Abstract: A method of treating a deficient native mitral valve of a heart of a patient includes advancing a steerable, first catheter through the patient's vasculature, advancing the distal end portion of the first catheter into the heart to position the distal end portion of the first catheter adjacent the native mitral valve, adjusting the curvature of the distal end portion of the first catheter to form a first curve, advancing a distal end portion of a second catheter from a distal end of the first catheter, wherein the distal end portion of the second catheter is pre-shaped to form a second curve when advanced from the first catheter, and deploying a wire from the second catheter such that the wire extends around native leaflets of the native mitral valve.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a tricuspid regurgitation surgical instrument having a position-fixing tube that is for temporarily treating tricuspid regurgitation, and more particularly, to a tricuspid regurgitation surgical instrument having a position-fixing tube that is a surgical instrument temporarily inserted into an orifice of the tricuspid valve to check whether right-sided heart failure has occurred, which may occur when tricuspid regurgitation is treated using a permanent method in a patient with tricuspid regurgitation, and that has a position-fixing tube inserted into a coronary sinus so that a blocking part configured to block the orifice of the tricuspid valve penetrates a plane similar to a plane of leaflets of the tricuspid valve and has a penetration angle which allows the blocking part to efficiently block the orifice of the tricuspid valve.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure include a cardiac device comprising a band configured to form a loop within a heart. The band may include a first end and a second end. The cardiac device may include an actuatable clasp associated with the first end of the band and configured to transition upon actuation from an open configuration to a closed configuration for forming the band into a fixed length loop when the second end passes through or past the clasp. The cardiac device may include a catheter configured to activate the actuatable clasp from the open configuration to the closed configuration. The cardiac device may include an insertion cable adapter, associated with the second end of the band, configured to be removably connected to a flexible insertion cable.

Abstract: An orthodontic bracket and archform system that uses friction-free mechanics are disclosed. The archform can have a male fastener that can be retained within an orthodontic bracket. The orthodontic bracket can have varying locking mechanism, such as deflectable tabs, springs, locking pins, and others, that can cooperate with features of the male fastener to prevent sliding between the archform and the bracket.

Abstract: A prosthetic mitral valve may be anchored in a native mitral valve. The prosthetic mitral valve preferably has a large anterior prosthetic leaflet that spans the entire width of the native anterior leaflet and the anterior prosthetic leaflet moves away from left ventricular outflow tract during systole to create a clear unobstructed outflow path.

Abstract: A method for treating a native heart valve of a patient includes anchoring a plurality of anchors of an implant into tissue around an annulus of the valve. At the annulus, a force-distribution element is incorporated into the implant such that the force-distribution element extends along a longitudinal portion of the elongate contracting member. The method can also include circumferentially tightening the annulus by pulling the plurality of anchors closer together, such as by actuating a contracting mechanism of a contracting system, such that (i) the contracting mechanism, coupled to an elongate contracting member of the implant, applies a longitudinal tensioning force to the elongate contracting member, and (ii) the force-distributing element distributes the longitudinal tensioning force over at least two of the anchors. Other embodiments are also described.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are described including rotating at least a portion of a valve frame in a first direction and subsequently rotating the valve frame in a second direction. The valve frame includes chord-recruiting arms. An outer surface of each of the chord-recruiting arms has a smooth, convex curvature that extends along substantially a full length of the chord-recruiting arm, such that during the rotation of the portion of the valve frame in the first direction, the chords slide over the outer surface of the chord-recruiting arm without be recruited or caught by the chord-recruiting arm. An inner surface of each of the chord-recruiting arms has a concave curvature, such that during the rotation of the portion of the valve frame in the second direction, the chords are recruited within a space defined by the concave curvature.

