Abstract: An apparatus is provided for use with a tissue anchor and an anchor driver. The apparatus includes a housing, shaped to define a channel. The channel includes (i) an anchor-storage zone, and (ii) a proximal opening configured to provide access for the anchor driver to the anchor-storage zone. The channel is configured to enable sliding of the tissue anchor therewithin to be stored in the anchor-storage zone. The apparatus also includes a retaining member, shaped to define a cradle for cradling and holding the tissue anchor in the anchor-storage zone. The retaining member includes a pillar pivotable with respect to the cradle, and configured to support the tissue anchor at the cradle. Other embodiments are also described.

Abstract: Improved prosthetic valves, their methods of manufacture, and systems and devices for manufacturing the valves are described. The prosthetic valves can be configured for transcatheter implantation. The prosthetic valves can have artificial leaflets. The prosthetic valves can be manufactured in numerous ways, such as by polymeric dipping processes and/or electrospinning. Sponge-like polymers for valves and other medical devices are also disclosed.

Abstract: Devices and methods for securing a tissue anchor in tissue of a patient, in particular to ensure proper deployment of a cardiac tissue anchor by regulating the force or pressure of a deployment tool against the tissue. One way to ensure proper deployment force is to visualize the distal end of the tissue anchoring catheter from outside the body using a display for an imaging sensor, where the distal end of the catheter changes configuration when it is pressed against the tissue. Another method involves automatically regulating the pressure applied to the tissue prior to deployment of the tissue anchor, which may also be used in conjunction with visualization. Several safety locks to prevent deployment of the tissue anchor prior to establishment of the proper pressure are disclosed, which again may be used with visualization and/or an automated pressure regulator.

Abstract: A microcatheter comprising an elongate flexible tubular body, a tip body and a coupling is disclosed. The elongate flexible tubular body has a proximal end, a distal end and at least one lumen extending axially therethrough. The tip body has a proximal end and a distal end and a lumen extending axially therethrough. The coupling covers a portion of both the tubular body and tip body and is made from a first material and a second material, where the first material is different from the second material. The first material is compatible with an outermost layer of the tubular body and an outermost layer of the tip body, and the second material is configured to form a detachable bond with at least one of the tubular body and the tip body.

Abstract: A foot pedal control for a surgical system, e.g., an ophthalmic surgery system, that adjusts to a number of different sizes of user's shoes. The foot pedal control has a treadle on which a user places his or her foot and a sensor that tracks the movements thereof. Adjustable lateral guides mount to the treadle and conform to both sides of the foot. The guides are shaped and positioned to conform to a wide variety of feet or shoes, and may easily be adjusted between users. A retractable heel stop converts between up for reference and down to enhance movement of the user's foot. A convertible handle may be stowed in a down position parallel to a base or pivoted up over the treadle for protection and ease of movement of the foot pedal control. The foot pedal control may be wireless and have various other electronic controls, and may have a dual-control treadle.

Abstract: A microcatheter comprising an elongate flexible tubular body, a tip body and a coupling is disclosed. The elongate flexible tubular body has a proximal end, a distal end and at least one lumen extending axially therethrough. The tip body has a proximal end and a distal end and a lumen extending axially therethrough. The coupling covers a portion of both the tubular body and tip body and is made from a first material and a second material, where the first material is different from the second material. The first material is compatible with an outermost layer of the tubular body and an outermost layer of the tip body, and the second material is configured to form a detachable bond with at least one of the tubular body and the tip body.