U.S. patent application number 14/945722 was filed with the patent office on 2016-03-10 for devices, systems, and methods for reshaping a heart valve annulus including the use of magnetic tools.
This patent application is currently assigned to MVRx, INC.. The applicant listed for this patent is MVRx, INC.. Invention is credited to ROBERT T. CHANG, TIMOTHY R. MACHOLD, DAVID A. RAHDERT, DAVID SCOTT, DAVID R. THOLFSEN.
Application Number | 20160067043 14/945722 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39303987 |
Filed Date | 2016-03-10 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160067043 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
MACHOLD; TIMOTHY R. ; et
al. |
March 10, 2016 |
DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR RESHAPING A HEART VALVE ANNULUS
INCLUDING THE USE OF MAGNETIC TOOLS
Abstract
Implants or systems of implants and methods apply a selected
force vector or a selected combination of force vectors within or
across the left atrium, which allow mitral valve leaflets to better
coapt. The implants or systems of implants and methods make
possible rapid deployment, facile endovascular delivery, and full
intra-atrial retrievability. The implants or systems of implants
and methods also make use of strong fluoroscopic landmarks. The
implants or systems of implants and methods make use of an
adjustable implant and a fixed length implant. The implants or
systems of implants and methods may also utilize a bridge stop to
secure the implant, and the methods of implantation employ various
tools.
Inventors: |
MACHOLD; TIMOTHY R.; (MOSS
BEACH, CA) ; CHANG; ROBERT T.; (BELMONT, CA) ;
RAHDERT; DAVID A.; (SAN FRANCISCO, CA) ; SCOTT;
DAVID; (REDWOOD CITY, CA) ; THOLFSEN; DAVID R.;
(SAN LEANDRO, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
MVRx, INC. |
MOSS BEACH |
CA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
MVRx, INC.
MOSS BEACH
CA
|
Family ID: |
39303987 |
Appl. No.: |
14/945722 |
Filed: |
November 19, 2015 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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14248012 |
Apr 8, 2014 |
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14945722 |
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13482586 |
May 29, 2012 |
8690858 |
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14248012 |
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12657527 |
Jan 22, 2010 |
8187207 |
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13482586 |
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11903472 |
Sep 21, 2007 |
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12657527 |
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11089939 |
Mar 25, 2005 |
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11903472 |
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10894433 |
Jul 19, 2004 |
8956407 |
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11089939 |
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10677104 |
Oct 1, 2003 |
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10894433 |
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09666617 |
Sep 20, 2000 |
6893459 |
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10677104 |
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60429444 |
Nov 26, 2002 |
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60429709 |
Nov 26, 2002 |
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60429462 |
Nov 26, 2002 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
623/2.11 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B 2017/00876
20130101; A61B 2017/0453 20130101; A61B 2017/1139 20130101; A61F
2/2487 20130101; A61B 2017/00619 20130101; A61M 2025/09175
20130101; A61B 17/11 20130101; A61B 17/0057 20130101; A61B
2017/00615 20130101; A61F 2/2466 20130101; A61B 2017/00597
20130101; A61M 25/09 20130101; A61B 2017/00592 20130101; A61F
2/2445 20130101; A61B 2017/0441 20130101; A61F 2210/009 20130101;
A61B 17/00234 20130101; A61B 2017/00575 20130101; A61B 2017/0419
20130101; A61B 2017/00243 20130101; A61F 2250/0001 20130101; A61B
2017/0417 20130101; A61F 2/2451 20130101; A61B 2017/0454 20130101;
A61B 2017/00623 20130101; A61B 2017/1135 20130101; A61B 2017/1132
20130101; A61F 2002/30079 20130101; A61B 2017/0414 20130101; A61B
2017/0496 20130101; A61B 2017/00606 20130101; A61F 2002/30668
20130101; A61B 2017/00588 20130101; A61B 2017/00783 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A61F 2/24 20060101
A61F002/24 |
Claims
1. A method of treatment a human or veterinary patient involving
two adjacent bodily structures comprising: providing a first
catheter having a first interior channel, the first catheter having
a first orifice between said first interior channel and the
exterior of the catheter, said first catheter having a first
magnetically attracting tip, said first magnetically attracting tip
comprising a ferromagnetic material, located in the length of said
first catheter that includes said first orifice, said first
magnetically attracting tip having a polarity parallel to said
interior channel; providing a second catheter having a second
interior channel, the second catheter having a second orifice
between said second interior channel and the exterior of the second
catheter through the side wall of said second catheter, said second
catheter having a second magnetically attracting tip, said second
magnetically attracting tip comprising a ferromagnetic material,
located in the length of said catheter that includes said second
orifice, said second magnetically attracting tip comprised of three
magnetic sections, a first magnetic section, a middle magnetic
section and a third magnetic section, said first and third magnetic
sections having opposing polarity, and said middle magnetic section
having its polarity oriented perpendicular to the polarity of said
first and second section; locating said first catheter within a
first body structure; locating said second catheter within a second
body structure adjacent body structure; placing said first
magnetically attracting tip within said first body structure
adjacent said second magnetically attracting tip with a layer of
tissue between said first magnetically and second magnetically
attracting tips such that said first and second magnetically
attracting tips align and magnetically couple to each other with
first and second orifices opposed to each other but separated by
the layer of tissue between them; and passing a piercing device
through the first orifice, through the layer of tissue, and into
the second orifice.
2. The method according to claim 1 wherein the first catheter
magnetically attracting tip and the second catheter magnetically
attracting tip are arranged so that when they are brought into
close proximity but on opposite sides of a layer of tissue they
align with sufficient stability to remain aligned even should the
body structure encounter movement.
3. The method according to claim 2 wherein the body structure is
the human heart and the movement is the beating of the heart.
4. The method according to claim 1, wherein the piercing device is
a needle with a suture.
5. The method according to claim 1, wherein the piercing device is
a sharpened tip guide wire.
6. The method according to claim 1, wherein the piercing device is
a hollow coring tip.
7. The method according to claim 1, wherein the piercing device is
a multi-bladed cutting tip.
8. The method according to claim 1, wherein the piercing device is
a flattened puncturing wire.
9. The method according to claim 1, wherein the first orifice has a
funnel shape, whereby the piercing structure passing through the
layer of tissue would be directed into the first catheter
channel.
10. The method according to claim 9 wherein said first location and
said second location a location on the same part of on the body of
the patient.
11. The method according to claim 1 wherein the layer of tissue
includes the tissue between the interior of the left atrium and the
interior of the great cardiac vein.
12. The method according to claim 1 wherein said first catheter has
a first proximal end exiting the body of the patient at a first
location; said second catheter has a second proximal end exiting
the body of the patient at a second location; and said method
further comprises passing a guide wire into said first proximal
end, through first catheter channel, out said first orifice,
through said layer of tissue, into said second orifice, through
said second catheter channel out said second proximal end and thus
out of the body of the patient at said second location.
13. The method according to claim 12 wherein the said first and
said second locations are a location on the same part of the body
of the patient.
14. The method according to claim 1 wherein the distal portion of
said second interior channel forms of a ramp between said second
interior channel and said second orifice.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of co-pending U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 14/248,012 filed Apr. 8, 2014, which is a
continuation of application Ser. No. 13/482,586 filed 29 May 2012,
now U.S. Pat. No. 8,690,858 issued 8 Apr. 2014, which is a
continuation of application Ser. No. 12/657,527 filed 22 Jan. 2010,
now U.S. Pat. No. 8,187,207 issued 29 May 2012, which is a
continuation of application Ser. No. 11/903,472 filed 21 Sep. 2007
(abandoned), which is a continuation-in-part of application Ser.
No. 11/089,939 filed 25 Mar. 2005 (abandoned), which is a
continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 10/894,433 filed 19
Jul. 2004, which is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No.
10/677,104 filed 1 Oct. 2003 (abandoned), which is a continuation
of application Ser. No. 09/666,617 filed 20 Sep. 2000, now U.S.
Pat. No. 6,893,459 issued 17 May 2005. This application also claims
the benefit of Patent Cooperation Treaty Application Serial No.
PCT/US02/31376, filed 1 Oct. 2002, which claimed the benefit of
U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/326,590 filed 1
Oct. 2001, which are incorporated herein by reference. This
application also claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application
Ser. No. 60/429,444 filed 26 Nov. 2002, U.S. Provisional Patent
Application Ser. No. 60/429,709 filed 26 Nov. 2002, and U.S.
Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/429,462 filed 26 Nov.
2002, which are each incorporated herein by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The invention is directed to devices, systems, and methods
for improving the function of a heart valve, e.g., in the treatment
of mitral valve regurgitation.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
I. The Anatomy of a Healthy Heart
[0003] The heart (see FIG. 1) is slightly larger than a clenched
fist. It is a double (left and right side), self-adjusting muscular
pump, the parts of which work in unison to propel blood to all
parts of the body. The right side of the heart receives poorly
oxygenated ("venous") blood from the body from the superior vena
cava and inferior vena cava and pumps it through the pulmonary
artery to the lungs for oxygenation. The left side receives
well-oxygenation ("arterial") blood from the lungs through the
pulmonary veins and pumps it into the aorta for distribution to the
body.
[0004] The heart has four chambers, two on each side--the right and
left atria, and the right and left ventricles. The atriums are the
blood-receiving chambers, which pump blood into the ventricles. The
ventricles are the blood-discharging chambers. A wall composed of
fibrous and muscular parts, called the interatrial septum separates
the right and left atriums (see FIGS. 2 to 4). The fibrous
interatrial septum is, compared to the more friable muscle tissue
of the heart, a more materially strong tissue structure in its own
extent in the heart. An anatomic landmark on the interatrial septum
is an oval, thumbprint sized depression called the oval fossa, or
fossa ovalis (shown in FIGS. 4 and 6), which is a remnant of the
oval foramen and its valve in the fetus. It is free of any vital
structures such as valve structure, blood vessels and conduction
pathways. Together with its inherent fibrous structure and
surrounding fibrous ridge which makes it identifiable by
angiographic techniques, the fossa ovalis is the favored site for
trans-septal diagnostic and therapeutic procedures from the right
into the left heart. Before birth, oxygenated blood from the
placenta was directed through the oval foramen into the left
atrium, and after birth the oval foramen closes.
[0005] The synchronous pumping actions of the left and right sides
of the heart constitute the cardiac cycle. The cycle begins with a
period of ventricular relaxation, called ventricular diastole. The
cycle ends with a period of ventricular contraction, called
ventricular systole.
[0006] The heart has four valves (see FIGS. 2 and 3) that ensure
that blood does not flow in the wrong direction during the cardiac
cycle; that is, to ensure that the blood does not back flow from
the ventricles into the corresponding atria, or back flow from the
arteries into the corresponding ventricles. The valve between the
left atrium and the left ventricle is the mitral valve. The valve
between the right atrium and the right ventricle is the tricuspid
valve. The pulmonary valve is at the opening of the pulmonary
artery. The aortic valve is at the opening of the aorta.
[0007] At the beginning of ventricular diastole (i.e., ventricular
filling) (see FIG. 2), the aortic and pulmonary valves are closed
to prevent back flow from the arteries into the ventricles. Shortly
thereafter, the tricuspid and mitral valves open (as FIG. 2 shows),
to allow flow from the atriums into the corresponding ventricles.
Shortly after ventricular systole (i.e., ventricular emptying)
begins, the tricuspid and mitral valves close (see FIG. 3)--to
prevent back flow from the ventricles into the corresponding
atriums--and the aortic and pulmonary valves open--to permit
discharge of blood into the arteries from the corresponding
ventricles.
[0008] The opening and closing of heart valves occur primarily as a
result of pressure differences. For example, the opening and
closing of the mitral valve occurs as a result of the pressure
differences between the left atrium and the left ventricle. During
ventricular diastole, when ventricles are relaxed, the venous
return of blood from the pulmonary veins into the left atrium
causes the pressure in the atrium to exceed that in the ventricle.
As a result, the mitral valve opens, allowing blood to enter the
ventricle. As the ventricle contracts during ventricular systole,
the intraventricular pressure rises above the pressure in the
atrium and pushes the mitral valve shut.
[0009] The mitral and tricuspid valves are defined by fibrous rings
of collagen, each called an annulus, which forms a part of the
fibrous skeleton of the heart. The annulus provides attachments for
the two cusps or leaflets of the mitral valve (called the anterior
and posterior cusps) and the three cusps or leaflets of the
tricuspid valve. The leaflets receive chordae tendineae from more
than one papillary muscle. In a healthy heart, these muscles and
their tendinous chords support the mitral and tricuspid valves,
allowing the leaflets to resist the high pressure developed during
contractions (pumping) of the left and right ventricles. FIGS. 5
and 6 show the chordae tendineae and papillary muscles in the left
ventricle that support the mitral valve.
[0010] As FIGS. 2 and 3 show, the anterior (A) portion of the
mitral valve annulus is intimate with the non-coronary leaflet of
the aortic valve. As FIGS. 2 and 3 also show, the mitral valve
annulus is also near other critical heart structures, such as the
circumflex branch of the left coronary artery (which supplies the
left atrium, a variable amount of the left ventricle, and in many
people the SA node) and the AV node (which, with the SA node,
coordinates the cardiac cycle).
[0011] Also in the vicinity of the posterior (P) mitral valve
annulus is the coronary sinus and its tributaries. These vessels
drain the areas of the heart supplied by the left coronary artery.
The coronary sinus and its tributaries receive approximately 85% of
coronary venous blood. The coronary sinus empties into the
posterior of the right atrium, anterior and inferior to the fossa
ovalis (see FIG. 4). A tributary of the coronary sinus is called
the great cardiac vein, which courses parallel to the majority of
the posterior mitral valve annulus, and is superior to the
posterior mitral valve annulus by an average distance of about
9.64+/-3.15 millimeters (Yamanouchi, Y, Pacing and Clinical
Electophysiology 21(11):2522-6; 1998).
II. Characteristics and Causes of Mitral Valve Dysfunction
[0012] When the left ventricle contracts after filling with blood
from the left atrium, the walls of the ventricle move inward and
release some of the tension from the papillary muscle and chords.
The blood pushed up against the under-surface of the mitral
leaflets causes them to rise toward the annulus plane of the mitral
valve. As they progress toward the annulus, the leading edges of
the anterior and posterior leaflet come together forming a seal and
closing the valve. In the healthy heart, leaflet coaptation occurs
near the plane of the mitral annulus. The blood continues to be
pressurized in the left ventricle until it is ejected into the
aorta. Contraction of the papillary muscles is simultaneous with
the contraction of the ventricle and serves to keep healthy valve
leaflets tightly shut at peak contraction pressures exerted by the
ventricle.
[0013] In a healthy heart (see FIGS. 7 and 8), the dimensions of
the mitral valve annulus create an anatomic shape and tension such
that the leaflets coapt, forming a tight junction, at peak
contraction pressures. Where the leaflets coapt at the opposing
medial (CM) and lateral (CL) sides of the annulus are called the
leaflet commissures.
[0014] Valve malfunction can result from the chordae tendineae (the
chords) becoming stretched, and in some cases tearing. When a chord
tears, the result is a leaflet that flails. Also, a normally
structured valve may not function properly because of an
enlargement of or shape change in the valve annulus. This condition
is referred to as a dilation of the annulus and generally results
from heart muscle failure. In addition, the valve may be defective
at birth or because of an acquired disease.
[0015] Regardless of the cause (see FIG. 9), mitral valve
dysfunction can occur when the leaflets do not coapt at peak
contraction pressures. As FIG. 9 shows, the coaptation line of the
two leaflets is not tight at ventricular systole. As a result, an
undesired back flow of blood from the left ventricle into the left
atrium can occur.
[0016] Mitral regurgitation is a condition where, during
contraction of the left ventricle, the mitral valve allows blood to
flow backwards from the left ventricle into the left atrium. This
has two important consequences.
[0017] First, blood flowing back into the atrium may cause high
atrial pressure and reduce the flow of blood into the left atrium
from the lungs. As blood backs up into the pulmonary system, fluid
leaks into the lungs and causes pulmonary edema.
[0018] Second, the blood volume going to the atrium reduces volume
of blood going forward into the aorta causing low cardiac output.
Excess blood in the atrium over-fills the ventricle during each
cardiac cycle and causes volume overload in the left ventricle.
[0019] Mitral regurgitation is measured on a numeric Grade scale of
1+ to 4+ by either contrast ventriculography or by
echocardiographic Doppler assessment. Grade 1+ is trivial
regurgitation and has little clinical significance. Grade 2+ shows
a jet of reversed flow going halfway back into the left atrium.
Grade 3 regurgitation shows filling of the left atrium with
reversed flow up to the pulmonary veins and a contrast injection
that clears in three heart beats or less. Grade 4 regurgitation has
flow reversal into the pulmonary veins and a contrast injection
that does not clear from the atrium in three or fewer heart
beats.
[0020] Mitral regurgitation is categorized into two main types, (i)
organic or structural and (ii) functional. Organic mitral
regurgitation results from a structurally abnormal valve component
that causes a valve leaflet to leak during systole. Functional
mitral regurgitation results from annulus dilation due to primary
congestive heart failure, which is itself generally surgically
untreatable, and not due to a cause like severe irreversible
ischemia or primary valvular heart disease.
