Patents by Inventor Ralph Kafesjian
Ralph Kafesjian has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
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Patent number: 8518108Abstract: Prosthetic heart valve suture rings having a suturable annulus of a compliant internal member and a cloth covering. Three evenly spaced upwardly opening depressions formed on an internal circumference of the suturable annulus receive downwardly-directed cusps of a stent structure of the heart valve. The suture ring may include a silicone sponge waffle annulus having a walled lip on an inner circumference thereof. The lip is contoured to include the three depressions, and a ring washer mounts on the annulus surrounding the walled lip for added stiffness.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 2005Date of Patent: August 27, 2013Assignee: Edwards Lifesciences CorporationInventors: Van Le Huynh, Than Nguyen, Hung Ly Lam, Xiaoming G. Guo, Ralph Kafesjian
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Patent number: 7008591Abstract: The present invention provides methods for preparing tissue for incorporation into xenografts and bioprosthetic devices. The methods of the invention make use of supercritical fluids to remove infectious materials and chemical agents from tissues, as well as to permeate a tissue with a chemical agent (e.g. tanning, cross-linking, and bioactive agents).Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 2001Date of Patent: March 7, 2006Assignee: Edwards LIfesciences CorporationInventors: Ralph Kafesjian, Myron Howanec, Jr.
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Publication number: 20060009842Abstract: Improved, adaptable tissue-type heart valves and methods for their manufacture are disclosed wherein a dimensionally stable, pre-aligned tissue leaflet subassembly is formed and its peripheral edge clamped between and attached to an upper shaped wireform and a lower support stent. A variety of adaptable structural interfaces including suture rings, flanges, and conduits may be attached to the support stent with or without an outlet conduit disposed about the wireform to provide a tissue-type heart valve adaptable for use in either a natural heart or in mechanical pumping devices. The methods include forming individual leaflets with a template and using the template to attach the leaflets together to form a tissue leaflet subassembly. The template and leaflets include a straight edge terminating in oppositely directed tabs, and a curvilinear cusp edge extending opposite the straight edge.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 12, 2005Publication date: January 12, 2006Inventors: Van Huynh, Than Nguyen, Hung Lam, Xiaoming Guo, Ralph Kafesjian
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Patent number: 6964682Abstract: An improved holder, system and method for implanting a tissue-type prosthetic mitral heart valve that prevents suture looping and may also constrict the commissure posts of the valve. The holder may include two relatively movable plates, one of which attaches to the valve sewing on the inflow end of the valve ring and the other which attaches via sutures or similar expedient to the valve commissures on the outflow end. Separation of the plates places the sutures in tension and constricts the commissures. The sutures may be strands or filaments, or may be wider bands of flexible biocompatible material. If bands are used, they desirably cover the commissure post tips to further help prevent suture looping thereover. The flexible lengths of material extend directly between commissures of the valve, or may extending radially inward from each commissure to a central upstanding member.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2000Date of Patent: November 15, 2005Assignee: Edwards Lifesciences CorporationInventors: Diana Nguyen-Thien-Nhon, Myron Howanec, Jr., Ralph Kafesjian, Delos M. Cosgrove, Robert Stobie, Hung Ly Lam
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Patent number: 6945997Abstract: Improved, adaptable tissue-type heart valves and methods for their manufacture are disclosed wherein a dimensionally stable, pre-aligned tissue leaflet subassembly is formed and its peripheral edge clamped between and attached to an upper shaped wireform and a lower support stent. A variety of adaptable structural interfaces including suture rings, flanges, and conduits may be attached to the support stent with or without an outlet conduit disposed about the wireform to provide a tissue-type heart valve adaptable for use in either a natural heart or in mechanical pumping devices. The methods include forming individual leaflets with a template and using the template to attach the leaflets together to form a tissue leaflet subassembly. The template and leaflets include a straight edge terminating in oppositely directed tabs, and a curvilinear cusp edge extending opposite the straight edge.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2003Date of Patent: September 20, 2005Assignee: Edwards Lifesciences CorporationInventors: Van Le Huynh, Than Nguyen, Hung Ly Lam, Xiaoming G. Guo, Ralph Kafesjian
