Abstract: An apparatus (10) and method for excising tissue (208) and closing a wound (156) that results from excision of the tissue (208) is provided. The apparatus (10) includes structure (14) defining an aperture (34) into which tissue (208) to be excised is exposed and a cutting member (96). The apparatus (10) also includes an adhesive bandage (140) for closing the wound (156). The adhesive bandage (140) is secured relative to a lower surface (20) of the structure (14) in a location for contacting skin (154) adjacent to the tissue (208) to be excised. The apparatus (10) further includes a device (150) that is actuatable for closing the wound (156) with the adhesive bandage (140) and actuators (108 and 182) for moving the cutting member (96) relative to the structure (14) for excising the tissue (208) exposed in the aperture (34) and for actuating the device (150).

Abstract: An apparatus for replacing the native chordae of a heart valve having at least two leaflets includes a prosthetic chordae assembly configured to extend from a papillary muscle to one of the at least two valve leaflets of the heart valve. The prosthetic chordae assembly has first and second end portions, and a middle portion extending therebetween. The prosthetic chordae assembly further includes a plurality of loop members interconnected at the first end portion for suturing to the papillary muscle. The middle portion is formed by two generally parallel strands of each of the loop members, and the second end portion is formed by an arcuate junction of the two strands of each of the loop members. The arcuate junctions are spaced apart and each of the junctions provides an independent location for attaching to one of the at least two valve leaflets of the heart valve.