Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for delivering an interatrial shunt device to a puncture of the atrial septum of a patient. The delivery devices described herein do not require a separate dilator as the components thereof function as a dilator for enlarging the puncture of the atrial septum prior to delivery of the interatrial shunt. For example, the integrated dilator may include an expandable portion that transitions to a contracted state after dilation of the puncture for deployment of the shunt. Alternatively, the delivery sheath may have an expandable portion that forms part of the dilator, such that the sheath may be expanded to permit deployment of the shunt. For example, a balloon catheter may be used to expand the sheath. In another embodiment, a portion of the shunt device may form part of the dilator, prior to deployment of the shunt.

Abstract: In some embodiments, the current invention relates to a system and/or method to distribute forces and/or arrange the geometry of a grip of exercise equipment to server to strengthen a grasping muscle of the user. For example, the grip may be designed to be held by one or more fingers in partially open and/or an unlocked position. For example, the grip may be designed for different fingers to grasp at different geometries and/or forces to exercise grasping muscles. In some embodiments, the grip has a variable geometry, for example it may be tapered (for example, as a cut off conical section) and/or bulging and/or with an indentation. The grip may be made of elastomer such as artificial polymer, latex and/or silicone. Optionally the grip has a non slip surface. In some embodiments, the grip fits over a handle of a piece of exercise equipment.