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Patent number: 6837902Abstract: Heart valve leaflet selection methods and apparatuses which subject individual leaflets to loads and measure the resulting deflection to more reliably group leaflets of similar physical characteristics for later assembly in prosthetic heart valves. The deflection testing may be accomplished using a variety of test set ups which are designed to impart a load on the leaflet which simulates the actual loading within a heart valve. The results from a number of deflection tests are used to categorize individual leaflets, which data can be combined with other data regarding the characteristics of the leaflet to better select leaflets for assembly into a multi-leaflet heart valve. In one embodiment, the deflection test is combined with an intrinsic load test, and leaflets having similar deflection and intrinsic load values used in the same heart valve.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2003Date of Patent: January 4, 2005Assignee: Edwards Lifesciences CorporationInventors: Than Nguyen, Hung Ly Lam, Jianbo Zhou, Carlos M. Romero, Ralph Kafesjian, Xiaoming G. Guo, Van Le Huynh
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Publication number: 20040093080Abstract: The present invention provides a prosthetic heart valve that includes biologically active agents that retard or prevent the infiltration of fibrous tissue (“pannus”) from the host into the structure of the prosthetic valve. Preventing or decreasing the overgrowth of the prosthetic valve by pannus reduces the complications associated with the implantation and use of prosthetic heart valves.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 31, 2003Publication date: May 13, 2004Applicants: Edwards Lifesciences Corporation, Baxter Healthcare CorporationInventors: Michael N. Helmus, Crystal Cunanan, Ralph Kafesjian, Patrice Tremble
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Publication number: 20040082991Abstract: Heart valve leaflet selection methods and apparatuses which subject individual leaflets to loads and measure the resulting deflection to more reliably group leaflets of similar physical characteristics for later assembly in prosthetic heart valves. The deflection testing may be accomplished using a variety of test set ups which are designed to impart a load on the leaflet which simulates the actual loading within a heart valve. The results from a number of deflection tests are used to categorize individual leaflets, which data can be combined with other data regarding the characteristics of the leaflet to better select leaflets for assembly into a multi-leaflet heart valve. In one embodiment, the deflection test is combined with an intrinsic load test, and leaflets having similar deflection and intrinsic load values used in the same heart valve.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 20, 2003Publication date: April 29, 2004Inventors: Than Nguyen, Hung Ly Lam, Jianbo Zhou, Carlos M. Romero, Ralph Kafesjian, Xiaoming G. Guo, Van Le Huynh
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Publication number: 20030195620Abstract: Improved, adaptable tissue-type heart valves and methods for their manufacture are disclosed wherein a dimensionally stable, pre-aligned tissue leaflet subassembly is formed and its peripheral edge clamped between and attached to an upper shaped wireform and a lower support stent. A variety of adaptable structural interfaces including suture rings, flanges, and conduits may be attached to the support stent with or without an outlet conduit disposed about the wireform to provide a tissue-type heart valve adaptable for use in either a natural heart or in mechanical pumping devices. The methods include forming individual leaflets with a template and using the template to attach the leaflets together to form a tissue leaflet subassembly. The template and leaflets include a straight edge terminating in oppositely directed tabs, and a curvilinear cusp edge extending opposite the straight edge.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 11, 2003Publication date: October 16, 2003Inventors: Van Le Huynh, Than Nguyen, Hung Ly Lam, Xiaoming G. Guo, Ralph Kafesjian
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Patent number: 6585766Abstract: Improved, adaptable tissue-type heart valves and methods for their manufacture are disclosed wherein a dimensionally stable, pre-aligned tissue leaflet subassembly is formed and its peripheral edge clamped between and attached to an upper shaped wireform and a lower support stent. A variety of adaptable structural interfaces including suture rings, flanges, and conduits may be attached to the support stent with or without an outlet conduit disposed about the wireform to provide a tissue-type heart valve adaptable for use in either a natural heart or in mechanical pumping devices. The methods include forming individual leaflets with a template and using the template to attach the leaflets together to form a tissue leaflet subassembly. The template and leaflets include a straight edge terminating in oppositely directed tabs, and a curvilinear cusp edge extending opposite the straight edge.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2000Date of Patent: July 1, 2003Assignee: Edwards Lifesciences CorporationInventors: Van Le Huynh, Than Nguyen, Hung Ly Lam, Xiaoming G. Guo, Ralph Kafesjian
