Patents Represented by Attorney Melinda Michalerya
  • Patent number: 8070805
    Abstract: Devices and methods for treating heart valves include members that assist the valve in closing during at least a portion of the cardiac cycle. Such devices include members configured to alter the shape of a valve annulus, reposition at least one papillary muscle, and/or plug an orifice of the valve so as to provide a coaptation surface for the valve leaflets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Assignee: Edwards Lifesciences LLC
    Inventors: Robert M. Vidlund, Jason E. Kalgreen, Todd J. Mortier, Cyril J. Schweich, Jr., Richard Schroeder, David Kusz
  • Patent number: 8025674
    Abstract: Devices and methods for filtering blood. The devices generally comprise a mesh for filtering blood flowing within a blood vessel, particularly within an artery such as the aorta, a structure adapted to open and close the mesh within the blood vessel, and a means to actuate the structure. The methods generally include the steps of introducing a mesh into a blood vessel to entrap embolic material, and removing the mesh and the entrapped foreign matter from the blood vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2011
    Assignee: Edwards Lifesciences Corporation
    Inventors: Denise Barbut, Tracy D. Maahs
  • Patent number: 7993397
    Abstract: Disclosed are methods and devices for applying pressure to an adjacent tissue structure, such as the annulus of the mitral valve. An adjustable implant is provided with an elongate control line having a distal end connected to the implant and a proximal end spaced apart from the implant. The device enables post implantation adjustment, by accessing the proximal end of the control line and manipulating the control line to adjust the implant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Assignee: Edwards Lifesciences AG
    Inventors: Randall T. Lashinski, David Mark Taylor, Richard S. Kusleika
  • Patent number: 7988726
    Abstract: An implantable device is positioned within the coronary sinus and tightened around the mitral annulus to reduce mitral valve regurgitation. The device carries at least one electrode, in electronic communication with a cardiac rhythm management device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: Edward Lifesciences LLC
    Inventors: Jonathan J. Langberg, Michael D. Lesh
  • Patent number: 7981020
    Abstract: A method and implantation tools for placing a transventricular splint including a tension member. The method includes gaining access to the patient's hearts and identifying entry or exit points for the tension member, marking those locations and delivering the tension member. Anchors for the tension member are also delivered. The length of the tensions member is measured and the walls of the heart drawn together. The pads are secured to the tension member and the tension member is trimmed to length. The pads are secured to the heart surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Assignee: Edwards Lifesciences LLC
    Inventors: Todd J. Mortier, Cyril J. Schweich, Jr., Robert M. Vidlund, Peter T. Keith, Thomas M. Paulson, David A. Kusz