim
17 words
A device as in claim 135 , wherein the proximal element is interlockable with the distal element.
Claim 154
Dependent Claim
17 words
A device as in claim 135 , wherein the capture device is detachable from the interventional tool.
Claim 155
Dependent Claim
24 words
A device as in claim 130 , wherein the interventional tool further comprises at least one fixation tool for fixing the valve leaflet together.
Claim 156
Dependent Claim
18 words
A device as in claim 130 , wherein the interventional tool further comprises at least one guide conduit.
Claim 157
Dependent Claim
20 words
A device as in claim 140 , wherein each guide conduit is capable of extending angularly outward from the shaft.
Claim 158
Dependent Claim
33 words
A device as in claim 140 , wherein the guide conduit is positionable so that a tool advanced through the guide tube is directed toward the inside of the loop shaped distal element.
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USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 2007-06-22 | 2007-12-22 | 2008-06-22 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 2011-06-22 | 2011-12-22 | 2012-06-22 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 2015-06-22 | 2015-12-22 | 2016-06-22 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |