Abstract: An annuloplasty ring holder is provided for holding an annuloplasty ring during storage and implantation. The annuloplasty ring holder includes a fixed jaw and one or more movable jaws. The movable jaw is coupled to the fixed jaw by a hinge or other means so that an annuloplasty ring may be positioned between the jaws and clamped in place. The holder is selectively coupled to a handle. The holder may be used for all types of annuloplasty rings, including full and partial rings, rigid and flexible rings, and adjustable and non-adjustable rings.

Abstract: An annuloplasty ring is provided for implanting about a mitral valve. The annuloplasty ring includes a first, generally rigid section and a second, generally flexible section. The rigid section is positioned adjacent the posterior portion of a mitral valve annulus and the flexible section is positioned adjacent the anterior portion of the mitral valve annulus.