Abstract: In accordance with some implementations, various embodiments of a guidewire or catheter having an elongate core with a helical section are provided. In accordance with one implementation, a guidewire is provided. The guidewire includes a core wire having a proximal end, a distal end and is defined by an outer surface between the proximal end and the distal end of the core wire. The core wire has a centerline that traverses the length of the core wire from the proximal end to the distal end of the core wire. The centerline is located approximately at the center of mass along the core wire within the outer surface of the core wire. Preferably, the core wire has a substantially straight proximal portion and a helically curved segment located distally with respect to the proximal portion. The centerline of the core wire is substantially straight along the straight proximal portion, and, the centerline is helically curved along the helically curved segment.

Abstract: Devices and methods are disclosed for the treatment or repair of regurgitant cardiac valves, such as a mitral valve. An illustrative annuloplasty device can be placed in the coronary sinus to reshape the mitral valve and reduce mitral valve regurgitation. An improved protective device can be placed between the annuloplasty device and an underlying coronary artery to inhibit compression of the underlying coronary artery by the annuloplasty device in the coronary sinus. In addition, the protective device can inhibit compression of the coronary artery from inside the heart, such as from a prosthetic mitral valve that exerts radially outward pressure toward the coronary artery. The annuloplasty device can also create an artificial inner ridge or retaining feature projecting into the native mitral valve region to help secure a prosthetic mitral valve.