[0021] Organic mitral regurgitation is seen when a disruption of
the seal occurs at the free leading edge of the leaflet due to a
ruptured chord or papillary muscle making the leaflet flail; or if
the leaflet tissue is redundant, the valves may prolapse the level
at which coaptation occurs higher into the atrium with further
prolapse opening the valve higher in the atrium during ventricular
systole.
[0022] Functional mitral regurgitation occurs as a result of
dilation of heart and mitral annulus secondary to heart failure,
most often as a result of coronary artery disease or idiopathic
dilated cardiomyopathy. Comparing a healthy annulus in FIG. 7 to an
unhealthy annulus in FIG. 9, the unhealthy annulus is dilated and,
in particular, the anterior-to-posterior distance along the minor
axis (line P-A) is increased. As a result, the shape and tension
defined by the annulus becomes less oval (see FIG. 7) and more
round (see FIG. 9). This condition is called dilation. When the
annulus is dilated, the shape and tension conducive for coaptation
at peak contraction pressures progressively deteriorate.
[0023] The fibrous mitral annulus is attached to the anterior
mitral leaflet in one-third of its circumference. The muscular
mitral annulus constitutes the remainder of the mitral annulus and
is attached to by the posterior mitral leaflet. The anterior
fibrous mitral annulus is intimate with the central fibrous body,
the two ends of which are called the fibrous trigones. Just
posterior to each fibrous trigone is the commissure of which there
are two, the anterior medial (CM) and the posterior lateral
commissure (CL). The commissure is where the anterior leaflet meets
the posterior leaflet at the annulus.
[0024] As before described, the central fibrous body is also
intimate with the non-coronary leaflet of the aortic valve. The
central fibrous body is fairly resistant to elongation during the
process of mitral annulus dilation. It has been shown that the
great majority of mitral annulus dilation occurs in the posterior
two-thirds of the annulus known as the muscular annulus. One could
deduce thereby that, as the annulus dilates, the percentage that is
attached to the anterior mitral leaflet diminishes.
[0025] In functional mitral regurgitation, the dilated annulus
causes the leaflets to separate at their coaptation points in all
phases of the cardiac cycle. Onset of mitral regurgitation may be
acute, or gradual and chronic in either organic or in functional
mitral regurgitation.
[0026] In dilated cardiomyopathy of ischemic or of idiopathic
origin, the mitral annulus can dilate to the point of causing
functional mitral regurgitation. It does so in approximately
twenty-five percent of patients with congestive heart failure
evaluated in the resting state. If subjected to exercise,
echocardiography shows the incidence of functional mitral
regurgitation in these patients rises to over fifty percent.
[0027] Functional mitral regurgitation is a significantly
aggravating problem for the dilated heart, as is reflected in the
increased mortality of these patients compared to otherwise
comparable patients without functional mitral regurgitation. One
mechanism by which functional mitral regurgitation aggravates the
situation in these patients is through increased volume overload
imposed upon the ventricle. Due directly to the leak, there is
increased work the heart is required to perform in each cardiac
cycle to eject blood antegrade through the aortic valve and
retrograde through the mitral valve. The latter is referred to as
the regurgitant fraction of left ventricular ejection. This is
added to the forward ejection fraction to yield the total ejection
fraction. A normal heart has a forward ejection fraction of about
50 to 70 percent. With functional mitral regurgitation and dilated
cardiomyopathy, the total ejection fraction is typically less than
thirty percent. If the regurgitant fraction is half the total
ejection fraction in the latter group the forward ejection fraction
can be as low as fifteen percent.
III. Prior Treatment Modalities
[0028] In the treatment of mitral valve regurgitation, diuretics
and/or vasodilators can be used to help reduce the amount of blood
flowing back into the left atrium. An intra-aortic balloon
counterpulsation device is used if the condition is not stabilized
with medications. For chronic or acute mitral valve regurgitation,
surgery to repair or replace the mitral valve is often
necessary.
[0029] Currently, patient selection criteria for mitral valve
surgery are very selective. Possible patient selection criteria for
mitral surgery include: normal ventricular function, general good
health, a predicted lifespan of greater than 3 to 5 years, NYHA
Class III or IV symptoms, and at least Grade 3 regurgitation.
Younger patients with less severe symptoms may be indicated for
early surgery if mitral repair is anticipated. The most common
surgical mitral repair procedure is for organic mitral
regurgitation due to a ruptured chord on the middle scallop of the
posterior leaflet.
[0030] In conventional annuloplasty ring repair, the posterior
mitral annulus is reduced along its circumference with sutures
passed through a surgical annuloplasty sewing ring cuff. The goal
of such a repair is to bring the posterior mitral leaflet forward
toward to the anterior leaflet to better allow coaptation.
[0031] Surgical edge-to-edge juncture repairs, which can be
performed endovascularly, are also made, in which a mid valve
leaflet to mid valve leaflet suture or clip is applied to keep
these points of the leaflet held together throughout the cardiac
cycle. Other efforts have developed an endovascular suture and a
clip to grasp and bond the two mitral leaflets in the beating
heart.
[0032] Grade 3+ or 4+ organic mitral regurgitation may be repaired
with such edge-to-edge technologies. This is because, in organic
mitral regurgitation, the problem is not the annulus but in the
central valve components.
[0033] However, functional mitral regurgitation can persist at a
high level, even after edge-to-edge repair, particularly in cases
of high Grade 3+ and 4+ functional mitral regurgitation. After
surgery, the repaired valve may progress to high rates of
functional mitral regurgitation over time.
[0034] In yet another emerging technology, the coronary sinus is
mechanically deformed through endovascular means applied and
contained to function solely within the coronary sinus.
[0035] It is reported that twenty-five percent of the six million
Americans who will have congestive heart failure will have
functional mitral regurgitation to some degree. This constitutes
the 1.5 million people with functional mitral regurgitation. Of
these, the idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy accounts for 600,000
people. Of the remaining 900,000 people with ischemic disease,
approximately half have functional mitral regurgitation due solely
to dilated annulus.
[0036] By interrupting the cycle of progressive functional mitral
regurgitation, it has been shown in surgical patients that survival
is increased and in fact forward ejection fraction increases in
many patients. The problem with surgical therapy is the significant
insult it imposes on these chronically ill patients with high
morbidity and mortality rates associated with surgical repair.
[0037] The need remains for simple, cost-effective, and less
invasive devices, systems, and methods for treating dysfunction of
a heart valve, e.g., in the treatment of organic and functional
mitral valve regurgitation.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0038] The invention provides devices, systems, and methods for
reshaping a heart valve annulus, including the use of magnetic
tools.
[0039] One aspect of the invention provides devices, systems, and
methods for reshaping a heart valve annulus, including the use of
magnetic tools and comprises a first catheter and a second
catheter. The first and second catheters each may include a guide
lumen having a distal opening, and magnetic or ferromagnetic
materials placed adjacent the distal openings of both guide lumens.
The magnetic or ferromagnetic materials are desirably sized and
configured to magnetically couple the distal opening of the first
catheter to the distal opening of the second catheter in an
alignment that accommodates passage of an operative component
between the guide lumens of the first and second catheters.
[0040] Another aspect of the invention provides a plurality of
magnetic portions configured to provide both attractive and
repulsive forces and this increase the strength of the magnetic
coupling between the first and second catheters.
[0041] Other features and advantages of the invention shall be
apparent based upon the accompanying description, drawings, and
claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0042] FIG. 1 is an anatomic anterior view of a human heart, with
portions broken away and in section to view the interior heart
chambers and adjacent structures.
[0043] FIG. 2 is an anatomic superior view of a section of the
human heart showing the tricuspid valve in the right atrium, the
mitral valve in the left atrium, and the aortic valve in between,
with the tricuspid and mitral valves open and the aortic and
pulmonary valves closed during ventricular diastole (ventricular
filling) of the cardiac cycle.
[0044] FIG. 3 is an anatomic superior view of a section of the
human heart shown in FIG. 2, with the tricuspid and mitral valves
closed and the aortic and pulmonary valves opened during
ventricular systole (ventricular emptying) of the cardiac
cycle.
[0045] FIG. 4 is an anatomic anterior perspective view of the left
and right atriums, with portions broken away and in section to show
the interior of the heart chambers and associated structures, such
as the fossa ovalis, coronary sinus, and the great cardiac
vein.
[0046] FIG. 5 is an anatomic lateral view of a human heart with
portions broken away and in section to show the interior of the
left ventricle and associated muscle and chord structures coupled
to the mitral valve.
[0047] FIG. 6 is an anatomic lateral view of a human heart with
portions broken away and in section to show the interior of the
left ventricle and left atrium and associated muscle and chord
structures coupled to the mitral valve.
[0048] FIG. 7 is a superior view of a healthy mitral valve, with
the leaflets closed and coapting at peak contraction pressures
during ventricular systole.
[0049] FIG. 8 is an anatomic superior view of a section of the
human heart, with the normal mitral valve shown in FIG. 7 closed
during ventricular systole (ventricular emptying) of the cardiac
cycle.
[0050] FIG. 9 is a superior view of a dysfunctional mitral valve,
with the leaflets failing to coapt during peak contraction
pressures during ventricular systole, leading to mitral
regurgitation.
[0051] FIGS. 10A and 10B are anatomic anterior perspective views of
the left and right atriums, with portions broken away and in
section to show the presence of an implant system that includes an
inter-atrial bridging element that spans the mitral valve annulus,
with a posterior bridge stop positioned in the great cardiac vein
and an anterior bridge stop, including a septal member, positioned
on the inter-atrial septum, the inter-atrial bridging element
extending in an essentially straight path generally from a
mid-region of the annulus to the inter-atrial septum.
[0052] FIG. 10C is an anatomic anterior perspective view of an
alternative embodiment of the implant system shown in FIGS. 10A and
10B, showing an anterior bridge stop without the addition of a
septal member.
[0053] FIG. 11A is an anatomic anterior perspective view of the
left and right atriums, with portions broken away and in section to
show the presence of an implant system of the type shown in FIGS.
10A and 10B, with the anterior region of the implant extending
through a pass-through structure, such as a septal member, in the
inter-atrial septum and situated in the superior vena cava.
[0054] FIG. 11B is an anatomic anterior perspective view of the
left and right atriums, with portions broken away and in section to
show the presence of an implant system of the type shown in FIGS.
10A and 10B, with the anterior region of the implant extending
through a pass-through structure, such as a septal member, in the
inter-atrial septum and situated in the inferior vena cava.
[0055] FIG. 11C is an anatomic anterior perspective view of the
left and right atriums, with portions broken away and in section to
show the presence of an implant system of the type shown in FIGS.
10A to 10C, with the anterior region of the implant situated on the
inter-atrial septum, as well as in the superior vena cava and the
inferior vena cava.
[0056] FIG. 12 is an anatomic anterior perspective view of the left
and right atriums, with portions broken away and in section to show
the presence of an implant system that includes an inter-atrial
bridging element that spans the mitral valve annulus, with a
posterior region situated in the great cardiac vein and an anterior
region situated on the interatrial septum, the inter-atrial
bridging element extending in an essentially straight path
generally from a lateral region of the annulus.
[0057] FIG. 13 is an anatomic anterior perspective view of the left
and right atriums, with portions broken away and in section to show
the presence of an implant system that includes an inter-atrial
bridging element that spans the mitral valve annulus, with a
posterior region situated in the great cardiac vein and an anterior
region situated on the interatrial septum, the inter-atrial
bridging element extending in an upwardly curved or domed path
generally from a lateral region of the annulus.
[0058] FIG. 14 is an anatomic anterior perspective view of the left
and right atriums, with portions broken away and in section to show
the presence of an implant system that includes an inter-atrial
bridging element that spans the mitral valve annulus, with a
posterior region situated in the great cardiac vein and an anterior
region situated on the interatrial septum, the inter-atrial
bridging element extending in a downwardly curved path generally
from a lateral region of the annulus.
[0059] FIG. 15 is an anatomic anterior perspective view of the left
and right atriums, with portions broken away and in section to show
the presence of an implant system that includes an inter-atrial
bridging element that spans the mitral valve annulus, with a
posterior region situated in the great cardiac vein and an anterior
region situated on the interatrial septum, the inter-atrial
bridging element extending in a curvilinear path, bending around a
trigone of the annulus generally from a mid-region region of the
annulus.
[0060] FIG. 16 is an anatomic anterior perspective view of the left
and right atriums, with portions broken away and in section to show
the presence of an implant system that includes an inter-atrial
bridging element that spans the mitral valve annulus, with a
posterior region situated in the great cardiac vein and an anterior
region situated on the interatrial septum, the inter-atrial
bridging element extending in a curvilinear path, bending around a
trigone of the annulus generally from a mid-region region of the
annulus, as well as elevating in an arch toward the dome of the
left atrium.
[0061] FIG. 17 is an anatomic anterior perspective view of the left
and right atriums, with portions broken away and in section to show
the presence of an implant system that includes an inter-atrial
bridging element that spans the mitral valve annulus, with a
posterior region situated in the great cardiac vein and an anterior
region situated on the interatrial septum, the inter-atrial
bridging element extending in a curvilinear path, bending around a
trigone of the annulus generally from a mid-region region of the
annulus, as well as dipping downward toward the plane of the
valve.
[0062] FIG. 18 is an anatomic anterior perspective view of the left
and right atriums, with portions broken away and in section to show
the presence of an implant system that includes two inter-atrial
bridging elements that span the mitral valve annulus, each with a
posterior bridge stop in the great cardiac vein and an anterior
bridge stop on the inter-atrial septum, the inter-atrial bridging
elements both extending in generally straight paths from different
regions of the annulus.
[0063] FIG. 19 is an anatomic anterior perspective view of the left
and right atriums, with portions broken away and in section to show
the presence of an implant system that includes two inter-atrial
bridging elements that span the mitral valve annulus, each with a
posterior region situated in the great cardiac vein and an anterior
region situated on the interatrial septum, the inter-atrial
bridging elements both extending in generally curvilinear paths
from adjacent regions of the annulus.
[0064] FIG. 20 is an anatomic anterior perspective view of the left
and right atriums, with portions broken away and in section to show
the presence of an implant system that includes three inter-atrial
bridging elements that span the mitral valve annulus, each with a
posterior region situated in the great cardiac vein and an anterior
region situated on the interatrial septum, two of the inter-atrial
bridging elements extending in generally straight paths from
different regions of the annulus, and the third inter-atrial
bridging elements extending in a generally curvilinear path toward
a trigone of the annulus.
[0065] FIG. 21A is a side view of a septal member which may be used
as part of the implant system of the type shown in FIGS. 10A and
10B.
[0066] FIG. 21B is a side view of a deployed septal member of the
type shown in FIG. 21A, showing the member sandwiching portions of
the septum through an existing hole.
[0067] FIGS. 22A and 22B are sectional views showing the ability of
a bridge stop used in conjunction with the implant shown in FIGS.
10A to 10C to move back and forth independent of the septal wall
and inner wall of the great cardiac vein.
[0068] FIGS. 23 to 30 are anatomic views depicting representative
catheter-based devices and steps for implanting an implant system
of the type shown in FIGS. 10A to 10C.
[0069] FIG. 31 is an anatomic section view of the left atrium and
associated mitral valve structure, showing mitral dysfunction.
[0070] FIG. 32 is an anatomic superior view of a section of the
human heart, showing the presence of an implant system of the type
shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B.
[0071] FIG. 33 is an anatomic section view of the implant system
taken generally along line 33-33 in FIG. 32, showing the presence
of an implant system of the type shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B, and
showing proper coaptation of the mitral valve leaflets.
[0072] FIGS. 34A to 34D are sectional views of a crimp tube for
connecting a guide wire to a bridging element, and showing the
variations in the crimps used.
[0073] FIG. 35A is an anatomic partial view of a patient depicting
access points used for implantation of an implant system, and also
showing a loop guide wire accessible to the exterior the body at
two locations.
[0074] FIG. 35B is an anatomic view depicting a representative
alternative catheter-based device for implanting an implant system
of the type shown in FIGS. 10A to 10C, and showing a bridging
element being pulled through the vasculature structure by a loop
guide wire.
[0075] FIG. 36A is an anatomic partial view of a patient showing a
bridge stop connected to a bridging element in preparation to be
pulled and/or pushed through the vasculature structure and
positioned within the great cardiac vein.
[0076] FIG. 36B is an anatomic view depicting a representative
alternative catheter-based device for implanting a system of the
type shown in FIGS. 10A to 10C, and showing a bridge stop being
positioned within the great cardiac vein.
[0077] FIG. 37A is a perspective view of a catheter used in the
implantation of an implant system of the type shown in FIGS. 10A to
10C.
[0078] FIG. 37B is a partial sectional view showing a magnetic head
of the catheter as shown in FIG. 37A.
[0079] FIG. 38 is a perspective view of an additional catheter
which may be used in the implantation of an implant system of the
type shown in FIGS. 10A to 10C.
[0080] FIG. 39 is a partial perspective view of the interaction
between the magnetic head of the catheter shown in FIG. 37A and the
magnetic head of the catheter shown in FIG. 38, showing a guide
wire extending out of one magnetic head and into the other magnetic
head.
[0081] FIG. 40 is an anatomic partial perspective view of the
magnetic catheter heads shown in FIG. 39, with one catheter shown
in the left atrium and one catheter shown in the great cardiac
vein.
[0082] FIG. 41 is a perspective view of an additional catheter
which may be used in the implantation of an implant system of the
type shown in FIGS. 10A to 10C.
[0083] FIGS. 42A to 42C are partial perspective views of catheter
tips which may be used with the catheter shown in FIG. 41.