Abstract: A method is described for use with a heart of a subject, the heart having a valve and an atrium upstream of the valve. The method includes transluminally advancing multiple tissue anchors to the atrium; and securing an elongate contraction member at least partly around an annulus of the valve by anchoring the tissue anchors to the annulus, such that the tissue anchors are distributed along the elongate contraction member. The method further includes subsequently contracting the annulus by applying tension the elongate contraction member, such that a radiopaque indicator that is disposed within the heart and that is coupled to the contraction member undergoes a conformational change in response to the tension. The conformational change of the radiopaque indicator within the heart is observed, and the tension is adjusted responsively to the observed conformational change. Other embodiments are also described.

Abstract: A method of delivering an anchoring device that can be positioned within a native valve, such as the native mitral valve, to secure a replacement prosthetic valve in place. The anchoring device can comprise a docking station formed of a super elastic wire-like member defining a continuous, closed shape. The docking station can have an upper or atrial ring with at least two ring portions or half rings that are spaced apart across gaps. Descending bends from the ends of the two ring portions lead to a pair of anchors. The anchors can include oppositely-directed rounded V-shaped arms that extend generally parallel to the upper ring. The anchors can be delivered to be located in the subvalvular space or the region/vicinity of the native leaflets and pinch the leaflets and the annulus against the upper ring which is located on the other side of the annulus.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are described including placing a valve frame within a subject's heart. The valve frame includes a valve frame body that is configured to support the prosthetic valve within the native atrio-ventricular valve, and at least one arm that is configured to extend from a ventricular portion of the valve frame. The at least one arm is deployed among chords of the native atrio-ventricular valve. Subsequently, at least a portion of the valve frame is rotated in a direction in which an interior of the arm faces, such as to modify shapes of the native valve leaflets and the ventricular structures, by recruiting and deflecting at least a portion of the chords. The frame body of the valve frame is then radially expanded, such as to hold the native valve leaflets and the ventricular structures at least partially in the modified shapes. Other applications are also described.

Abstract: Systems and methods of valve quantification are disclosed. In one embodiment, a method of mitral valve quantification is provided. The method includes generating a 3-D heart model, defining a 3-D mitral valve annulus, fitting a plane through the 3-D mitral valve annulus, measuring the distance between at least two papillary muscle heads, defining an average diameter of at least one cross section around the micro valve annulus, and determining a size of an implant to be implanted.

Abstract: An annuloplasty ring including elastic features that make the ring optimal for receiving a subsequent prosthetic valve via a “Valve In Ring Procedure.” The elastic features provide a squeezing force on the native valve annulus that both ensures coaptation of the native valve leaflets and also prevents paravalvular leakage around a subsequently-placed prosthetic valve.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an anchoring device (1) designed for anchoring a prosthetic heart valve inside a heart, comprising an extraventricular part (2) designed to be positioned inside an atrium or an artery and a ventricular part (3) designed to be positioned inside a ventricle, wherein the ventricular part comprises a double wall composed of an outer wall (4) and an inner wall (5) spaced apart at the level where the prosthetic heart valve is intended to be inserted, and wherein the anchoring device further comprises a predefined V-shaped groove (8) formed between the extraventricular part (2) and the ventricular part (3). The present invention also relates to an anchoring system (11) for anchoring a prosthetic heart valve inside a heart, comprising said anchoring device (1), a prosthetic heart valve support (12) and a prosthetic heart valve (13) connected to the prosthetic heart valve support (12).

Abstract: Some embodiments described herein include a heart valve replacement system that may be delivered to a targeted native heart valve site via one or more delivery catheters. In some embodiments, a prosthetic heart valve of the system includes structural features that securely anchor the prosthetic heart valve to the site of the native heart valve. Such structural features can provide robust migration resistance. In particular implementations, the prosthetic heart valves occupy a smaller delivery profile, thereby facilitating a smaller delivery catheter for advancement to the heart.

Abstract: Devices and related methods of use are provided for improving heart function. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, a device includes a ring-like structure configured to be secured to a heart valve; at least one elongate member extending from the ring-like structure, wherein an end of the elongate member is configured to be secured to heart geometry other than a heart valve; and an adjustment mechanism for simultaneously altering a dimension of the ring-like structure and a length of the elongate member.

