Abstract: A stretch-modified elastomeric multilayer film comprising a core layer comprising a first ethylene-?-olefin block copolymer, wherein the first ethylene-?-olefin block copolymer comprises at least 50 mol. % ethylene, has a melt index (I2) from 0.5 g/10 min to 5 g/10 min, and has a density of 0.850 g/cc to 0.890 g/cc, and at least one outer layer independently comprising a second ethylene-?-olefin block copolymer and from 2.5 to 30 wt. % of an antiblock agent, wherein the second ethylene-?-olefin block copolymer comprises at least 50 mol. % ethylene, has a melt index (I2) from 0.5 g/10 min to 25 g/10 min, and has a density of 0.850 g/cc to 0.890 g/cc, wherein the density of the first ethylene-?-olefin block copolymer is equal to or greater than the density of the second ethylene-?-olefin block copolymer.

Abstract: A stretch-modified elastomeric multilayer film comprising a core layer comprising a first ethylene-?-olefin block copolymer, wherein the first ethylene-?-olefin block copolymer comprises at least 50 mol. % ethylene, has a melt index (12) from 0.5 g/10 min to 5 g/10 min, and has a density of 0.850 g/cc to 0.890 g/cc, and at least one outer layer independently comprising a second ethylene-?-olefin block copolymer and from 2.5 to 30 wt. % of an antiblock agent, wherein the second ethylene-?-olefin block copolymer comprises at least 50 mol. % ethylene, has a melt index (12) from 0.5 g/10 min to 25 g/10 min, and has a density of 0.850 g/cc to 0.890 g/cc, wherein the density of the first ethylene-?-olefin block copolymer is equal to or greater than the density of the second ethylene-?-olefin block copolymer.

Abstract: A method of repairing the heart valve is described. The method includes securing a first tissue anchor to a first posterior portion of annulus between posterior and anterior commissures; securing a second tissue anchor to a first anterior portion of the annulus between the posterior and anterior commissures; and securing a third tissue anchor to a second anterior portion of annulus between the posterior and anterior commissures. At least one tensile member is spanned between the first, second and third tissue anchors and across the orifice of the heart valve. When tension is applied to the at least one tensile member, the posterior portion of the annulus is pulled toward the anterior portion of the annulus.

Abstract: The present invention relates to nonbreathable extrusion coated nonwoven structures. The structures comprise a nonwoven web comprised of monocomponent or bicomponent fibers having a coating comprising LDPE optionally blended with LLDPE and/or an elastomer. The monocomponent or bicomponent fibers comprise an ethylene based polymer, preferably at the surface of the fiber.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are provided for excluding and reducing the volume of the left atrial appendage (“LAA”) by deploying a first tissue capture element in contact with the pericardium and a second tissue capture element in engagement with the endocardial surface adjacent to the ostium of the LAA, such that the LAA tissue is retained in a collapsed, reduced volume state therebetween. Methods of using the apparatus of the present invention to reduce or occlude the LAA also are provided.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are provided for excluding and reducing the volume of the left atrial appendage (“LAA”) by deploying a first tissue capture element in contact with the pericardium and a second tissue capture element in engagement with the endocardial surface adjacent to the ostium of the LAA, such that the LAA tissue is retained in a collapsed, reduced volume state therebetween. Methods of using the apparatus of the present invention to reduce or occlude the LAA also are provided.

Abstract: A multilayer structure comprises at least one barrier layer comprising at least one vinylidene chloride polymer, at least one UV protecting layer, and at least one reflective layer wherein none of these layers also serve as a sealing layer. The multilayer structure is preferably a film, more preferably in the form of a pouch, preferably for packaging flowable product, especially milk. When used as a milk pouch, the structure is more effective at protecting milk from deterioration at ambient temperature and humidity than is a similar multilayer structure having an ethylene vinyl alcohol barrier layer. The multilayer structure preferably has more than one reflective layers and is preferably in the form of a pillow pouch.

Abstract: A vascular occlusion device for occluding a body cavity. The device includes an elongate flexible member having a proximal portion extending to a distal portion and a radially compressible substance being disposed therebetween. The substance is configured to promote growth of body tissue and may include an extracellular matrix such as small intestine submucosa. The proximal and distal end portions are anchored to the cavity walls such that the position of the substance within the body cavity promotes the growth of body tissue to occlude the body cavity. In one example, the body cavity includes a patent foramen ovale.

