U.S. patent application number 13/574088 was filed with the patent office on 2013-02-21 for tricuspid valve repair using tension.
This patent application is currently assigned to 4TECH INC.. The applicant listed for this patent is Ottavio Alfieri, Rephael Hof, Francesco Maisano, Valery Perevalov, Idan Tobis, Hugo Vanermen. Invention is credited to Ottavio Alfieri, Rephael Hof, Francesco Maisano, Valery Perevalov, Idan Tobis, Hugo Vanermen.
Application Number | 20130046380 13/574088 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 44306455 |
Filed Date | 2013-02-21 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130046380 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Maisano; Francesco ; et
al. |
February 21, 2013 |
TRICUSPID VALVE REPAIR USING TENSION
Abstract
Apparatus is provided including a stent, which is configured to
assume compressed and expanded states. The stent includes one or
more elongated members, and two or more rings, which are coupled
together by the one or more elongated members and by no other
elements of the stent. The rings define respective planes that are
generally perpendicular to the elongated members when the stent is
in its expanded state. A longitudinal member, having a proximal end
and a distal end, is coupled to the stent at the proximal end of
the longitudinal member. A tissue anchor is coupled to the distal
end of the longitudinal member. Other applications are also
described.
Inventors: |
Maisano; Francesco; (Milan,
IT) ; Vanermen; Hugo; (Knocke-le-Zoute, BE) ;
Perevalov; Valery; (Kfar Saba, IL) ; Hof;
Rephael; (Kfar Yona, IL) ; Alfieri; Ottavio;
(Brescia, IT) ; Tobis; Idan; (Beth Hashmonai,
IL) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Maisano; Francesco
Vanermen; Hugo
Perevalov; Valery
Hof; Rephael
Alfieri; Ottavio
Tobis; Idan |
Milan
Knocke-le-Zoute
Kfar Saba
Kfar Yona
Brescia
Beth Hashmonai |
|
IT
BE
IL
IL
IT
IL |
|
|
Assignee: |
4TECH INC.
Waltham
MA
|
Family ID: |
44306455 |
Appl. No.: |
13/574088 |
Filed: |
January 20, 2011 |
PCT Filed: |
January 20, 2011 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/IL11/00064 |
371 Date: |
October 19, 2012 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
12692061 |
Jan 22, 2010 |
|
|
|
13574088 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
623/2.36 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B 2017/00407
20130101; A61B 2017/0441 20130101; A61F 2/2454 20130101; A61B
2017/0409 20130101; A61B 2017/0412 20130101; A61F 2002/8486
20130101; A61F 2/90 20130101; A61F 2220/0016 20130101; A61F 2/915
20130101; A61B 2017/0414 20130101; A61F 2230/0013 20130101; A61F
2220/0008 20130101; A61F 2230/0054 20130101; A61F 2/2457 20130101;
A61F 2002/8483 20130101; A61F 2/2442 20130101; A61F 2/246 20130101;
A61F 2/848 20130101; A61B 2017/0496 20130101; A61B 2017/0488
20130101; A61B 2017/0464 20130101; A61B 17/068 20130101; A61B
2017/0443 20130101; A61B 2017/048 20130101; A61B 2017/00243
20130101; A61F 2/2487 20130101; A61B 2017/0437 20130101; A61B
17/064 20130101; A61B 2017/0649 20130101; A61B 17/0401
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
623/2.36 |
International
Class: |
A61F 2/24 20060101
A61F002/24 |
Claims
1-59. (canceled)
60. Apparatus comprising: a stent, which is configured to assume
compressed and expanded states, and which comprises: one or more
elongated members; and two or more rings, which are coupled
together by the one or more elongated members and by no other
elements of the stent, and which define respective planes that are
generally perpendicular to the elongated members when the stent is
in its expanded state; a longitudinal member, having a proximal end
and a distal end, which proximal end is coupled to the stent; and a
tissue anchor, which is coupled to the distal end of the
longitudinal member.
61. The apparatus according to claim 60, wherein the stent
comprises exactly two rings.
62. The apparatus according to claim 60, wherein the stent
comprises exactly one elongated member.
63. The apparatus according to claim 62, wherein the elongated
member comprises two or more wires coupled to one another.
64. The apparatus according to claim 60, wherein one of the
elongated members is at least partially a continuation of the
longitudinal member.
65. The apparatus according to claim 60, wherein each of the rings
has an outer diameter of between 10 and 35 mm, when the stent is in
its expanded state.
66. A method comprising: providing a (a) stent, which includes (i)
one or more elongated members; and (ii) two or more rings, which
are coupled together by the one or more elongated members and by no
other elements of the stent, (b) a longitudinal member, having a
proximal end and a distal end, which proximal end is coupled to the
stent, and (c) a tissue anchor, which is coupled to the distal end
of the longitudinal member; positioning the stent in a blood vessel
of a patient while the stent is in a compressed state; coupling the
tissue anchor to tissue in a vicinity of a heart valve of the
patient; and transitioning the stent to an expanded state, such
that the rings define respective planes that are generally
perpendicular to the elongated members, and anchor the stent to a
wall of the blood vessel.
67. The method according to claim 66, wherein providing the stent
comprises providing the stent which includes exactly two rings.
68. The method according to claim 66, wherein providing the stent
comprises providing the stent which includes exactly one elongated
member.
69. The method according to claim 66, wherein providing the stent
comprises providing the stent in which one of the elongated members
is at least partially a continuation of the longitudinal
member.
70. The method according to claim 66, wherein positioning the stent
in the blood vessel comprises positioning the stent in a blood
vessel selected from the group of blood vessels consisting of: a
superior vena cava, and an inferior vena cava.
71. The method according to claim 66, further comprising monitoring
a level of regurgitation of the heart valve in conjunction with the
positioning of the stent in the blood vessel.
72-88. (canceled)
89. The apparatus according to claim 60, wherein the two or more
rings are coaxial with respect to each other and each ring has a
center positioned along a longitudinal axis of the stent, when the
stent is in its expanded state.
90. The apparatus according to claim 60, wherein the two or more
rings comprise between 3 and 5 rings.
91. The apparatus according to claim 60, wherein the two or more
rings comprise exactly two rings, and wherein a distance between
the two rings is between 10 and 40 mm, when the stent is in its
expanded state.
92. The apparatus according to claim 91, wherein the one or more
elongated members has a length of between 10 and 40 mm, when the
stent is in its expanded state.
93. The method according to claim 66, wherein transitioning the
stent to the expanded state comprises making indentations in a wall
of of the blood vessel by pushing the ring against a wall of the
blood vessel.
94. The method according to claim 66, wherein transitioning the
stent to the expanded state comprises positioning the two rings at
a distance between the two rings between 10 and 40mm.
95. The method according to claim 66, wherein transitioning the
stent to the expanded state comprises anchoring the stent to the
blood vessel by friction.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application claims priority from and is a
continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 12/692,061, filed
Jan. 22, 2010, entitled, "Tricuspid valve repair using tension,"
which is assigned to the assignee of the present application and is
incorporated herein by reference.
FIELD OF THE APPLICATION
[0002] Some applications of the present invention relate in general
to valve repair. More specifically, some applications of the
present invention relate to repair of a tricuspid valve of a
patient.
BACKGROUND OF THE APPLICATION
[0003] Functional tricuspid regurgitation (FTR) is governed by
several pathophysiologic abnormalities such as tricuspid valve
annular dilatation, annular shape, pulmonary hypertension, left or
right ventricle dysfunction, right ventricle geometry, and leaflet
tethering. Treatment options for FIR are primarily surgical. The
current prevalence of moderate-to-severe tricuspid regurgitation is
estimated to be 1.6 million in the United States. Of these, only
8,000 patients undergo tricuspid valve surgeries annually, most of
them in conjunction with left heart valve surgeries.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0004] In some applications of the present invention, apparatus and
methods are provided for repairing a tricuspid valve of a patient
using tension. Typically, the apparatus and methods for repairing
the tricuspid valve facilitate reducing of tricuspid valve
regurgitation by altering the geometry of the tricuspid valve
and/or by altering the geometry of the wall of the right atrium of
the heart of the patient. In some applications of the present
invention, a first tissue-engaging element is implanted in a first
portion of tissue that is upstream of the tricuspid valve of the
patient. A second tissue-engaging element is then implanted in a
second portion of tissue that is upstream of the tricuspid valve of
the patient. Typically, following implantation of both the first
and second tissue-engaging elements, a distance between the
leaflets of the tricuspid valve is adjusted by pulling a
longitudinal member that connects the first and second
tissue-engaging elements or by pulling at least one of the
tissue-engaging elements. Alternatively or additionally, the
longitudinal member is adjusted prior to implanting the second
tissue-engaging element. For some applications, the longitudinal
member is coupled at least in part to an adjusting mechanism, and
the longitudinal member is pulled or relaxed responsively to
actuation of the adjusting mechanism.
[0005] In some applications of the present invention, apparatus and
method are provided to achieve bicuspidization of the tricuspid
valve. For such applications, typically, the anterior leaflet and
the septal leaflet are drawn together to enhance coaptation.
[0006] For some applications, the first tissue-engaging element
comprises a first stent which is expanded in a portion of an
inferior vena cava. The second tissue engaging element comprises a
second stent which is expanded in a portion of a superior vena
cava. The distance between the first and second stents is then
adjusted by pulling the longitudinal member, optionally while
monitoring regurgitation of the tricuspid valve. Responsively to
the pulling of the longitudinal element, the geometry of the right
atrium is altered, thereby drawing together the leaflets of the
tricuspid valve.
[0007] For other applications, the first tissue-engaging element
comprises a stent that is implanted in either the inferior or
superior vena cava, and the second tissue-engaging element
comprises a tissue anchor which punctures a portion of cardiac
tissue of the patient and is implanted at least in part in the
portion of cardiac tissue. For some applications, a plurality of
second tissue-engaging elements are provided (such as two or
three), which are implanted in respective portions of cardiac
tissue in a vicinity of the heart valve. For some applications, a
longitudinal member is (a) directly coupled to the first
tissue-engaging element, (b) directly coupled to one of the second
tissue-engaging elements, and (c) indirectly coupled to two others
of the second tissue-engaging elements by a longitudinal
sub-member.
[0008] For still other applications of the present invention, both
the first and second tissue-engaging elements comprise respective
first and second tissue anchors. Each tissue anchor punctures a
respective portion of cardiac tissue of the patient and is
implanted at least in part in the respective portion of cardiac
tissue. The tensioning element couples the first and second tissue
anchors and is adjusted following implantation of the first and
second tissue anchors by pulling or relaxing the tensioning
element.
[0009] For some applications of the present invention, a rotation
tool is provided for rotating a tissue anchor, so as to drive the
anchor into tissue. The rotation tool comprises a rotation tube, a
distal end of which is configured to removably engage a proximal
coupling head of the anchor, such that rotation of the rotation
tube rotates the anchor. For some applications, the tool further
comprises an elongated coupling element, which may comprise, for
example, a string, a cable, or a wire. The anchor, such as the
proximal coupling head thereof, is shaped so as to define a passage
therethrough. The elongated coupling element is initially disposed
so as to pass through the passage, such that both ends of the
elongated coupling element extend in a proximal direction. When
thus positioned, the elongated coupling element couples the tool to
the anchor. To decouple the tool from the anchor, one of the ends
of the elongated coupling element is pulled until the elongated
coupling element no longer passes through the passage.
[0010] For some applications of the present invention, a system for
repairing a tricuspid valve comprises a tensioning device and a
deployment tube. The tensioning device comprises a tissue anchor, a
radially-expandable anchor, and at least one flexible longitudinal
member that connects the tissue and radially-expandable anchors.
The radially-expandable anchor, when in a radially-expanded state,
is configured to rest against a wall of a cardiac chamber and to
not pass through a hole in the cardiac wall. For example, when in
its radially-expanded state, the radially-expandable anchor may be
shaped like a flower or butterfly, and thus may be shaped so as to
define a plurality of petals or wings. Typically, the
radially-expandable anchor is configured to generally fall within
exactly one plane when in its radially-expanded state.
[0011] The radially-expandable anchor defines an opening, through
which the longitudinal member passes, such that the
radially-expanded anchor is slidably coupled to the longitudinal
member. The radially-expandable anchor and the longitudinal member
are configured such that the radially-expandable member is lockable
to the longitudinal member, so as to prevent movement of the
radially-expandable anchor with respect to the longitudinal member
at least in a proximal direction toward the proximal end of the
longitudinal member. For example, at least a portion of the
longitudinal member may be shaped so as to define ratchet teeth,
which engage the radially-expandable anchor, thereby preventing the
movement of the radially-expandable anchor with respect to the
longitudinal member in the proximal direction. Alternatively or
additionally, the radially-expandable anchor may be configured to
be crimped to the longitudinal member, so as to prevent the
movement of the radially-expandable anchor with respect to the
longitudinal member.
[0012] During a tricuspid valve repair procedure, the deployment
tube is advanced into the left atrium. A hole is made in the
interatrial septum. The deployment tube is advanced from the left
atrium through the hole, until a distal end of the deployment tube
is positioned within the right atrium. The tissue anchor is
deployed from the distal end of the deployment tube, and anchored
to a portion of cardiac tissue in a vicinity of the tricuspid
valve. The deployment tube is withdrawn into the left atrium,
thereby releasing the radially-expandable anchor in the left atrium
near the septum. The longitudinal member is pulled in a proximal
direction, while holding the radially-expandable anchor against a
left-atrial side of the septum. The radially-expandable anchor is
locked to the longitudinal member, so as to prevent movement of the
radially-expandable anchor with respect to the longitudinal member
at least in the proximal direction. Responsively, a distance
between the leaflets of the tricuspid valve is adjusted to reduce
and eliminate regurgitation through the valve, and thereby, the
valve is repaired. For some applications, a level of regurgitation
of the tricuspid valve is monitored in conjunction with pulling the
longitudinal member to adjust the distance between the anchors.
[0013] For some applications, the stents described hereinabove
comprise a plurality of interconnected superelastic metallic
struts. Alternatively or additionally, for some applications, one
or more of the stents may comprises one or more elongated members
and two or more rings. The rings are typically coupled together by
the one or more elongated members and by no other elements of the
stent. Typically, the rings define respective planes that are
generally perpendicular to the elongated members when the stent is
in its expanded state. The longitudinal member connects the stent
to the tissue anchor(s).
[0014] For some applications, at least one of the tissue anchors
described hereinabove is configured to radially contract and expand
in a manner generally similar to that of an umbrella. The anchor is
inserted into the tissue in a radially-contracted state, and is
transitioned to a radially-expanded state in order to fix the
anchor within the tissue. The anchor comprises a distal
tissue-piercing tip, which is fixed at a distal end of a post. The
anchor further comprises a plurality of ribs, which are coupled to
the anchor near the distal tip, such that the ribs can articulate
with the post. The anchor further comprises a runner, which is
slidably coupled to the post, such that the runner can slide along
the post. A plurality of stretchers are coupled to the runner and
respective ones of the ribs, such that the stretchers can
articulate with the runner and the respective ribs.
[0015] There is therefore provided, in accordance with some
applications of the present invention, a method, including:
[0016] implanting at least a first tissue-engaging element in a
first portion of tissue in a vicinity of a heart valve of a
patient;
[0017] implanting at least a second tissue-engaging element in a
portion of a blood vessel that is in contact with an atrium of a
heart of the patient; and
[0018] drawing at least a first leaflet of the valve toward at
least a second leaflet of the valve by adjusting a distance between
the portion of the blood vessel and the first portion of tissue in
the vicinity of the heart valve of the patient.
[0019] In some applications of the present invention, adjusting the
distance between the portion of the blood vessel and the first
portion of tissue in the vicinity of the heart valve of the patient
includes pulling a longitudinal member that connects the first and
second tissue-engaging elements.