Abstract: An anchor for a prosthetic heart valve includes a core, a first cover layer, and a second cover layer. The core includes a plurality of helical turns. One or more outflow turns of the plurality of helical turns has a diameter configured to be disposed on an outflow side of a native valve, and one or more inflow turns of the plurality of helical turns has a diameter configured to be disposed on an inflow side of a native valve. The first cover layer is disposed over and contacts the helical core, and the first cover layer includes a first material. The second cover layer is disposed over and contacts the first cover layer, and the second cover layer includes a second material, which is different than the first material.

Abstract: A mitral valve prosthesis includes an expandable frame having a proximal end, a distal end, and a middle portion. A plurality of tips extends from the proximal end of the frame for attachment to a delivery catheter. A plurality of anchors is disposed along the distal end of the frame and extend toward the proximal end for engaging tissue. An outer circumferential portion extends around the middle portion of the frame and is positioned radially outwardly of the frame. The outer circumferential portion preferably increases in diameter along a distal direction. A distal end of the outer circumferential portion is located distal of free ends of the anchors when the expandable frame is deployed. A valve body is positioned within an interior of the expandable frame and includes leaflets adapted to allow flow in a first direction and prevent flow in a second direction.

Abstract: Solutions for reducing irritation and/or trauma which may result upon contact of an implanted implantable device with tissue surrounding or adjacent to the implantable device. Various embodiments include features which allow a tangential or otherwise atraumatic contact of the implantable device with the tissue, in contrast with a sharper contact which may occur with prior art implantable devices. The broad principles are applicable to annuloplasty devices, and have other broader applications as well.

Abstract: An endoluminal punch and introducer sheath are described wherein the endoluminal punch comprises a guidewire lumen through which a user is capable of placing a guidewire. The endoluminal punch system further comprises a mechanism affixed to the hub which is capable of controlling the axial positioning of the guidewire relative to the endoluminal punch distal end. The control mechanism can be released so that the endoluminal punch can be removed from a patient while retaining the guidewire in place within the patient. The endoluminal punch introducer, including a sheath and dilator, can comprise energy emitting electrodes or transducers for cutting larger size holes in stubborn (friable, scarred, or fibrotic) tissue. In other embodiments, the endoluminal punch can comprise a guidewire or stylet, wherein the guidewire or stylet is capable of emitting energy to cut through tissue.

Abstract: Systems and methods for modifying a heart valve annulus in a minimally invasive surgical procedure. A helical anchor is provided, having a memory set to a coiled shape or state. The helical anchor is further configured to self-revert from a substantially straight state to the coiled state. The helical anchor is loaded within a needle that constrains the helical anchor to the substantially straight state. The needle is delivered to the valve annulus and inserted into tissue of the annulus. The helical anchor is then deployed from the needle (e.g., the needle is retracted from over the helical anchor). Once deployed, the helical anchor self-transitions toward the coiled shape, cinching engaged tissue of the valve annulus.

Abstract: Devices and methods are disclosed for the treatment or repair of regurgitant cardiac valves, such as a mitral valve. An annuloplasty device can be placed in the coronary sinus to reshape the mitral valve and reduce mitral valve regurgitation. A 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.

Abstract: This document provides devices and methods for the treatment of heart conditions. For example, this document provides prosthetic heart valves and transcatheter heart valve replacement methods. The prosthetic heart valves can be configured into a low-profile configuration for containment within a small diameter delivery sheath. The prosthetic heart valves include can include a valve member attached to a stent frame. In some embodiments, the valve member is a molded biomaterial with a novel shape and resulting performance characteristics. Localized protective covering members can be attached to the stent frame to prevent the valve member from contacting the stent frame as the valve member cycles between its open and closed configurations.

Abstract: A clip for immobilizing leaflets of a cardiac or venous valve includes a hub having a pair of tangle resistant spring-biased outer arms coupled to an inferior end of the hub. A pair of tangle-resistant spring-biased inner arms lies adjacent to the outer arms and is coupled to a superior end of the hub. The clip may incorporate adjustable spacers and retrievable post implantation. A delivery catheter is used to position the valve clip adjacent a target valve while the outer and inner arms are biased in an opened position relative to each other. After the valve leaflets are located between the opened outer and inner arms, the biasing forces may be released to allow the clip to self-close over the valve leaflets.

