Abstract: A device for engaging a heart valve prosthesis during implantation includes a mechanism for attaching the device to the heart valve prosthesis. The heart valve prosthesis includes a circular valve body having an annulus with a substantially annular aperture therein. At least one movable occluder is carried in the annulus and is movable between an open position and a closed position. The occluder is carried on a strut coupled to a valve body. The attachment mechanism includes a member which couples to the strut, thereby affixing the device to the heart valve prosthesis. The attachment mechanism may be actuated to disengage the heart valve prosthesis.

Abstract: A device for engaging a heart valve prosthesis during implantation includes a mechanism for attaching the device to the heart valve prosthesis. The heart valve prosthesis includes a circular valve body having an annulus with a substantially annular aperture therein. At least one movable occluder is carried in the aperture and is movable between an open position and a closed position. The attachment mechanism includes a member which couples to the circular valve body thereby affixing the device to the heart valve prosthesis. The thickness of the device which extends in a direction above the heart valve prosthesis is reduced. The device is selectively removable from the heart valve prosthesis following implantation of the prosthesis in the heart tissue annulus of a patient.

Abstract: A device for engaging a heart valve prosthesis during implantation includes a handle and a low profile holder. The handle has a proximal end and a distal end. The distal end is attached to the low profile holder which includes a distal engaging surface adapted for engaging the heart valve prosthesis. The distal engaging surface of the low profile holder maintains a leaflet of the heart valve in a closed position during implantation. This provides a low profile to the heart valve and holder which facilitates insertion through a trocar in a patient.

Abstract: An artificial heart valve prosthesis for use in a heart includes an orifice defining a lumen therethrough for blood flow. An occluder is carried in the orifice and is movable between an open position which allows blood flow through the lumen and a closed position in which flow through the lumen is blocked. A suture cuff coupled to the orifice extends around an outer circumference of the orifice and is used for attaching the heart valve to a heart tissue annulus using sutures. The sutures are knotted proximate the suture cuff to secure the cuff to the annulus. A suture guard is coupled to the suture cuff and is movable between an open position in which the suture knot is exposed and a closed position in which the suture, suture knot and suture cuff are covered.