Abstract: A bileaflet heart valve comprising an annular base and pivoting leaflets. Each leaflet is “free-floating” within recesses without fixed rotational axis in order to increase translational movement and redistribute stresses. Each recess fluidly communicates with a groove extending at least partially around the inner surface of the annular base and fluid flow is directed through the recesses at different angles during antegrade circulation, retograde circulation, and valve closure. A recess entrance angle to each of the recesses in certain embodiments is preferably less than about 35° and the pivoting mechanism within each recess includes first and second fulcrum edges of each leaflet shiftably engaged with side surfaces of the respective recesses. The leaflets have a beveled bottom side having two separate planar surfaces which lie at an angle to one another.

Abstract: A bileaflet heart valve comprising an annular base and pivoting leaflets. Each leaflet is “free-floating” within recesses without fixed rotational axis in order to increase translational movement and redistribute stresses. Each recess fluidly communicates with a groove extending at least partially around the inner surface of the annular base and fluid flow is directed through the recesses at different angles during antegrade circulation, retrograde circulation, and valve closure. A recess entrance angle to each of the recesses preferably being less than about 35° and the pivoting mechanism within the recess including first and second fulcrum edges of each leaflet shiftably engaged with side surfaces of the respective recesses. The leaflets have a beveled bottom side having two separate planar surfaces which lie at an angle to one another.

Abstract: An indwelling urinary catheter having a palpitatable multi-axial dome-type discharge valve with protective shoulders. The protective shoulders are preferably raised above other unprotected portions of an outer surface of the valve. In preferred embodiments, the valve wall is made substantially of a first material and each of the protective shoulders include an elongated thickness of a second material which is more rigid than the first material. The valve has a peripheral trough to maximize drainage. Valve openings traverse an arcuate pathway, and adjacent valve elements are separated by an intermediate rib to ensure a reliable closure.

Abstract: A bileaflet heart valve comprising an annular base and pivoting leaflets. Each leaflet if "free-floating" within recesses without fixed rotational axis, to increase translational movement and redistribute stresses. Each recess fluidly communicates with a groove extending at least partially around the inner surface of the annular base and flow is directed through the recesses at different angles during antegrade circulation, retrograde circulation, and valve closure. A recess entrance angle to each of the recesses preferably being less than about 35.degree. and the pivoting mechanism within the recess including first and second fulcrum edges of each leaflet shiftably engaged with side surfaces of the respective recess. The leaflets have a beveled bottom surface having two separate planar surfaces which lie at an angle to one another. In preferred embodiments, a central region of each leaflet is spaced apart from the annular base when the leaflet is in a fully closed position to minimize cavitation.

Abstract: An indwelling urinary catheter having a palpitatable multiaxial dome-type valve and an inflatable anchoring balloon. The valve has a peripheral trough to maximize drainage. The catheter body and balloon are integrally molded from silicone to produce a uniform and symmetrical balloon shape. The balloon shape may be selectively altered by varying bonding patterns or wall thicknesses. Valve openings traverse an arcuate pathway, and adjacent valve elements are separated by an intermediate rib to ensure a reliable closure. Valve elements are readily displaced by a drainage tube connector that engages the valve body. A collar on the catheter body moves axially along helical threads to adjust tension on the balloon.

Abstract: An indwelling urinary catheter having a palpitatable multiaxial dome-type valve and an inflatable anchoring balloon. The valve has a peripheral trough to maximize drainage. The catheter body and balloon are integrally molded from silicone to produce a uniform and symmetrical balloon shape. The balloon shape may be selectively altered by varying bonding patterns or wall thicknesses. Valve openings traverse an arcuate pathway, and adjacent valve elements are separated by an intermediate rib to ensure a reliable closure. Valve elements are readily displaced by a drainage tube connector that engages the valve body. A collar on the catheter body moves axially along helical threads to adjust tension on the balloon.