[0020] In some applications of the present invention, implanting
the first tissue-engaging element includes implanting the first
tissue-engaging element in the first portion of tissue of an
annulus of the valve, and the method further includes: implanting,
in a second portion of tissue of the annulus, a third
tissue-engaging element that is connected to a fourth
tissue-engaging element by a longitudinal sub-member; and
implanting, in a third portion of tissue of the annulus, the fourth
tissue-engaging element such that the longitudinal sub-member
engages the longitudinal member at a junction therebetween.
[0021] In some applications of the present invention, adjusting the
distance between the portion of the blood vessel and the first
portion of tissue in the vicinity of the heart valve of the patient
includes applying tension to one or more elements selected from the
group consisting of the first tissue-engaging element and the
second tissue-engaging element.
[0022] In some applications of the present invention, the method
includes monitoring a level of regurgitation of the heart valve in
conjunction with the adjusting the distance between the portion of
the blood vessel and the first portion of tissue in the vicinity of
the heart valve of the patient.
[0023] In some applications of the present invention, adjusting the
distance between the portion of the blood vessel and the first
portion of tissue in the vicinity of the heart valve of the patient
includes pulling the first tissue-engaging element toward the
portion of the blood vessel.
[0024] In some applications of the present invention, the heart
valve includes a tricuspid valve, and adjusting the distance
between the portion of the blood vessel and the first portion of
tissue in the vicinity of the heart valve of the patient includes
achieving bicuspidization of the tricuspid valve of the heart.
[0025] In some applications of the present invention, adjusting the
distance between the portion of the blood vessel and the first
portion of tissue in the vicinity of the heart valve of the patient
includes actuating an adjusting mechanism that is coupled to a
portion of a longitudinal member that connects the first and second
tissue-engaging elements.
[0026] In some applications of the present invention, implanting
the second tissue-engaging element in the portion of the blood
vessel includes expanding a stent in the portion of the blood
vessel.
[0027] In some applications of the present invention, the stent
includes two or more rings coupled together by one or more
elongated members and by no other elements of the stent, and
implanting the second tissue-engaging element includes expanding
the rings such that the rings anchor the stent to a wall of the
blood vessel.
[0028] In some applications of the present invention, the method
includes:
[0029] implanting a third tissue-engaging element in a second
portion of tissue of the heart, the third tissue-engaging element
being connected at a proximal end thereof to a distal end of a
longitudinal member; and
[0030] engaging a proximal end portion of the longitudinal member
with the stent.
[0031] In some applications of the present invention, the method
includes applying tension to the third tissue-engaging element.
[0032] In some applications of the present invention, the blood
vessel is selected from the group of blood vessels consisting of: a
superior vena cava, and an inferior vena cava.
[0033] In some applications of the present invention, implanting
the first tissue-engaging element in the first portion of tissue in
the vicinity of the heart valve of the patient includes engaging
the first portion of tissue by performing one or more actions
selected from the group consisting of: puncturing and squeezing the
first portion of tissue and advancing at least a portion of the
first tissue-engaging element into the first portion of tissue.
[0034] In some applications of the present invention:
[0035] the first portion of tissue in the vicinity of the heart
valve includes a portion of tissue of that is opposite the portion
of the blood vessel of the patient,
[0036] engaging the first portion of tissue includes engaging the
portion of tissue that is opposite the portion of the blood vessel
of the patient, and
[0037] drawing the first leaflet of the valve toward the second
leaflet of the valve includes adjusting a distance between the
portion of the blood vessel of the patient and the portion of
tissue that is opposite the portion of the blood vessel of the
patient.
[0038] In some applications of the present invention, the first
portion of tissue in the vicinity of the heart valve includes a
portion of tissue of an annulus of the valve, and engaging the
first portion of tissue includes engaging the portion of tissue of
the annulus of the valve.
[0039] In some applications of the present invention, the portion
of tissue of the annulus of the valve includes a portion of tissue
that is between a middle portion of an anterior leaflet of the
valve and a middle portion of a posterior leaflet of the valve.
[0040] In some applications of the present invention, the first
portion of tissue in the vicinity of the heart valve includes a
portion of tissue of a wall of the atrium of the heart above an
annulus of the valve, and engaging the first portion of tissue
includes engaging the portion of tissue of the wall of the
atrium.
[0041] There is additionally provided, in accordance with some
applications of the present invention, a method, including:
[0042] implanting at least a first tissue-engaging element in a
first portion of tissue upstream of a tricuspid valve of a
patient;
[0043] implanting at least a second tissue-engaging element in a
second portion of tissue upstream of the tricuspid valve of the
patient; and
[0044] altering a geometry of a wall of a right atrium of a heart
of the patient by adjusting a distance between the first portion of
tissue upstream of the tricuspid valve of the patient and the
second portion of tissue upstream of the tricuspid valve of the
patient.
[0045] In some applications of the present invention, the method
further includes implanting at least a third tissue-engaging
element in a third portion of tissue upstream of the tricuspid
valve of the patient, and altering the geometry of the wall of the
right atrium includes altering the geometry of the wall by
adjusting respective distances between the first, the second, and
the third portions of tissue upstream of the tricuspid valve.
[0046] In some applications of the present invention, adjusting the
distance between the first portion of tissue upstream of the
tricuspid valve of the patient and the second portion of tissue
upstream of the tricuspid valve of the patient includes adjusting a
distance between the first tissue-engaging element and the second
tissue-engaging element.
[0047] In some applications of the present invention, the first
portion of tissue includes a first portion of the wall of the right
atrium, and implanting the first tissue-engaging element in the
first portion of tissue upstream of the tricuspid valve of the
patient includes implanting the first tissue-engaging element in
the first portion of the wall of the right atrium.
[0048] In some applications of the present invention, the second
portion of tissue includes a second portion of the wall of the
right atrium, and implanting the second tissue-engaging element in
the second portion of tissue upstream of the tricuspid valve of the
patient includes implanting the second tissue-engaging element in
the second portion of the wall of the right atrium.
[0049] In some applications of the present invention, the method
further includes implanting at least a third tissue-engaging
element in a third portion of the wall of the right atrium, and
altering the geometry of the wall of the right atrium includes
altering the geometry of the wall by adjusting respective distances
between the first, the second, and the third portions of the wall
of the right atrium.
[0050] In some applications of the present invention, the method
includes monitoring a level of regurgitation of the tricuspid valve
in conjunction with the altering the geometry of the wall of the
right atrium.
[0051] In some applications of the present invention, adjusting the
distance between the first portion of tissue upstream of the
tricuspid valve of the patient and the second portion of tissue
upstream of the tricuspid valve of the patient includes pulling a
longitudinal element that connects the first and second
tissue-engaging elements.
[0052] In some applications of the present invention, adjusting the
distance between the first portion of tissue upstream of the
tricuspid valve of the patient and the second portion of tissue
upstream of the tricuspid valve of the patient includes actuating
an adjusting mechanism that is coupled to a portion of a
longitudinal element that connects the first and second
tissue-engaging elements.
[0053] In some applications of the present invention, altering the
geometry of the wall of the right atrium of the heart of the
patient includes drawing together at least a first leaflet of the
tricuspid valve of the patient and at least a second leaflet of the
tricuspid valve of the patient.
[0054] In some applications of the present invention,
[0055] implanting the first tissue-engaging element includes
implanting the first tissue-engaging element with a longitudinal
member coupled to the first tissue-engaging element,
[0056] the second tissue-engaging element is shaped so as to define
a passage, and implanting the second tissue-engaging element
includes implanting the second tissue-engaging element with the
longitudinal member passing through the passage, and
[0057] adjusting the distance includes pulling the longitudinal
member in a proximal direction, so as to approximate the first and
second tissue-engaging element.
[0058] In some applications of the present invention, pulling the
longitudinal member including pulling the longitudinal member until
the first and second tissue-engaging elements become coupled
together.
[0059] There is further provided, in accordance with some
applications of the present invention, a method, including:
[0060] engaging at least a portion of at least a first
tissue-engaging element in a portion of tissue of a wall of an
inferior vena cava of a patient;
[0061] engaging at least a portion of at least a second
tissue-engaging element in a portion of tissue of a wall of a
superior vena cava of the patient;
[0062] drawing at least a first leaflet of a heart valve toward at
least a second leaflet of the valve by applying tension to one or
more portions of tissue selected from the group consisting of: the
portion of tissue of the wall of the inferior vena cava of the
patient and the portion of tissue of the wall of the superior vena
cava of the patient; and
[0063] monitoring a level of regurgitation of a heart valve of the
patient in conjunction with the applying of the tension.
[0064] In some applications of the present invention, applying the
tension includes applying the tension following the engaging of the
at least first tissue-engaging element and the engaging of the at
least second tissue-engaging element.
[0065] In some applications of the present invention, applying the
tension includes adjusting a distance between the portion of tissue
of the wall of the inferior vena cava of the patient and the
portion of tissue of the wall of the superior vena cava of the
patient.
[0066] In some applications of the present invention, adjusting the
distance between the portion of tissue of the wall of the inferior
vena cava of the patient and the portion of tissue of the wall of
the superior vena cava of the patient includes, by the applying of
the tension, adjusting a distance between the first tissue-engaging
element and the second tissue-engaging element.
[0067] In some applications of the present invention, engaging the
portion of the at least first tissue-engaging element in the
portion of tissue of the wall of the inferior vena cava of the
patient includes expanding a first stent in the inferior vena cava
and contacting at least a portion of the first stent with the
portion of the wall of the inferior vena cava.
[0068] In some applications of the present invention, engaging the
portion of the at least second tissue-engaging element in the
portion of tissue of the wall of the superior vena cava of the
patient includes expanding a second stent in the inferior vena cava
and contacting at least a portion of the first stent with the
portion of the wall of the inferior vena cava.
[0069] In some applications of the present invention, applying the
tension includes altering a geometry of a wall of an atrium of a
heart of the patient.
[0070] In some applications of the present invention, applying the
tension includes pulling a longitudinal member that connects the at
least first tissue-engaging element and the at least second
tissue-engaging element.
[0071] In some applications of the present invention, applying the
tension includes actuating an adjusting mechanism that is coupled
to a portion of a tensioning element that connects the first and
second tissue-engaging elements.
[0072] There is still further provided, in accordance with some
applications of the present invention, apparatus including:
[0073] a stent;
[0074] a longitudinal member, which has a distal end that includes
an annular loop that extends laterally from the longitudinal
member; and
[0075] a tissue anchor, which is coupled to the annular loop, such
that the anchor can rotate with respect to the annular loop, the
longitudinal member, and the stent.
[0076] In some applications of the present invention, the apparatus
further includes a tube, which is sized to pass through a lumen
defined by the stent, and which is configured to be removably
coupled to the tissue anchor, such that rotation of the tube
rotates the tissue anchor. In some applications of the present
invention, the tissue anchor is shaped so as to define a passage
therethrough, and the tube includes an elongated coupling element,
which is initially disposed so as to pass through the passage,
thereby coupling the tube to the anchor. In some applications of
the present invention, when the tube is removably coupled to the
tissue anchor, a longitudinal portion of the tube is positioned
alongside the longitudinal member, and no portion of the tube is
positioned around the longitudinal member. In some applications of
the present invention, the apparatus further includes an adapter
holder, which is coupled to the tube, and which is shaped so as to
define arms, which have a tendency to expand radially, and which
couple the tube to the anchor when the arms are radially
compressed. In some applications of the present invention, the
apparatus further includes a delivery tool overtube, which is sized
to pass through the lumen defined by the stent, the tube is
configured to pass through the delivery tool overtube, and the
overtube is configured to radially compress the arms when
positioned surrounding the arms. In some applications of the
present invention, the apparatus further includes an adapter, which
is shaped so as to define a cylindrical portion that passes through
the annular loop, and which has a distal end that is fixedly
coupled to a proximal portion of the tissue anchor, and the tube is
configured to be removably coupled to the adapter via the adapter
holder when the arms are radially compressed, so as to be removably
coupled to the tissue anchor.
[0077] In some applications of the present invention, the apparatus
further includes an adapter, which is shaped so as to define a
cylindrical portion that passes through the annular loop, and which
has a distal end that is fixedly coupled to a proximal portion of
the tissue anchor, and the tube is configured to be removably
coupled to the adapter, so as to be removably coupled to the tissue
anchor.
[0078] In some applications of the present invention, the apparatus
further includes a delivery tool overtube, which is sized to pass
through the lumen defined by the stent, and the tube is configured
to pass through the delivery tool overtube.
[0079] For any of the applications of the present invention
described above, the apparatus may further include an adapter,
which is shaped so as to define a cylindrical portion that passes
through the annular loop, and which has a distal end that is
fixedly coupled to a proximal portion of the tissue anchor.
[0080] For any of the applications of the present invention
described above, the stent may include a plurality of
interconnected superelastic metallic struts.
[0081] For any of the applications of the present invention
described above, the stent may include one or more elongated
members, and two or more rings coupled together by the one or more
elongated members and by no other elements of the stent.
[0082] There is additionally provided, in accordance with some
applications of the present invention, a method including:
[0083] providing (a) a stent, (b) a longitudinal member, which has
a distal end that includes an annular loop that extends laterally
from the longitudinal member, and (c) a tissue anchor, which is
coupled to the annular loop;
[0084] positioning the stent in a blood vessel of a patient;
[0085] coupling the tissue anchor to tissue in a vicinity of a
heart valve of the patient by rotating the anchor with respect to
the annular loop, the longitudinal member, and the stent; and
[0086] after coupling the tissue anchor to the tissue, deploying
the stent such that the stent expands and is implanted in the blood
vessel at an implantation site.
[0087] In some applications of the present invention, the method
further includes, after coupling the tissue anchor to the tissue
and before deploying the stent, pulling the anchor toward the
implantation site.
[0088] In some applications of the present invention, the blood
vessel is selected from the group of blood vessels consisting of: a
superior vena cava, and an inferior vena cava.
[0089] In some applications of the present invention, rotating
includes rotating the anchor using a tube, which passes through a
lumen defined by the stent, and which is removably coupled to the
tissue anchor. In some applications of the present invention,
rotating the anchor using a tube includes positioning a
longitudinal portion of the tube alongside the longitudinal member,
such that no portion of the tube is positioned around the
longitudinal member. In some applications of the present invention,
rotating includes rotating the anchor using the tube that is
coupled to an adapter holder, which is shaped so as to define arms,
which have a tendency to expand radially, and which couple the tube
to the anchor when the arms are radially compressed. In some
applications of the present invention, the method further includes
providing a delivery tool overtube, which is sized to pass through
the lumen defined by the stent, the tube is configured to pass
through the delivery tool overtube, and the overtube is configured
to radially compress the arms when positioned surrounding the
arms.
[0090] In some applications of the present invention, the method
further includes providing a delivery tool overtube, which is sized
to pass through the lumen defined by the stent, and the tube is
configured to pass through the delivery tool overtube.
[0091] There is yet additionally provided, in accordance with some
applications of the present invention, apparatus including:
[0092] a stent, which is configured to assume compressed and
expanded states, and which includes: [0093] one or more elongated
members; and [0094] two or more rings, which are coupled together
by the one or more elongated members and by no other elements of
the stent, and which define respective planes that are generally
perpendicular to the elongated members when the stent is in its
expanded state;
[0095] a longitudinal member, having a proximal end and a distal
end, which proximal end is coupled to the stent; and
[0096] a tissue anchor, which is coupled to the distal end of the
longitudinal member.
[0097] In some applications of the present invention, the stent
includes exactly two rings.
[0098] In some applications of the present invention, the stent
includes exactly one elongated member.
[0099] For any of the applications of the present invention
described above, the elongated member may include two or more wires
coupled to one another.
[0100] For any of the applications of the present invention
described above, one of the elongated members may be at least
partially a continuation of the longitudinal member.
[0101] For any of the applications of the present invention
described above, each of the rings may have an outer diameter of
between 10 and 35 mm, when the stent is in its expanded state.