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Publication number: 20030074059Abstract: Heart valve leaflet selection methods and apparatuses which subject individual leaflets to loads and measure the resulting deflection to more reliably group leaflets of similar physical characteristics for later assembly in prosthetic heart valves. The deflection testing may be accomplished using a variety of test set ups which are designed to impart a load on the leaflet which simulates the actual loading within a heart valve. The results from a number of deflection tests are used to categorize individual leaflets, which data can be combined with other data regarding the characteristics of the leaflet to better select leaflets for assembly into a multi-leaflet heart valve. In one embodiment, the deflection test is combined with an intrinsic load test, and leaflets having similar deflection and intrinsic load values used in the same heart valve.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 7, 2002Publication date: April 17, 2003Inventors: Than Nguyen, Hung Ly Lam, Jianbo Zhou, Carlos M. Romero, Ralph Kafesjian, Xiaoming G. Guo, Van Le Huynh
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Publication number: 20030072677Abstract: The present invention provides methods for preparing tissue for incorporation into xenografts and bioprosthetic devices. The methods of the invention make use of supercritical fluids to remove infectious materials and chemical agents from tissues, as well as to permeate a tissue with a chemical agent (e.g. tanning, cross-linking, and bioactive agents).Type: ApplicationFiled: October 17, 2001Publication date: April 17, 2003Inventors: Ralph Kafesjian, Myron Howanec
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Patent number: 6413275Abstract: Heart valve leaflet selection methods and apparatuses which subject individual leaflets to loads and measure the resulting deflection to more reliably group leaflets of similar physical characteristics for later assembly in prosthetic heart valves. The deflection testing may be accomplished using a variety of test set ups which are designed to impart a load on the leaflet which simulates the actual loading within a heart valve. The results from a number of deflection tests are used to categorize individual leaflets, which data can be combined with other data regarding the characteristics of the leaflet to better select leaflets for assembly into a multi-leaflet heart valve. In one embodiment, the deflection test is combined with an intrinsic load test, and leaflets having similar deflection and intrinsic load values used in the same heart valve.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2000Date of Patent: July 2, 2002Assignee: Edwards Lifesciences CorporationInventors: Than Nguyen, Hung Ly Lam, Jianbo Zhou, Carlos M. Romero, Ralph Kafesjian, Xiaoming G. Guo, Van Le Huynh
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Publication number: 20020082686Abstract: An improved holder, system and method for implanting a tissue-type prosthetic mitral heart valve that prevents suture looping and may also constrict the commissure posts of the valve. The holder may include two relatively movable plates, one of which attaches to the valve sewing on the inflow end of the valve ring and the other which attaches via sutures or similar expedient to the valve commissures on the outflow end. Separation of the plates places the sutures in tension and constricts the commissures. The sutures may be strands or filaments, or may be wider bands of flexible biocompatible material. If bands are used, they desirably cover the commissure post tips to further help prevent suture looping thereover. The flexible lengths of material extend directly between commissures of the valve, or may extending radially inward from each commissure to a central upstanding member.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 21, 2000Publication date: June 27, 2002Inventors: Diana Nguyen-Thien-Nhon, Myron Howanec, Ralph Kafesjian, Delos M. Cosgrove, Robert Stobie, Hung Ly Lam
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Patent number: 6245105Abstract: Heart valve leaflet selection methods and apparatuses which subject individual leaflets to loads and measure the resulting deflection to more reliably group leaflets of similar physical characteristics for later assembly in prosthetic heart valves. The deflection testing may be accomplished using a variety of test set ups which are designed to impart a load on the leaflet which simulates the actual loading within a heart valve. The results from a number of deflection tests are used to categorize individual leaflets, which data can be combined with other data regarding the characteristics of the leaflet to better select leaflets for assembly into a multi-leaflet heart valve. In one embodiment, the deflection test is combined with an intrinsic load test, and leaflets having similar deflection and intrinsic load values used in the same heart valve.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 1998Date of Patent: June 12, 2001Assignee: Edwards Lifesciences CorporationInventors: Than Nguyen, Hung Ly Lam, Jianbo Zhou, Carlos M. Romero, Ralph Kafesjian, Xiaoming G. Guo, Van Le Huynh