[0084] FIG. 43A is a perspective view of a symmetrically shaped
T-shaped bridge stop or member which may be used with the implant
system of the type shown in FIGS. 10A to 10C.
[0085] FIG. 43B is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment
of the T-shaped bridge stop shown in FIG. 43A, showing the bridge
stop being asymmetric and having one limb shorter than the
other.
[0086] FIG. 44A is an exploded view of a bridge stop and associated
driver which may be used with the implant system of the type shown
in FIGS. 10A to 10C.
[0087] FIG. 44B is a bottom view of the bridge stop shown in FIG.
44A.
[0088] FIG. 44C is a top view of a screw used in the bridge stop of
the type shown in FIG. 44A.
[0089] FIG. 45A is an anatomic partial perspective view of
alternative magnetic catheter heads, with one catheter shown in the
left atrium and one catheter shown in the great cardiac vein, and
showing a side to end configuration.
[0090] FIG. 45B is a partial sectional view of the alternative
magnetic catheter heads of the type shown in FIG. 45A, showing a
guide wire piercing the wall of the great cardiac vein and left
atrium and extending into the receiving catheter.
[0091] FIG. 45C is a partial perspective view of an alternative
magnetic head of the type shown in FIG. 45B.
[0092] FIG. 46 is an anatomic partial perspective view of an
additional alternative embodiment for the magnetic catheter heads
of the type shown in FIG. 45A, showing a side to side
configuration.
[0093] FIGS. 47A to 51 are perspective and sectional views of
alternative embodiments of a bridge stop of the type shown in FIG.
44A.
[0094] FIG. 52A is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment
of a T-shaped bridge stop or member of the type shown in FIG. 43A,
showing a balloon expandable or self-expanding stent with a
reinforcing strut.
[0095] FIG. 52B is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment
of a T-shaped bridge stop or member of the type shown in FIG. 52A,
showing the expandable or self-expanding stent in a lattice or half
stent configuration.
[0096] FIGS. 53A to 53F are perspective views showing alternative
methods of connecting a bridging element to a bridge stop or
T-shaped member.
[0097] FIGS. 54 to 56A are perspective views of alternative implant
systems of the type shown in FIGS. 10A to 10C, showing alternative
bridge locks in both the anterior bridge stop region and the
posterior bridge stop region.
[0098] FIG. 56B is a side view of an alternative bridge stop of the
type shown in FIG. 56A.
[0099] FIGS. 57 to 59 are perspective views of additional
alternative bridge locks.
[0100] FIG. 60A is a perspective view of an alternative bridge stop
and showing the deployment catheter and deployment wire.
[0101] FIG. 60B is a side view of the alternative bridge stop of
the type shown in FIG. 60A, showing the bridge stop in the
deployment catheter prior to being deployed.
[0102] FIG. 61A is a perspective view of an alternative bridge stop
including a single layer of pericardium.
[0103] FIG. 61B is a side view of the alternative bridge stop of
the type shown in FIG. 61A, showing the bridge stop in the
deployment catheter prior to being deployed.
[0104] FIG. 62A is a perspective view of an alternative bridge stop
including multiple layers of pericardium.
[0105] FIG. 62B is a side view of the alternative bridge stop of
the type shown in FIG. 62A, showing the bridge stop in the
deployment catheter prior to being deployed.
[0106] FIG. 63A is a perspective view of an alternative bridge stop
including a balloon structure. FIG. 63B is a side view of the
alternative bridge stop of the type shown in FIG. 63A, showing the
bridge stop in the deployment catheter prior to being deployed.
[0107] FIG. 63C is a side view of the alternative bridge stop of
the type shown in FIG. 63A, showing the bridge stop just after
exiting the deployment catheter and prior to being deployed.
[0108] FIG. 64 is an anatomic anterior perspective view of the left
atrium and a portion of the right atrium, with portions broken away
and in section to show the presence of an alternative implant
system of the type shown in FIGS. 10A to 10C, the alternative
implant system includes a fixed length inter-atrial bridging
element that spans the mitral valve annulus, with a posterior
bridge stop positioned in the great cardiac vein and an anterior
bridge stop positioned on the inter-atrial septum, the inter-atrial
bridging element extending in an essentially straight path
generally from a mid-region of the annulus to the inter-atrial
septum.
[0109] FIG. 65 is an anatomic anterior perspective view of the left
atrium, and a portion of the right atrium, with portions broken
away and in section to show the presence of an alternative implant
system of the type shown in FIG. 64, the alternative implant system
includes a fixed length inter-atrial bridging element that spans
the mitral valve annulus, with a posterior region situated in the
great cardiac vein and an anterior region situated on the
interatrial septum, the fixed length inter-atrial bridging element
extending in a curvilinear path, bending around a trigone of the
annulus generally from a mid-region region of the annulus, as well
as dipping downward toward the plane of the valve.
[0110] FIG. 66 is an anatomic anterior perspective view of the left
atrium, and a portion of the right atrium, with portions broken
away and in section to show the presence of an alternative implant
system of the type shown in FIG. 64, the alternative implant system
includes a fixed length inter-atrial bridging element that spans
the mitral valve annulus, with a posterior region situated in the
great cardiac vein and an anterior region situated on the
interatrial septum, the fixed length inter-atrial bridging element
extending in a curvilinear path, bending around a trigone of the
annulus generally from a mid-region region of the annulus, as well
as elevating in an arch toward the dome of the left atrium.
[0111] FIG. 67 is a side view of a fixed length inter-atrial
bridging element of the type shown in FIG. 64, and showing the
fixed length bridging element with a connective head on a first end
and a stop on a second end.
[0112] FIG. 68 is a side view of an arched or non-linear fixed
length inter-atrial bridging element of the type shown in FIGS. 65
and 66, and showing the arched fixed length bridging element with a
connective head on a first end and a stop on a second end.
[0113] FIG. 69 is a perspective view of the arched fixed length
inter-atrial bridging element of the type shown in FIG. 68, and
showing and showing an alternative embodiment for a bridge stop on
a second end.
[0114] FIGS. 70A and 70B are perspective views showing the
connective head of the fixed length bridging element guided by the
tracking rail into the receiving aperture in a posterior or
anterior bridge stop structure.
[0115] FIGS. 71A and 71B are sectional views showing the ability of
a bridge stop used in conjunction with the implant shown in FIG. 64
to move back and forth independent of the septal wall and inner
wall of the great cardiac vein.
[0116] FIG. 72 is an anatomic anterior perspective view of the left
atrium and a portion of the right atrium, with portions broken away
and in section to show a step of implanting the implant system
including the fixed length inter-atrial bridging element of the
type shown in FIG. 64.
[0117] FIG. 73 is an anatomic anterior perspective view of the left
atrium and a portion of the right atrium, with portions broken away
and in section to show a step of implanting the implant system
including the arched fixed length inter-atrial bridging element of
the type shown in FIGS. 65 and 66.
[0118] FIG. 74 is an anatomic partial perspective view of
alternative magnetic catheter heads, with one catheter shown in the
left atrium and one catheter shown in the great cardiac vein, and
showing a side to end configuration.
[0119] FIG. 75 is a simplified schematic of the magnetic catheter
heads of FIG. 74.
[0120] FIG. 76 is a partial perspective view of an alternative
guide wire as shown in FIG. 74.
[0121] FIG. 77 is an anatomic partial perspective view of
alternative magnetic catheter heads, with one catheter shown in the
left atrium and one catheter shown in the great cardiac vein,
showing a side to end configuration.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0122] Although the disclosure hereof is detailed and exact to
enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, the
physical embodiments herein disclosed merely exemplify the
invention which may be embodied in other specific structures. While
the preferred embodiment has been described, the details may be
changed without departing from the invention, which is defined by
the claims.
I. Trans-Septal Implants for Direct Shortening of the Minor Axis of
a Heart Valve Annulus
[0123] A. Implant Structure
[0124] FIGS. 10A to 10C show embodiments of an implant 10 that is
sized and configured to extend across the left atrium in generally
an anterior-to-posterior direction, spanning the mitral valve
annulus. The implant 10 comprises a spanning region or bridging
element 12 having a posterior bridge stop region 14 and an anterior
bridge stop region 16.
[0125] The posterior bridge stop region 14 is sized and configured
to allow the bridging element 12 to be placed in a region of atrial
tissue above the posterior mitral valve annulus. This region is
preferred, because it generally presents more tissue mass for
obtaining purchase of the posterior bridge stop region 14 than in a
tissue region at or adjacent to the posterior mitral annulus.
Engagement of tissue at this supra-annular location also may reduce
risk of injury to the circumflex coronary artery. In a small
percentage of cases, the circumflex coronary artery may pass over
and medial to the great cardiac vein on the left atrial aspect of
the great cardiac vein, coming to lie between the great cardiac
vein and endocardium of the left atrium. However, since the forces
in the posterior bridge stop region are directed upward and inward
relative to the left atrium and not in a constricting manner along
the long axis of the great cardiac vein, the likelihood of
circumflex artery compression is less compared to other
technologies in this field that do constrict the tissue of the
great cardiac vein. Nevertheless, should a coronary angiography
reveal circumflex artery stenosis, the symmetrically shaped
posterior bridge stop may be replaced by an asymmetrically shaped
bridge stop, such as where one limb of a T-shaped member is shorter
than the other, thus avoiding compression of the crossing point of
the circumflex artery. The asymmetric form may also be selected
first based on a pre-placement angiogram.
[0126] An asymmetric posterior bridge stop may be utilized for
other reasons as well. The asymmetric posterior bridge stop may be
selected where a patient is found to have a severely stenotic
distal great cardiac vein, where the asymmetric bridge stop better
serves to avoid obstruction of that vessel. In addition, an
asymmetric bridge stop may be chosen for its use in selecting
application of forces differentially and preferentially on
different points along the posterior mitral annulus to optimize
treatment, i.e., in cases of malformed or asymmetrical mitral
valves.
[0127] The anterior bridge stop region 16 is sized and configured
to allow the bridging element 12 to be placed, upon passing into
the right atrium through the septum, adjacent tissue in or near the
right atrium. For example, as is shown in FIGS. 10A to 10C, the
anterior bridge stop region 16 may be adjacent or abutting a region
of fibrous tissue in the interatrial septum. As shown, the bridge
stop site 16 is desirably superior to the anterior mitral annulus
at about the same elevation or higher than the elevation of the
posterior bridge stop region 14. In the illustrated embodiment, the
anterior bridge stop region 16 is adjacent to or near the inferior
rim of the fossa ovalis. Alternatively, the anterior bridge stop
region 16 can be located at a more superior position in the septum,
e.g., at or near the superior rim of the fossa ovalis. The anterior
bridge stop region 16 can also be located in a more superior or
inferior position in the septum, away from the fossa ovalis,
provided that the bridge stop site does not harm the tissue
region.
[0128] Alternatively, as can be seen in FIGS. 11A and 11B, the
anterior bridge stop region 16, upon passing through the septum
into the right atrium, may be positioned within or otherwise
situated in the superior vena cava (SVC) or the inferior vena cava
(IVC), instead of at the septum itself.
[0129] In use, the spanning region or bridging element 12 can be
placed into tension between the two bridge stop regions 14 and 16.
The implant 10 thereby serves to apply a direct mechanical force
generally in a posterior to anterior direction across the left
atrium. The direct mechanical force can serve to shorten the minor
axis (line P-A in FIG. 7) of the annulus. In doing so, the implant
10 can also reactively reshape the annulus along its major axis
(line CM-CL in FIG. 7) and/or reactively reshape other surrounding
anatomic structures. It should be appreciated, however, the
presence of the implant 10 can serve to stabilize tissue adjacent
the heart valve annulus, without affecting the length of the minor
or major axes.
[0130] It should also be appreciated that, when situated in other
valve structures, the axes affected may not be the "major" and
"minor" axes, due to the surrounding anatomy. In addition, in order
to be therapeutic, the implant 10 may only need to reshape the
annulus during a portion of the heart cycle, such as during late
diastole and early systole when the heart is most full of blood at
the onset of ventricular systolic contraction, when most of the
mitral valve leakage occurs. For example, the implant 10 may be
sized to restrict outward displacement of the annulus during late
ventricular diastolic relaxation as the annulus dilates.
[0131] The mechanical force applied by the implant 10 across the
left atrium can restore to the heart valve annulus and leaflets a
more normal anatomic shape and tension. The more normal anatomic
shape and tension are conducive to coaptation of the leaflets
during late ventricular diastole and early ventricular systole,
which, in turn, reduces mitral regurgitation.
[0132] In its most basic form, the implant 10 is made from a
biocompatible metallic or polymer material, or a metallic or
polymer material that is suitably coated, impregnated, or otherwise
treated with a material to impart biocompatibility, or a
combination of such materials. The material is also desirably
radio-opaque or incorporates radio-opaque features to facilitate
fluoroscopic visualization.
[0133] The implant 10 can be formed by bending, shaping, joining,
machining, molding, or extrusion of a metallic or polymer wire form
structure, which can have flexible or rigid, or inelastic or
elastic mechanical properties, or combinations thereof.
Alternatively, the implant 10 can be formed from metallic or
polymer thread-like or suture material. Materials from which the
implant 10 can be formed include, but are not limited to, stainless
steel, Nitinol, titanium, silicone, plated metals, Elgiloy.TM.,
NP55, and NP57.
[0134] The implant 10 can take various shapes and have various
cross-sectional geometries. The implant 10 can have, e.g., a
generally curvilinear (i.e., round or oval) cross-section, or a
generally rectilinear cross section (i.e., square or rectangular),
or combinations thereof. Shapes that promote laminar flow and
therefore reduce hemolysis are contemplated, with features such as
smoother surfaces and longer and narrower leading and trailing
edges in the direction of blood flow.
[0135] B. The Posterior Bridge Stop Region
[0136] The posterior bridge stop region 14 is sized and configured
to be located within or at the left atrium at a supra-annular
position, i.e., positioned within or near the left atrium wall
above the posterior mitral annulus.
[0137] In the illustrated embodiment, the posterior bridge stop
region 14 is shown to be located generally at the level of the
great cardiac vein, which travels adjacent to and parallel to the
majority of the posterior mitral valve annulus. This tributary of
the coronary sinus can provide a strong and reliable fluoroscopic
landmark when a radio-opaque device is placed within it or contrast
dye is injected into it. As previously described, securing the
bridging element 12 at this supra-annular location also lessens the
risk of encroachment of and risk of injury to the circumflex
coronary artery compared to procedures applied to the mitral
annulus directly. Furthermore, the supra-annular position assures
no contact with the valve leaflets therefore allowing for
coaptation and reduces the risk of mechanical damage.
[0138] The great cardiac vein also provides a site where relatively
thin, non-fibrous atrial tissue can be readily augmented and
consolidated. To enhance hold or purchase of the posterior bridge
stop region 14 in what is essentially non-fibrous heart tissue, and
to improve distribution of the forces applied by the implant 10,
the posterior bridge stop region 14 may include a posterior bridge
stop 18 placed within the great cardiac vein and abutting venous
tissue. This makes possible the securing of the posterior bridge
stop region 14 in a non-fibrous portion of the heart in a manner
that can nevertheless sustain appreciable hold or purchase on that
tissue for a substantial period of time, without dehiscence,
expressed in a clinically relevant timeframe.
[0139] C. The Anterior Bridge Stop Region
[0140] The anterior bridge stop region 16 is sized and configured
to allow the bridging element 12 to remain firmly in position
adjacent or near the fibrous tissue and the surrounding tissues in
the right atrium side of the atrial septum. The fibrous tissue in
this region provides superior mechanical strength and integrity
compared with muscle and can better resist a device pulling
through. The septum is the most fibrous tissue structure in its own
extent in the heart. Surgically handled, it is usually one of the
only heart tissues into which sutures actually can be placed and
can be expected to hold without pledgets or deep grasps into muscle
tissue, where the latter are required.
[0141] As FIGS. 10A to 10C show, the anterior bridge stop region 16
passes through the septal wall at a supra-annular location above
the plane of the anterior mitral valve annulus. The supra-annular
distance on the anterior side can be generally at or above the
supra-annular distance on the posterior side. As before pointed
out, the anterior bridge stop region 16 is shown in FIGS. 10A to
10C at or near the inferior rim of the fossa ovalis, although other
more inferior or more superior sites can be used within or outside
the fossa ovalis, taking into account the need to prevent harm to
the septal tissue and surrounding structures.
[0142] By locating the bridging element 12 at this supra-annular
level within the right atrium, which is fully outside the left
atrium and spaced well above the anterior mitral annulus, the
implant 10 avoids the impracticalities of endovascular attachment
at or adjacent to the anterior mitral annulus, where there is just
a very thin rim of annulus tissue that is bounded anteriorly by the
anterior leaflet, inferiorly by the aortic outflow tract, and
medially by the atrioventricular node of the conduction system. The
anterior mitral annulus is where the non-coronary leaflet of the
aortic valve attaches to the mitral annulus through the central
fibrous body. Anterior location of the implant 10 in the
supra-annular level within the right atrium (either in the septum
or in a vena cava) avoids encroachment of and risk of injury to
both the aortic valve and the AV node.
