Abstract: A device for releasably holding and positioning a heart valve prosthesis includes a handle having a first end, a second end and a super elastic shaft interconnecting the first and second ends. A connector is positioned at the second end of the handle and includes a plug portion having a pair of raised members and diametrically opposed guide slots. A low profile pusher-rotator is releasably engaged with the plug portion and includes diametrically opposed guide tabs engaged with the guide slots. A manually flexible release portion of the pusher-rotator includes a pair of engagement members engaged in a snap fit with the raised members. The release portion can be manually distorted to release the engagement members and the raised members for separation of the handle and the pusher-rotator.

Abstract: A pusher-rotator for installing a heart valve prosthesis including a handle and a flexible shaft extending from the handle. A valve holder is attached to a terminal end of the shaft. A bendable member is formed of a material which is bendable to hold a fixed shape. The bendable member includes multiple contact points for supporting the flexible shaft at spaced apart support points and maintaining the flexible shaft rotatable in a flexed orientation.

Abstract: A device for positioning during surgery, a heart valve prosthesis having a general annular configuration with an inside diameter that includes a handle and a introducer/rotator. The handle has a proximal end and a distal end. The introducer/rotator is attached to the distal end of the handle and has a length in operative relates to the inside diameter of the valve prosthesis. The introducer/rotator has a width that is less than the length, which facilitates intercostal insertion through a patient's ribs.