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Patent number: 6102944Abstract: Improved, adaptable tissue-type heart valves and methods for their manufacture are disclosed wherein a dimensionally stable, pre-aligned tissue leaflet subassembly is formed and its peripheral edge clamped between and attached to an upper shaped wireform and a lower support stent. A variety of adaptable structural interfaces including suture rings, flanges, and conduits may be attached to the support stent with or without an outlet conduit disposed about the wireform to provide a tissue-type heart valve adaptable for use in either a natural heart or in mechanical pumping devices. The methods include forming individual leaflets with a template and using the template to attach the leaflets together to form a tissue leaflet subassembly. The template and leaflets include a straight edge terminating in oppositely directed tabs, and a curvilinear cusp edge extending opposite the straight edge.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 1999Date of Patent: August 15, 2000Assignee: Edwards Lifesciences CorporationInventors: Van Le Huynh, Than Nguyen, Hung Ly Lam, Xiaoming G. Guo, Ralph Kafesjian
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Patent number: 5961549Abstract: Heart valve leaflet selection methods and apparatuses which subject individual leaflets to loads and measure the resulting deflection to more reliably group leaflets of similar physical characteristics for later assembly in prosthetic heart valves. The deflection testing may be accomplished using a variety of test set ups which are designed to impart a load on the leaflet which simulates the actual loading within a heart valve. The results from a number of deflection tests are used to categorize individual leaflets, which data can be combined with other data regarding the characteristics of the leaflet to better select leaflets for assembly into a multi-leaflet heart valve. In one embodiment, the deflection test is combined with an intrinsic load test, and leaflets having similar deflection and intrinsic load values used in the same heart valve.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 1997Date of Patent: October 5, 1999Assignee: Baxter International Inc.Inventors: Than Nguyen, Hung Ly Lam, Jianbo Zhou, Carlos M. Romero, Ralph Kafesjian, Xiaoming G. Guo, Van Le Huynh
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Patent number: 5928281Abstract: Improved, adaptable tissue-type heart valves and methods for their manufacture are disclosed wherein a dimensionally stable, pre-aligned tissue leaflet subassembly is formed and its peripheral edge clamped between and attached to an upper shaped wireform and a lower support stent. A variety of adaptable structural interfaces including suture rings, flanges, and conduits may be attached to the support stent with or without an outlet conduit disposed about the wireform to provide a tissue-type heart valve adaptable for use in either a natural heart or in mechanical pumping devices.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 1997Date of Patent: July 27, 1999Assignee: Baxter International Inc.Inventors: Van Le Huynh, Than Nguyen, Hung Ly Lam, Xiaoming G. Guo, Ralph Kafesjian
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Patent number: RE46668Abstract: An improved holder and method for implanting a tissue-type prosthetic mitral heart valve that prevents suture looping and may also constrict the commissure posts of the valve. An upstanding or shaft member axially positioned on the holder causes the lengths of attachment sutures to extend axially beyond the commissure post tips to create a tent and prevent looping of any of an array of pre-implanted sutures around the tips during deployment of the valve. The shaft member may be axially movable such that it can be initially retracted and then actuated just prior to valve deployment. The shaft member may have notches on its distal tip for capturing the attachment sutures, which are crossed over along the valve axis to ensure engagement by the notches. The attachment sutures may be strands or filaments, or may be wider bands of flexible biocompatible material. If bands are used, they desirably cover the commissure post tips to further help prevent suture looping thereover.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2016Date of Patent: January 16, 2018Assignee: Edwards Lifesciences CorporationInventors: Robert Stobie, Ralph Kafesjian, Diana Nguyen-Thien-Nhon, Robert Ian Lister, Andrzej Skoskiewicz, Adrian Benton James, Aaron Ernesto Sklar, Banny Banerjee
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Patent number: RE47065Abstract: An improved holder and method for implanting a tissue-type prosthetic mitral heart valve that prevents suture looping and ma y also constrict the commissure posts of the valve. An upstanding or shaft member axially positioned on the holder causes the lengths of attachment sutures to extend axially beyond the commissure post tips to create a tent and prevent looping of any of an array of pre-implanted sutures around the tips during deployment of the valve. The shaft member may be axially movable such that it can be initially retracted and then actuated just prior to valve deployment. The shaft member may have notches on its distal tip for capturing the attachment sutures, which are crossed over along the valve axis to ensure engagement by the notches. The attachment sutures may be strands or filaments, or may be wider bands of flexible biocompatible material. If bands are used, they desirably cover the commissure post tips to further help prevent suture looping thereover.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2016Date of Patent: October 2, 2018Assignee: Edwards Lifesciences CorporationInventors: Robert Stobie, Ralph Kafesjian, Diana Nguyen-Thien-Nhon, Robert Ian Lister, Andrzej Skoskiewicz, Adrian Benton James, Aaron Ernesto Sklar, Banny Banerjee