[0102] There is also provided, in accordance with some applications
of the present invention, a method including:
[0103] providing a (a) stent, which includes (i) one or more
elongated members; and (ii) two or more rings, which are coupled
together by the one or more elongated members and by no other
elements of the stent, (b) a longitudinal member, having a proximal
end and a distal end, which proximal end is coupled to the stent,
and (c) a tissue anchor, which is coupled to the distal end of the
longitudinal member;
[0104] positioning the stent in a blood vessel of a patient while
the stent is in a compressed state;
[0105] coupling the tissue anchor to tissue in a vicinity of a
heart valve of the patient; and
[0106] transitioning the stent to an expanded state, such that the
rings define respective planes that are generally perpendicular to
the elongated members, and anchor the stent to a wall of the blood
vessel.
[0107] In some applications of the present invention, providing the
stent includes providing the stent which includes exactly two
rings.
[0108] In some applications of the present invention, providing the
stent includes providing the stent which includes exactly one
elongated member.
[0109] In some applications of the present invention, providing the
stent includes providing the stent in which one of the elongated
members is at least partially a continuation of the longitudinal
member.
[0110] In some applications of the present invention, positioning
the stent in the blood vessel includes positioning the stent in a
blood vessel selected from the group of blood vessels consisting
of: a superior vena cava, and an inferior vena cava.
[0111] In some applications of the present invention, the method
further includes monitoring a level of regurgitation of the heart
valve in conjunction with the positioning of the stent in the blood
vessel.
[0112] There is further provided, in accordance with some
applications of the present invention, apparatus including a
tensioning device, which includes:
[0113] a radially-expandable anchor, which defines an opening;
[0114] a longitudinal member, having proximal and distal ends,
which longitudinal member passes through the opening of the
radially-expanded anchor, such that the radially-expanded anchor is
slidably coupled to the longitudinal member; and
[0115] a tissue anchor, which is coupled to the distal end of the
longitudinal member,
[0116] wherein the radially-expandable anchor and the longitudinal
member are configured such that the radially-expandable member is
lockable to the longitudinal member, so as to prevent movement of
the radially-expandable anchor with respect to the longitudinal
member at least in a proximal direction toward the proximal end of
the longitudinal member.
[0117] In some applications of the present invention, at least a
portion of the longitudinal member is shaped so as to define
ratchet teeth, which engage the radially-expandable anchor, thereby
preventing the movement of the radially-expandable anchor with
respect to the longitudinal member in the proximal direction.
[0118] In some applications of the present invention, the
radially-expandable anchor is configured to be crimped to the
longitudinal member, so as to prevent the movement of the
radially-expandable anchor with respect to the longitudinal
member.
[0119] In some applications of the present invention, the
radially-expandable anchor is configured to generally fall within
exactly one plane when radially expanded.
[0120] In some applications of the present invention, the
radially-expandable anchor, when radially expanded, is shaped so as
to define at least one shape selected from the group consisting of:
a petal and a wing.
[0121] For any of the applications of the present invention
described above, the apparatus may further include a deployment
tube, in which the tensioning device is initially positioned, with
the radially-expandable anchor in a radially-compressed state.
[0122] There is still further provided, in accordance with some
applications of the present invention, a method including:
[0123] providing a tensioning device initially positioned in a
deployment tube, which tension device includes (a) a longitudinal
member, (b) a radially-expanded anchor, which is slidably coupled
to the longitudinal member, and (c) a tissue anchor, which is
coupled to a distal end of the longitudinal member;
[0124] advancing the deployment tube into a left atrium of a
patient;
[0125] making a hole in an interatrial septum;
[0126] advancing the deployment tube from the left atrium through
the hole, until a distal end of the deployment tube is positioned
within a right atrium;
[0127] deploying the tissue anchor from the distal end of the
deployment tube, and anchoring the tissue anchor to a portion of
cardiac tissue in a vicinity of a tricuspid valve;
[0128] withdrawing the deployment tube into the left atrium,
thereby releasing the radially-expandable anchor in the left atrium
near the septum; and
[0129] pulling the longitudinal member in a proximal direction,
while holding the radially-expandable anchor against a left-atrial
side of the septum, and locking the radially-expandable anchor to
the longitudinal member, so as to prevent movement of the
radially-expandable anchor with respect to the longitudinal member
at least in the proximal direction.
[0130] In some applications of the present invention, at least a
portion of the longitudinal member is shaped so as to define
ratchet teeth, which engage the radially-expandable anchor, and
locking the radially-expandable anchor to the longitudinal member
includes using the ratchet teeth to prevent the movement of the
radially-expandable anchor with respect to the longitudinal member
in the proximal direction.
[0131] In some applications of the present invention, locking the
radially-expandable anchor to the longitudinal member includes
crimping the radially-expandable anchor to the longitudinal member,
so as to prevent the movement of the radially-expandable anchor
with respect to the longitudinal member.
[0132] In some applications of the present invention, the
radially-expandable anchor is configured to generally fall within
exactly one plane when radially expanded.
[0133] In some applications of the present invention, the
radially-expandable anchor, when radially expanded, is shaped so as
to define at least one shape selected from the group consisting of:
a petal and a wing.
[0134] In some applications of the present invention, the method
further includes monitoring a level of regurgitation of the
tricuspid valve in conjunction with the pulling the longitudinal
member.
[0135] There is additionally provided, in accordance with some
applications of the present invention, apparatus including a tissue
anchor, which is configured to assume radially-contracted and
radially-expanded states, and which includes:
[0136] a post, having a distal tissue-piercing tip, and a greatest
diameter of no more than 1.8 mm;
[0137] a plurality of ribs, which are coupled to the anchor near
the distal tip, such that the ribs can articulate with the
post;
[0138] a runner, which is slidably coupled to the post, such that
the runner can slide along the post; and
[0139] a plurality of stretchers, which are coupled to the runner
and respective ones of the ribs, such that the stretchers can
articulate with the runner and the respective ribs.
[0140] In some applications of the present invention, the apparatus
further includes a catheter, in which the tissue anchor is
initially positioned in the radially-contracted state. In some
applications of the present invention, the apparatus further
includes an inner tube positioned within the catheter, and a
proximal end of the runner is initially removably coupled to the
inner tube.
[0141] For any of the applications of the present invention
described above, an outer surface of a proximal end of the runner
may be threaded.
[0142] For any of the applications of the present invention
described above, the anchor may at least partially include a
shape-memory alloy.
[0143] The present invention will be more fully understood from the
following detailed description of applications thereof, taken
together with the drawings, in which:
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0144] FIGS. 1A-G are schematic illustrations of apparatus for
reducing regurgitation of a heart valve which comprises a stent, a
tissue anchor, and a tensioning element that couples the stent and
the tissue anchor, in accordance with some applications of the
present invention;
[0145] FIGS. 2A-B are schematic illustrations of apparatus for
reducing regurgitation of the heart valve which comprises first and
second stents, first and second tissue anchor, and first and second
tensioning elements, in accordance with some applications of the
present invention;
[0146] FIGS. 3A-C are schematic illustrations of apparatus for
reducing regurgitation of the heart valve which comprises a single
stent, first and second tissue anchor, and first and second
tensioning elements, in accordance with some applications of the
present invention;
[0147] FIGS. 4A-C are schematic illustrations of apparatus for
reducing regurgitation of a tricuspid valve which comprises first
and second stents and first and a tensioning element that couples
the first and second stents, in accordance with some applications
of the present invention;
[0148] FIGS. 5A-C are schematic illustrations of apparatus for
reducing regurgitation of the heart valve which comprises two or
three tissue anchors and a tensioning element that couples the
tissue anchors, in accordance with some applications of the present
invention;
[0149] FIG. 6 is a schematic illustration of apparatus for reducing
regurgitation of the heart valve which comprises a first anchoring
system in the inferior vena cava, a first tissue anchor implanted
at the valve, and a second tissue anchor implanted in the papillary
muscle;
[0150] FIGS. 7A-D are schematic illustrations of a delivery system
for a helical tissue anchor, in accordance with some applications
of the present invention;
[0151] FIGS. 8A-E and 9A-E are schematic illustrations of a system
for repairing a tricuspid valve, using a superior vena cava
approach and an inferior vena cava approach, respectively, in
accordance with respective applications of the present
invention;
[0152] FIGS. 10A-B are schematic illustrations of a rotation tool,
in accordance with an application of the present invention;
[0153] FIGS. 11A-B are schematic illustration of another system for
repairing a tricuspid valve, in accordance with some applications
of the present invention;
[0154] FIGS. 12A-D are schematic illustrations showing an exemplary
procedure for deploying a tensioning device of the system of FIGS.
11A-B, in accordance with respective applications of the present
invention;
[0155] FIGS. 13A-E are schematic illustration of tissue anchors, in
accordance with respective applications of the present invention;
and
[0156] FIGS. 14A-D are schematic illustrations of apparatus for
reducing regurgitation of a heart valve which comprises two tissue
anchors configured to be directly coupled to each other, and an
exemplary deployment procedure, in accordance with some
applications of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF APPLICATIONS
[0157] Reference is now made to FIGS. 1A-G, which are schematic
illustrations of a system 20 comprising a first tissue-engaging
element 60a and a second tissue-engaging element 60b for repairing
a tricuspid valve 4 of a heart 2 of a patient, in accordance with
some applications of the present invention. First tissue-engaging
element 60a comprises a tissue anchor 40 which is designated for
implantation at least in part in cardiac tissue at a first
implantation site 30. It is to be noted that tissue anchor 40
comprises a helical tissue anchor by way of illustration and not
limitation and that tissue anchor 40 may comprise any tissue anchor
for puncturing or clamping cardiac tissue, including, but not
limited to, the tissue anchors described hereinbelow with reference
to FIGS. 13A-E. Second tissue-engaging element 60b comprises a
stent 50 which is designated for implantation in a portion of a
blood vessel, e.g., a superior vena cava 10 (such as shown in FIGS.
1E-G) or an inferior vena cava 8 (such as shown in FIGS. 1A-D), at
a second implantation site 52. First and second tissue-engaging
elements 60a and 60b are coupled together by a flexible
longitudinal member 42. Typically, a distance between first and
second implantation sites 30 and 52 is adjusted by pulling to apply
tension to or relaxing longitudinal member 42 and/or by applying
tension to at least one of first and second tissue-engaging
elements 60a and 60b. Responsively, a distance between the leaflets
of tricuspid valve 4 is adjusted to reduce and eliminate,
regurgitation through valve 4, and thereby, valve 4 is repaired.
For some applications, longitudinal member 42 is pulled or relaxed
by manipulating second tissue-engaging element 60b, as is described
hereinbelow.
[0158] For some applications, first and second tissue-engaging
elements 60a and 60b and longitudinal member 42 are fabricated from
the same material, e.g., nitinol, from a single piece. That is,
first and second tissue-engaging elements 60a and 60b and
longitudinal member 42 define a single continuous implant unit. For
some applications, at least second tissue-engaging element 60b and
longitudinal member 42 are fabricated from a single piece.
[0159] For other applications, longitudinal member 42 comprises a
flexible and/or superelastic material, e.g., nitinol, polyester,
stainless steel, cobalt chrome, PTFE, or ePTFE. In some
applications of the present invention, longitudinal member 42
comprises a braided polyester suture (e.g., Ticron). In other
applications of the present invention, longitudinal member 42 is
coated with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). In some applications of
the present invention, longitudinal member 42 comprises a plurality
of wires that are intertwined to form a rope structure. For some
applications, at least a part of longitudinal member 42 comprises a
tension spring and/or a plurality of coils.
[0160] For some applications, second tissue-engaging element 60b
comprises a stent 50 which is advanced toward and expandable in a
portion of inferior vena cava 8 (such as shown in FIGS. 1A-D) or
superior vena cava 10 (such as shown in FIGS. 1E-G), i.e., a blood
vessel that is in direct contact with a right atrium 6 of heart 2
of the patient. Second tissue-engaging element 60b is implanted at
second implantation site 52. As shown, first implantation site 30
comprises a portion of an annulus of tricuspid valve 4.
Implantation site 30 typically comprises a portion of the annulus
of valve 4 that is between (1) the middle of the junction between
the annulus and anterior leaflet 14, and (2) the middle of the
junction between the annulus and posterior leaflet 16, e.g.,
between the middle of the junction between the annulus and anterior
leaflet 14 and the commissure between the anterior and posterior
leaflets. That is, anchor 40 is coupled to, e.g., screwed into, the
fibrous tissue of the tricuspid annulus close to the commissure in
between anterior leaflet 14 and posterior leaflet 16. Implantation
site 30 is typically close to the mural side of valve 4. For such
applications, the drawing together of first and second implantation
sites 30 and 52 cinches valve 4 and may create a bicuspidization of
tricuspid valve 4, and thereby achieve stronger coaptation between
anterior leaflet 14 and septal leaflet 12.
[0161] For some applications, first implantation site 30 may
include a portion of tissue of a wall defining right atrium 6 of
heart 2, typically in a vicinity of the annulus of valve 4. For
other applications, first implantation site 30 may include a
portion of a wall of a right ventricle of heart 2, a ventricular
portion of the annulus of valve 4, or a portion of a papillary
muscle of the right ventricle of heart 2, as is shown hereinbelow
in FIG. 6. First implantation site 30 is typically a distance away
from, e.g., generally opposite, second implantation site 52 so
that, following adjusting of longitudinal member 42, first and
second implantation sites 30 and 52 are drawn together, and thereby
at least first and second leaflets, e.g., all three leaflets, of
valve 4 are drawn toward each other. For applications in which
first implantation site 30 includes a portion of tissue of the
annulus, the adjusting of the distance between implantation sites
30 and 52 alters the geometry of (i.e., changes the configuration
of) the annulus of valve 4 and thereby draws together the leaflets
of valve 4. For applications in which first implantation site 30
includes tissue of a portion of a wall that defines atrium 6, the
adjusting of the distance between implantation sites 30 and 52
alters the geometry of (i.e., changes the configuration of) the
wall of atrium 6 and thereby draws together the leaflets of valve
4.
[0162] FIGS. 1A and 1E show the advancement of a catheter 22 toward
atrium 6 of the patient until a distal end 23 of the catheter is
disposed within atrium 6, as shown. The procedure is typically
performed with the aid of imaging, such as fluoroscopy,
transesophageal echo, and/or echocardiography. For some
applications, the procedure begins by advancing a semi-rigid
guidewire into right atrium 6 of the patient. The guidewire
provides a guide for the subsequent advancement of a catheter 22
therealong and into the right atrium. Once distal end 23 of
catheter 22 has entered right atrium 6, the guidewire is retracted
from the patient's body. Catheter 22 typically comprises a 14-20 F
sheath, although the size may be selected as appropriate for a
given patient. Catheter 22 is advanced through vasculature into
right atrium 6 using a suitable point of origin typically
determined for a given patient. For example: [0163] catheter 22 may
be introduced into the femoral vein of the patient, through
inferior vena cava 8, and into right atrium 6; [0164] catheter 22
may be introduced into the basilic vein, through the subclavian
vein through superior vena cava 10, and into right atrium 6; or
[0165] catheter 22 may be introduced into the external jugular
vein, through the subclavian vein through superior vena cava 10,
and into right atrium 6.
[0166] As shown in FIG. 1A, catheter 22 is advanced through
inferior vena cava 8 of the patient and into right atrium 6 using a
suitable point of origin typically determined for a given patient.
Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 1E, catheter 22 is advanced through
superior vena cava 10 of the patient and into right atrium 6 using
a suitable point of origin typically determined for a given
patient.
[0167] Once distal end 23 of catheter 22 is disposed within atrium
6, an anchor-deployment tube 24 is extended from within catheter 22
beyond distal end 23 thereof and toward first implantation site 30.
Anchor-deployment tube 24 holds tissue anchor 40 and a distal
portion of longitudinal member 42. For some applications, tube 24
is steerable, as is known in the catheter art, while for other
applications, a separate steerable element may be coupled to
anchor-deployment tube 24. Under the, aid of imaging guidance,
anchor-deployment tube 24 is advanced toward first implantation
site 30 until a distal end thereof contacts cardiac tissue of heart
2 at first implantation site 30. Anchor-deployment tube 24
facilitates atraumatic advancement of first tissue-engaging element
60a toward first implantation site 30. For such applications in
which anchor-deployment tube 24 is used, stent 50 is compressed
within a portion of tube 24.