Abstract: The present invention provides a prosthesis formed from a plurality of tubular layers members deployed in vivo using endovascular techniques and material. The layers define a lumen through a diseased portion of a vascular system. Each layer may be constructed using overlapping tubular members to provide a custom prosthesis. Subsequent prosthesis layers overlapping in the central portion of the lumen strengthen the prosthesis walls and may incorporate biocompatible materials having desirable properties.

Abstract: An access system is provided comprising a main tubular member having one or more lateral openings and a branch segment or secondary tubular member configured to be disposed through the lateral openings. The main tubular member is positioned in a vessel so that the openings are aligned with branches of the vessel. A secondary tubular member, or one or more branch segments, are then extended through the openings and into the branches to provide access for the delivery of therapeutic devices. Methods of deploying the access system to treat bifurcated or multi-branched vessels are also provided.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for regulating the flow of fluids through a body vessel or organ are provided by a stent comprising a deformable mesh covered with a biocompatible material, the mesh having a conical portion and a constricted region. The stent may be percutaneously and transluminally delivered and deployed in a vessel. The constricted region may then be selectively enlarged employing a conventional dilatation device to adjust the flow impedance created by the constricted region. In an alternative embodiment, the constricted region is preferably formed from a shape-memory material, so that the maximum degree of constriction may be recovered by heating the shape-memory material. Methods of implanting the stent and adjusting and optimizing the degree of flow impedance are also provided.

Abstract: A hole closure device for use in medical applications, especially in treating cardiac septal defects, is provided that seals a hole by exerting pressure on an interior edge of the hole. The device includes a flexible tube that extends through a hole, and has an expansion ring disposed within it adjacent to the tissue on either side of the hole. The expansion rings, which have deployed diameters larger than that of the hole, cause the material of the tube in a mid-region of the tube to contact and conform to the interior edge of the hole. Methods for deploying the hole closure device to correct septal defects are also described.

Abstract: A prosthesis for treating congenital defects and constrictive diseases in pediatric cases is provided that self-adjusts to accommodate growth of the vessel as the child matures. The prosthesis includes a plurality of spaced apart, self-adjusting, tapered support members that extend from an interconnection member. The prosthesis preferably comprises a nickel-titanium material that exhibits pseudo-elastic behavior at body-temperature, so as to apply an approximately uniform stress to the vessel over a range of expanded diameters. The interconnection member and/or a subset of the support members may include portions defining windows that assist in anchoring the prosthesis within a vessel. Methods of implanting the prosthesis are also provided.

Abstract: A removable vascular filter and apparatus and methods for removing the removable vascular filter are provided. The removable vascular filter is held in place by a coiled-sheet stent portion having a magnetic band disposed on its interior edge. A catheter system is also provided having an electromagnet configured to engage the magnetic band and enable the coiled-sheet stent portion and filter sack to be wound to a reduced diameter to facilitate transluminal removal of the vascular filter and its contents.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for percutaneously forming a passageway between adjacent vessels, a vessel and an organ, or different regions of an organ are provided comprising first and second catheters carrying distally positioned electromagnets. The first and second catheters are percutaneously advanced to positions within a body so that the distal endfaces oppose one another and magnetically attract one another, causing the lumens of the catheters to become aligned. A cutting wire is then advanced out of the first lumen, through the thickness of the tissue captured between the catheters, and into the second lumen. The cutting wire may be advanced fully through the second catheter so that it exits the patient, and upon removal of the first and second catheters, serves as a guide wire. Methods of percutaneously performing surgery are also provided.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for dilating a vessel or organ, especially a larger diameter vessel or organ, are provided using a catheter having a balloon element is disposed within a sheath having an expandable but non-compliant mesh region covering the balloon element. The sheath is selected from among a plurality of sheaths each having a mesh member that is expandable to a different predetermined expanded diameter, the mesh region preventing the balloon member from developing bulges during inflation and constraining the edges of the balloon from perforating the vessel in the event of perforation. The sheath, which extends to a proximal end of the catheter, is also employed to reduce the diameter of the balloon member following the dilatation procedure, thereby preventing the balloon from bunching up in the vessel or organ.