[0143] The purchase of the anterior bridge stop region 16 in
fibrous septal tissue is desirably enhanced by a septal member 30
or an anterior bridge stop 20, or a combination of both. FIGS. 10A
and 10B show the anterior bridge stop region including a septal
member 30. FIG. 10C shows the anterior bridge stop region without a
septal member. The septal member 30 may be an expandable device and
also may be a commercially available device such as a septal
occluder, e.g., Amplatzer.RTM. PFO Occluder (see FIGS. 21A and
21B). The septal member 30 preferably mechanically amplifies the
hold or purchase of the anterior bridge stop region 16 in the
fibrous tissue site. The septal member 30 also desirably increases
reliance, at least partly, on neighboring anatomic structures of
the septum to make firm the position of the implant 10. In
addition, the septal member 30 may also serve to plug or occlude
the small aperture that was created in the fossa ovalis or
surrounding area during the implantation procedure.
[0144] Anticipating that pinpoint pulling forces will be applied by
the anterior bridge stop region 16 to the septum, the forces acting
on the septal member 30 should be spread over a moderate area,
without causing impingement on valve, vessels or conduction
tissues. With the pulling or tensioning forces being transmitted
down to the annulus, shortening of the minor axis is achieved. A
flexurally stiff septal member is preferred because it will tend to
cause less focal narrowing in the direction of bridge element
tension of the left atrium as tension on the bridging element is
increased. The septal member should also have a low profile
configuration and highly washable surfaces to diminish thrombus
formation for devices deployed inside the heart. The septal member
may also have a collapsed configuration and a deployed
configuration. The septal member 30 may also include a hub 31 (see
FIGS. 21A and 21B) to allow attachment of the bridge stop 20. A
septal brace may also be used in combination with the septal member
30 and anterior bridge stop 20 to distribute forces uniformly along
the septum (see FIG. 11C). Alternatively, devices in the IVC or the
SVC can be used as bridge stop sites (see FIGS. 11A and 11B),
instead of confined to the septum.
[0145] Location of the posterior and anterior bridge stop regions
14 and 16 having radio-opaque bridge locks and well demarcated
fluoroscopic landmarks respectively at the supra-annular tissue
sites just described, not only provides freedom from key vital
structure damage or local impingement--e.g., to the circumflex
artery, AV node, and the left coronary and non-coronary cusps of
the aortic valve--but the supra-annular focused sites are also not
reliant on purchase between tissue and direct tension-loaded
penetrating/biting/holding tissue attachment mechanisms. Instead,
physical structures and force distribution mechanisms such as
stents, T-shaped members, and septal members can be used, which
better accommodate the attachment or abutment of mechanical levers
and bridge locks, and through which potential tissue tearing forces
can be better distributed. Further, the bridge stop sites 14, 16 do
not require the operator to use complex imaging. Adjustment of
implant position after or during implantation is also facilitated,
free of these constraints. The bridge stop sites 14, 16 also make
possible full intra-atrial retrieval of the implant 10 by
endovascularly snaring and then cutting the bridging element 12 at
either side of the left atrial wall, from which it emerges.
[0146] D. Orientation of the Bridging Element
[0147] In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 10A to 10C, the implant 10
is shown to span the left atrium beginning at a posterior point of
focus superior to the approximate mid-point of the mitral valve
annulus, and proceeding in an anterior direction in a generally
straight path directly to the region of anterior focus in the
septum. As shown in FIGS. 10A to 10C, the spanning region or
bridging element 12 of the implant 10 may be preformed or otherwise
configured to extend in this essentially straight path above the
plane of the valve, without significant deviation in elevation
toward or away from the plane of the annulus, other than as
dictated by any difference in elevation between the posterior and
anterior regions of placement.
[0148] Lateral or medial deviations and/or superior or inferior
deviations in this path can be imparted, if desired, to affect the
nature and direction of the force vector or vectors that the
implant 10 applies. It should be appreciated that the spanning
region or bridging element 12 can be preformed or otherwise
configured with various medial/lateral and/or inferior/superior
deviations to achieve targeted annulus and/or atrial structure
remodeling, which takes into account the particular therapeutic
needs and morphology of the patient. In addition, deviations in the
path of the bridging element may also be imparted in order to avoid
the high velocity blood path within a heart chamber, such as the
left atrium.
[0149] For example, as shown in FIG. 12, the implant 10 is shown to
span the left atrium beginning at a posterior region that is closer
to a lateral trigone of the annulus (i.e., farther from the
septum). Alternatively, the posterior region can be at a position
that is closer to a medial trigone of the annulus (i.e., closer to
the septum). From either one of these posterior regions, the
implant 10 can extend in an anterior direction in a straight path
directly to the anterior region in the septum. As shown in FIG. 12,
like FIG. 10A, the spanning region or bridging element 12 of the
implant 10 is preformed or otherwise configured to extend in an
essentially straight path above the plane of the valve, without
significant deviation in elevation toward or away from the plane of
the annulus, other than as dictated by the difference in elevation,
if any, between the posterior and anterior regions.
[0150] Regardless of the particular location of the posterior
region (see FIG. 13), the spanning region or bridging element 12 of
the implant 10 can be preformed or otherwise configured to arch
upward above the plane of the valve toward the dome of the left
atrium Alternatively (see FIG. 14), the spanning region or bridging
element 12 of the implant 10 can be preformed or otherwise
configured to dip downward toward the plane of the valve toward the
annulus, extending close to the plane of the valve, but otherwise
avoiding interference with the valve leaflets. Or, still
alternatively (see FIG. 15), the spanning region or bridging
element 12 of the implant 10 can be preformed or otherwise
configured to follow a curvilinear path, bending towards a trigone
(medial or lateral) of the annulus before passage to the anterior
region.
[0151] Various combinations of lateral/medial deviations and
superior/inferior deviations of the spanning region or bridging
element 12 of the implant 10 are of course possible. For example,
as shown in FIG. 16, the spanning region or bridging element 12 can
follow a curvilinear path bending around a trigone (medial or
lateral) of the annulus as well as elevate in an arch away from the
plane of the valve. Or, as shown in FIG. 17, the spanning region or
bridging element 12 can follow a curvilinear path bending around a
trigone (medial or lateral) of the annulus as well as dip toward
the plane of the valve.
[0152] Regardless of the orientation, more than one implant 10 can
be installed to form an implant system 22. For example, FIG. 18
shows a system 22 comprising a lateral implant 10L and a medial
implant 10M of a type consistent with the implant 10 as described.
FIG. 18 shows the implants 10L and 10M being located at a common
anterior bridge stop region 16. It should be appreciated that the
implants 10L and 10M can also include spaced apart anterior bridge
stop regions.
[0153] One or both of the implants 10L and 10M can be straight (as
in FIG. 12), or arch upward (as in FIG. 13), or bend downward (as
in FIG. 14). A given system 10 can comprise lateral and medial
implants 10L and 10M of different configurations. Also, a given
system 22 can comprise more than two implants 10.
[0154] FIG. 19 shows a system 22 comprising two curvilinear
implants 10L and 10M of the type shown in FIG. 15. In FIG. 19, the
curvilinear implants 10L and 10M are shown to be situated at a
common posterior region, but the implants 10 can proceed from
spaced apart posterior regions, as well. One or both of the
curvilinear implants 10L and 10M can be parallel with respect to
the plane of the valve (as in FIG. 15), or arch upward (as in FIG.
16), or bend downward (as in FIG. 17). A given system 22 can
comprise curvilinear implants 10L and 10M of different
configurations.
[0155] FIG. 20 shows a system 22 comprising a direct middle implant
10D, a medial curvilinear implant 10M, and a direct lateral implant
10L. One, two, or all of the implants 10 can be parallel to the
valve, or arch upward, or bend downward, as previously
described.
[0156] E. Posterior and Anterior Bridge Stop
[0157] It is to be appreciated that a bridge stop as described
herein, including a posterior or anterior bridge stop, describes an
apparatus that may releasibly hold the bridging element 12 in a
tensioned state. As can be seen in FIGS. 22A and 22B, bridge stops
20 and 18 respectively are shown releasibly secured to the bridging
element 12, allowing the bridge stop structure to move back and
forth independent of the inter-atrial septum and inner wall of the
great cardiac vein during a portion of the cardiac cycle when the
tension force may be reduced or becomes zero. Alternative
embodiments are also described, all of which may provide this
function. It is also to be appreciated that the general
descriptions of posterior and anterior are non-limiting to the
bridge stop function, i.e., a posterior bridge stop may be used
anterior, and an anterior bridge stop may be used posterior.
[0158] When the bridge stop is in an abutting relationship to a
septal member or a T-shaped member, for example, the bridge stop
allows the bridging element to move freely within or around the
septal member or T-shaped member, i.e., the bridging element is not
connected to the septal member or T-shaped member. In this
configuration, the bridging element is held in tension by the
bridge stop, whereby the septal member or T-shaped member serves to
distribute the force applied by the bridging element across a
larger surface area. Alternatively, the bridge stop may be
mechanically connected to the septal member or T-shaped member,
e.g., when the bridge stop is positioned over and secured to the
septal member hub. In this configuration, the bridging element is
fixed relative to the septal member position and is not free to
move about the septal member.
II. General Methods of Trans-Septal Implantation
[0159] The implants 10 or implant systems 22 as just described lend
themselves to implantation in a heart valve annulus in various
ways. The implants 10 or implant systems 22 can be implanted, e.g.,
in an open heart surgical procedure. Alternatively, the implants 10
or implant systems 22 can be implanted using catheter-based
technology via a peripheral venous access site, such as in the
femoral or jugular vein (via the IVC or SVC) under image guidance,
or trans-arterial retrograde approaches to the left atrium through
the aorta from the femoral artery also under image guidance.
[0160] Alternatively, the implants 10 or implant systems 22 can be
implanted using thoracoscopic means through the chest, or by means
of other surgical access through the right atrium, also under image
guidance. Image guidance includes but is not limited to
fluoroscopy, ultrasound, magnetic resonance, computed tomography,
or combinations thereof.
[0161] The implants 10 or implant systems 22 may comprise
independent components that are assembled within the body to form
an implant, or alternatively, independent components that are
assembled exterior the body and implanted as a whole.
[0162] FIGS. 23 to 30 show a representative embodiment of the
deployment of an implant 10 of the type shown in FIGS. 10A to 10C
by a percutaneous, catheter-based procedure, under image
guidance.
[0163] Percutaneous vascular access is achieved by conventional
methods into the femoral or jugular vein, or a combination of both.
As FIGS. 23 and 24 show, under image guidance, a first catheter, or
great cardiac vein catheter 40, and a second catheter, or left
atrium catheter 60, are steered through the vasculature into the
right atrium. It is a function of the great cardiac vein (GCV)
catheter 40 and left atrium (LA) catheter 60 to establish the
posterior bridge end stop region. Catheter access to the right and
left atriums can be achieved through either a femoral vein to IVC
or SVC route (in the latter case, for a caval brace) or an upper
extremity or neck vein to SVC or IVC route (in the latter case, for
a caval brace). In the case of the SVC, the easiest access is from
the upper extremity or neck venous system; however, the IVC can
also be accessed by passing through the SVC and right atrium.
Similarly the easiest access to the IVC is through the femoral
vein; however the SVC can also be accessed by passing through the
IVC and right atrium. FIGS. 23, 24, 27, 28 and 29 show access
through both a SVC route and an IVC route for purposes of
illustration.
[0164] The implantation of the implant 10 or implant systems 22 are
first described here in four general steps. Each of these steps,
and the various tools used, is then described with additional
detail below in section III. Additionally, alternative implantation
steps may be used and are described in section IV. Additional
alternative embodiments of a bridge stop are described in section
V, additional alternative embodiments of a T-shaped member or
bridge stop are described in section VI, and additional alternative
embodiments of an anterior bridge stop are described in section
VII.
[0165] A first implantation step can be generally described as
establishing the posterior bridge stop region 14. As can be seen in
FIG. 24, the GCV catheter 40 is steered through the vasculature
into the right atrium. The GCV catheter 40 is then steered through
the coronary sinus and into the great cardiac vein. The second
catheter, or LA catheter 60, is also steered through the
vasculature and into the right atrium. The LA catheter 60 then
passes through the septal wall at or near the fossa ovalis and
enters the left atrium. A Mullins.TM. catheter 26 may be provided
to assist the guidance of the LA catheter 60 into the left atrium.
Once the GCV catheter 40 and the LA catheter 60 are in their
respective positions in the great cardiac vein and left atrium, it
is a function of the GCV and LA catheters 40, 60 to configure the
posterior bridge stop region 14.
[0166] A second step can be generally described as establishing the
trans-septal bridging element 12. A deployment catheter 24 via the
LA catheter 60 is used to position a posterior bridge stop 18 and a
preferably preattached and predetermined length of bridging element
12 within the great cardiac vein (see FIG. 27). The predetermined
length of bridging element 12, e.g., two meters, extends from the
posterior bridge stop 18, through the left atrium, through the
fossa ovalis, through the vasculature, and preferably remains
accessible exterior the body. The predetermined length of bridging
element may be cut or detached in a future step, leaving implanted
the portion extending from the posterior bridge stop 18 to the
anterior bridge stop 20. Alternatively, the bridging element 20 may
not be cut or detached at the anterior bridge stop 20, but instead
the bridging element 20 may be allowed to extend into the IVC for
possible future retrieval.
[0167] A third step can be generally described as establishing the
anterior bridge stop region 16 (see FIG. 29). The bridging element
12 is first threaded through the septal member 30. The septal
member 30 is then advanced over the bridging element 12 in a
collapsed condition through Mullins catheter 26, and is positioned
and deployed at or near the fossa ovalis within the right atrium. A
bridge stop 20 may be attached to the bridging element 12 and
advanced with the septal member 30, or alternatively, the bridge
stop 20 may be advanced to the right atrium side of the septal
member 30 after the septal member has been positioned or
deployed.
[0168] A fourth step can be generally described as adjusting the
bridging element 12 for proper therapeutic effects. With the
posterior bridge stop region 14, bridging element 12, and anterior
bridge stop region 16 configured as previously described, a tension
is placed on the bridging element 12. The implant 10 and associated
regions may be allowed to settle for a predetermined amount of
time, e.g., five or more seconds. The mitral valve and mitral valve
regurgitation are observed for desired therapeutic effects. The
tension on the bridging element 12 may be adjusted until a desired
result is achieved. The bridge stop 20 is then allowed to secure
the bridging element 12 when the desired tension or measured length
or degree of mitral regurgitation reduction is achieved.
III. Detailed Methods and Implantation Apparatus
[0169] The four generally described steps of implantation will now
be described in greater detail, including the various tools and
apparatus used in the implantation of the implant 10 or implant
systems 22. An exemplary embodiment will describe the methods and
tools for implanting an implant 10. These same or similar methods
and tools may be used to implant an implant system 22 as well.
[0170] A. Establish Posterior Bridge Stop Region
[0171] 1. Implantation Tools
[0172] Various tools may be used to establish the posterior bridge
stop region 14. For example, the great cardiac vein (GCV) catheter
40, the left atrium (LA) catheter 60, and a cutting catheter 80 may
be used.
[0173] FIG. 37A shows one embodiment of the GCV catheter 40 in
accordance with the present invention. The GCV catheter 40
preferably includes a magnetic or ferromagnetic head 42 positioned
on the distal end of the catheter shaft 45, and a hub 46 positioned
on the proximal end. The catheter shaft 45 may include a first
section 48 and a second section 50. The first section 48 may be
generally stiff to allow for torquability of the shaft 45, and may
be of a solid or braided construction. The first section 48
includes a predetermined length, e.g., fifty centimeters, to allow
positioning of the shaft 45 within the vasculature structure. The
second section 50 may be generally flexible to allow for
steerability within the vasculature, i.e., into the coronary sinus.
The second section 50 may also include a predetermined length,
e.g., ten centimeters. The inner diameter or lumen 52 of the
catheter shaft 45 is preferably sized to allow passage of a GCV
guide wire 54, and additionally an LA guide wire 74 (see FIGS. 39
and 40). Both the GCV guide wire 54 and the LA guide wire 74 may be
pre-bent, and both may be steerable. The GCV catheter 40 preferably
includes a radio-opaque marker 56 to facilitate adjusting the
catheter under image guidance to align with the LA catheter 60.
[0174] The magnetic or ferromagnetic head 42 is preferably
polarized to magnetically attract or couple the distal end of the
LA catheter 60 (see FIGS. 37B and 25). The head 42 includes a side
hole 58 formed therein to allow for passage of the LA guide wire
74. As shown in FIG. 40, the left atrial side 43 of the head 42 has
an attracting magnetic force, and the exterior of the heart side 44
of the head 42 has a repelling magnetic force. It should be
appreciated that these magnetic forces may be reversed, as long as
the magnetic forces in each catheter coincide with proper magnetic
attraction. The magnetic head 42 preferably includes a bullet or
coned shaped tip 55 to allow the catheter to track into the
vasculature system. Within the tip 55 is an end hole 59, configured
to allow for passage of the GCV guide wire 54.
[0175] FIG. 38 shows one embodiment of the LA catheter 60. Similar
to the GCV catheter 40, the LA catheter 60 preferably includes a
magnetic or ferromagnetic head 62 positioned on the distal end of
the catheter shaft 65 and a hub 66 positioned on the proximal end.