[0168] An anchor-manipulating tool (not shown for clarity of
illustration), which is slidably disposed within anchor-deployment
tube 24, is slid distally within tube 24 so as to push distally
tissue anchor 40 of first tissue-engaging element 60a and expose
tissue anchor 40 from within tube 24, as shown in FIGS. 1B and 1E.
For some applications of the present invention, the
anchor-manipulating tool is reversibly coupled to anchor 40 and
facilitates implantation of anchor 40 in the cardiac tissue. For
applications in which anchor 40 comprises a helical tissue anchor,
as shown, the operating physician rotates the anchor-manipulating
tool from a site outside the body of the patient in order to rotate
anchor 40 and thereby screw at least a portion of anchor 40 in the
cardiac tissue.
[0169] Alternatively, system 20 is provided independently of the
anchor-manipulating tool, and anchor-deployment tube 24 facilitates
implantation of anchor 40 in the cardiac tissue. For applications
in which anchor 40 comprises a helical tissue anchor, as shown, the
operating physician rotates anchor-deployment tube 24 from a site
outside the body of the patient in order to rotate anchor 40 and
thereby screw at least a portion of anchor 40 in the cardiac
tissue.
[0170] It is to be noted that for some applications of the present
invention, anchor 40 comprises a clip, jaws, or a clamp which grips
and squeezes a portion of cardiac tissue and does not puncture the
cardiac tissue.
[0171] Following the implantation of anchor 40 at first
implantation site 30, anchor-deployment tube 24 is retracted within
catheter 22 in order to expose longitudinal member 42, as shown in
FIGS. 1C and 1F. Subsequently, longitudinal member 42 is pulled
taut in order to repair tricuspid valve 4, as described
hereinbelow.
[0172] For some applications, prior to pulling the portion of
longitudinal member 42 that is disposed between anchor 40 and
distal end 23 of catheter 22, a mechanism that facilitates the
application of a pulling force to longitudinal member 42 is fixed
in place, as will be described hereinbelow. This fixing in place
provides a reference force to system 20 while applying tension to
longitudinal member 42 so as to ensure that during the pulling of
longitudinal member 42, stent 50 is not pulled from within catheter
22. For some applications, distal end 23 of catheter 22 is fixed in
place with respect to longitudinal member 42. Fixing in place
catheter 22 stabilizes catheter 22 as longitudinal member 42 is
pulled. This enables distal end 23 to remain in place and not slide
distally toward implantation site 30 during the adjusting of
longitudinal member 42. For some applications of the present
invention, a proximal portion of catheter 22 and/or a proximal
handle portion coupled to catheter 22 is anchored or otherwise
fixed in place at its access location, e.g., by taping or
plastering. Alternatively or additionally, a distal portion of
catheter 22 comprises an inflatable element coupled to an inflation
conduit which runs the length of catheter 22 from the distal
portion thereof to a site outside the body of the patient. Prior to
the adjusting of longitudinal member 42, the inflatable element is
inflated such that it contacts tissue of the vasculature through
which catheter 22 is advanced, and thereby catheter 22 is fixed in
place. Typically, the inflatable element comprises an annular
inflatable element, such that when inflated, the annular inflatable
element functions as a seal to hold in place the distal portion of
catheter 22.
[0173] Following the fixation of the mechanism that facilitates
pulling of longitudinal member 42, the physician then pulls
longitudinal member 42 and thereby draws together first and second
implantation sites 30 and 52.
[0174] For some applications, catheter 22 is reversibly coupled to
a proximal portion of longitudinal member 42 by being directly
coupled to the proximal portion of member 42 and/or catheter 22 is
reversibly coupled to second tissue-engaging element 60b. For
example, catheter 22 may be reversibly coupled to stent 50 by the
stent's application of a radial force against the inner wall of
catheter 22 because of the tendency of stent 50 to expand radially.
Following implantation of first tissue-engaging element 60a,
catheter 22 (or an element disposed therein) is then pulled
proximally to apply tension to longitudinal member 42, which, in
such an application, functions as a tensioning element. For some
applications, catheter 22 pulls on second tissue-engaging element
60b in order to pull longitudinal member 42. For other
applications, catheter 22. pulls directly on longitudinal member
42. For yet other applications, a pulling mechanism pulls on
longitudinal member 42, as is described hereinbelow with reference
to FIGS. 7A-D.
[0175] Pulling longitudinal member 42 pulls taut the portion of
longitudinal member 42 that is disposed between anchor 40 and
distal end 23 of catheter 22. Additionally, longitudinal member 42
may be pulled or relaxed in order to adjust the distance between
first and second implantation sites 30 and 52. Responsively to the
pulling of longitudinal member 42, at least the anterior and septal
leaflets of tricuspid valve 4 are drawn together because the
geometry of the annulus and/or of the wall of atrium 6 is altered
in accordance with the pulling of longitudinal member 42 and
depending on the positioning of first tissue-engaging element 60a.
For some applications, during the pulling of longitudinal member 42
by catheter 22, a level of regurgitation of tricuspid valve 4 is
monitored. Longitudinal member 42 is pulled until the regurgitation
is reduced or ceases.
[0176] Once the physician determines that the regurgitation of
valve 4 is reduced or ceases, and valve 4 has been repaired, the
physician decouples catheter 22 from second tissue-engaging element
60b disposed therein and/or from longitudinal member 42, and then
retracts catheter 22 in order to expose second tissue-engaging
element 60b, i.e., stent 50. During the advancement of catheter 22
toward atrium 6, stent 50 is disposed within a distal portion of
catheter 22 in a compressed state. Following initial retracting of
catheter 22, stent 50 is exposed and is allowed to expand and
contact a wall of inferior vena cava 8. FIG. 1F shows stent 50
partially exposed and partially expanded, and FIGS. 1D and 1G show
the stent fully exposed and fully expanded. Responsively to the
expanding, stent 50 is implanted in second implantation site 52 and
maintains the tension of longitudinal member 42 on anchor 40 and
thereby on the portion of cardiac tissue to which anchor 40 is
coupled.
[0177] Reference is now made to FIGS. 1E-G. It is to be noted that
catheter 22 may enter via superior vena cava 10, as described
hereinabove. For such applications, first implantation site 30 may
comprise an area of the annulus of valve 4, or a portion of the
wall defining atrium 6 that is opposite superior vena cava 10.
[0178] Reference is again made to FIGS. 1A-G. For some
applications, following the implantation of first and second
tissue-engaging elements 60a and 60b, a distance between first and
second tissue-engaging elements 60a and 60b is adjusted by an
adjustable mechanism, as described hereinbelow with reference to
FIGS. 5A-B or 5C. In such applications, a length of longitudinal
member 42 between first and second tissue-engaging elements 60a and
60b may be adjusted by an adjusting mechanism 150, as shown in
FIGS. 5A-B or 5C. Adjusting mechanism 150 typically comprises a
mechanical element which shortens a distance of longitudinal member
42 between first and second tissue-engaging elements 60a and 60b.
For some applications, adjustable mechanism 150 may be permanently
coupled to longitudinal member 42 (not shown) and comprises an
adjusting element, e.g., a spool for looping portions of
longitudinal member 42 therearound, a crimping bead for crimping
and shortening a portion of longitudinal member 42, a ratchet
element, or a deforming element which deforms a portion of
longitudinal member 42 in order to shorten its length between first
and second tissue-engaging elements 60a and 60b. For other
applications, adjusting mechanism 150 comprises only an adjusting
tool 144, as shown in FIG. 5A. In such applications, adjusting tool
144 may comprise an adjusting element, e.g., a crimping bead for
crimping and shortening a portion of longitudinal member 42, or a
deforming element which deforms a portion of longitudinal member 42
in order to shorten its length between first and second
tissue-engaging elements 60a and 60b. In either application, a
level of regurgitation of valve 4 may be monitored during the
adjusting of the distance between first and second tissue-engaging
elements 60a and 60b by adjusting mechanism 150.
[0179] For some applications, such as shown in FIG. 1D, stent 50
comprises a plurality of interconnected superelastic metallic
struts, arranged so as to allow crimping the stent into a
relatively small diameter (typically less than 8 mm) catheter,
while allowing deployment to a much larger diameter (typically more
than 20 mm) in the vena cava, while still maintaining radial force
against the vena cava tissue, in order to anchor stent 50 to the
wall of the vena cava by friction. Alternatively or additionally,
for some applications, such as shown in FIGS. 1F-G, stent 50
comprises two or more rings 62, which are configured to expand in
the superior or inferior vena cava, in order to anchor stent 50 to
the wall of the vena cava by friction. Typically, the, rings are
sized to push against and make small indentions in the wall of the
vena cava. The rings may also reduce the risk of stent fatigue and
stent fracture. Typically, the rings are configured to self-expand
upon being released from catheter 22, and may, for example,
comprise a shape-memory alloy, such as nitinol. For some
applications, the rings are elliptical, such as circular, or have
other shapes.
[0180] Rings 62 are coupled together by one or more elongated
members 64, such as, exactly one elongated member 64 (as shown), or
between two and four elongated members 64 (configurations not
shown). Typically, no elements of stent 50, other than elongated
members 64, couple the rings together. Typically, each of elongated
members 64 comprises one or more wires; for applications in which a
plurality of wires is provided, the wires are typically tightly
coupled to one another, such as by twisting (as shown), so as to
define a single elongated member 64. Optionally, one of elongated
members 64 is at least partially a continuation of longitudinal
member 42 (e.g., one of the wires of elongated member 64 is a
continuation of longitudinal member 42). For some applications,
rings 62 and elongated members 64, and, optionally, longitudinal
member 42, are fabricated from a single piece, such as shown in
FIG. 1G. For some applications, stent 50 comprises exactly two
rings (as shown), while for other applications, stent 50 comprises
more than two rings 62, for example, between three and five rings
(configuration not shown).
[0181] Typically, when stent 50 is in its expanded state,
respective planes defined by rings 62 are generally perpendicular
to elongated members 64, such that the rings, when positioned in
the superior or inferior vena cava, are generally perpendicular to
an axis of the vena cava, and thus make good contact with the wall
of the vena cava.
[0182] Typically, rings 62 are sized in accordance with the
patient's particular anatomy, so that when expanded, the rings are
10-25% larger than the nominal vena cava diameter. For example, for
a patient who has a 20 mm vena cava, the surgeon may use rings with
an outer diameter of 22-25 mm. For some applications, each of rings
62 has an outer diameter of at least 10 mm, no more than 35 mm,
and/or between 10 and 35 mm, when stent 50 is in its expanded
state. Typically, when the stent is in its expanded state, a
distance between two of rings 62 that are longitudinally farthest
from each other is at least 10 mm, no more than 40 mm, and/or
between 10 and 40 mm (for applications in which stent 50 comprises
exactly two rings, this distance is the distance between the two
rings). For applications in which stent 50 comprises exactly two
rings, a length of elongated members 64 equals the above-mentioned
distance.
[0183] For some applications, such as those described with
reference to FIGS. 1A-D and 1E-F, longitudinal member 42 has a
length of at least 10 mm, no more than 40 mm, and/or between 10 and
40 mm.
[0184] The configuration of stent 50 that is shown in FIG. 1D
deployed in inferior vena cava 8 may instead be deployed in
superior vena cava 10 (deployment not shown), and the configuration
of stent 50 shown in FIGS. 1F-G deployed in superior vena cava 10
may instead be deployed in inferior vena cava 8 (deployment not
shown). The configuration of stent 50 shown in FIGS. 1F-G may be
used in any of the stent configurations described herein, including
those described hereinbelow with reference to FIGS. 2A-B, 3A-B,
4A-C, 6, and/or 7A-D.
[0185] Reference is now made to FIGS. 7A-D, which are schematic
illustrations of a delivery tool system 200 for implanting anchor
40, in accordance with some applications of the present invention.
Delivery tool system 200 may be used, for example, to rotate and
implant an anchor in combination with the applications described
herein with reference to FIGS. 1A-G, 2A-B, 3A-C, 5A-C, 6, 8A-E,
9A-E, 11A-B, 12A-E, and/or 14A-D. Although longitudinal member is
shown in FIGS. 7A-D as being fixed to stent 50, this is not
necessarily the case, and tool system 200 thus may also be used in
combination with the applications that do not utilize stent 50,
such as those described herein with reference to FIGS. 3C, 5A-C,
11A-B, 12A-E, and/or 14A-D.
[0186] Reference is now made to FIGS. 1A-G and 7A-D. It is to be
noted that anchor 40 may be implanted using delivery tool system
200. FIG. 7A shows an exploded view of the components of delivery
tool system 200 and its spatial orientation relative to stent 50,
longitudinal member 42, and anchor 40. In such an application, a
distal end of longitudinal member 42 comprises an annular loop 216,
through which a portion of anchor 40 is coupled to the distal end
of longitudinal member 42. For some such applications, stent 50,
longitudinal member 42, and anchor 40 are not fabricated from the
same piece, as described hereinabove; rather, only stent 50,
longitudinal member 42, and annular loop 216 are typically
fabricated from a single piece, and anchor 40 is coupled to
longitudinal member 42 via annular loop 216. Alternatively, as
mentioned above, longitudinal member 42 is not coupled to stent 50,
such as for applications in which stent 50 is not provided.
[0187] System 200 typically comprises an adapter 218, which, for
some applications, is shaped so as to define an annular proximal
portion and a distal cylindrical portion having a distal end 220.
During the manufacture of system 200, distal end 220 of the
cylindrical portion of adapter 218 is slid through annular loop 218
at the distal end of longitudinal member 42, thereby coupling
adapter 218 to the distal end of longitudinal member 42. Distal end
220 of adapter 218 is then welded or otherwise fixedly coupled to a
proximal portion of an inner lumen of anchor 40, as shown in FIG.
7B. This coupling arrangement of anchor 40 to annular loop 216 and
adapter 218 enables anchor 40 to rotate about a central
longitudinal axis of delivery system 200, freely within annular
loop 216. That is, delivery tool system 200 rotates anchor 40
without rotating longitudinal member 42 and stent 50 (if provided),
as described hereinbelow.
[0188] Delivery tool system 200 comprises a delivery tool overtube
202 having a distal end thereof. For application in which stent 50
is provided, delivery tool overtube 202 is housed within catheter
22 such that a distal portion thereof passes in part through the
lumen of stent 50 and a distal end 204 thereof extends toward
tissue anchor 40. During delivery of tissue anchor 40 and stent 50
toward their respective implantation sites, deliver tool system 200
assumes the configuration shown in FIG. 7B. It is to be noted,
however, that stent 50 is compressed around the portion of overtube
202 that extends through the lumen of stent 50 (not shown for
clarity of illustration), and that catheter 22 (not shown for
clarity of illustration) surrounds system 200 (and thereby
compresses stent 50).
[0189] Reference is again made to FIG. 7A. Overtube 202 houses a
torque-delivering and an anchor-pulling tube 208 and facilitates
slidable coupling of tube 208 to overtube 202. A distal end of
torque-delivering and anchor-pulling tube 208 is coupled to a
manipulator 206 which is shaped so as to define a coupling 210
which couples manipulator 206 to adapter 218, and thereby, to
anchor 40. In order to rotate anchor 40, torque-delivering and
anchor-pulling tube 208 is rotated. As torque-delivering and
anchor-pulling tube 208 is rotated, manipulator 206 is rotated in
order to screw anchor 40 into the cardiac tissue of the patient. As
adapter 218 rotates, the cylindrical portion thereof rotates freely
within annular loop 216. This coupling arrangement of adapter 218
(and thereby anchor 40) to loop 216 (and thereby longitudinal
member 42) enables the physician to rotate and implant anchor 40
without rotating longitudinal member 42 and stent 50 (if
provided).