Abstract: A transcatheter atrio-ventricular valve prosthesis for functional replacement of an atrio-ventricular valve in a connection channel, having a circumferential connection channel wall structure, between atrial and ventricular chambers of a heart, including an inner device to be disposed in the interior of the connection channel, the inner device having a circumferential support structure which is radially expandable and having a valve attached to the circumferential support structure, and an outer device to be disposed on the exterior of the connection channel, wherein the outer device at least partly extends around the inner device at a radial distance to the inner device, wherein the inner and outer devices form a securing mechanism for securing the circumferential connection channel wall structure therebetween.

Abstract: A method of implanting a prosthetic implant includes advancing a prosthetic implant into a patient's vasculature with a delivery apparatus, the delivery apparatus comprising a catheter and a control lead, the catheter including a lumen extending therethrough, the control lead extending through the lumen of the catheter, the prosthetic implant comprising an implant body, a seal extending radially outwardly from the implant body, and a locking bar coupled to the implant body and releasably coupled to the control lead, the locking bar radially offset relative to the central longitudinal axis of the implant body. The method further includes rotating the control lead of the delivery apparatus in a first direction relative to the catheter such that the locking bar rotates in the first direction relative to the implant body and the implant body expands radially from a first radially compressed state to a first radially expanded state.

Abstract: The present invention provides devices for treating functional mitral regurgitation and methods of use thereof. The devices translocate a subject's mitral valve in an apical direction. The devices thereby treat mitral regurgitation while preserving a subject's original mitral valve and chordae tendinae.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure include a method for use at a native valve of a heart of a subject. At a distal portion of a delivery tool, a balloon is coupled to a shaft. The distal portion is advanced to the heart with an implant and the balloon disposed within a capsule. The implant includes a tubular frame and one or more shape-memory flanges. The tubular frame is compressed around the balloon, and the flanges are constrained within a downstream capsule-portion of the capsule. The flanges are exposed from the downstream capsule-portion such that the flanges automatically deflect radially outward. Subsequently, the flanges are pressed against a downstream surface of the native valve by moving the implant in an upstream direction. While the flanges are in contact with the downstream surface, the tubular frame is plastically expanded radially by inflating the balloon. Other embodiments are also described.

Abstract: The present application relates to a separately releasable aortic valve stent, which includes a valve sewing segment, a positioning member, and a prosthetic valve. The prosthetic valve is connected to the valve sewing segment. The valve sewing segment and the positioning member are two independent components and connected to each other via a guiding device. The positioning member is able to be released prior to the valve sewing segment. A slide connection structure is disposed on the valve sewing segment. One end of the guiding device is connected to the positioning member, and another end of the guiding device passed through the slide connection structure is connected to the positioning member. The valve sewing segment is slidable along the guiding device.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a simple, fast, and low cost method for 3D microvascular imaging, termed “scatter labeled imaging of microvasculature in excised tissue” (SLIME). The method can include perfusing a contrast agent through vasculature of a tissue sample. The contrast agent can include colloids and a dispersant. After the contrast agent is perfused through the vasculature, the vasculature of the tissue sample can be treated with a molecule that cross links with at least a portion of the dispersant to form a sticky, non-Newtonian polymer that prevents leakage of the contrast agent out of the vasculature of the tissue sample. The tissue sample can then be immersed in a solution comprising a clearing agent and subsequently imaged.