The catheter shaft 65 may include a first section 68 and a second
section 70. The first section 68 may be generally stiff to allow
for torquability of the shaft 65, and may be of a solid or braided
construction. The first section 68 includes a predetermined length,
e.g., ninety centimeters, to allow positioning of the shaft 65
within the vasculature structure. The second section 70 may be
generally flexible and anatomically shaped to allow for
steerability through the fossa ovalis and into the left atrium. The
second section 70 may also include a predetermined length, e.g.,
ten centimeters. The inner diameter or lumen 72 of the catheter
shaft 65 is preferably sized to allow passage of an LA guide wire
74, and additionally may accept the guide wire 54 passed from the
GCV. The LA catheter 60 may include a radio-opaque marker 76 to
facilitate adjusting the catheter 60 under image guidance to align
with the GCV catheter 40.
[0176] The magnetic or ferromagnetic head 62 of the LA catheter 60
is polarized to magnetically attract or couple the distal end of
the GCV catheter 40. As shown in FIG. 40, end side 64 of the head
62 is polarized to attract the GCV catheter head 42. The magnetic
forces in the head 62 may be reversed, as long as attracting
magnetic poles in the LA catheter 60 and the GCV catheter 40 are
aligned. The magnetic head 62 preferably includes a generally
planar tip 75, and also includes a center bore 78 sized for passage
of the cutting catheter 80 and the LA guide wire 74 (see FIG.
38).
[0177] FIG. 41 shows the cutting catheter 80 preferably sized to be
positioned within the inner diameter or lumen 72 of the LA catheter
60. Alternatively, the cutting catheter 80 may be positioned over
the LA guide wire 74 with the LA catheter 60 removed.
[0178] The cutting catheter 80 preferably includes a hollow cutting
tip 82 positioned on the distal end of the catheter shaft 85, and a
hub 86 positioned on the proximal end. The catheter shaft 85 may
include a first section 88 and a second section 90. The first
section 88 may be generally stiff to allow for torquability of the
shaft 85, and may be of a solid or braided construction. The first
section 88 includes a predetermined length, e.g., ninety
centimeters, to allow positioning of the shaft 85 within the
vasculature structure and the LA catheter. The second section 90
may be generally flexible to allow for steerability through the
fossa ovalis and into the left atrium. The second section 90 may
also include a predetermined length, e.g., twenty centimeters. The
inner diameter 92 of the catheter shaft 85 is preferably sized to
allow passage of the LA guide wire 74. The cutting catheter 80
preferably includes a radio-opaque marker 96 positioned on the
shaft 85 so as to mark the depth of cut against the radio-opaque
magnet head 62 or marker 76 of the LA catheter 60.
[0179] The hollow cutting or penetrating tip 82 includes a
sharpened distal end 98 and is preferably sized to fit through the
LA catheter 60 and magnetic head 62 (see FIG. 42A). Alternatively,
as seen in FIGS. 42B and 42C, cutting or penetrating tips 100 and
105 may be used in place of, or in combination with, the hollow
cutting tip 82. The tri-blade 100 of FIG. 42B includes a sharp
distal tip 101 and three cutting blades 102, although any number of
blades may be used. The tri-blade 100 may be used to avoid
producing cored tissue, which may be a product of the hollow
cutting tip 82. The elimination of cored tissue helps to reduce the
possibility of an embolic complication. The sharp tipped guide wire
105 shown in FIG. 42C may also be used. The sharp tip 106 is
positioned on the end of a guide wire to pierce the wall of the
left atrium and great cardiac vein.
[0180] 2. Implantation Methods
[0181] Access to the vascular system is commonly provided through
the use of introducers known in the art. A 16F or less hemostasis
introducer sheath (not shown), for example, may be first positioned
in the superior vena cava (SVC), providing access for the GCV
catheter 40.
[0182] Alternatively, the introducer may be positioned in the
subclavian vein. A second 16F or less introducer sheath (not shown)
may then be positioned in the right femoral vein, providing access
for the LA catheter 60. Access at both the SVC and the right
femoral vein, for example, also allows the implantation methods to
utilize a loop guide wire. For instance, in a procedure to be
described later, a loop guide wire is generated by advancing the LA
guide wire 74 through the vasculature until it exits the body and
extends external the body at both the superior vena cava sheath and
femoral sheath. The LA guide wire 74 may follow an intravascular
path that extends at least from the superior vena cava sheath
through the interatrial septum into the left atrium and from the
left atrium through atrial tissue and through a great cardiac vein
to the femoral sheath. The loop guide wire enables the physician to
both push and pull devices into the vasculature during the
implantation procedure (see FIGS. 35A and 36A).
[0183] An optional step may include the positioning of a catheter
or catheters within the vascular system to provide baseline
measurements. An AcuNav.TM. intracardiac echocardiography (ICE)
catheter (not shown), or similar device, may be positioned via the
right femoral artery or vein to provide measurements such as, by
way of non-limiting examples, a baseline septal-lateral (S-L)
separation distance measurement, atrial wall separation, and a
mitral regurgitation measurement. Additionally, the ICE catheter
may be used to evaluate aortic, tricuspid, and pulmonary valves,
IVC, SVC, pulmonary veins, and left atrium access.
[0184] The GCV catheter is then deployed in the great cardiac vein
adjacent a posterior annulus of the mitral valve. From the SVC,
under image guidance, the 0.035 inch GCV guide wire 54, for
example, is advanced into the coronary sinus and to the great
cardiac vein. Optionally, an injection of contrast with an
angiographic catheter may be made into the left main artery from
the aorta and an image taken of the left coronary system to
evaluate the position of vital coronary arterial structures.
[0185] Additionally, an injection of contrast may be made to the
great cardiac vein in order to provide an image and a measurement.
If the great cardiac vein is too small, the great cardiac vein may
be dilated with a 5 to 12 millimeter balloon, for example, to
midway the posterior leaflet. The GCV catheter 40 is then advanced
over the GCV guide wire 54 to a location in the great cardiac vein,
for example near the center of the posterior leaflet or posterior
mitral valve annulus (see FIG. 23). The desired position for the
GCV catheter 40 may also be viewed as approximately 2 to 6
centimeters from the anterior intraventricular vein takeoff. Once
the GCV catheter 40 is positioned, an injection may be made to
confirm sufficient blood flow around the GCV catheter 40. If blood
flow is low or non-existent, the GCV catheter 40 may be pulled back
into the coronary sinus until needed.
[0186] The LA catheter 60 is then deployed in the left atrium. From
the femoral vein, under image guidance, the 0.035 inch LA guide
wire 74, for example, is advanced into the right atrium. A 7F
Mullins.TM. dilator with a trans-septal needle is deployed into the
right atrium (not shown). An injection is made within the right
atrium to locate the fossa ovalis on the septal wall. The septal
wall at the fossa ovalis is then punctured with the trans-septal
needle and the guide wire 74 is advanced into the left atrium. The
trans-septal needle is then removed and the dilator is advanced
into the left atrium. An injection is made to confirm position
relative to the left ventricle. The 7F Mullins system is removed
and then replaced with a 12F or other appropriately sized Mullins
system 26. The 12F Mullins system 26 is positioned within the right
atrium and extends a short distance into the left atrium.
[0187] As seen in FIG. 24, the LA catheter 60 is next advanced over
the LA guide wire 74 and positioned within the left atrium. If the
GCV catheter 40 had been backed out to allow for blood flow, it is
now advanced back into position. The GCV catheter 40 is then
grossly rotated to magnetically align with the LA catheter 60.
Referring now to FIG. 25, preferably under image guidance, the LA
catheter 60 is advanced and rotated if necessary until the
magnetically attractant head 62 of the LA catheter 60 magnetically
attracts to the magnetically attractant head 42 of the GCV catheter
40. The left atrial wall and the great cardiac vein venous tissue
separate the LA catheter 60 and the GCV catheter 40. The magnetic
attachment is preferably confirmed via imaging from several viewing
angles, if necessary.
[0188] Next, an access lumen 115 is created into the great cardiac
vein (see FIG. 26). The cutting catheter 80 is first placed over
the LA guide wire 74 inside of the LA catheter 60. The cutting
catheter 80 and the LA guide wire 74 are advanced until resistance
is felt against the wall of the left atrium. The LA guide wire 74
is slightly retracted, and while a forward pressure is applied to
the cutting catheter 80, the cutting catheter 80 is rotated and/or
pushed. Under image guidance, penetration of the cutting catheter
80 into the great cardiac vein is confirmed. The LA guide wire 74
is then advanced into the great cardiac vein and further into the
GCV catheter 40 toward the coronary sinus, eventually exiting the
body at the sheath in the neck. The LA catheter 60 and the GCV
catheter 40 may now be removed. Both the LA guide wire 74 and the
GCV guide wire 54 are now in position for the next step of
establishing the trans-septal bridging element 12.
[0189] B. Establish Trans-Septal Bridging Element
[0190] Now that the posterior bridge stop region 14 has been
established, the trans-septal bridging element 12 is positioned to
extend from the posterior bridge stop region 14 in a posterior to
anterior direction across the left atrium and to the anterior
bridge stop region 16.
[0191] In this exemplary embodiment of the methods of implantation,
the trans-septal bridging element 12 is implanted via a left atrium
to GCV approach. In this approach, the GCV guide wire 54 is not
utilized and may be removed. Alternatively, a GCV to left atrium
approach is also described. In this approach, the GCV guide wire is
utilized. The alternative GCV to left atrium approach for
establishing the trans-septal bridging element 12 will be described
in detail in section IV.
[0192] The bridging element 12 may be composed of a suture material
or suture equivalent known in the art. Common examples may include,
but are not limited to, 1-0, 2-0, and 3-0 polyester suture,
stainless steel braid (e.g., 0.022 inch diameter), and NiTi wire
(e.g., 0.008 inch diameter). Alternatively, the bridging element 12
may be composed of biological tissue such as bovine, equine or
porcine pericardium, or preserved mammalian tissue, preferably in a
gluteraldehyde fixed condition. Alternatively the bridging element
12 may be encased by pericardium, or polyester fabric or
equivalent.
[0193] A bridge stop, such as a T-shaped bridge stop 120 is
preferably connected to the predetermined length of the bridging
element 12. The bridging element 12 may be secured to the T-shaped
bridge stop 120 through the use of a bridge stop 150 (see FIG.
44A), or may be connected to the T-shaped bridge stop 120 by
securing means 121, such as tying, welding, or gluing, or any
combination thereof. As seen in FIGS. 43A and 43B, the T-shaped
bridge stop 120 may be symmetrically shaped or asymmetrically
shaped, may be curved or straight, and preferably includes a
flexible tube 122 having a predetermined length, e.g., three to
eight centimeters, and an inner diameter 124 sized to allow at
least a guide wire to pass through. The tube 122 is preferably
braided, but may be solid as well, and may also be coated with a
polymer material. Each end 126 of the tube 122 preferably includes
a radio-opaque marker 128 to aid in locating and positioning the
T-shaped bridge stop 120. The tube 122 also preferably includes
atraumatic ends 130 to protect the vessel walls. The T-shaped
bridge stop 120 may be flexurally curved or preshaped so as to
generally conform to the curved shape of the great cardiac vein or
interatrial septum and be less traumatic to surrounding tissue. The
overall shape of the T-shaped bridge stop 120 may be predetermined
and based on a number of factors, including, but not limited to the
length of the bridge stop, the material composition of the bridge
stop, and the loading to be applied to the bridge stop.
[0194] A reinforcing center tube 132 may also be included with the
T-shaped bridge stop 120. The reinforcing tube 132 may be
positioned over the flexible tube 122, as shown, or, alternatively,
may be positioned within the flexible tube 122. The reinforcing
tube 132 is preferably solid, but may be braided as well, and may
be shorter in length, e.g., one centimeter, than the flexible tube
122. The reinforcing center tube 132 adds stiffness to the T-shaped
bridge stop 120 and aids in preventing egress of the T-shaped
member 120 through the cored or pierced lumen 115 in the great
cardiac vein and left atrium wall.
[0195] Alternative T-shaped members or bridge locks and means for
connecting the bridging element 12 to the T-shaped bridge locks are
described in section VI.
[0196] As can be seen in FIG. 27, the T-shaped bridge stop 120
(connected to the leading end of the bridging element 12) is first
positioned onto or over the LA guide wire 74. The deployment
catheter 24 is then positioned onto the LA guide wire 74 (which
remains in position and extends into the great cardiac vein) and is
used to push the T-shaped bridge stop 120 through the Mullins
catheter 26 and into the right atrium, and from the right atrium
through the interatrial septum into the left atrium, and from the
left atrium through atrial tissue into a region of the great
cardiac vein adjacent the posterior mitral valve annulus. The LA
guide wire 74 is then withdrawn proximal to the tip of the
deployment catheter 24. The deployment catheter 24 and the guide
wire 74 are then withdrawn just to the left atrium wall. The
T-shaped bridge stop 120 and the attached bridging element 12
remain within the great cardiac vein. The length of bridging
element 12 extends from the posterior T-shaped bridge stop 120,
through the left atrium, through the fossa ovalis, through the
vasculature, and preferably the trailing end remains accessible
exterior the body. Preferably under image guidance, the trailing
end of the bridging element 12 is gently pulled, letting the
T-shaped bridge stop 120 separate from the deployment catheter 24.
Once separation is confirmed, again the bridging element 12 is
gently pulled to position the T-shaped bridge stop 120 against the
venous tissue within the region of the great cardiac vein and
centered over the great cardiac vein access lumen 115. The
deployment catheter 24 and the guide wire 74 may then be removed
(see FIG. 28).
[0197] The trans-septal bridging element 12 is now in position and
extends in a posterior to anterior direction from the posterior
bridge stop region 14, across the left atrium, and to the anterior
bridge stop region 16. The bridging element 12 preferably extends
through the vasculature structure and extends exterior the
body.
[0198] C. Establish Anterior Bridge Stop Region
[0199] Now that the trans-septal bridging element 12 is in
position, the anterior bridge stop region 16 is next to be
established.
[0200] In one embodiment, the proximal portion or trailing end of
the bridging element 12 extending exterior the body is then
threaded through or around an anterior bridge stop, such as the
septal member 30. Preferably, the bridging element 12 is passed
through the septal member 30 outside of the body nearest its center
so that, when later deployed over the fossa ovalis, the bridging
element 12 transmits its force to a central point on the septal
member 30, thereby reducing twisting or rocking of the septal
member. The septal member is advanced over the bridging element 12
in a collapsed configuration through the Mullins catheter 26, and
is positioned within the right atrium and deployed at the fossa
ovalis and in abutment with interatrial septum tissue. The bridging
element 12 may then be held in tension by way of a bridge stop 20
(see FIGS. 29 and 30). The anterior bridge stop 20 may be attached
to or positioned over the bridging element 12 and advanced with the
septal member 30, or alternatively, the bridge stop 20 may be
advanced over the bridging element 12 to the right atrium side of
the septal member 30 after the septal member has been positioned or
deployed. Alternatively, the bridge stop 20 may also be positioned
over the LA guide wire 74 and pushed by the deployment catheter 24
into the right atrium. Once in the right atrium, the bridge stop 20
may then be attached to or positioned over the bridging element 12,
and the LA guide wire 74 and deployment catheter 24 may then be
completely removed from the body.
[0201] FIG. 44A is an exploded view of one embodiment of a bridge
stop in accordance with the present invention. The bridge stop 150
preferably includes a tube shaped base 152 and a screw 154. The
base 152 includes a first side 156 and a second side 158, wherein
use, the first side 156 is disposed toward the septal member 30, or
optionally, the first side is disposed over the septal member hub
31, and the second side 158 is adapted to receive the screw 154.
The base 152 includes an axially configured bore 160 formed therein
having threads 162 beginning at the second side 158 and extending
partially within a length of the base 152, although the bore 160
may be threaded throughout its entire length. The threaded bore 160
includes a predetermined inner diameter 164, sized so as to allow
the base 152 to be installed over a guide wire, and optionally,
positioned over the septal member hub 31. A first channel 166 and,
optionally, a second channel 168 may be included within the bore
160 extending from the first side 156 to partially within the base
152 to provide for passage of the bridging element 12 within the
bridge stop 150 (see FIG. 44B).
[0202] A male threaded portion 170 of screw 154 extends from the
screw base 172 to approximately midway the length of the screw 154
and is sized to be threadably received within the bore 160 of the
base 152. The screw head 174 preferably includes torquing means
such as parallel surfaces 176. Surfaces 176 are provided to allow
the screw 154 to be tightened and loosened within the base 152.
Screw 154 also includes a bore 178 formed therein, sized so as to
allow the screw 154 to be installed over a guide wire, and
optionally, positioned over the septal member hub 31. A first
channel 182 and, optionally, a second channel 184 may be included
within the screw bore 178 extending partially within the screw 154,
or alternatively, throughout the entire length of the screw 154
(see FIG. 44C). The base 152 and the screw 154 are aligned such
that the channel provides for free passage of the bridging element
12 within the bridge stop 150.
[0203] In use, the screw 154 is first partially screwed into the
base 152, allowing the channel 166, 168 in the base 152 to mate
with the channel 182, 184 in the screw 154. The bridging element 12
is then extended through the entire length of the bridge stop 150,
and is positioned within the channel formed within the base 152 and
the screw 154. The bridging element 12 is then tensioned and the
screw 154 is torqued into the base using a driver 186, such that
the bridging element 12 is spooled within the bridge stop 150 or
around the septal member hub 31, preferably one or more times. When
the screw 154 is torqued into the base all the way, the screw
compresses against the bridging element 12, preventing any relative
motion of the bridging element. The bridging element 12 can no
longer move freely within the bridge stop 150, fixing the position
of the bridge stop 150 on the bridging element 12.