[0190] Following rotation of anchor 40, torque-delivering and
anchor-pulling tube 208 is pulled by the physician in order to pull
on anchor 40 and thereby on the portion of cardiac tissue to which
anchor 40 is implanted at first implantation site 30. Tube 208 is
typically coupled at a proximal end thereof to a mechanical
element, e.g., a knob, at the handle portion outside the body of
the patient. The physician pulls on tube 208 by actuating the
mechanical element that is coupled to the proximal end of tube 208.
This pulling of tube 208, and thereby of anchor 40 and of cardiac
tissue at first implantation site 30, draws first implantation site
toward second implantation site 52 and thereby draws at least
anterior leaflet 14 toward septal leaflet 12 in order to achieve
coaptation of the leaflets and reduce regurgitation through valve
4.
[0191] For some applications in which stent 50 is provided,
following the pulling of anchor 40, stent 50 is positioned at
second implantation site 52. Catheter 22 is then retracted slightly
along tube 202 so as to pull taut longitudinal member 42 and to
ensure that tension is maintained at first implantation site 30 and
along longitudinal member 42. Stent 50 is then deployed when the
physician holds torque-delivering and anchor-pulling tool 208 and
then retracts proximally either (1) catheter 22 or (2) a sheath
(i.e., that is disposed within catheter 22 and surrounds stent 50),
around stent 50 so as to deploy stent 50 from within either (1)
catheter 22 or (2) the sheath disposed within catheter 22.
[0192] It is to be noted that stent 50 is retrievable following at
least partial deployment thereof, e.g., following deployment of up
to 1/2 or up to 1/3 of stent 50. In such an application, following
the initial retraction proximally of catheter 22 from around stent
50 in order to deploy at least a distal portion of stent 50,
catheter 22 is advanceable distally so as to compress and retrieve
the at least partially-deployed stent back into the distal end
portion of catheter 22. Alternatively, catheter 22 houses a sheath
which compresses stent 50 during delivery of stent to second
implantation site 52. During the initial retracting of catheter 22
proximally, the sheath surrounding stent 50 is also retracted in
conjunction with the retracting of catheter 22. Following the at
least partial deployment of stent 50 in order to deploy at least a
distal portion of stent 50, the sheath is advanceable distally
(while catheter 22 remains in place) so as to compress and retrieve
the at least partially-deployed stent back into the distal end
portion of the sheath. The sheath is then retracted into catheter
22. For such applications of the present invention in which stent
50 is retrievable following at least partial deployment thereof,
anchor 40 can then be unscrewed from first implantation site 30 and
the entire implant system may be extracted from the body, or
repositioned in the heart, depending on the need of a given
patient.
[0193] For applications in which stent 50 is retrievable, in order
to retrieve stent 50 (i.e., prior to the decoupling of manipulator
206 from adapter 218 and thereby from anchor 40), the physician
holds torque-delivering and anchor-pulling tool 208 and then
advances distally either (1) catheter 22 or (2) the sheath disposed
within catheter 22, around stent 50 so as to compress stent 50
within either (1) catheter 22 or (2) the sheath disposed within
catheter 22. Torque-delivering and anchor-pulling tool 208 may then
be rotated in order to unscrew anchor 40 from the tissue, and the
entire system may be extracted from the body, or repositioned in
the heart, depending on the need of a given patient.
[0194] Reference is again made to FIGS. 7A-D. FIGS. 7C-D show the
decoupling and release of torque-delivering and anchor-pulling tube
208 and manipulator 206 from adapter 218 and anchor 40. This
release occurs typically following the deployment of stent 50 (if
provided), as described hereinabove. As shown in FIG. 7A, system
200 comprises a releasable adapter holder 212 which is shaped so as
to define arms 214 which have a tendency to expand radially. Holder
212 surrounds manipulator 206, as shown in FIG. 7C. During the
delivery of anchor 40 toward implantation site 30 and the
subsequent rotation of anchor 40 to screw anchor 40 into tissue at
site 30, a distal end 204 of overtube 202 is disposed adjacently to
loop 216 such that a distal end portion of overtube 202 surrounds
and compresses arms 214 of holder 212 (as shown in FIG. 7B).
Following the pulling of anchor 40 by torque-delivering and
anchor-pulling tube 208, overtube 202 is retracted slightly in
order to expose arms 214 of holder 212. Responsively, arms 214
expand radially (FIG. 7C) and release adapter 218 (and thereby
anchor 40) from holder 212.
[0195] As shown in FIG. 7D, overtube 202 is held in place while the
physician retracts tube 208 so as to collapse and draw arms 214
into the distal end portion of overtube 202. Overtube 202 is then
slid proximally within catheter 22 leaving behind anchor 40,
adapter 218 coupled to anchor 40, loop 216, longitudinal member 42,
and stent 50 (if provided). Catheter 22, that houses overtube 202
and the components disposed therein, is extracted from the body of
the patient.
[0196] For some applications, such as those described hereinabove
with reference to FIGS. 7A-D, longitudinal member 42 has a length
of at least 10 mm, no more than 40 mm, and/or between 10 and 40
mm.
[0197] Reference is again made to FIGS. 1A-G. It is to be noted
that tissue-engaging elements 60a and 60b may be implanted at their
respective implantation sites 30 and 50, as described hereinabove,
by advancing catheter 22 and tissue-engaging elements 60a and 60b
through superior vena cava 10, mutatis mutandis.
[0198] FIGS. 2A-B show a system 100 for repairing tricuspid valve 4
comprising first and second stents 50a and 50b, first and second
longitudinal members 42a and 42b, and first and second tissue
anchors 40a and 40b. First tissue anchor 40a defines first
tissue-engaging element 60a. First stent 50a defines second
tissue-engaging element 60b. Second tissue anchor 40b defines a
third tissue-engaging element 60c. Second stent 50b defines a
fourth tissue-engaging element 60d. For some applications of the
present invention, following the implantation of first
tissue-engaging element 60a and second tissue-engaging element 60b,
such as described hereinabove with reference to FIGS. 1A-G, third
and fourth tissue-engaging elements 60c and 60d are then implanted.
As described hereinabove, first implantation site 30, as shown,
comprises a portion of tissue that is in a vicinity of the
commissure between anterior leaflet 14 and posterior leaflet 16.
First implantation site 30 may comprise a portion of tissue that is
between (1) the middle of the junction between the annulus and
anterior leaflet 14, and (2) the middle of the junction between the
annulus and posterior leaflet 16.
[0199] Following the implantation of first and second
tissue-engaging elements 60a and 60b, catheter 22 is retracted from
the body of the patient. Outside the body of the patient, catheter
22 is reloaded with third and fourth tissue-engaging elements 60c
and 60d. Catheter 22 is then reintroduced within the body of the
patient and is advanced toward right atrium 6, as shown in FIG. 2A,
such that distal end 23 thereof passes through first stent 50a and
toward atrium 6. It is to be noted that a proximal end portion of
longitudinal member 42a is coupled to second tissue-engaging
element 60b and is not disposed within catheter 22.
[0200] Subsequently, a second tissue anchor 40b (i.e., an anchor
that is similar to tissue anchor 40a, as described hereinabove) is
implanted at a second portion of cardiac tissue at a third
implantation site 32. Third implantation site 32 includes a portion
of cardiac tissue in the vicinity of tricuspid valve 4 (e.g., a
second portion of tissue of the annulus of tricuspid valve 4, as
shown). Third implantation site 32, as shown, comprises a portion
of tissue that is between (1) the middle of the junction between
the annulus and anterior leaflet 14, and (2) the middle of the
junction between the annulus and posterior leaflet 16. For some
applications, third implantation site 32 may comprise a second
portion of the wall that defines right atrium 6. For other
applications, third implantation site 32 may comprise a portion of
cardiac tissue in the right ventricle, e.g., a portion of the wall
that defines the right ventricle, a ventricular portion of the
annulus of valve 4, or a portion of a papillary muscle of the right
ventricle.
[0201] Following implantation of third tissue-engaging element 60c,
catheter 22 is retracted and tension is applied to third
tissue-engaging element 60c in a manner as described hereinabove
with reference to FIGS. 1C-D with regard to the application of
tension to implantation site 30. Additionally, tension is applied
to a second longitudinal member 42b which couples third and fourth
tissue-engaging elements 60c and 60d, e.g., in a manner as
described hereinabove with regard to the pulling of first
longitudinal member 42a, with reference to FIG. 1C. As described
herein, a level of regurgitation of valve 4 may be monitored during
the pulling tissue of third implantation site 32 toward second
implantation site 52 and of second longitudinal member 42b.
[0202] Additionally, responsively to the pulling of tissue at first
and third implantation sites 30 and 32 toward second implantation
site 52, anterior leaflet 14 is drawn toward septal leaflet 12, and
bicuspidization is achieved. Also, responsively to the pulling, a
portion of tissue that is between first and third implantation
sites 30 and 32 is cinched.
[0203] Reference is now made to FIG. 2B. Once the physician
determines that the regurgitation of valve 4 is reduced or ceases,
and valve 4 has been repaired, catheter 22 is decoupled from fourth
tissue-engaging element 60d and/or from second longitudinal member
42b, and the physician retracts catheter 22 in order to expose
fourth tissue-engaging element 60d, i.e., second stent 50b, as
shown. During the advancement of catheter 22 toward atrium 6,
second stent 50b is disposed within a distal portion of catheter 22
in a compressed state. Following initial retracting of catheter 22,
second stent 50b is exposed and is allowed to expand within a lumen
of first stent 50a, as shown, in order to contact a wall of
inferior vena cava 8. Responsively to the expanding, second stent
50b is implanted in second implantation site 52 and maintains the
tension of second longitudinal member 42b on second tissue anchor
40b and thereby on the portion of cardiac tissue to which anchor
40b is coupled.
[0204] It is to be noted that second stent 50b is implanted within
the lumen of first stent 50a by way of illustration and not
limitation, and that for some applications of the present
invention, first and second stents 50a and 50b may be implanted
coaxially at second implantation site 52.
[0205] It is to be noted that third and fourth tissue-engaging
elements 60c and 60d and second longitudinal member 42b are
typically fabricated from the same material, e.g., nitinol, from a
single piece. That is, third and fourth tissue-engaging elements
60c and 60d and second longitudinal member 42b typically define a
single continuous implant unit.
[0206] Reference is now made to FIGS. 3A-C, which are schematic
illustrations of a system 110 for repairing tricuspid valve 4,
which comprises first, second, and third tissue-engaging elements
60a, 60b, and 60c, and first and second longitudinal members 42a
and 42b, in accordance with some applications of the present
invention. System 110 is similar to system 100 described
hereinabove with reference to FIGS. 2A-B, with the exception that
system 110 does not comprise second stent 50b; rather, as shown in
FIGS. 3B-C, a proximal end portion 112 of second longitudinal
member 42b is shaped so as to define one or more engaging elements
114 (e.g., hooks or barbs, as shown). Following the implanting of
third tissue-engaging element 60c and the subsequent pulling of
second longitudinal member 42b, catheter 22 facilitates coupling of
engaging elements 114 with the struts of stent 50 (as shown in FIG.
3C which is an enlarged image of stent 50 and the proximal portion
of second longitudinal member 42b of FIG. 3B). The coupling of
engaging elements 114 to stent 50 maintains the tension applied to
longitudinal member 42, and thereby maintains the tension on third
tissue-engaging element 60c in order to maintain the remodeled
state of tricuspid valve 4.
[0207] It is to be noted that third tissue-engaging element 60c,
second longitudinal member 42b, and engaging elements 114 and
proximal end portion 112 of second longitudinal member 42b are
typically fabricated from the same material, e.g., nitinol, from a
single piece. That is, third tissue-engaging element 60c, second
longitudinal member 42b, and engaging elements 114 and proximal end
portion 112 of second longitudinal member 42b typically define a
single continuous implant unit.
[0208] Reference is now made to FIGS. 2A-B and 3A-C. For some
applications, following the implantation the tissue-engaging
elements at their respective implantation sites, as described
hereinabove, a length of each one of first and second longitudinal
members 42a and 42b is adjusted by an adjustable mechanism, as
described hereinbelow with reference to FIGS. 5A-B or 5C. Adjusting
mechanism 150 typically comprises a mechanical element which
shortens a length of each one of first and second longitudinal
members 42a and 42b. For some applications, a respective adjustable
mechanism 150 may be permanently coupled to each one of first and
second longitudinal members 42a and 42b (not shown);
[0209] each mechanism 150 comprises an adjusting element, e.g., a
spool for looping respective portions of longitudinal members 42a
and 42b therearound, a crimping bead for crimping and shortening
respective portions of longitudinal members 42a and 42b, a ratchet
element, or a deforming element which deforms respective portions
of longitudinal members 42a and 42b. For other applications,
adjusting mechanism 150 comprises only adjusting tool 144, as shown
in FIG. 5A. In such applications, adjusting tool 144 may comprise
an adjusting element, e.g., a crimping bead for crimping and
shortening respective portions of longitudinal members 42a and 42b,
or a deforming element which deforms respective portions of
longitudinal members 42a and 42b. In either application, a level of
regurgitation of valve 4 may be monitored during the adjusting of
the respective lengths of first and second longitudinal members 42a
and 42b.
[0210] FIGS. 4A-C show a system 120 for repairing tricuspid valve 4
comprising first and second stents 130 and 132 implanted in
superior vena cava 10 and inferior vena cava, respectively, in
accordance with some applications of the present invention. A
catheter 122 is advanced through vasculature of the patient such
that a distal end 124 of catheter 122 toward superior vena cava 10,
as shown in FIG. 4A. Catheter 122 is advanced from a suitable
access location, e.g., catheter 122 may be introduced into the
femoral vein of the patient, through inferior vena cava 8, and
toward superior vena cava 10. During the advancement of catheter
122 toward superior vena cava 10 and inferior vena cava 8, stents
130 and 132 are disposed within a distal portion of catheter 122 in
a compressed state.
[0211] In FIG. 4B, first stent 130 is deployed from within catheter
122 and expands to contact tissue of a wall of superior vena cava
10. This portion of the wall of the superior vena cava defines
first implantation site 30 in such applications of the present
invention. Additionally, first stent member 130 defines first
tissue-engaging element 60a in such applications of the present
invention. It is to be noted that the portion of superior vena cava
10 in which stent 130 is implanted defines a portion of tissue that
is in the vicinity of valve 4.
[0212] Catheter 122 is then retracted so as to pull and apply
tension to longitudinal member 42. Longitudinal member 42 is pulled
directly by catheter 122 and/or indirectly by pulling stent member
132 disposed within catheter 122. For some applications, during the
pulling, a level of regurgitation of tricuspid valve 4 may be
monitored, because responsively to the pulling, the geometry of the
wall of atrium 6 is altered and the leaflets of tricuspid valve 4
are drawn together so as to reduce and eliminate regurgitation of
valve 4.
[0213] Once the physician determines that the regurgitation of
valve 4 is reduced or ceases, and valve 4 has been repaired, the
physician decouples catheter 122 from second stent member 132
disposed therein and/or from longitudinal member 42, and then
retracts catheter 122 in order to expose second tissue-engaging
element 60b, i.e., second stent member 132, as shown. Following
initial retracting of catheter 122, second stent member 132 is
exposed and is allowed to expand and contact a wall of inferior
vena cava 8, as shown in FIG. 4C. Responsively to the expanding,
second stent member 132 is implanted in second implantation site 52
and maintains the tension of longitudinal member 42 on first stent
member 130 and thereby maintains the altered geometry of the wall
of atrium 6 and of the leaflets of tricuspid valve 4.