Abstract: A prosthetic heart valve includes a valve ring, which includes metal segments, and which is cylindrical when in an expanded state. A valve ring fabric sleeve is coupled to the valve ring. A leaflet frame is disposed within the valve ring. A plurality of prosthetic leaflets are coupled to the leaflet frame. An upper skirt includes an upper skirt fabric, coupled to the valve ring fabric sleeve; and a flexible upper skirt frame, coupled to the upper skirt fabric such that the upper skirt fabric separates a downstream end of the upper skirt frame from an upstream end of the metal segments of the valve ring. When the prosthetic heart valve is in an expanded state, the upper skirt extends radially outward from the valve ring in an upstream direction and is configured to rest against an atrial surface of the heart. Other embodiments are also described.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an arrangement, a loop-shaped support, a prosthetic heart valve and a method of repairing or replacing a native heart valve. With the method or the arrangement, leakage or regurgitation between a prosthetic heart valve and the surrounding valve tissue is prevented. In one embodiment, an arrangement for replacement or repair of a native heart valve is provided, which comprises a loop-shaped support 41 and a prosthetic heart valve 70 and wherein an outer segment 32 of the loop-shaped support 41 is positionable towards surrounding valve tissue of a native heart valve and wherein an outer surface 74 of the prosthetic heart valve 70 is positionable towards an inner segment 34 of the loop-shaped support 41 so as to prevent paravalvular leakage or regurgitation between the prosthetic heart valve 70 and the surrounding valve tissue of the native heart valve.

Abstract: Systems and methods for medical interventional procedures, including approaches to valve implantation. In one aspect, the methods and systems involve a modular approach to mitral valve therapy.

Abstract: An annuloplasty implant comprises an elongate member, a plurality of anchors, and a gripper. The elongate member has a proximal end, and a distal portion that includes a distal end. The plurality of anchors are distributed along the elongate member. The elongate member extends proximally from a proximal-most anchor and through the gripper. The gripper comprises a locking element that, in a locked state, inhibits sliding of the elongate member through the gripper. An unlocker, disposed within the gripper, obstructs the locking element from assuming the locked state, and is pullable proximally out of the gripper. The gripper automatically assumes the locked state upon the unlocker being pulled proximally out of the gripper. A tool tensions the distal portion of the elongate member by pulling the elongate member proximally through the gripper while the unlocker obstructs the locking element from assuming the locked state. Other embodiments are also described.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to methods, systems, subsystems, and kits for aligning an annuloplasty ring or a toroidal portion thereof with a natural fiducial in an annular target.

Abstract: Anchors for securing an implant within a body organ and/or reshaping a body organ are provided herein. Anchors are configured for deployment in a body lumen or vasculature of the patient that are curved or conformable to accommodate anatomy of the patient. Such anchors can include deformable or collapsible structures upon tensioning of a bridging element in a lateral direction, or segmented tubes that can be adjusted by tightening of one or more tethers extending therethrough. Such anchors can be used as a posterior anchor in a blood vessel in implant systems having a tensioned bridging element extending between the posterior anchor and an anterior anchor deployed at another location within or along the body organ. Methods of deploying such anchors and use of multiple anchors or multiple bridging elements to a single anchor are also provided.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are described including a valve frame defining a frame aperture and at least one arm attached to a portion of the valve frame on a ventricular side of said frame aperture. The at least one arm is configured to extend radially from the portion of the valve frame such that a chord receiving surface of the arm is sized and shaped to deploy among a region of the chords of the native mitral valve. The arm is curved, with an interior of the arm facing a direction in which the valve frame is configured to be rotated during deployment of the prosthetic mitral valve apparatus within the native mitral valve and with the arm having a concavely rounded leading edge facing at least partially in a circumferential direction. Other applications are also described.

Abstract: A vascular system includes a delivery apparatus and an endovascular device. The delivery apparatus including a catheter and a control lead. The control lead extends through a lumen of the catheter and is configured to be manipulated by a user. The endovascular device is releasably coupled to the delivery apparatus and includes an implant body, a seal extending radially outwardly from the implant body, and one or more tissue engaging elements. The seal is configured to contact native vascular tissue to reduce leakage between the native vascular tissue and the implant body. The tissue engaging elements are pivotable relative to the seal from a compressed state to an expanded state. In the compressed state, the tissue engaging elements are positioned so as to disengage the native vascular tissue. In the expanded state, the tissue engaging elements extend outwardly from the seal and are configured to engage the native vascular tissue.