[0204] The driver 186 includes parallel surfaces 188, which are
configured to extend over the screw head 174 in a mating
relationship with parallel surfaces 176 on the screw head 174. The
driver 186 also includes a bore 190 formed therein, sized so as to
allow the driver 186 to be positioned over a guide wire.
[0205] The bridge stop 150, and alternative embodiments to be
described later, have a predetermined size, e.g., eight millimeters
by eight millimeters, allowing them to be positioned adjacent a
septal member or a T-shaped member, for example. The bridge locks
are also preferably made of stainless steel or other biocompatible
metallic or polymer materials suitable for implantation.
[0206] Additional alternative bridge stop embodiments are described
in section V.
[0207] D. Bridging Element Adjustment
[0208] The anterior bridge stop 20 is preferably positioned in an
abutting relationship to the septal member 30, or optionally may be
positioned over the septal member hub 31. The bridge stop 20 serves
to adjustably stop or hold the bridging element 12 in a tensioned
state to achieve proper therapeutic effects.
[0209] With the posterior bridge stop region 14, bridging element
12, and anterior bridge stop region 16 configured as previously
described, a tension may be applied to the bridging element 12,
either external to the body at the proximal portion of the bridging
element 12, or internally, including within the vasculature
structure and the heart structure. After first putting tension on
the bridging element 12, the implant 10 and associated regions may
be allowed to settle for a predetermined amount of time, e.g., five
seconds. The mitral valve and its associated mitral valve
regurgitation are then observed for desired therapeutic effects.
The tension on the bridging element 12 may be repeatably adjusted
following these steps until a desired result is achieved. The
bridge stop 20 is then allowed to secure the desired tension of the
bridging element 12. The bridging element may then be cut or
detached at a predetermined distance away from the bridge stop 20,
e.g., zero to three centimeters into the right atrium. The
remaining length of bridging element 12 may then be removed from
the vasculature structure.
[0210] Alternatively, the bridging element 12 may be allowed to
extend into the IVC and into the femoral vein, possibly extending
all the way to the femoral access point. Allowing the bridging
element to extend into the IVC and into the femoral vein would
allow for retrieval of the bridging element in the future, for
example, if adjustment of the bridging element is necessary or
desired.
[0211] The bridging element adjustment procedure as just described
including the steps of placing a tension, waiting, observing, and
readjusting if necessary is preferred over a procedure including
adjusting while at the same time--or real-time--observing and
adjusting, such as where a physician places a tension while at the
same time observes a real-time ultrasound image and continues to
adjust based on the real-time ultrasound image. The waiting step is
beneficial because it allows for the heart and the implant to go
through a quiescent period. This quiescent period allows the heart
and implant to settle down and allows the tension forces and
devices in the posterior and anterior bridge stop regions to begin
to reach an equilibrium state. The desired results are better
maintained when the heart and implant are allowed to settle prior
to securing the tension compared to when the mitral valve is viewed
and tension adjusted real-time with no settle time provided before
securing the tension.
[0212] FIG. 31 shows an anatomical view of mitral valve dysfunction
prior to the implantation of the implant 10. As can be seen, the
two leaflets are not coapting, and as a result the undesirable back
flow of blood from the left ventricle into the left atrium can
occur. After the implant 10 has been implanted as just described,
the implant 10 serves to shorten the minor axis of the annulus,
thereby allowing the two leaflets to coapt and reducing the
undesirable mitral regurgitation (see FIGS. 32 and 33). As can be
seen, the implant 10 is positioned within the heart, including the
bridging element 12 that spans the mitral valve annulus, the
anterior bridge stop 20 and septal member 30 on or near the fossa
ovalis, and the posterior bridge stop 18 within the great cardiac
vein.
IV. Alternative Implantation Steps
[0213] The steps of implantation as previously described may be
altered due to any number of reasons, such as age, health, and
physical size of patient, and desired therapeutic effects. In one
alternative embodiment, the posterior T-shaped bridge stop 120 (or
alternative embodiments) is implanted via a GCV approach, instead
of the left atrial approach as previously described. In an
additional alternative embodiment, the coring procedure of the left
atrial wall is replaced with a piercing procedure from the great
cardiac vein to the left atrium.
[0214] A. GCV Approach
[0215] As previously described, penetration of the cutting catheter
80 into the great cardiac vein is confirmed under image guidance
(see FIG. 26). Once penetration is confirmed, the LA guide wire 74
is advanced into the great cardiac vein and into the GCV catheter
40. The LA guide wire 74 is further advanced through the GCV
catheter 40 until its end exits the body (preferably at the
superior vena cava sheath). The LA catheter 60 and the GCV catheter
40 may now be removed. Both the LA guide wire 74 and the GCV guide
wire 54 are now in position for the next step of establishing the
trans-septal bridging element 12 (see FIG. 35A). At this point, an
optional exchange catheter 28 may be advanced over the LA guide
wire 74, starting at either end of the guide wire 74 and entering
the body at either the femoral sheath or superior vena cava sheath,
and advancing the exchange catheter 28 until it exits the body at
the other end of the guide wire 74. The purpose of this exchange
catheter is to facilitate passage of the LA guide wire 74 and
bridging element 12, in a procedure to be described below, without
cutting or injuring the vascular and heart tissues. In a preferred
embodiment, the exchange catheter 28 is about 0.040 to 0.060 inch
ID, about 0.070 to 0.090 inch OD, about 150 cm in length, has a
lubricious ID surface, and has an atraumatic soft tip on at least
one end so that it can be advanced through the vasculature without
injuring tissues. It is to be appreciated that the ID, OD, and
length may vary depending on the specific procedure to be
performed.
[0216] In the GCV approach, the trans-septal bridging element 12 is
implanted via a GCV to left atrium approach. A predetermined
length, e.g., two meters, of bridging element 12 (having a leading
end and a trailing end) is connected at the leading end to the tip
of the LA guide wire 74 that had previously exited the body at the
superior vena cava sheath and the femoral sheath. In this
embodiment, the LA guide wire 74 serves as the loop guide wire,
allowing the bridging element to be gently pulled or retracted into
and through at least a portion of the vasculature structure and
into a heart chamber. The vascular path of the bridging element may
extend from the superior vena cava sheath through the coronary
sinus into a region of the great cardiac vein adjacent the
posterior mitral valve annulus, and from the great cardiac vein
through atrial tissue into the left atrium, and from the left
atrium into the right atrium through the interatrial septum, and
from the right atrium to the femoral sheath.
[0217] As can be seen in FIGS. 34A to 34D, a crimp tube or
connector 800 may be used to connect the bridging element 12 to at
least one end of the LA guide wire 74. FIG. 34A shows a crimp tube
800 preferably having an outer protective shell 802 and an inner
tube 804. The outer protective shell 802 is preferably made of a
polymeric material to provide atraumatic softness to the crimp
tube, although other crimpable materials may be used. The inner
tube 804 may be made of a ductile or malleable material such as a
soft metal so as to allow a crimp to hold the bridging element 12
and guide wire 74 in place. The crimp tube ends 806 may be gently
curved inward to aid in the movement of the crimp tube as the tube
800 moves through the vasculature. It is to be appreciated that the
crimp tube may simply comprise a single tube made of a ductile or
malleable material.
[0218] The bridging element 12 is positioned partially within the
crimp tube 800. A force is applied with a pliers or similar
crimping tool to create a first crimp 808 (see FIG. 34B). The end
of the bridging element may include a knot, such as a single
overhand knot, to aid in the retention of the bridging element 12
within the crimp tube. Next, the LA guide wire 74 is positioned
partially within the crimp tube 800 opposite the bridging element
12. A force is again applied with a pliers or similar crimping tool
to create a second crimp 810 (see FIG. 34C). Alternatively, both
the bridging element 12 and the guide wire 74 may be placed within
the crimp tube 800 at opposite ends and a single crimp 812 may be
used to secure both the bridging element 12 and the guide wire 74
within the crimp tube (see FIG. 34D). It is to be appreciated that
the crimp tube 800 may be attached to the bridging element 12 or
guide wire prior to the implantation procedure so as to eliminate
the step of crimping the bridging element 12 within the crimp tube
800 during the implantation procedure. The guide wire 74 is now
ready to be gently retracted. It can also be appreciated that
apparatus that uses adhesives or alternatively pre-attached
mechanisms that snap together may also be used for connecting
bridge elements to guide wires.
[0219] As can be seen in FIG. 35B, the LA guide wire 74 is gently
retracted, causing the bridging element 12 to follow through the
vasculature structure. If the optional exchange catheter 28 is used
(as shown in FIGS. 35A and 35B), the LA guide wire 74 retracts
through the lumen of the exchange catheter 28 without injuring
tissues. The LA guide wire 74 is completely removed from the body
at the femoral vein sheath, leaving the bridging element 12
extending from exterior the body (preferably at the femoral
sheath), through the vasculature structure, and again exiting at
the superior vena cava sheath. The LA guide wire 74 may then be
removed from the bridging element 12 by cutting or detaching the
bridging element 12 at or near the crimp tube 800. A posterior
bridge stop, such as a T-shaped bridge stop 120 is preferably
connected to the trailing end of bridging element 12 extending from
the superior vena cava sheath. The T-shaped bridge stop 120 is then
positioned onto or over the GCV guide wire 54. A deployment
catheter 24 is then positioned onto or over the GCV guide wire 54
and is used to advance or push the T-shaped bridge stop 120 and
bridging element 12 through the right atrium, through the coronary
sinus, and into the great cardiac vein. If the optional exchange
catheter 28 is used, the exchange catheter is gently retracted with
the bridging element 12 or slightly ahead of it (see FIGS. 36A and
36B). Optionally, the bridging element 12 may be pulled from the
femoral vein region, either individually, or in combination with
the deployment catheter 24, to advance the T-shaped bridge stop 120
and bridging element 12 into position in the great cardiac vein.
The GCV guide wire 54 is then retracted letting the T-shaped bridge
stop 120 separate from the GCV guide wire 54 and deployment
catheter 24. Preferably under image guidance, and once separation
is confirmed, the bridging element 12 is gently pulled to position
the T-shaped bridge stop 120 in abutment against the venous tissue
within the great cardiac vein and centered over the GCV access
lumen 115. The deployment catheter 24 and optional exchange
catheter 28 may then be removed.
[0220] The T-shaped bridge stop 120 and the attached bridging
element 12 remain within the great cardiac vein. The length of
bridging element 12 extends from the posterior T-shaped bridge stop
120, through the left atrium, through the fossa ovalis, through the
vasculature, and preferably remains accessible exterior the body.
The bridging element 12 is now ready for the next step of
establishing the anterior bridge stop region 16, as previously
described, and as shown in FIGS. 28 to 30.
[0221] B. Piercing Procedure
[0222] In this alternative embodiment, the procedure to core a
lumen from the left atrium into the great cardiac vein is replaced
with a procedure where a sharp-tipped guide wire within the great
cardiac vein is used to create a passage from the great cardiac
vein into the left atrium. Alternative embodiments for the magnetic
head of both the GCV catheter 40 and the LA catheter 60 are
preferably used for this procedure.
[0223] FIGS. 45A and 45B show an end to side polarity embodiment
for the GCV catheter magnetic head 200 and the LA catheter magnetic
head 210. Alternatively, a side to side polarity may be used. The
GCV catheter magnetic head 200 can maintain the same configuration
for both the end to side polarity and the end to end polarity,
while the
[0224] LA catheter magnetic head 215 is shown essentially rotated
ninety degrees for the side to side polarity embodiment (see FIG.
46).
[0225] As seen in FIG. 45B, the GCV catheter magnetic head 200
includes a dual lumen configuration. A navigation guide wire lumen
202 allows the GCV guide wire 54 to extend through the cone or
bullet shaped end 204 of the head 200 in order to steer the GCV
catheter 40 into position. A second radially curved side hole lumen
206 allows the sharp tipped guide wire 105 (or tri-blade 100, for
example) to extend through the head 200 and directs the sharp
tipped guide wire 105 into the LA catheter magnetic head 210. The
LA catheter magnetic head 210 includes a funneled end 212 and a
guide wire lumen 214 (see FIG. 45C). The funneled end 212 directs
the sharp tipped guide wire 105 into the lumen 214 and into the LA
catheter shaft 65.
[0226] FIG. 46 shows the alternative embodiment of the LA catheter
magnetic head 215 used with the side to side polarity embodiment.
The head 215 may have the same configuration as the GCV catheter
magnetic head 42 shown in FIGS. 39 and 40 and described in section
III. The head 215 includes a navigation guide wire lumen 216 at the
cone or bullet shaped end 218, and a side hole 220. The side hole
220 funnels the sharp tipped guide wire 105 (or tri-blade 100, for
example), from the GCV catheter 40 to the LA catheter 60 and
directs the guide wire 105 into the LA catheter shaft 65.
[0227] In use, both the GCV catheter 40 and the LA catheter 60 are
advanced into the great cardiac vein and left atrium as previously
described. The GCV catheter 40 and the LA catheter 60 each includes
the alternative magnetically attractant head portions as just
described. As best seen in FIGS. 45A and 45B, a sharp-tipped guide
wire 105 is advanced through the GCV catheter 40 to the internal
wall of the great cardiac vein. The sharp-tipped guide wire 105 is
further advanced until it punctures or pierces the wall of the
great cardiac vein and the left atrium, and enters the funneled end
212 within the LA catheter head 210. The sharp-tipped guide wire
105 is advanced further until it exits the proximal end of the LA
catheter 60. Both the GCV catheter 40 and the LA catheter 60 may
now be removed, leaving the GCV guide wire 54 and the sharp-tipped
guide wire 105 in place. The posterior T-shaped bridge stop 120 is
now implanted via the GCV approach, as previously described, and as
shown in FIGS. 35A to 36B.
V. Alternative Bridge Stop Embodiments
[0228] Additional alternative embodiments of bridge stop devices
may be used and are herein described. The bridge stop serves to
secure the bridging element 12 at the posterior or anterior bridge
stop region 14, 16, or both.
[0229] FIGS. 47A and 47B are perspective views of an alternative
embodiment of a bridge stop 300 in accordance with the present
invention. The bridge stop 300 preferably includes a fixed upper
body 302 and a movable lower body 304. Alternatively, the upper
body 302 may be movable and the lower body 304 may be fixed. The
upper body 302 and lower body 304 are positioned circumjacent a
tubular shaped rivet 306. The upper body 302 and lower body 304 are
preferably held in position by the rivet head 308 and a base plate
310. The rivet 306 and base plate 310 includes a predetermined
inner diameter 312, sized so as to allow the bridge stop 300 to be
installed over a guide wire. A spring, such as a spring washer 314,
or also known in the mechanical art as a Belleville Spring, is
positioned circumjacent the rivet 306 and between the rivet head
308 and the upper body 302, and applies an upward force on the
lower body 304. The lower body 304 is movable between a bridge
unlocked position (see FIG. 47A), and a bridge locked position (see
FIG. 47B). In the bridge unlocked position, the lower body 304 and
the upper body 302 are not in contacting communication, creating a
groove 320 between the upper body 302 and lower body 304. In the
bridge locked position, the axial force of the spring washer 314
urges the lower body 304 into contacting, or near contacting
communication with the upper body 302, whereby the bridging element
12, which has been positioned within the groove 320, is locked in
place by the axial force of the lower body 304 being applied to the
upper body 302.
[0230] In use, the bridging element 12 is positioned within the
groove 320 while the lower body 304 is maintained in the bridge
unlocked position 316. The bridge stop 300 is positioned against
the septal member 30 and the bridging element 12 is adjusted to
proper tension. The lower body 304 is then allowed to move toward
the upper body 302, thereby fixing the position of the bridge stop
300 on the bridging element 12.
[0231] FIGS. 48A and 48B are perspective views of an alternative
embodiment of the bridge stop 350 shown in FIGS. 47A and 47B. The
bridge stop 400 preferably includes an extension or tension spring
402 wherein at least one revolution of the spring coils 404 is in a
contacting relationship while the spring 402 is in a natural or
no-load position. When in a tensioned state, the at least one
revolution of the spring coils 404 is in a non-contacting
relationship. In use, an axial tension force is applied to the
spring 402, allowing the spring coils 404 to separate (see FIG.
48A). While in the tensioned state, the bridging element 12 is
positioned between and/or around at least one, and preferably
multiple spring coils 404. The bridge stop 400 is positioned
against the septal member 30 and the bridging element 12 is
adjusted to proper tension. The tension force is then removed from
the spring 402 and the spring 404 is allowed to return to its
no-load state (see FIG. 48B). In the spring's no-load state, the
coils 404 provide a tight fit against the bridging element 12,
thereby fixing the position of the bridge stop 400 on the bridging
element 12.
[0232] FIG. 49 is a cross sectional view of an alternative
embodiment of a bridge stop 450 in accordance with the present
invention. The bridge stop 450 preferably includes a plunger 452
within a tube 454. The tube 454 includes a plunger bore 456
extending partially through the length of the tube 454. The bore
456 then tapers inward at 460 creating a smaller bore 462. An
internally threaded portion 466 of plunger bore 456 extends from
the first side 468 of the tube 454 to approximately midway between
the first side 468 and the second side 470 of tube 454.