[0214] Reference is again made to FIGS. 4A-C. For some
applications, following the deploying of first and second
tissue-engaging elements 60a and 60b (i.e., first and second stents
130 and 132, respectively), a distance between first and second
tissue-engaging elements 60a and 60b is adjusted by an adjustable
mechanism, as described hereinbelow with reference to FIGS. 5A-B or
5C. In such applications, a length of longitudinal member 42
between first and second stents 130 and 132 may be adjusted by an
adjusting mechanism 150, as shown in FIGS. 5A-B or 5C. Adjusting
mechanism 150 typically comprises a mechanical element which
shortens a distance of longitudinal member 42 between first and
second stents 130 and 132. For some applications, adjustable
mechanism 150 may be permanently coupled to longitudinal member 42
(not shown) and comprises an adjusting element, e.g., a spool for
looping portions of longitudinal member 42 therearound, a crimping
bead for crimping and shortening a portion of longitudinal member
42, a ratchet element, or a deforming element which deforms a
portion of longitudinal member 42 in order to shorten its length
between first and second stents 130 and 132. For other
applications, adjusting mechanism 150 comprises only adjusting tool
144, as shown in FIG. 5A. In such applications, adjusting tool 144
may comprise an adjusting element, e.g., a crimping bead for
crimping and shortening a portion of longitudinal member 42, or a
deforming element which deforms a portion of longitudinal member 42
in order to shorten its length between first and second stents 130
and 132. In either application, a level of regurgitation of valve 4
may be monitored during the adjusting of the distance between first
and second tissue-engaging elements 60a and 60b by adjusting
mechanism 150.
[0215] It is to be noted that first and second stents 130 and 132
and longitudinal member 42 are typically fabricated from the same
material, e.g., nitinol, from a single piece. That is, first and
second stents 130 and 132 and longitudinal member 42 typically
define a single continuous implant unit.
[0216] Reference is yet again made to FIGS. 4A-C. It is to be noted
that distal end 124 of catheter 122 may first be advanced toward
inferior vena cava, and not first toward superior vena cava, as
shown in FIG. 4A. In such an embodiment, catheter 122 may be
introduced into the external jugular vein, through the subclavian
vein, through superior vena cava 10, and toward inferior vena cava
8. Alternatively, catheter 122 may be introduced into the basilic
vein, through the subclavian vein, through superior vena cava 10
and toward inferior vena cava 8. It is to be noted that any
suitable access location may be used to introduce catheter 122 into
the vasculature of the patient.
[0217] Reference is still made to FIGS. 4A-C. For some
applications, one or both of stents 130 and/or 132 comprise a
plurality of interconnected superelastic metallic struts, such as
described hereinabove with reference to FIG. 1D. Alternatively or
additionally, for some applications, one or both of stents 130
and/or 132 comprise two or more rings 62, configured as described
hereinabove with reference to FIGS. 1E-G.
[0218] Reference is now made to FIGS. 5A-B, which are schematic
illustrations of a system 140 for repairing tricuspid valve 4
comprising first and second tissue anchors 40a and 40b coupled
together by longitudinal member 42, in accordance with some
applications of the present invention. In such applications, first
tissue anchor 40a defines first tissue-engaging element 60a, and
second tissue anchor 40b defines second tissue-engaging element
60b. Tissue anchors 40a and 40b may comprise any suitable anchor
for puncturing, squeezing, or otherwise engaging cardiac tissue of
the patient. As shown by way of illustration and not limitation,
tissue anchors 40a and 40b comprise helical tissue anchors which
puncture and screw into the cardiac tissue. It is to be noted that
first and second tissue-engaging elements 60a and 60b (i.e., first
and second tissue anchors 40a and 40b) and longitudinal member 42
are fabricated from the same material, e.g., nitinol, from a single
piece. That is, first and second tissue-engaging elements 60a and
60b and longitudinal member 42 define a single continuous implant
unit.
[0219] Catheter 142 is advanced through vasculature of the patient,
in manner as described hereinabove with regard to catheter 22 with
reference to FIG. 1A. Catheter 142 is advanced toward first
implantation site 30 and facilitates implantation of first tissue
anchor 40a in the cardiac tissue. As shown, first implantation site
30 includes a first portion of tissue of the annulus of valve 4 at
the mural side of valve 4, by way of illustration and not
limitation. For some applications, first implantation site 30 may
include a first portion of the wall of atrium 6 of heart 2. As
shown by way of illustration and not limitation, first implantation
site 30 includes a portion of tissue of the annulus at the
commissure between anterior leaflet 14 and posterior leaflet 16. It
is to be noted that first implantation site 30 may be implanted at
any suitable location along and in the vicinity of the annulus of
valve 4.
[0220] Catheter 142 is then advanced toward second implantation
site 52 and facilitates implantation of second tissue anchor 40b in
the cardiac tissue. For some applications, as catheter 142 is
advanced toward second implantation site, longitudinal member 42 is
pulled to draw together the, leaflets of valve 4, while a level of
regurgitation of valve 4 is monitored. As shown, second
implantation site 52 includes a second portion of tissue of the
annulus of valve 4 at the septal side of valve 4, by way of
illustration and not limitation. For some applications, second
implantation site 52 may include a second portion of the wall of
atrium 6 of heart 2. As shown by way of illustration and not
limitation, second implantation site 52 includes a portion of
tissue of the annulus inferior of the middle of septal leaflet 12.
It is to be noted that first implantation site 30 may be implanted
at any suitable location along and in the vicinity of the annulus
of valve 4, e.g., at the commissure between posterior leaflet 16
and septal leaflet 12.
[0221] For such an application, by applying tension to longitudinal
member 42, anterior leaflet 14 and septal leaflet 12 are drawn
together, and bicuspidization of valve 4 is achieved. For some
applications, during the adjusting of mechanism 150, a retrievable
stent may be deployed in inferior vena cava 8 so as to stabilize
system 140 during the adjusting of adjusting mechanism 150. It is
to be further noted that tissue-engaging elements 60a and 60b and
catheter 142 may be advanced toward atrium 6 through superior vena
cava, mutatis mutandis.
[0222] For some applications of the present invention, system 140
comprises one or more anchor-manipulating tools (not shown for
clarity of illustration), that is slidably disposed within catheter
142. The anchor-manipulating tool is slid distally with within
catheter 142 so as to push distally tissue anchors 40a and 40b and
expose tissue anchors 40a and 40b from within catheter 142. For
some applications of the present invention, the anchor-manipulating
tool(s) is(/are) reversibly couplable to anchors 40a and 40b, and
facilitate(s) implantation of anchors 40a and 40b in the cardiac
tissue. For applications in which anchors 40a and 40b comprises
respective helical tissue anchor, as shown, the operating physician
rotates the anchor-manipulating tool(s) from a site outside the
body of the patient in order to rotate anchors 40a and 40b, and
thereby screw at least respective distal portions of anchors 40a
and 40b in the cardiac tissue.
[0223] Reference is again made to FIGS. 5A-B. It is to be noted
that first and second implantation sites 30 and 52 include cardiac
tissue that is upstream of valve 4 by way of illustration and not
limitation, and that either or both first and second implantation
sites may include cardiac tissue that is downstream of valve 4.
[0224] Typically, following implantation of first and second tissue
anchors 40a and 40b, a length of longitudinal member 42, that is
disposed between first and second tissue anchors 40a and 40b, is
adjusted by adjusting mechanism 150. Adjusting mechanism 150
typically comprises a mechanical element which shortens a distance
of longitudinal member 42 between first and second tissue-engaging
elements 60a and 60b. For some applications, adjustable mechanism
150 may be permanently coupled to longitudinal member 42 (as shown
in FIG. 5B) and comprises an adjusting element, e.g., a spool for
looping portions of longitudinal member 42 therearound, a crimping
bead for crimping and shortening a portion of longitudinal member
42, a ratchet element, or a deforming element which deforms a
portion of longitudinal member 42 in order to shorten its length
between first and second tissue-engaging elements 60a and 60b.
[0225] For other applications, adjusting mechanism 150 comprises
only adjusting tool 144, as shown in FIG. 5A. In such applications,
adjusting tool 144 may comprise an adjusting element, e.g., a
crimping bead for crimping and shortening a portion of longitudinal
member 42, or a deforming element which deforms a portion of
longitudinal member 42 in order to shorten its length between first
and second tissue-engaging elements 60a and 60b.
[0226] In either application, a level of regurgitation of valve 4
may be monitored during the adjusting of the distance between first
and second tissue-engaging elements 60a and 60b by adjusting
mechanism 150.
[0227] Following the adjusting of the distance between first and
second implantation sites 30 and 52, adjusting tool 144 and
catheter 142 are decoupled from longitudinal member 42 and are
extracted from the body of the patient.
[0228] Reference is now made to FIG. 5C, which is a schematic
illustration of another configuration of system 140, in accordance
with some applications of the present invention. This configuration
of system 140 is generally similar to the configuration described
above with reference to FIGS. 5A-B, except that the system
comprises a third tissue-engaging element 60c (i.e., a third tissue
anchor), in addition to first and second tissue-engaging elements
60a and 60b. Third tissue-engaging element 60c is implanted at
third implantation site 32, such as using the techniques described
hereinabove with reference to FIGS. 5A-B. For some applications,
third implantation site 32 may include a third portion of the wall
of atrium 6. By way of illustration and not limitation, the three
implantation sites may include portions of tissue of the annulus of
the three leaflets of the valve, such as at the middle of the
leaflets.
[0229] Tissue-engaging elements 60a, 60b, and 60c are coupled to
longitudinal members 42a, 42b, and 42c, respectively. The
longitudinal members are coupled together by adjusting mechanism
150. For some applications, adjusting mechanism 150 comprises a
spool for looping portions of the longitudinal members therearound,
and a ratchet element which allows the spool to rotate in only one
direction. Rotation of the spool loops the longitudinal member
therearound, thereby shortening the effective lengths of the
members and applying tension thereto, to draw the leaflets toward
one another, such as described hereinabove with reference to FIGS.
5A-B. As a result, a geometry of the wall of the right atrium may
be altered.
[0230] Reference is now made to FIG. 6 which is a schematic
illustration of a system 700 for repairing tricuspid valve 4
comprising first tissue-engaging element 60a implanted at a portion
of the annuls of valve 4 and a third tissue-engaging element 60c
implanted at a portion of a papillary muscle 72 in the right
ventricle of the patient, in accordance with some applications of
the present invention. It is to be noted that third implantation
site 32 comprises papillary muscle 72 by way of illustration and
not limitation, and that third implantation site 32 may comprise
any potion of a wall of the right ventricle (e.g., a portion of
tissue of the annulus at the ventricular surface of valve 4, a
portion of the wall of the ventricle in the vicinity of valve 4, a
portion of tissue in the vicinity of the apex of heart 2, or any
other suitable portion of the wall of the ventricle).
[0231] Reference is now made to FIGS. 2A-B and 6. First, second,
and third tissue-engaging elements 60a-c of FIG. 6 are implanted in
cardiac tissue in a manner as described hereinabove with reference
to FIGS. 2A-B, with the exception that, in order to implant third
tissue-engaging element 60c, catheter 22 passes through the
leaflets of valve 4 into the right ventricle and implants third
tissue-engaging element 60c in tissue of the ventricle. Following
coupled of third tissue-engaging element 60c in FIG. 6, second
stent 50b is deployed in second implantation site 52 in inferior
vena cava 8, as described hereinabove with reference to FIG.
2B.
[0232] Reference is now made to FIGS. 3A-C and 6. It is to be
noted, that for some applications, second longitudinal member 42b
is coupled at a proximal end thereof to one or more barbs 114
(i.e., and is not connected to second stent 50, as shown). Barbs
114 enable second longitudinal member 42b to be coupled to stent 50
that is in connection with first longitudinal member 42a, and
thereby maintain tension on third implantation site 32 and maintain
coaptation of at least anterior leaflet 14 and septal leaflet
12.
[0233] Reference is again made to FIG. 6. Such an application of at
least one tissue-engaging element 60 in a portion of tissue of the
ventricle of heart 2, in some applications, facilitates independent
adjustment of valve 4 and a portion of the ventricle wall of heart
2. That is, for some application, geometric adjustment of the right
ventricle to improve its function is achieved.
[0234] For some applications, following the deploying of first,
second, third, and fourth tissue-engaging elements 60a-d (i.e.,
first and second anchors 40a and 40b, and first and second stents
50a and 50b), (1) a distance between first and second
tissue-engaging elements 60a and 60b is adjustable by first
adjustable mechanism, and (2) a distance between third and fourth
tissue-engaging elements 60c and 60d is adjustable by a second
adjustable mechanism, as described hereinbelow with reference to
FIGS. 5A-B or 5C. In such applications, (1) a length of first
longitudinal member 42a between first and second tissue-engaging
elements 60a and 60b may be adjusted by a first adjusting mechanism
150, as shown in FIGS. 5A-B or 5C, and (2) a length of second
longitudinal member 42b between third and fourth tissue-engaging
elements 60c and 60d may be adjusted by a second adjusting
mechanism 150, as shown in FIGS. 5A-B or 5C. Adjusting mechanisms
150 typically each comprise a mechanical element which shortens a
distance of respective longitudinal members 42a and 42b. For some
applications, adjustable mechanisms 150 may be permanently coupled
to respective longitudinal members 42a and 42b (not shown) and each
comprise an adjusting element, e.g., a spool for looping portions
of longitudinal members 42a and 42b therearound, a crimping bead
for crimping and shortening respective portions of longitudinal
members 42a and 42b, a ratchet element, or a deforming element
which deforms respective portions of longitudinal members 42a and
42b in order to shorten its length between the respective
tissue-engaging elements 60. For other applications, adjusting
mechanisms 150 each comprise only adjusting tool 144, as shown in
FIG. 5A. In such applications, adjusting tool 144 may comprise an
adjusting element, e.g., a crimping bead for crimping and
shortening respective portions of longitudinal members 42a and 42b,
or a deforming element which deforms respective portions of
longitudinal members 42a and 42b. In either application, a level of
regurgitation of valve 4 may be monitored and the adjustment of the
geometry of the right ventricle is monitored during (1) the
adjusting of the distance between first and second implantation
sites 30 and 52, and (2) the adjusting of the distance between
third and second implantation sites 32 and 52, respectively.
[0235] Reference is now made to FIGS. 8A-E and 9A-E, which are
schematic illustrations of a system 800 for repairing tricuspid
valve 4, in accordance with respective applications of the present
invention. As perhaps best seen in FIGS. 8E and 9E, system 800
comprises first, second, third, and fourth tissue-engaging elements
60a, 60b, 60c, and 60d. System 800 is similar in some respects to
system 110 described hereinabove with reference to FIGS. 3A-B, with
the exception that system 800 typically comprises only exactly one
longitudinal member 42. Typically, longitudinal member 42 is
directly coupled to first tissue-engaging element 60a, and
indirectly coupled to tissue-engaging elements 60c and 60d by a
longitudinal sub-member 802. Typically, one end of longitudinal
sub-member 802 is coupled to tissue-engaging element 60c, and the
other end of the sub-member is coupled to tissue-engaging element
60d. For some applications, as shown, longitudinal member 42 is not
fixed to longitudinal sub-member 802; instead, longitudinal
sub-member 802 engages, e.g., is hooked on or looped over,
longitudinal member 42, at a junction 804 during deployment of the
longitudinal sub-member, as described hereinbelow with reference to
FIGS. 8C-E and 9C-E. Alternatively, a ring is provided that couples
the longitudinal sub-member to the longitudinal member
(configuration not shown).
[0236] FIGS. 8A-E illustrate a superior vena cava approach, in
which tissue-engaging elements 60a, 60c, and 60d are advanced into
atrium 6 via superior vena cava 10, and tissue-engaging element 60b
is deployed in the superior vena cava. FIGS. 9A-E illustrate an
inferior vena cava approach, in which tissue-engaging elements 60a,
60c, and 60d are advanced into atrium 6 via inferior vena cava 8,
and tissue-engaging element 60b is deployed in the inferior vena
cava. Typically, one of tissue-engaging elements 60a, 60c, and 60d
is deployed at the septal side of tricuspid valve 4 in the caudal
part of the base of the septal leaflet, and the other two of
tissue-engaging elements 60a, 60c, and 60d are deployed at the
mural side of the valve, dividing the entire mural side in three
equal spaces, generally at the middle of anterior leaflet and the
commissure between the anterior and posterior leaflets. For some
applications, yet another tissue-engaging element is deployed at
the mural side of the valve (configuration not shown).