Abstract: Prosthetic heart valve devices and associated methods for percutaneous heart valve replacement are disclosed herein. A transcatheter valve prosthesis configured in accordance herewith includes a frame having a valve support and one or more support arms coupled thereto. The one or more support arms are configured to extend from the second end of the valve support toward the first end when the valve prosthesis is in an expanded configuration. When deployed in the expanded configuration, the one or more support arms have a curvilinear shape, such as a substantially S-shape, that at least partially engages tissue at the native heart valve.

Abstract: Catheter apparatuses and methods are provided for repairing heart valves, particularly mitral valves. The method includes providing a catheter having an elongate, flexible body, with a proximal end and a distal end. The distal end can be transluminally advanced from the left atrium through the mitral valve and along the left ventricular outflow tract into the ascending aorta. A valve repair device is deployed to permanently connect leaflets at a mid-section of a mitral valve while permitting medial and lateral portions of the natural leaflets to open and close. The valve repair device detachably connects the distal and proximal ends of the catheter.

Abstract: Valve holders and introducers for delivering a prosthetic heart valve to an implant site are in various embodiments configured to facilitate insertion of prosthetic valves through small incisions or access sites on a patient's body. The valve holders can also be configured to reduce or eliminate the occurrence of suture looping or other damage to the prosthetic valve during implantation. A valve holder according to embodiments of the invention includes features that reduce or eliminate mistakes during implantation of the prosthetic valves, such as a removable activator dial and a removable handle that prevent implantation of the valve prior to proper deployment or adjustment of the holder. An introducer is provided which can facilitate passing of a prosthetic valve between adjacent ribs of a patient. Valve holders and introducers according to the various embodiments can be used in minimally invasive procedures, such as thoracotomy procedures.

Abstract: Some embodiments described herein include a heart valve replacement system that may be delivered to a targeted native heart valve site via one or more delivery catheters. In some embodiments, a prosthetic heart valve of the system includes structural features that securely anchor the prosthetic heart valve to the site of the native heart valve. Such structural features can provide robust migration resistance. In particular implementations, the prosthetic heart valves occupy a smaller delivery profile, thereby facilitating a smaller delivery catheter for advancement to the heart.

Abstract: Annuloplasty device for use on a posterior annulus of a mitral valve, which is deployable to the mitral valve by means of a vascular delivery device, such as a catheter, and positionable along the curvature of the annulus, including at least a first and a second branch, each configured to extend along at least a section of the annulus, with a first end and a second end, at least one guiding means for guiding the first and the second branches relative to one another, at least one fixing means for fixing the device to the annulus, and at least one anchor means arranged on each of the first and second branches, whereby the first and the second branches are movable relatively to one another, so that the anchor means engage with the annulus thereby pulling the annulus together when the first and second branches are moved in opposite directions.

Abstract: An endoluminal punch and introducer sheath are described wherein the endoluminal punch comprises a guidewire lumen through which a user is capable of placing a guidewire. The endoluminal punch system further comprises a mechanism affixed to the hub which is capable of controlling the axial positioning of the guidewire relative to the endoluminal punch distal end. The control mechanism can be released so that the endoluminal punch can be removed from a patient while retaining the guidewire in place within the patient. The endoluminal punch introducer, including a sheath and dilator, can comprise energy emitting electrodes or transducers for cutting larger size holes in stubborn (friable, scarred, or fibrotic) tissue. In other embodiments, the endoluminal punch can comprise a guidewire or stylet, wherein the guidewire or stylet is capable of emitting energy to cut through tissue.