Alternatively, the threaded portion 466 may be external on the tube
454. The plunger 452 is positioned within the plunger bore 456. The
plunger 452 has a conical shaped head 472 and a shaft 474 extending
from the base 476 of the conical shaped head 472. A torque screw
478, having a first side 480 and a second side 482, is threaded
into bore 456. The first side 480 includes receiver means for a
driver tool to rotate the torque screw 478, such as, but not
limited to phillips, slotted, six lobe, or square. The second side
482 includes a pocket 484. A compression spring 486 having a first
end 488 is positioned within the pocket 484, and a second end 490
of the compression spring 486 is positioned over the shaft 474 of
the plunger 452.
[0233] An aperture 492 is disposed within the wall of the shaft 474
at a point above where the plunger bore 456 begins to taper inward.
Bridging element 12 is shown disposed through the small bore 462
and through aperture 492.
[0234] In use, the torque screw 478 may be backed off to allow the
plunger head 472 to move away from the tapered portion 460 of the
plunger bore 456. Bridging element 12 is disposed within bore 462
and extends out of the tube 454 at aperture 492. The bridge stop
450 is then positioned against the septal member 30 and the
bridging element 12 is adjusted to proper tension. The torque screw
478 is then torqued into the bore 456, causing the plunger head 472
to provide a tight fit against the bridging element 12, thereby
fixing the position of the bridge stop 450 on the bridging element
12.
[0235] FIG. 50 is a cross sectional view of an additional
alternative embodiment of a bridge stop 550 in accordance with the
present invention. The bridge stop 550 preferably includes a base
portion 552 having a first side 554 and a second side 556, a cap
558 threaded over the base portion 552, and a collet 560 positioned
between the second side 556 of the base 552 and the cap 558. The
collet 560 is seated on the second side 556 of the base 552. A bore
562 extends axially through the base 552, collet 560, and cap 558.
In use, the cap 558 may be backed off to allow the bore 562 within
the collet 560 to expand sufficiently to allow the bridging element
12 to slide freely through the bridge stop 550. The bridge stop 550
is then positioned against the septal member 30 and the bridging
element 12 is adjusted to proper tension. The cap 558 is then
tightened onto the base 552, which causes the bore 562 within the
collet 560 to close down. The collet 560 provides a tight fit
against the bridging element 12, thereby fixing the position of the
bridge stop 550 on the bridging element 12. Collet 560 can be made
of an elastomer or deformable type of material to make the pinching
force more distributed and less traumatic to the bridging element
12.
[0236] FIG. 51 is a perspective view of an additional alternative
embodiment of a bridge stop 650 in accordance with the present
invention. The bridge stop 650 comprises a housing 652 having a lid
654. The bridge stop 650 may be tubular in shape, and may include
an axially positioned lumen 656 extending therethru; the lumen 656
being sized to allow the bridge stop 650 to be positioned over a
guide wire for implantation and optionally secured to hub 31 of the
septal member 30. A second radially offset axial lumen 658 also
extends through the bridge stop 650. The second lumen 658 allows
for passage of the bridging element 12 through the bridge stop
650.
[0237] Positioned within the housing 652 is a spring band 660 and a
spacer 662. The spring band 660 is generally circular in shape and
has a fixed end 664 and a free end 666. The fixed end 664 includes
a tab 668 positioned within a slot 670 in the lid 654 to prevent
movement of the fixed end. The free end 666 includes an inclined
angle 672 which allows for circumferential displacement when the
inclined angle 672 is depressed. The spacer 662 is positioned
adjacent the spring band 660, and keeps the spring band in
alignment and free of buckling. As seen in FIG. 51, a screw 674 may
be positioned in the lid 654, and when turned into the bridge stop
650, the screw 674 provides a force on the inclined angle 672. The
free end 666 of the spring band 660 is caused to rotate toward the
fixed end 664, thereby pinching the bridging element 12 within the
bridge stop 650 (between the fixed end 664 and the free end 666),
and fixing the position of the bridge stop 650 on the bridging
element 12.
[0238] It is to be appreciated that each embodiment of the bridge
stop may be configured to have a bridge securing configuration in
its static state, so as to require a positive actuation force
necessary to allow the bridging element to move freely within or
around the bridge stop. When a desirable tension in the bridge
element is achieved, the actuation force is removed, thereby
returning the bridge stop back to its static state and securing the
bridge stop to the bridging element. Alternatively, the bridge stop
may be configured to allow free movement of the bridging element 12
in its static state, thereby requiring a positive securing force to
be maintained on the bridge stop necessary to secure the bridging
element within the bridge stop.
[0239] Preferably, the bridge securing feature is unambiguous via
tactile or fluoroscopic feedback. The securing function preferably
may be locked and unlocked several times, thereby allowing the
bridging element to be readjusted. The bridge stop material is also
desirably radio-opaque or incorporates radio-opaque features to
enable the bridge stop to be located with fluoroscopy.
VI. Alternative T-Shaped Bridge Stop Embodiments
[0240] Additional alternative embodiments of T-shaped bridge stop
devices may be used and are herein described. The T-shaped bridge
stop may serve to secure the bridging element 12 at the anterior
bridge stop region 16, or the posterior bridge stop region 14, or
both. It is to be appreciated that the alternative embodiments of
the T-shaped bridge stop devices may be symmetrical as shown, or
may also be asymmetrically shaped.
[0241] FIG. 52A is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment
of a T-shaped bridge stop 700 in accordance with the present
invention. The T-shaped bridge stop 700 preferably includes an
intravascular stent 702 and, optionally, a reinforcing strut 704.
The stent 702 may be a balloon expandable or self expanding stent.
As previously described, the T-shaped bridge stop 700 is preferably
connected to a predetermined length of the bridging element 12. The
bridging element 12 may be held within, on, or around the T-shaped
bridge stop 700 through the use of any of the bridge locks as
previously described, or may be connected to the T-shaped bridge
stop 700 by way of tying, welding, or gluing, for example, or any
combination.
[0242] FIG. 52B is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment
of the T-shaped bridge stop 700 in accordance with the present
invention. The alternative T-shaped bridge stop 701 preferably
includes a lattice or half round intravascular stent 703 and,
optionally, a reinforcing strut 704. The "C" shaped stent 703 may
be a balloon expandable stent or self expanding stent. As
previously described, the T-shaped bridge stop 701 is preferably
connected to a predetermined length of the bridging element 12. The
bridging element 12 may be held within, on, or around the T-shaped
bridge stop 701 through the use of any of the bridge locks as
previously described, or may be connected to the T-shaped bridge
stop 701 by way of tying, welding, or gluing, for example, or any
combination.
[0243] FIGS. 53A to 53E show alternative methods of connecting the
bridging element 12 to a T-shaped bridge stop 710. FIG. 53A shows a
T-shaped member 710 where the bridging element 12 is wound around
the T-shaped member 710. The bridging element 12 may be secured by
adhesive 712, knot, or a securing band placed over the bridging
element 12, for example. Alternatively, the bridging element 12 may
first be threaded through a lumen 714 extending through the
T-shaped member 710 perpendicular the length of the T-shaped
member. The bridging element 12 may then be wound around the
T-shaped member, and secured by adhesive 712, securing band, or
knot, for example.
[0244] FIG. 53B shows a T-shaped member 710 where the bridging
element 12 is welded or forged to a plate 716. The plate 716 may
then be embedded within the T-shaped member 710, or alternatively,
secured to the T-shaped member 710 by gluing or welding, for
example.
[0245] FIGS. 53C and 53D show alternative embodiments where a ball
and socket joint 718 connects the bridging element 12 to the
T-shaped member 710. In FIG. 53C, the ball and socket joint 718 is
located external to the T-shaped member 710. Alternatively, the
ball and socket joint 718 may be positioned partially or completely
within the T-shaped member 710, as seen in FIG. 53D. The bridging
element 12 is secured to the socket 720, and the ball 722 is
secured to the T-shaped member 710. The ball and socket joint 718
allows for free rotation of the bridging element 12 relative to the
T-shaped member 710 or vice versa. The ball and socket joint 718 is
preferably made of a micro-machined stainless steel, although other
implantable materials may be used as well.
[0246] FIG. 53E shows an additional alternative embodiment of the
T-shaped member 710 where the bridging element 12 is embedded in a
polymeric substrate 724 of the T-shaped member 710. In this
embodiment, the bridging element 12 preferably is a braided
stainless steel micro-cable. The end 726 of the bridging element 12
is separated into an assortment of strands 728, which are then
embedded in the polymeric substrate 724.
[0247] FIG. 53F shows a guide wire or bridging element style hinged
T-shaped bridge stop embodiment 730 having a hinged leg 732. When
in the expanded state, as shown in FIG. 53F, the hinged leg 732
forms one arm of a "T." The hinged leg 732 has a "C" shaped or
concave profile, allowing the hinged leg 732 to lie over the guide
wire or bridging element 12 while tracking to its final location.
When the guide wire or bridging element 12 is gently retracted, the
hinged leg 732 pivots away from the bridging element 12 forming the
T-shaped bridge stop.
VII. Alternative Anterior Bridge Stop Embodiments
[0248] In place of, or in combination with the septal member 30
previously described, alternative embodiments of an anterior bridge
stop may be used.
[0249] FIG. 54 shows an implant 10 having a T-shaped bridge stop
710 in the great cardiac vein and an anterior T-shaped bridge stop
750. The anterior T-shaped bridge stop 750 may be of a construction
of any of the T-shaped bridge stop embodiments described. The
T-shaped member 750 includes a lumen 752 extending through the
T-shaped member 750 perpendicular to the length of the T-shaped
member. The bridging element 12 may be secured by a free floating
bridge stop as previously described.
[0250] FIG. 55 shows an implant 10 having a T-shaped bridge stop
710 in the great cardiac vein and an anterior lattice style bridge
stop 760. The lattice 762 is positioned on the septal wall at or
near the fossa ovalis. Optionally, the lattice 762 may include a
reinforcement strut 764 to distribute the bridging element 12
tension forces over a greater area on the septal wall. The anterior
lattice style bridge stop 760 may be packed in a deployment
catheter with the bridging element 12 passing through its center.
The lattice 762 is preferably self expanding and may be deployed by
a plunger. The bridging element 12 may be secured by a free
floating bridge stop as previously described.
[0251] FIG. 56A shows an implant 10 having a T-shaped bridge stop
710 in the great cardiac vein and an anterior star shaped bridge
stop 770. The star 772 is positioned on the septal wall at or near
the fossa ovalis. The star shaped bridge stop 770 may be packed in
a deployment catheter with the bridging element 12 passing through
its center. The star 772 is preferably self expanding and may be
deployed by a plunger. When the star shaped bridge stop 770 is
deployed, the center portion 774 stands proud of the septal wall to
concentrate forces to the star points 776 (see FIG. 56B). The
bridging element 12 may be secured by a free floating bridge stop
as previously described.
[0252] FIG. 57 shows an additional embodiment of an anterior bridge
stop 820. The bridge stop 820 includes at least two arms 822
extending radially from a generally central portion 824, and
preferably includes more than two arms, as shown in FIG. 57. The
bridge stop 820 is positioned on the septal wall at or near the
fossa ovalis. The bridge stop 820 may be packed in a deployment
catheter with the bridging element 12 passing through its center
lumen 826. The bridge stop is preferably self expanding and may be
deployed by a plunger after being folded into a catheter. The
bridging element 12 may be secured by a free floating bridge stop
as previously described or fixed in position.
[0253] FIG. 58 shows an additional embodiment of an anterior bridge
stop 830. The bridge stop 830 again includes at least two arms 832,
and preferably includes more than two. In this embodiment, each arm
832 is an independent member, and is free to move relative to the
remaining arms. The bridge stop 830 is positioned on the septal
wall at or near the fossa ovalis. The bridge stop 830 may be packed
in a deployment catheter with the bridging element 12 passing
through a lumen 836 in each arm; the lumen being located generally
central along the longitudinal axis of each arm. The bridge stop is
preferably self expanding and may be deployed by a plunger. The
bridging element 12 may be secured by a free floating bridge stop
as previously described or fixed in position.
[0254] FIG. 59 shows an additional embodiment of an anterior bridge
stop 840. The bridge stop 840 includes at least one main trunk 842,
and at least one arm 844 extending radially from the trunk 842, and
preferably more than one arm, as shown in FIG. 59. The bridge stop
840 is positioned on the septal wall at or near the fossa ovalis.
The bridge stop 840 may be packed in a deployment catheter with the
bridging element 12 passing through a lumen 846; the lumen being
located generally central along the longitudinal axis of the trunk
842. The bridge stop is preferably self expanding and may be
deployed by a plunger. The bridging element 12 may be secured by a
free floating bridge stop as previously described or fixed in
position.
[0255] FIG. 60A shows an additional embodiment of an anterior
bridge stop 850. The bridge stop 850 includes at least one arm 852
extending radially from a generally central portion 854, and
preferably includes more than one arm, as shown in FIG. 60A. The
bridge stop 850 is positioned on the septal wall at or near the
fossa ovalis. The bridge stop 850 may be packed in a deployment
catheter 24 with the bridging element 12 passing through its center
lumen 856 (see FIG. 60B). The bridge stop 850 may be self expanding
and may be deployed by a plunger, or alternatively may be deployed
by applying tension on a deployment wire 858 and pushing on the
plunger to expand the at least one arm 852. The forces of the
deployment wire 858 and plunger cause the bridge stop 850 to be
plastically deformed into its final shape. The bridging element 12
may be secured by a free floating bridge stop as previously
described or fixed in position.
[0256] FIGS. 61A to 62B show additional embodiments of an anterior
bridge stop incorporating the use of porcine or equine pericardium
to spread the tension forces of the bridging element 12, and also
to provide a padding surface to the septal wall and to promote the
bridge stop's ingrowth within the septal wall tissue.
[0257] As can be seen in FIG. 61A, a pad 862 of pericardium is
positioned on the septal wall side of a bridge stop 860. The bridge
stop 860 as shown includes a plurality of arms 864 extending
radially from a generally central portion 866. The bridge stop 860,
including the pericardium pad 862, is positioned on the septal wall
at or near the fossa ovalis, with the pericardium pad 862
positioned between the septal wall and the bridge stop 860. The
bridge stop 860 and pericardium pad 862 may be packed in a
deployment catheter 24 with the bridging element 12 passing through
both the bridge stop 860 and the pericardium pad 862 (see FIG.
61B). The bridge stop 860, including the pericardium pad 862, is
preferably self expanding and may be deployed by a plunger. The
bridging element 12 may be secured by a free floating bridge stop
as previously described or fixed in position.
[0258] FIG. 62A shows an alternative embodiment of the bridge stop
860. FIG. 62A shows a bridge stop 870 positioned between at least
two layers of pericardium 872. Pericardium 872 may be a single
piece of pericardium having a butterfly cut to allow the bridge
stop 870 to be positioned between the two layers, or the
pericardium may include at least two separate pads, so as to allow
the bridge stop 870 to be positioned between the at least two pads.
The bridge stop 870 as shown includes a plurality of arms 874
extending radially from a generally central portion 876. The bridge
stop 870, including the pericardium pad 872, is positioned on the
septal wall at or near the fossa ovalis, with one layer of the
pericardium pad 872 being positioned between the septal wall and
the bridge stop 870, and the other layer of pericardium 872 exposed
to the right atrium. The bridge stop 870 and pericardium pad 872
may be packed in a deployment catheter 24 with the bridging element
12 passing through both the bridge stop 870 and the pericardium pad
872 (see FIG. 62B). The bridge stop 870, including the pericardium
pad 872, is preferably self expanding and may be deployed by a
plunger. The bridging element 12 may be secured by a free floating
bridge stop as previously described or fixed in position.
[0259] Both bridge stop embodiments 860 and 870 may include any of
the self-expanding embodiments described herein, and as shown are
non-limiting embodiments for incorporation with a pericardium pad
or pads. It should also be appreciated that pads 862 and 872 may be
composed of biological tissue other than pericardium and further
may be lined with polyester fabric or equivalent to promote tissue
in-growth.
[0260] FIGS. 63A to 63C show an additional embodiment of an
inflatable anterior bridge stop 880. The bridge stop 880 includes a
balloon portion 882 and a central portion 884. The balloon portion
882 may take on any number of shapes, and is shown as a loop or
ring. The central portion 884 may comprise a fabric or other
implantable material to allow for tissue ingrowth. The balloon 882
may be inflated with a glue material in a liquid state, such as an
epoxy glue, or other materials that will harden allowing the
balloon to maintain its expanded configuration. The resulting
pressure from the inflation process encourages the balloon portion
882 and the central portion 884 to expand to its deployed
configuration. When the balloon inflation material has hardened,
the hoop or ring shaped balloon spreads the tension force from the
bridging element 12 and keeps the central fabric portion open and
flat. The bridge stop 880 is positioned on the septal wall at or
near the fossa ovalis. The bridge stop 880 may be packed in a
deployment catheter 24 with the bridging element 12 passing through
a lumen 886 in the central portion 884 (see FIG. 63B). The bridge
stop is preferably self expanding and may be deployed by a plunger.
FIG. 63C shows the bridge stop 880 just after exiting the
deployment catheter 24 and prior to inflation of the balloon
portion 882. The bridging element 12 may be secured by a free
floating bridge stop as previously described or fixed in
position.
VIII. Fixed Length Bridging Element For Predetermined Tension
Across a Heart Valve Annulus or For Predetermined Reduction in
Septal-Lateral Length
[0261] In order to achieve desired septal-lateral mitral valve
dimension, the proper bridge length between the fossa ovalis and
the GCV must be selected.