[0237] As shown in FIGS. 8A and 9A, anchor-deployment tube 24 is
deployed into atrium 6, for example, using techniques described
hereinabove with reference to FIG. 1A. First tissue-engaging
element 60a is deployed at first implantation site 30, such as
using anchoring techniques described herein. First implantation
site 30 includes a portion of cardiac tissue in the vicinity of
tricuspid valve 4 (e.g., a first portion of tissue of the annulus
of tricuspid valve 4, as shown). For example, in the approach shown
in FIG. 8A, first implantation site 30 may be on the mural side of
the annulus of the valve (e.g., at anterior leaflet 14),
approximately centered between two of the commissures of the valve.
In the approach shown in FIG. 9A, first implantation site 30 may be
on the mural side of the annulus (e.g., at posterior leaflet 16),
approximately centered between two of the commissures of the valve.
Alternatively, although typically less desirable, first
implantation site 30 may be approximately at a commissure of the
valve.
[0238] As shown in FIGS. 8B and 9B, the distal end of
anchor-deployment tube 24 is advanced to third implantation site
32. Third tissue-engaging element 60c is deployed at third
implantation site 32, such as using anchoring techniques described
herein. Third implantation site 32 includes a portion of cardiac
tissue in the vicinity of tricuspid valve 4 (e.g., a second portion
of tissue of the annulus of tricuspid valve 4, as shown). For
example, in the approach shown in FIG. 8B, third implantation site
32 may be on the mural side of the annulus of the valve (e.g., at
posterior leaflet 16), approximately centered between two of the
commissures of the valve. In the approach shown in FIG. 9B, third
implantation site 32 may be on the mural side of the annulus of the
valve (e.g., at anterior leaflet 14), approximately centered
between two of the commissures of the valve. Alternatively,
although typically less desirable, third implantation site 32 may
be approximately at a commissure of the valve.
[0239] As shown in FIGS. 8C and 9C, the distal end of
anchor-deployment tube 24 is advanced to a fourth implantation site
34. As mentioned above, longitudinal sub-member 802 extends between
tissue-engaging elements 60c and 60d. As fourth tissue-engaging
element 60d is brought to fourth implantation site 34, longitudinal
sub-member 802 engages, e.g., becomes hooked on or looped over,
longitudinal member 42 at junction 804. Fourth tissue-engaging
element 60d is deployed at fourth implantation site 34, such as
using anchoring techniques described herein. Fourth implantation
site 34 includes a portion of cardiac tissue in the vicinity of
tricuspid valve 4 (e.g., a second portion of tissue of the annulus
of tricuspid valve 4, as shown). For example, in the approaches
shown in FIGS. 8C and 9C, fourth implantation site 34 may be on
septal side of the annulus of the valve (e.g., at the caudal part
of the base of septal leaflet 12, approximately centered between
two of the commissures of the valve. Alternatively, although
typically less desirable, fourth implantation site 34 may be
approximately at a commissure of the valve.
[0240] As shown in FIGS. 8D and 9D, anchor-deployment tube 24 is
withdrawn into the vena cava. Second tissue-engaging element 60b
(stent 50) pulls on longitudinal member 42, which directly pulls on
first tissue-engaging element 60a, and indirectly pulls on
tissue-engaging elements 60c and 60d via longitudinal sub-member
802. Responsively, a distance between the leaflets of tricuspid
valve 4 is adjusted to reduce and eliminate regurgitation through
valve 4, and thereby, valve 4 is repaired. For some applications,
during the pulling of longitudinal member 42, a level of
regurgitation of tricuspid valve 4 is monitored. Longitudinal
member 42 is pulled until the regurgitation is reduced or ceases.
Once the physician determines that the regurgitation of valve 4 is
reduced or ceases, and valve 4 has been repaired, second
tissue-engaging element 60b (e.g., stent 50) is deployed from
anchor-deployment tube 24 in the vena cava, such as described
hereinabove, thereby implanting the tissue-engaging element at
second implantation site 52, as shown in FIGS. 8E and 9E.
[0241] For some applications, stent 50 comprises a plurality of
interconnected superelastic metallic struts, such as described
hereinabove with reference to FIG. 1D. Alternatively or
additionally, for some applications, stent 50 comprise two or more
rings 62, configured as described hereinabove with reference to
FIGS. 1E-G.
[0242] For some applications, following the implantation the
tissue-engaging elements at their respective implantation sites, as
described hereinabove, a length of longitudinal member 42 is
adjusted by an adjustable mechanism, as described hereinabove with
reference to FIGS. 5A-B or 5C. Adjusting mechanism 150 typically
comprises a mechanical element which shortens a length of
longitudinal member 42. For some applications, adjustable mechanism
150 may be permanently coupled to longitudinal member 42; mechanism
150 comprises an adjusting element, e.g., a spool for looping a
portion of longitudinal member 42 therearound, a crimping bead for
crimping and shortening the portion of longitudinal member 42, a
ratchet element, or a deforming element which deforms the portion
of longitudinal member 42. For other applications, adjusting
mechanism 150 comprises only adjusting tool 144, as shown in FIG.
5A. In such applications, adjusting tool 144 may comprise an
adjusting element, e.g., a crimping bead for crimping and
shortening the portion of longitudinal member 42, or a deforming
element which deforms the portion of longitudinal member 42. In
either application, a level of regurgitation of valve 4 may be
monitored during the adjusting of the length of longitudinal member
42.
[0243] Reference is now made to FIGS. 10A-B, which are schematic
illustrations of a rotation tool 900, in accordance with an
application of the present invention. Tool 900 may be used to
rotate a tissue anchor for driving the anchor into tissue. Tool 900
may be used, for example, to rotate and implant an anchor in
combination with the applications described herein with reference
to FIGS. 1A-G, 2A-B, 3A-C, 5A-C, 6, 8A-E, 9A-E, 11A-B, 12A-D,
and/or 14A-D. Tool 900 is similar is some respect to delivery tool
system 200, described hereinabove with reference to FIGS. 7A-D, and
may optionally implement various features of system 200, and/or be
utilized in a manner similar to system 200.
[0244] Tool 900 comprises a rotation tube 902, a distal end 904 of
which is configured to removably engage a proximal coupling head
906 of anchor 40. Rotation of rotation tube 902 rotates the anchor.
For example, distal end 904 may be shaped so as to define a female
coupling member (which may, for example, be hexagonal or square),
and proximal coupling head 906 may be shaped so as to define a male
coupling element (which may, for example, be hexagonal or square).
For some applications, rotation tube 902 comprises a braided or
woven material, which may comprise, for example, a metal, such as
stainless steel.
[0245] For some applications, such as described hereinabove with
reference to FIGS. 7A-D, a distal end of longitudinal member 42
comprises annular loop 216, through which a portion of anchor 40 is
coupled to the distal end of longitudinal member 42. This coupling
arrangement of anchor 40 to annular loop 216 enables anchor 40 to
rotate about a central longitudinal axis of rotation tool 900,
freely within annular loop 216. That is, rotation tool 900 rotates
anchor 40 without rotating longitudinal member 42 and stent 50 (if
provided, such as described with reference to FIGS. 7A-D).
[0246] For some applications, tool 900 further comprises an
elongated coupling element 910, which may comprise, for example, a
string, cable, or wire. Anchor 40, such as proximal coupling head
906 thereof, is shaped so as to define a passage 912 therethrough.
Elongated coupling element 910 is initially disposed so as to pass
through passage 912, such that both ends 914 of the elongated
coupling element extend in a proximal direction. When thus
positioned, the elongated coupling element couples the tool to the
anchor. To decouple the tool from the anchor, one of ends 914 is
pulled until the elongated coupling element no longer passes
through passage 912.
[0247] Reference is now made to FIGS. 11A-B and 12A-D, which are
schematic illustrations of a system 950 for repairing tricuspid
valve 4, in accordance with some applications of the present
invention. System 950 typically comprises a tensioning device 952
and a deployment tube 954. For some applications, tube 954 is
steerable, as is known in the catheter art, while for other
applications, a separate steerable element may be coupled to tube
954. FIGS. 11A-B show system 950 with tensioning device 952
partially and fully deployed from deployment of deployment tube
954, respectively, and FIGS. 12A-B and 12C-D show two exemplary
procedures for deploying tensioning device 952.
[0248] As shown in FIGS. 11A-B, tensioning device 952 comprises a
first distal tissue-engaging element 60a and a second proximal
tissue-engaging element 60b, and at least one flexible longitudinal
member 42 that connects the tissue-engaging elements. First
tissue-engaging element comprises tissue anchor 40, which is shown,
by way of illustration, as comprising a helical tissue anchor.
Anchor 40 may comprise any tissue anchor for puncturing or clamping
cardiac tissue, including, but not limited to, the tissue anchors
described hereinbelow with reference to FIGS. 13A-E. Second
tissue-engaging element 60b comprises a radially-expandable anchor
956 that is configured to assume radially-compressed and
radially-expanded state. When in its radially-expanded state, such
as shown in FIG. 11B, anchor 956 is configured to rest against a
wall of a cardiac chamber and to not pass through a hole in the
cardiac wall. For example, when in its radially-expanded state,
anchor 956 may be shaped like a flower or butterfly, and thus may
be shaped so as to define a plurality of petals or wings.
Typically, anchor 956 is configured to generally fall within
exactly one plane when in its radially-expanded state.
[0249] Longitudinal member 42 passes through an opening defined by
anchor 956, such that anchor 956 is slidably coupled to
longitudinal member 42. Typically, a distance between first and
second tissue-engaging elements 60a and 60b is adjusted by pulling
longitudinal member 42 through the opening of anchor 956, which
opening is typically positioned at a radial center of the
anchor.
[0250] Once a desired distance has been obtained, the distance is
maintained by locking anchor 956 to longitudinal member 42, so as
to prevent movement of anchor 956 with respect to longitudinal
member 42 at least in a proximal direction (away from distal
tissue-engaging element 60a). For some applications, such as for
deployment as described hereinbelow with reference to FIGS. 12C-D,
at least a portion of longitudinal member 42 is shaped so as to
define ratchet teeth 958, which engage anchor 956 so as to allow
movement of anchor 956 with respect to longitudinal member 42 in a
distal direction (toward first distal tissue-engaging element 60a),
while preventing movement of anchor 956 with respect to
longitudinal member 42 in a proximal direction (away from distal
tissue-engaging element 60a). For other applications, such as for
deployment as described hereinbelow with reference to FIGS. 12C-D,
longitudinal member 42 is configured to move bidirectionally
through anchor 956, and anchor 956 is configured to crimp
longitudinal member 42 in place after the desired distance has been
obtained, in order to lock anchor 956 to longitudinal member 42.
For still other applications, such as for deployment as described
hereinbelow with reference to FIGS. 12A-B, longitudinal member 42
is fixed to anchor 956, such as shown in FIG. 12B.
[0251] For some applications, first tissue-engaging element 60a and
longitudinal member 42 are fabricated from the same material, e.g.,
nitinol, from a single piece. Typically, second tissue-engaging
element 60b is fabricated from a second piece, and may comprise a
shape-memory alloy, such as nitinol.
[0252] Reference is again made to FIGS. 12A-B, which illustrate a
procedure for deploying tensioning device via a vena cava, such as
superior vena cava 10 (as shown), or inferior vena cava 8 (approach
not shown). Tensioning device 952 is initially positioned within
deployment tube 954. For some applications, as shown in FIG. 12A,
during an implantation procedure, deployment tube 954 is advanced
into right atrium 6.
[0253] As shown in FIG. 12A, first distal tissue-engaging element
60a is deployed at first implantation site 30, such as using
anchoring techniques described herein. First implantation site 30
includes a portion of cardiac tissue in the vicinity of tricuspid
valve 4 (e.g., a first portion of tissue of the annulus of
tricuspid valve 4, as shown). For example, first implantation site
30 may be on the mural side of the annulus (e.g., at posterior
leaflet 16), approximately centered between two of the commissures
of the valve. Alternatively, first implantation site 30 may be
approximately at a commissure of the valve.
[0254] Prior to introducing the device, a hole is made in
interatrial septum 362, typically using a separate perforation
tool, such as a standard transeptal needle and kit. Deployment tube
954 is advanced to the right-atrial side of the hole (or,
optionally, slightly through the hole), and second proximal
tissue-engaging element 60b in the left atrium near septum 362, as
shown in FIG. 12B. Typically, anchor 956 of second tissue-engaging
element 60b self-expands upon being released from the deployment
tube.
[0255] A distance between first and second implantation sites 30
and 52 is adjusted, such as by pulling longitudinal member 42 in a
proximal direction (toward the vena cava). The decreased distance,
and resulting increased tension, is maintained, such as using a
locking mechanism 962. (For example, longitudinal member 42 may be
tensioned by depressing a button of the locking mechanism and
pulling the longitudinal member from the side of anchor 40; a
spring may hold the button in a locked position when the button is
not depressed.) Responsively, a distance between the leaflets of
tricuspid valve 4 is adjusted to reduce and eliminate regurgitation
through valve 4, and thereby, valve 4 is repaired. Optionally, a
level of regurgitation of valve 4 may be monitored during the
adjusting of the distance. Deployment tube 954 is withdrawn from
the left atrium and the patient's body.
[0256] Alternatively, for some applications, a length of
longitudinal member 42 is adjusted by an adjustable mechanism, as
described hereinabove with reference to FIGS. 5A-B or 5C. Adjusting
mechanism 150 typically comprises a mechanical element which
shortens a length of longitudinal member 42. For some applications,
adjustable mechanism 150 may be permanently coupled to longitudinal
member 42; mechanism 150 comprises an adjusting element, e.g., a
spool for looping a portion of longitudinal member 42 therearound,
a crimping bead for crimping and shortening the portion of
longitudinal member 42, a ratchet element, or a deforming element
which deforms the portion of longitudinal member 42. For other
applications, adjusting mechanism 150 comprises only adjusting tool
144, as shown in FIG. 5A. In such applications, adjusting tool 144
may comprise an adjusting element, e.g., a crimping bead for
crimping and shortening the portion of longitudinal member 42, or a
deforming element which deforms the portion of longitudinal member
42.
[0257] Alternatively, second proximal tissue-engaging element 60b
is deployed before first distal tissue-engaging element 60a.
[0258] Reference is again made to FIGS. 12C-D, which illustrate a
procedure for deploying tensioning device via a left atrium 960.
Tensioning device 952 is initially positioned within deployment
tube 954, such that first distal tissue-engaging element 60a is
positioned near a distal end 959 of tube 954 and second proximal
tissue-engaging element 60b is positioned more proximally within
the tube, farther from the distal end thereof. For some
applications, as shown in FIG. 12C, during an implantation
procedure, deployment tube 954 is advanced into a left atrium 960.
For example, the tube may be advanced to the left atrium via the
aorta and left ventricle, as shown in the figure (the aorta may be
accessed from the femoral artery or subclavian artery, for
example). Alternatively, the tube may be advanced to the left
atrium using a transapical approach through the left ventricle, as
is known in the art.
[0259] Prior to introducing the device, a hole is made in
interatrial septum 362, typically using a separate perforation
tool, such as a standard transeptal needle and kit. Deployment tube
954 is advanced through the hole, until distal end 959 of the tube
is positioned within right atrium 6, as shown in FIG. 12C.
[0260] As also shown in FIG. 12C, first distal tissue-engaging
element 60a is deployed at first implantation site 30, such as
using anchoring techniques described herein. First implantation
site 30 includes a portion of cardiac tissue in the vicinity of
tricuspid valve 4 (e.g., a first portion of tissue of the annulus
of tricuspid valve 4, as shown). For example, first implantation
site 30 may be on the mural side of the annulus (e.g., at posterior
leaflet 16), approximately centered between two of the commissures
of the valve. Alternatively, first implantation site 30 may be
approximately at a commissure of the valve.
