Abstract: A tricuspid valve apparatus may include a frame and an associated neo-prosthetic valve. The frame acts as a stabilizing structure that extends cephalad into the morphologic or functional right atrium (upstream) and caudally into the morphologic or functional right ventricle (downstream). The frame comprises a strutted atrial dome that conforms to the atrium without obstruction of blood flow from the incoming great veins (i.e. superior vena cava and inferior vena cava) or other anomalous veins and/or tributaries. The frame further comprises ventricular struts to be placed within the right ventricle to secure the neo-prosthetic valve in a desired position. The assembly of the frame and valve is collapsible so that prior to deployment the assembly is placed in a vascular catheter, and then self-expands upon release in the heart.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to tissue traction devices and systems. In one example, a tissue tensioning system may include a filament having a first end comprising an attachment member, a second end, and a length therebetween extendable externally along a catheter. A first tissue fastener may be engageable with the attachment member and with a target tissue. The second end of the filament may be translatable to adjust a tensional force along the filament.

Abstract: A new steerable endoscope for minimally invasive surgery is provided. The endoscope system includes: a wireless steerable endoscope (1), an external magnetic controller (2) and an image/video display (3). The wireless steerable endoscope (1) could be inserted through an incision (4-1) on the body skin (4) and be anchored/steered inside the body cavity by the external magnetic controller (2). It is shaftless, wireless, and can be steered inside the body, operating in a remote manner. Compared with existing endoscopes, it neither requires additional incision nor does it occupy trocar or port space. Without the endoscope shaft, the surgical access trauma and incision size can potentially be reduced, avoiding endoscope-instrument fencing. It can be placed remotely from the access incision, providing an improved and wider field of view. It is soft-bodied and compact in structure, therefore safety is high.

Abstract: A tricuspid valve apparatus may include a frame and an associated neo-prosthetic valve. The frame acts as a stabilizing structure that extends cephalad into the morphologic or functional right atrium (upstream) and caudally into the morphologic or functional right ventricle (downstream). The frame comprises a strutted atrial dome that conforms to the atrium without obstruction of blood flow from the incoming great veins (i.e. superior vena cava and inferior vena cava) or other anomalous veins and/or tributaries. The frame further comprises ventricular struts to be placed within the right ventricle to secure the neo-prosthetic valve in a desired position. The assembly of the frame and valve is collapsible so that prior to deployment the assembly is placed in a vascular catheter, and then self-expands upon release in the heart.

Abstract: A new steerable endoscope for minimally invasive surgery is provided. The endoscope system includes: a wireless steerable endoscope (1), an external magnetic controller (2) and an image/video display (3). The wireless steerable endoscope (1) could be inserted through an incision (4-1) on the body skin (4) and be anchored/steered inside the body cavity by the external magnetic controller (2). It is shaftless, wireless, and can be steered inside the body, operating in a remote manner. Compared with existing endoscopes, it neither requires additional incision nor does it occupy trocar or port space. Without the endoscope shaft, the surgical access trauma and incision size can potentially be reduced, avoiding endoscope-instrument fencing. It can be placed remotely from the access incision, providing an improved and wider field of view. It is soft-bodied and compact in structure, therefore safety is high.