[0262] The septal-lateral mitral valve annulus length and the fossa
ovalis to GCV length may be readily assessed using three
dimensional echocardiography or magnetic resonance imaging, for
example, either prior to or during the implantation procedure in
order to properly size the fixed length bridging element prior to
implantation.
[0263] FIGS. 64 to 66 show embodiments of an implant system 910
having a fixed length bridging element. Implantation of the implant
910 having a fixed length bridging element is similar to the
implantation of the implant 10 and adjustable bridging element 12
as previously described, except that the bridging element is of a
fixed length and is not adjusted during or after implantation. The
overall length of the fixed length bridging element may be chosen
as a percentage, e.g., 125 to 150 percent, of the desired
septal-lateral length. The length of the fixed length bridging
element will always be greater than the desired septal-lateral
length.
[0264] Normal septal-lateral distances measured in normal persons
may be used as a basis for determining the proper therapeutic
septal-lateral distances in persons being treated. Target
therapeutic septal-lateral distance may, for example, be chosen as
some percentage, e.g. 125 percent, of septal-lateral distance in
normal persons. The target septal-lateral distance must be
sufficient to produce a therapeutic reduction in mitral
regurgitation, but not over-stretch or tear tissues.
[0265] The use of a fixed length bridging element may reduce the
complexity of the implantation of the implant system 910 because
adjustment of a bridging element is not required. The implant
system may also reduce the overall length of time for the
implantation procedure.
[0266] The fixed length bridging element may be generally straight,
as shown in FIG. 67, or may be generally arched or non-linear, as
shown in FIGS. 68 and 69. FIGS. 65 and 66 show a sample of
alternative deviations of the path of the arched fixed length
bridging element 932, similar to those shown in FIGS. 12 to 20. Any
single deviation or combinations of lateral or medial deviations
and/or superior or inferior deviations in this path can be
imparted, if desired, to affect the nature and direction of the
force vector or vectors that the implant 910 applies. It should be
appreciated that the fixed length bridging element can be preformed
or otherwise configured with various medial/lateral and/or
inferior/superior deviations to achieve targeted annulus and/or
atrial structure remodeling, which takes into account the
particular therapeutic needs and morphology of the patient. In
addition, deviations in the path of the fixed length bridging
element may also be imparted in order to avoid the high velocity
blood path within a heart chamber, such as the left atrium. Also,
stainless steel and Nitinol bridge elements may be used (as
previously described and represented by FIGS. 13 to 17 and 19) that
have curved septal to lateral components that impart desired ranges
of tension and length in combination.
[0267] A. Fixed Length Bridging Element Structure
[0268] The fixed length bridging element may be constructed of a
generally rigid material, such as stainless steel, in order to
provide a predetermined reduction in the septal-lateral length,
while allowing a wider range of tension across the heart valve
annulus. Alternatively, the fixed length bridging element may be
constructed of a semi-flexible or springy material, such as
Nitinol, in order to provide a predetermined narrow range of
tension across a heart valve annulus, such as the mitral valve
annulus. A semi-flexible or springy material also facilitates the
implantation of the fixed length bridging element using a
deployment catheter. Nitinol has favorable fatigue properties and
is also non-thrombogenic.
[0269] As shown in FIG. 67, the fixed length bridging element 912
comprises a hollow tube 920 having a connective or retentive member
or head 922 at a first end and a retainer or stop 924 at a second
end. The inner diameter of the hollow tube 920 must be large enough
to enclose bridging element 12. The head 922 is preferably cone or
chevron shaped and may include at least one crevice or slit 926
sized to allow each portion of the head 922 to flex so that the
head can be inserted into a receiving aperture 123 in a T-shaped
member or bridge stop 120 and snap into place (see FIGS. 70A and
70B). The stop 924 at the second end of the hollow tube 920 may be
any practical shape (i.e. circular, square, triangle, or rod
shaped) that offers sufficient surface area to abut the septal
member 30 without allowing the stop 924 of the fixed length
bridging element 912 to pass through the septal member.
Alternatively, a septal member 30 may not be used and the stop 924
may abut the septal wall. Stop 924, for example, may incorporate
any of the bridge stop embodiments described herein, and more
particularly may incorporate any of the embodiments described in
FIGS. 54 to 63C.
[0270] As previously described in relation to the implant 10, the
stop 924 and the bridge stop 120 remain free to move back and forth
independent of the inter-atrial septum and the inner wall of the
great cardiac vein during a portion of the cardiac cycle when the
tension force may be reduced or becomes zero (see FIGS. 71A and
71B).
[0271] FIGS. 68 and 69 show an alternative embodiment of a fixed
length bridging element. The arched fixed length bridging element
932 comprises a hollow tube 940 having a connective or retentive
head 942 at a first end and a retainer or stop 944 at a second end.
The head 942 is preferably cone or chevron shaped and may include
at least one crevice or slit 946 sized to allow each portion of the
head 942 to flex so that the head can be inserted into a receiving
aperture 123 in a T-shaped member or bridge stop 120 and snap into
place (see FIGS. 70A and 70B). The stop 944 at the second end of
the hollow tube 940 may be any practical shape (i.e. circular,
square, triangle, or rod shaped) that offers sufficient surface
area to abut the septal member 30 without allowing the stop 944 of
the fixed length bridging element 932 to pass through the septal
member 30. Alternatively, a septal member 30 may not be used and
the stop 944 may abut the septal wall. Stop 944, for example, may
incorporate any of the bridge stop embodiments described herein,
and more particularly may incorporate any of the embodiments
described in FIGS. 54 to 63C.
[0272] As previously described in relation to the implant 10, the
stop 944 and the bridge stop 120 remain free to move back and forth
independent of the inter-atrial septum and the inner wall of the
great cardiac vein during a portion of the cardiac cycle when the
tension force may be reduced or becomes zero (see FIGS. 71A and
71B).
[0273] B. Detailed Methods For Fixed Length Bridging
[0274] Element Implantation
[0275] The steps of implantation and implantation apparatus as
described in sections 111(A) "Establish Posterior Bridge Stop
Region" and III(B) "Establish Trans-Septal Bridging Element" are
also used in conjunction with the implantation of the fixed length
bridging element 912 and 932 and are therefore not repeated here.
The remaining steps for implantation of the fixed length bridging
element are described below. In addition, the bridging element 12
as described in these steps takes on an alternative purpose of
serving as a "tracking rail" for delivery of the fixed length
bridging element to its final implanted position.
[0276] 1. Establish Anterior Bridge Stop Region
[0277] Now that the trans-septal bridging element or tracking rail
12 is in position, the anterior bridge stop region 16 is next to be
established. In an alternative embodiment not incorporating a
septal member 30, the step including the deployment of the septal
member 30 may be skipped.
[0278] As seen in FIG. 29, the LA guide wire 74 is first backed out
to at least the right atrium. In one embodiment incorporating a
septal member 30, the proximal portion of the tracking rail 12
extending exterior the body is then threaded through or around the
septal member 30. Preferably, the tracking rail 12 is passed
through the septal member 30 outside of the body nearest its center
so that when the fixed length bridging element 912 later passes
over the tracking rail 12, the stop 924 of the fixed length
bridging element 912 will also be centered and will transmit its
force to a central point on the septal member 30, thereby reducing
twisting or rocking of the septal member. The septal member is
advanced over the tracking rail 12, through the vasculature, and is
positioned within the right atrium and deployed at the fossa ovalis
in a manner consistent with the manufacturer's instructions. At
this point, tension may be applied under image guidance to
establish the appropriate tension and/or length of bridging
needed.
[0279] 2. Fixed Length Bridging Element Positioning
[0280] With the posterior bridge stop region 14, tracking rail 12,
and anterior bridge stop region 16 configured as described, the
fixed length bridging element 912, 932 is next to be positioned.
External the body, the fixed length bridging element 912, 932 is
positioned over the tracking rail 12 having an end remaining
external the body. With a tension maintained on the tracking rail
12, the deployment catheter 24 may then be used to gently push the
fixed length bridging element 912, 932 through the vasculature and
into the right atrium, following the path of the tracking rail 12.
When a septal member 30 is used, additional pushing of the
deployment catheter 24 allows the shaped head of the fixed length
bridging element 912, 932 to pass through the interstices of the
septal member 30 until the stop 924, 944 of the fixed length
bridging element comes to rest on the septal member 30 and
restricts further passage (see FIG. 72). When a septal member 30 is
not used, the stop 924, 944 comes to rest on the septal wall and
restricts further passage. FIG. 73 shows the deployment of the
arched fixed length bridging element 932 without the use of a
septal member, and prior to the deployment of the stop 944.
[0281] Still with continued tension maintained on the tracking rail
12, a compressive force is applied to the deployment catheter 24
causing the shaped head 922, 942 to continue to follow the path of
the tracking rail 12 directly into the receiving aperture 123 in
the T-shaped member 120. The shaped head 922, 942 snaps into place
within the aperture 123 in the T-shaped member (see FIGS. 70A and
70B). The tracking rail 12 may then be cut or detached, leaving a
portion free to dangle or recoil within the tube 920, 940 of the
fixed length bridging element, with the remainder removed along
with the deployment catheter 24.
[0282] Alternatively, the tracking rail 12 may be allowed to extend
into the IVC and into the femoral vein, possibly extending all the
way to the femoral access point. Allowing the tracking rail to
extend into the IVC and into the femoral vein would allow for
future retrieval of the tracking rail, which would provide for
access to the fixed length implant.
IX. Alternative Implantation Tools
[0283] Alternative embodiments of the GCV catheter 1040 and LA
catheter 1060 may be used and are herein described. In this
alternative embodiment, the procedure to core a lumen from the left
atrium into the great cardiac vein is replaced with a procedure
where a sharp tipped guide wire 1080 within the great cardiac vein
is used to create a passage from the great cardiac vein into the
left atrium.
[0284] FIG. 74 shows an alternative embodiment of the GCV catheter
1040 in accordance with the present invention. The GCV catheter
1040 preferably includes a magnetic head 1042 including a plurality
of magnetic or ferromagnetic portions 1044,1046,1048 positioned
near the distal end 1020 of the catheter 1040. As seen in FIG. 74,
the GCV catheter magnetic head 1042 may include a dual lumen
configuration. A navigation guide wire lumen 1008 allows the GCV
guide wire 1010 to extend through the cone or bullet shaped head
1042 in order to steer the GCV catheter 1040 into position. A
second side hole lumen 1012 allows the sharp tipped guide wire 1014
to extend through the head 1042 and directed the sharp tipped guide
wire 1014 into the LA catheter magnetic head 1062. Both the GCV
guide wire 1010 and the LA guide wire (not shown) may be pre-bent,
and both may be steerable. The GCV catheter 1040 preferably
includes a radio-opaque marker 1050 to facilitate adjusting the
catheter 1040 under image guidance to align with the LA catheter
1060.
[0285] The magnetic or ferromagnetic head 1042 is preferably
polarized to magnetically attract or couple the distal end of the
LA catheter 1060(see FIG. 75). The magnetic portion 1042 includes a
side hole 1012 formed therein to allow for passage of the LA guide
wire 1014. As shown in FIG. 75, the magnetic portion comprises
three magnets glued or clamped together. The magnetic portion 1042
comprises a distal magnet 1048, a proximal magnet 1044, and a
center magnet 1046 between the distal 1048 and proximal 1044
magnets. The combination of magnets causes not only an attraction
to the center to the triple magnet combination from the N-S
attraction, but also S-S repulsion from the far end of the proximal
1044 and distal 1048 magnets. The center magnet 1046 has its poles
oriented normal to the distal 1048 and proximal 1044 magnets which
creates a radial focus to a single point on the system.
[0286] As shown in FIG. 74, the GCV catheter proximal magnet 1044
and center magnet 1046 are shaped and grooved at their intersection
to create a ramp 1016 to turn the wire 1014 into the LA catheter
1060. In this case the exit hole 1012 is deliberately proximal of
the magnetic center to lessen the ramp curve to less than 90
degrees, and therefore lessen the forces to make the bend in the
wire 1014, with the funnel 1030 in the LA magnetic head 1062 large
enough to catch the advancing wire 1014 into its center hole.
[0287] FIG. 74 shows an alternative embodiment of the LA catheter
1060. The LA catheter 1060 preferably includes a magnetic or
ferromagnetic head 1062 positioned on the distal end 1068 of the
catheter 1060. The inner diameter or lumen of the catheter shaft is
preferably sized to allow passage of an LA wire and additionally
may accept the guide wire passed 1014 from the GCV catheter 1040.
The LA catheter 1060 may include a radio-opaque marker 1026 to
facilitate adjusting the catheter 1060 under image guidance to
align with the GCV catheter 1040.
[0288] The magnetic or ferromagnetic head 1062 of the LA catheter
1060 is polarized to magnetically attract or couple the distal end
1020 of the GCV catheter 1040. As shown in FIG. 75 the distal end
1068 of the LA magnetic head 1062 is polarized to attract the GCV
catheter magnetic portion 1042. It should be noted that the
magnetic forces in the heads 1042, 1062 may be reversed as long as
attracting magnetic poles in the LA catheter 1060 and GCV catheter
1040 are aligned. The LA catheter 1060 magnetic head 1062
preferably includes a interior funnel 1030 and a center bore 1032
sized for passage of the cutting catheter and the LA guide wire
1014.
[0289] FIG. 76 shows a puncturing wire 1014 preferably sized and
configured to be positioned within an inner diameter or lumen of
the GCV catheter 1040. The wire tip 1022 of the puncturing wire may
be flattened to allow the distal tip to bend more easily in its
narrow dimension and make the transition into and out of the ramped
1016 and funneled 1030 sections of the magnets 1042, 1062. The
flattened distal tip 1022 has a different bending modulus than the
remainder of the puncturing wire 1014 which causes the distal tip
1022 to bend more easily in its narrow dimension. Additionally, the
distal tip 1022 is designed to assume a flat down position through
the curved or ramped portion of the catheter 1040. The tip 1022 may
also be sharpened to reduce the puncturing force necessary. The
sharpened tip 1022 may cause adjacent tissue to become easily
lacerated. For that reason, the distal tip of the wire 1014 may be
pre-shaped into a "pigtail" as shown in FIG. 76. In this manner, if
the wire 1014 exits the catheter system it will curl up on itself
and become less traumatic to the adjacent tissue. The wire tip 1022
could further be made of or laminated with radio-opaque materials
1024 to allow operator feedback as to the wire tip's 1022 location
as it progresses through the system. The radio-opaque material 1024
could be any known material such as platinum and radio-opaque ring
markers.
[0290] In use, the GCV catheter 1040 and the LA catheter 1060 may
be advanced into the great cardiac vein and left atrium as
previously described. The GCV catheter 1040 and the LA catheter
1060 each include the alternative magnetically attractive heads
1042,1062 as just described. As is shown in FIG. 74 the
sharp-tipped guide wire 1014 is advanced through the GCV catheter
1040 to the internal wall of the great cardiac vein. The
sharp-tipped guide wire 1014 is further advanced until it punctures
or pierces the wall of the great cardiac vein and the left atrium,
and enters the funneled end 1030 within the LA catheter 1060. Both
the GCV catheter 1040 and the LA vein catheter 1060 may now be
removed, leaving the GCV guide wire 1010 and the sharp-tipped guide
wire 1014 in place. The posterior T-shaped bridge stop is now
implanted via the GCV approach, as previously described and shown
in FIGS. 35A to 36B.
[0291] FIG. 77 shows an additional alternative embodiment of a GCV
catheter 1140. The GCV catheter 1140 includes a three magnet
arrangement 1042 as is described above and shown in FIG. 75,
however the three magnet assembly 1042 is free to partially
swivel.
[0292] The three magnet assembly 1042 includes the terminations of
the delivery guide wire lumen 1008 and the puncturing wire lumen
1012. The three magnet assembly further includes a journal tube
1184 and a retaining pin 1182 coupled thereto. The journal tube
1184 and retaining pin 1182 may be attached by any known means such
as gluing or screwing the parts to the magnets 1042.
[0293] A retaining button 1188 is formed at the end of the flexible
portion of the catheter shaft 1140. The retaining button 1188 has a
partial circumferential slot 1186 extending therethrough. The
retaining pin 1182 attached to the three magnet assembly 1042
extends through the slot 1186. The retaining button 1188 also
includes an aperture through which the journal tube 1184
extends.
[0294] The journal tube 1184 acts as a bearing surface around which
the magnet assembly 1042 partially rotates. The rotation is limited
by the engagement of the retaining pin 1182 in the slot 1186. The
magnetic portion 1042 may rotate in a first direction until the
retaining pin 1182 engages the first end of the slot 1186. The
magnetic portion 1042 may then rotate in a second direction until
the retaining pin 1182 engages the second end of the slot 1186. The
partial rotation eliminates the chance that the wire lumens will
kink.
[0295] The swiveling action removes some of the operator dependence
by allowing the magnetic assembly 1042 to precisely align itself
with the fourth magnet portion 1062 located in the LA catheter head
by the force of their natural magnetic attraction. The magnetic
attraction between the LA catheter head 1062 and GCV magnetic
portion 1042 is the same as described in the previous embodiment
and is shown in FIG. 75.
[0296] The foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the
principles of the invention. Furthermore, since numerous
modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in
the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact
construction and operation shown and described. While the preferred
embodiment has been described, the details may be changed without
departing from the invention, which is defined by the claims.
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