Abstract: A prosthetic mitral valve includes a collapsible and expandable elliptical or “D”-shaped stent. The stent includes first and second commissure attachment features and a collapsible and expandable valve assembly disposed therein. The valve assembly includes two leaflets, each leaflet having a first edge operably coupled to the stent and a second free edge. Each leaflet may include first and second tabs connecting first and second ends of the first and second edges, respectively. Each leaflet includes a height measured from a midpoint of the first edge to a midpoint of the second edge and a width measured from a junction of the first edge with the first tab to a junction of the first edge with the second tab. The ratio of the height to the width may be between about 0.4 and about 0.65.

Abstract: An implant structure for use in pulling two soft body tissue areas closer together in a patient (e.g., two points along or adjacent to the patient's mitral valve annulus) includes at least two tissue anchor structures that are respectively implantable into the two tissue areas. A tether structure links the two tissue anchors and can be shortened and held in that condition by a cinch structure. Bracing structures are used between the anchors and the tether to help keep the longitudinal axes of the anchors transverse to the tether axis even when the tether is under tension. The tether may be sheathed in a cushioning sleeve to help protect adjacent tissue from erosion by the tether.

Abstract: Apparatus is provided that can be delivered through a catheter to a remote location in a patient's body. The apparatus may include a first structure that can be positioned in all dimensions in a controlled manner and stabilized in that desired position, a second structure that can then position a lumen axis at a desired angle relative to the first structure, and a third member that can pass through the lumen and approach and engage with force (e.g., penetrate) a desired location on the anatomy without compromising maintaining the desired position. The apparatus effectively separates the forces needed for positioning and the forces needed for tissue engagement (e.g., penetration).

Abstract: A structure that can be used to provide an anchor in or adjacent to a patient's soft body tissue (rather than bone) includes an annular array of flexible members that extend between two axially spaced but aligned tubular members. The space between the tubular members can be selectively changed to affect the amount by which portions of the flexible members between the tubular member project radially outward relative to the tubular members. When the flexible members project radially out, the structure resists axial movement relative to adjacent tissue and therefore acts as an anchor. When the flexible members do not project radially out, they permit axial movement of the structure through adjacent tissue.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided that gather a patient's body tissue and then secure the gathered tissue in a reduced area utilizing a securing structure. The securing structure mainly resides on one side of the tissue to minimize or eliminate both foreign material and the amount of manipulation or activity on the other side of the tissue. The securing device is matched to the desired amount of tissue manipulation to minimize the structure. The gathered and secured tissue can surround a septal defect to obstruct or close the defect itself.

Abstract: An air data sensor strut made of a single block of material has one side finished in a smooth contour, and has grooves in an opposite side of the strut for receiving pressure carrying conduits or other elongated members such as a heater. The heater and conduits are secured in place with a filling of potting material and the open sides of the grooves are finished after filling so that the desired contour is provided for the opposite side of the strut. The strut has a thin cross-section because of the elimination of hollow interior spaces formed by spaced walls.