[0261] Deployment tube 954 is withdrawn proximally into left atrium
960, thereby releasing second proximal tissue-engaging element 60b
in the left atrium near septum 362, as shown in FIG. 12D.
Typically, anchor 956 of second tissue-engaging element 60b
self-expands upon being released from the deployment tube. Anchor
956 of second tissue-engaging element 60b is held, such as using
distal end 959 of deployment tube 954, at second implantation site
52 against the left-atrial side of septum 362 around the hole
previously made in the septum. A distance between first and second
implantation sites 30 and 52 is adjusted by pulling longitudinal
member 42 in a proximal direction (toward left atrium 960), while
holding anchor 956 against the left-atrial side of the septum, such
as using distal end 959 of deployment tube 954. The decreased
distance, and resulting increased tension, is maintained, such as
described hereinabove with reference to FIGS. 11A-B. Responsively,
a distance between the leaflets of tricuspid valve 4 is adjusted to
reduce and eliminate regurgitation through valve 4, and thereby,
valve 4 is repaired. Optionally, a level of regurgitation of valve
4 may be monitored during the adjusting of the distance. Deployment
tube 954 is withdrawn from the left atrium and the patient's
body.
[0262] Reference is now made to FIGS. 13A-E, which are schematic
illustration of tissue anchors 40, in accordance with respective
applications of the present invention. One or more of these anchors
may be used as anchors 40 in the applications described hereinabove
with reference to FIGS. 1A-G, 2A-B, 3A-C, 5A-C, 6, 8A-E, 9A-E,
10A-B, 11A-B, 12A-D, and/or 14A-D.
[0263] In the configuration shown in FIG. 13A, anchor 40 comprises
a helical tissue-coupling element 970 fixed to coupling head 906.
Optionally, anchor 40, such as coupling head 906, is shaped so as
to define passage 912, such as for use with the techniques
described hereinabove with reference to FIGS. 10A-B. For some
applications, a length L1 of tissue-coupling element 970 is at
least 5 mm, no more than 30 mm, and/or between 5 and 30 mm, such as
10 mm.
[0264] In the configuration shown in FIG. 13B, anchor 40 comprises
a distal tissue-piercing tip 972 fixed to a plurality of arms 974,
which extend from tip 972 in respective generally distal and
radially-outward directions. The arms are inserted entirely into
the tissue, thereby helping to couple the anchor to the tissue. For
some applications, a greatest width W1 of anchor 40 is at least 6.5
mm, no more than 39 mm, and/or between 6.5 and 39 mm, such as 13
mm. For some applications, a length L2 of anchor 40, measured along
an axis of the anchor from tips of arms 974 to the end of tip 972
of the anchor, is at least 5 mm, no more than 30 mm, and/or between
5 and 30 mm, such as 10 mm. For some applications, a greatest
diameter D1 of tip 972 is at least 1 mm, no more than 6 mm, and/or
between 1 and 6 mm, such as 2 mm.
[0265] In the configurations shown in FIGS. 13C and 13D, anchor 40
is configured to radially contract and expand in a manner generally
similar to that of an umbrella (but without the umbrella cloth).
The anchor is inserted into the tissue in a radially-contracted
(closed) state, and is transitioned to a radially-expanded (open)
state, either automatically or by the surgeon, in order to fix the
anchor within the tissue. For some applications, such as shown in
FIG. 13C, the anchor is configured to assume the radially-expanded
state when resting; the anchor is held in a radially-contracted
state during deployment, and transitions to the radially-expanded
state upon being released. For other applications, such as shown in
FIG. 13D, the anchor is configured to assume the
radially-contracted state when resting; the anchor is deployed in
the radially-contracted state, and is actively transitioned to the
radially-expanded state by the surgeon after being inserted into
the tissue.
[0266] Anchor 40 comprises distal tissue-piercing tip 972, which is
fixed at a distal end of a post 976 (which typically comprises a
tube). The anchor further comprises a plurality of ribs 978 (e.g.,
three or four). Ribs 978 are coupled to the anchor near distal tip
972, such that the ribs can articulate with post 796, thereby
changing respective angles between the ribs and the post. The
anchor further comprises a runner 980 (which typically comprises a
tube), which is slidably coupled to post 976, such that the runner
can slide along the post. A plurality of stretchers 982 are coupled
to runner 980 and respective ones of the ribs, such that stretchers
can articulate with the runner and the respective ribs. Each of the
stretchers may comprise one or more elongated elements; by way of
example, each of the stretchers is shown comprising two elongated
elements. Typically, tips 984 of ribs 978 (i.e., at the ends not
coupled to the anchor) are blunt.
[0267] For some applications, such as the configuration shown in
FIG. 13C, the anchor at least partially comprises a shape-memory
alloy (e.g., nitinol), and the anchor's natural, resting state is
the radially-expanded (open) state. The anchor is crimped inside a
catheter so that it remains radially-contracted (closed) until
deployed. Once deployed into the tissue, the catheter is pulled
back and the anchor is allowed to open (i.e., automatically
transition to the radially-expanded state).
[0268] For some applications, in order to allow retraction of the
anchor (such as if the anchor has been improperly positioned, or
needs to be removed for another reason), the proximal end of runner
980 (i.e., the end farther from tip 972) is removably coupled to an
inner tube positioned within the catheter. For example, an outer
surface of the proximal end of runner 980 and an inner surface of
the inner tube near a distal end thereof may be threaded, to enable
the removable coupling. Runner 980 thus remains coupled to the
inner tube until released, such as by rotating the inner tube with
respect to the runner (the tissue prevents the runner from also
rotating). In order to retract the anchor, post 976 is pushed in a
distal direction while the runner is still coupled to the inner
tube, thereby moving post 976 with respect to runner 980 and
transitioning the anchor back to its radially-contracted (closed)
state. The anchor can thus be withdrawn into the catheter,
repositioned, and deployed again at a different location. The
surgeon rotates the inner tube to decouple the anchor once the
location of the anchor has been finalized.
[0269] For some applications, in the configuration shown in FIG.
13D, anchor 40 further comprises a tube positioned around post 976,
proximal to runner 980 (i.e., farther from tip 972). The tube is
used to push runner 980 in a distal direction (toward the tip), in
order to open the umbrella.
[0270] For some applications, a greatest width W2 of anchor 40,
when radially expanded, is at least 6.5 mm, no more than 39 mm,
and/or between 6.5 and 39 mm, such as 13 mm. For some applications,
a length L3 of anchor 40, measured along an axis of the anchor from
tips 984 of ribs 978 to the end of tip 972 of the anchor when the
anchor is radially expanded, is at least 5 mm, no more than 30 mm,
and/or between 5 and 30 mm, such as 10 mm. For some applications, a
greatest diameter D2 of tip 972 is at least 0.4 mm, no more than
2.4 mm, and/or between 0.4 and 2.4 mm, such as 0.8 mm. For some
applications, a greatest diameter D3 of post 976 is at least 0.3
mm, no more than 1.8 mm, and/or between 0.3 and 1.8 mm, such as 0.6
mm. For some applications, each of ribs 978 has a length of at
least 6 mm, no more than 20 mm, and/or between 6 and 20 mm, such as
10 mm.
[0271] In the configuration shown in FIG. 13E, anchor 40 is barbed.
For example, the anchor may be generally flat, and is shaped so as
to define one or more barbs 990, which typically extend from both
sides of the anchor. The barbs help couple the anchor to the
tissue. For some applications, a greatest width W3 of anchor 40,
excluding barbs 990, is at least 0.85 mm, no more than 5.1 mm,
and/or between 0.85 and 5.1 mm, such as 1.7 mm For some
applications, a greatest width W4 of anchor 40, including barbs
990, is at least 1.25 mm, no more than 7.5 mm, and/or between 1.25
and 7.5 mm, such as 2.5 mm. For some applications, a length L4 of
anchor 40, measured along an axis of the anchor from a distal end
of the barbed portion to the proximal tip of the anchor, is at
least 5 mm, no more than 30 mm, and/or between 5 and 30 mm, such as
9.5 mm. For some applications, a greatest thickness T of anchor 40
is at least 0.1 mm, no more than 0.6 mm, and/or between 0.1 and 0.6
mm, such as 0.2 mm.
[0272] Reference is now made to FIGS. 14A-D, which are schematic
illustrations of a system 1000 for reducing regurgitation of a
heart valve, such as tricuspid valve 4, and an exemplary deployment
procedure, in accordance with some applications of the present
invention. System 1000 comprises first and second tissue-engaging
elements 60a and 60b, which comprise first and second tissue
anchors 40a and 40b, respectively. It is to be noted that tissue
anchors 40a and 40b comprise a helical tissue anchors by way of
illustration and not limitation and that tissue anchors 40a and 40b
may comprise any tissue anchor for puncturing or clamping cardiac
tissue, including, but not limited to, the tissue anchors described
hereinbelow with reference to FIGS. 13A-E, modified as described
hereinbelow. First and second tissue anchors 40a and 40b are
configured to be directly coupled to each other during an
implantation procedure. For example, one of the tissue anchors
(e.g., first tissue anchor 40a) may comprise a male coupling
element 1002, and the other (e.g., second tissue anchor 40b) may
comprise a female coupling element 1004 (shown in FIG. 14D).
[0273] FIG. 14A shows the advancement of catheter 22 toward atrium
6 until distal end of the catheter is disposed within atrium 6.
This portion of the procedure may be performed using techniques
described hereinabove with reference to FIGS. 1A and 1E. Although
the catheter is shown advanced through superior vena cava 10, the
catheter may also be introduced through inferior vena cava 8. Once
the distal end of catheter 22 is disposed within atrium 6,
anchor-deployment tube 24 is extended from within catheter 22
toward first implantation site 30. Anchor-deployment tube 24 holds
first tissue anchor 40a and at least a portion of a longitudinal
member 1010, such as a wire, which is coupled to the anchor,
typically removably. For some applications, tube 24 is steerable,
as is known in the catheter art, while for other applications, a
separate steerable element may be coupled to anchor-deployment tube
24. Under the aid of imaging guidance, anchor-deployment tube 24 is
advanced toward first implantation site 30 until a distal end
thereof contacts cardiac tissue of heart 2 at first implantation
site 30. Anchor-deployment tube 24 facilitates atraumatic
advancement of first tissue-engaging element 60a toward first
implantation site 30.
[0274] First implantation site 30 is typically on the annulus of
the valve. For example, first implantation site 30 may be on the
annulus in the area between the coronary sinus and the base of
septal leaflet 12, as shown. Alternatively, for example, first
implantation site 30 may be on the annulus in the area of the
antero-posterior commissure. Anchor 40a is fixed to the cardiac
tissue, such as using techniques described hereinabove with
reference to FIGS. 1B and 1E. Longitudinal member 1010 is typically
removably coupled to anchor 40a, typically extending from male
coupling element 1010, as shown in FIG. 14A.
[0275] Anchor-deployment tube 24 is withdrawn from the atrium, as
shown in FIG. 14B, leaving first tissue anchor 40a implanted in the
annulus.
[0276] Second tissue anchor 40b is threaded onto longitudinal
member 1010, by passing a proximal end of the longitudinal member
(not shown) through a passage 1012 defined by anchor 40b. For some
applications, a portion of passage 1012 is shaped so as to define
female coupling element 1004. Second anchor 40b is loaded in
anchor-deployment tube 24, or another anchor-deployment tube
similar to anchor-deployment tube 24, which is advanced toward
second implantation site 52 until a distal end thereof contacts
cardiac tissue of heart 2 at first implantation site 52.
[0277] Second implantation site 52 is typically on the annulus of
the valve. For example, second implantation site 52 may be on the
annulus in the area of the antero-posterior commissure, as shown.
Alternatively, for example, second implantation site 52 may be on
the annulus in the area between the coronary sinus and the base of
septal leaflet 12. As shown in FIG. 14C, second anchor 40b is fixed
to the cardiac tissue, such as using techniques described
hereinabove with reference to FIGS. 1B and 1E.
[0278] Tension is applied to longitudinal member 1010, by pulling
the longitudinal member in a proximal direction, as schematically
indicated by arrows 1014 in the blow-up in FIG. 14C. The resulting
tension approximates first and second anchors 40a and 40b, as shown
in blow-ups "A" in FIG. 14D, until the anchors are brought
together, as shown in blow-ups "B" in FIG. 14D. Bringing the
anchors together causes male coupling. element 1002 of first anchor
40a to engage female coupling element 1004 of second anchor 40b,
thereby directly coupling (i.e., locking) the anchors to each
other. Drawing the anchors together draws the portions of the
annulus to which they are coupled together, thereby achieving
bicuspidization. For example, as shown in FIG. 14D, septal leaflet
12 and posterior leaflet 16 are drawn together. Typically, as shown
in blow-ups "B" in FIG. 14D, longitudinal member 1010 is decoupled
from first anchor 40a, such as by unscrewing the longitudinal
member from the anchor, or using another decoupling technique.
Alternatively, the longitudinal member is left coupled to the first
anchor, and is cut off in the atrium.
[0279] Reference is now made to FIGS. 1A-G, 2A-B, 3A-C, 4A-C, 5A-C,
6, 7A-D, 8A-E, 9A-E, 10A-B, 11A-B, 12A-D, 13A-E, and 14A-D. It is
to be noted that apparatus and methods described herein for
repairing tricuspid valve 4 may also be applied to repair any other
heart valve of the patient, e.g., a mitral valve, a pulmonary
valve, or an aortic valve. For such applications, second
implantation site 52 may include a portion of a blood vessel that
is in contact with the left atrium of the patient, e.g., a
pulmonary vein, a portion of the wall of the left atrium, a portion
of the annulus of the mitral valve, or a portion of the left
ventricle of the heart of the patient, and first implantation site
30 may include a portion of the wall of the left atrium, a portion
of the annulus of the mitral valve, or a portion of the left
ventricle of the heart of the patient.
[0280] Reference is again made to FIGS. 1A-G, 2A-B, 3A-C, 4A-C,
5A-C, 6, 7A-D, 8A-E, 9A-E, 10A-B, 11A-B, 12A-D, 13A-E, and 14A-D.
It is to be noted that any suitable number of tissue-engaging
elements 60 may be implanted in and/or grasp cardiac tissue,
depending on the needs of a given patient. Typically, one or more
tissue-engaging elements 60 is/are implanted in cardiac tissue
(e.g., tissue of the annulus, tissue of the wall of the atrium
adjacent the valve, or tissue of the wall of the ventricle adjacent
the valve) in a vicinity of the valve that is between the middle of
the anterior leaflet and the middle of the posterior leaflet, e.g.,
at the commissure between the middle of the anterior leaflet and
the middle of the posterior leaflet. For such an application,
pulling together implantation sites 30 and 52 pulls anterior
leaflet 14 toward septal leaflet 12 and thereby achieves
bicuspidization of tricuspid valve 4. It is to be noted, however,
that tissue engaging elements 60 may be implanted in portions of
tissue in the vicinity of any portion of the annulus of valve
4.
[0281] Reference is yet again made to FIGS. 1A-G, 2A-B, 3A-C, 4A-C,
and 5A-C, 6, 7A-D, 8A-E, 9A-E, 10A-B, 11A-B, 12A-D, 13A-E, and
14A-D. It is to be noted that the adjustment of the distance
between the respective implantation sites of the tissue-engaging
elements 60 is facilitated by adjusting mechanism 150 following
initial implantation of the tissue-engaging elements 60 and the
repair of the valve and/or the adjustment of the heart wall
geometry.
[0282] For some applications, techniques described herein are
practiced in combination with techniques described in one or more
of the references cited in the Background section of the present
patent application.
[0283] It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that
the present invention is not limited to what has been particularly
shown and described hereinabove. Rather, the scope of the present
invention includes both combinations and subcombinations of the
various features described hereinabove, as well as variations and
modifications thereof that are not in the prior art, which would
occur to persons skilled in the art upon reading the foregoing
description.
* * * * *