Abstract: Implants, implant systems, and methods for treatment of mitral valve regurgitation and other valve diseases generally include a coaptation assist body which remains within the blood flow path as the leaflets of the valve move, the valve bodies often being relatively thin, elongate (along the blood flow path), and/or conformable structures which extend laterally from commissure to commissure, allowing the native leaflets to engage and seal against the large, opposed surfaces on either side of the valve body during the heart cycle phase when the ventricle contracts to empty that chamber of blood, and allows blood to pass around the valve body so that blood flows from the atrium to the ventricle during the filling phase of the heart cycle. Separate deployment of independent anchors near each of the commissures may facilitate positioning and support of an exemplary triangular valve body, with a third anchor being deployed in the ventricle.

Abstract: An implant includes a frame comprising a tubular body formed by a plurality of interconnected struts that are manufactured to reduce stresses and strains resulting from component interaction during chronic use. At least a portion of a longitudinal corner of one or more struts of the frame may be chamfered, rounded, or otherwise modified to distribute stresses experienced at the strut corner throughout the strut body. Chamfering and/or rounding corners along at least a portion of a strut of the frame may reduce stresses on the frame caused by interactions between the frame and other components of the implant. The implant may be manufactured by cutting (e.g., laser cutting) a plurality of struts from a tubular metal alloy, polymer, or the like forming the tubular body, and softening at least a portion of an edge of the strut by cutting, grinding, and/or micro-blasting the edges of the corner.

Abstract: A tissue-engaging element has a distal portion configured to engage a portion of tissue of the heart. A guide member is reversibly coupled to the tissue-engaging element. An elongate implant has a distal end and a proximal end, at least the distal end being slidably coupled to the guide member. A tool is slidable along the guide member distally toward the tissue-engaging element while (i) the tool is coupled to at least the distal end of the elongate implant, and (ii) the guide member is coupled to the tissue-engaging element, such that sliding of the tool along the guide member distally toward the tissue-engaging element while (i) the tool is coupled to at least the distal end of the elongate implant, and (ii) the guide member is coupled to the tissue-engaging element, slides at least the distal end of the elongate implant toward the tissue-engaging element.

Abstract: Apparatus, systems, and methods are provided for percutaneous transcatheter delivery and fixation of annuloplasty rings to heart valves. An annuloplasty ring includes an outer tube, an inner body member, and an anchor deployment system. The outer tube includes a plurality of windows and has an axis along its length. The internal body member includes a plurality of anchors formed perpendicular to the axis. The anchor deployment system selectively rotates the internal body member with respect to the axis of the outer tube. The rotation deploys the plurality of anchors through the plurality of windows.

Abstract: An implant includes a prosthetic valve and is transitionable from a compressed to an expanded state. The implant includes a frame assembly including a plurality of struts that collectively define an upstream-frame-assembly-perimeter at an upstream end of the frame assembly and a downstream-frame-assembly-perimeter at a downstream end of the frame assembly. The frame assembly includes a valve frame that defines a lumen, and one or more appendages disposed at and extending in a downstream direction from the downstream-frame-assembly-perimeter. A plurality of prosthetic leaflets are disposed within the valve frame lumen and facilitate one-way upstream-to-downstream fluid flow through the lumen. The implant includes a fabric and, in the expanded state of the implant, the fabric obscures the one or more appendages and defines a downstream perimeter of the fabric at a downstream end of the implant. Additional embodiments are described.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are embodiments related to a method for performing a minimally invasive procedure, the method including delivering an annuloplasty ring in a linear shape using a delivery system. In some embodiments, the delivery of the annuloplasty ring may utilize a trans-septal approach or a trans-apical. In some embodiments, the delivery system may position the annuloplasty ring using a flexible stabilizing mechanism and/or activate one or more anchors to extend outward from the annuloplasty ring.

Abstract: A coiled anchor is positioned at a mitral valve by extending and deflecting a catheter such that a distal end portion of the catheter has a curved shape that is disposed in a left atrium and a distal end of the catheter is positioned near a commissure of the mitral valve. A ventricular portion of the coiled anchor is advanced from the catheter under the mitral valve at the commissure and into a left ventricle. An atrial portion of the coiled anchor is deployed in the left atrium by retracting the catheter off the atrial portion of the coiled anchor while maintaining the position of the ventricular portion of the coiled anchor in the left ventricle.