U.S. patent application number 16/882038 was filed with the patent office on 2020-11-26 for devices and systems for accessing and repairing a heart valve.
This patent application is currently assigned to EVALVE, INC.. The applicant listed for this patent is EVALVE, INC.. Invention is credited to Dylan T. Van Hoven, Michael F. Wei.
Application Number | 20200367871 16/882038 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000004883516 |
Filed Date | 2020-11-26 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20200367871 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Van Hoven; Dylan T. ; et
al. |
November 26, 2020 |
DEVICES AND SYSTEMS FOR ACCESSING AND REPAIRING A HEART VALVE
Abstract
Medical delivery system for accessing a tricuspid valve via an
inferior vena cava, including an outer guide catheter, an inner
guide catheter and an interventional catheter. The first deflection
portion of the outer guide catheter is steerable to define a first
outer-guide-catheter curve and the second deflection portion of the
outer guide catheter is steerable to define a second
outer-guide-catheter curve and the first deflection portion of the
inner guide catheter is steerable to define a first
inner-guide-catheter curve.
Inventors: |
Van Hoven; Dylan T.; (San
Carlos, CA) ; Wei; Michael F.; (Redwood City,
CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
EVALVE, INC. |
Santa Clara |
CA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
EVALVE, INC.
Santa Clara
CA
|
Family ID: |
1000004883516 |
Appl. No.: |
16/882038 |
Filed: |
May 22, 2020 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
63007854 |
Apr 9, 2020 |
|
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|
62851573 |
May 22, 2019 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61M 2205/0266 20130101;
A61F 2/2466 20130101; A61B 17/00234 20130101; A61B 2017/00336
20130101; A61F 2/246 20130101; A61B 2017/00243 20130101; A61B
2017/00323 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A61B 17/00 20060101
A61B017/00; A61F 2/24 20060101 A61F002/24 |
Claims
1) A medical delivery system for accessing a tricuspid valve via an
inferior vena cava, comprising an outer guide catheter having a
proximal end portion, a first deflection portion, a second
deflection portion, and a distal end portion each aligned in series
along a length of the outer guide catheter, and having a steering
assembly comprising a first steering mechanism and a second
steering mechanism, the outer guide sheath defining a lumen
extending from the proximal end portion to the distal end portion;
an inner guide catheter positioned coaxially within the lumen of
the outer guide catheter, the inner guide catheter having a
proximal end portion, a first deflection portion, and a distal end
portion each aligned in series along a length of the inner guide
catheter, and having a steering assembly consisting essentially of
a first steering mechanism, and the inner guide catheter defining a
lumen extending from the proximal end portion to the distal end
portion; an interventional catheter positioned coaxially within the
lumen of the inner guide catheter, the interventional catheter
having a proximal end portion and a distal end portion, and having
an implantable fixation device coupled to the distal end portion;
wherein the first deflection portion of the outer guide catheter is
steerable to define a first outer-guide-catheter curve and the
second deflection portion of the outer guide catheter is steerable
to define a second outer-guide-catheter curve; and the first
deflection portion of the inner guide catheter is steerable to
define a first inner-guide-catheter curve.
2) The system of claim 1, wherein the first steering mechanism of
the outer guide catheter is configured to steer the first
deflection portion of the outer guide catheter, and the second
steering mechanism of the outer guide catheter is configured to
steer the second deflection portion of the outer guide
catheter.
3) The system of claim 2, wherein each of the first
outer-guide-catheter curve and the second outer-guide-catheter
curve are each preformed in the outer guide catheter.
4) The system of claim 1, wherein the first steering mechanism of
the inner guide catheter is configured to steer the first
deflection portion of the inner guide catheter.
5) The system of claim 4, wherein the first inner-guide-catheter
curve is preformed in the inner guide catheter.
6) The system of claim 1, wherein the second outer-guide-catheter
curve is in a first plane and the first inner-guide-catheter curve
is in a second plane.
7) The system of claim 6, wherein the first plane and the second
plane are the same plane.
8) The system of claim 1, wherein the implantable fixation device
comprises: a first arm and a second arm; a first proximal element
moveable relative the first arm between a first position and a
second position; and a second proximal element moveable relative to
the second arm between a first position and a second position.
9) A method of repairing a tricuspid valve, comprising: providing a
medical delivery system for accessing the tricuspid valve,
including an outer guide catheter having a proximal end portion, a
first deflection portion, a second deflection portion, and a distal
end portion each aligned in series along a length of the outer
guide catheter, and having a steering assembly comprising a first
steering mechanism and a second steering mechanism, the outer guide
catheter defining a lumen extending from the proximal end portion
to the distal end portion, an inner guide catheter positioned
coaxially within the lumen of the outer guide catheter, the inner
guide catheter having a proximal end portion, a first deflection
portion, and a distal end portion each aligned in series along a
length of the inner guide catheter, and having a steering assembly
consisting essentially of a first steering mechanism, and the inner
guide catheter defining a lumen extending from the proximal end
portion to the distal end portion, and an interventional catheter
positioned coaxially within the lumen of the inner guide catheter,
the interventional catheter having a proximal end portion and a
distal end portion, and having an implantable fixation device
coupled to the distal end portion; delivering the outer guide
catheter to a right atrium via an inferior vena cava; actuating the
first steering mechanism of the outer guide catheter to steer the
first deflection portion of the outer guide catheter such that the
distal end portion of the outer guide catheter moves within the
right atrium relative the tricuspid valve; advancing the inner
guide catheter longitudinally relative the outer guide catheter
such that the first deflection portion of the inner guide catheter
extends distally from the distal end portion of the outer guide
catheter; actuating the first steering mechanism of the inner guide
catheter to steer the first deflection portion of the inner guide
catheter such that the distal end portion of the inner guide
catheter moves within the right atrium relative the tricuspid
valve; aligning the implantable fixation device with the tricuspid
valve by operating the first and second steering mechanism of the
outer guide catheter and the first steering mechanism of the inner
guide catheter; and deploying the implantable fixation device to
repair the tricuspid valve.
10) The method of claim 9, wherein the first deflection portion of
the outer guide catheter is steerable to define a first
outer-guide-catheter curve and the second deflection portion of the
outer guide catheter is steerable to define a second
outer-guide-catheter curve.
11) The method of claim 10, wherein the first deflection portion of
the inner guide catheter is steerable to define a first
inner-guide-catheter curve.
12) The method of claim 11, wherein the first outer-guide-catheter
curve is in a first plane and the first inner-guide-catheter curve
is in a second plane.
13) The method of claim 12, where in the first plane and the second
plane are the same plane.
14) The method of claim 9, wherein the implantable fixation device
comprises: a first arm and a second arm; a first proximal element
moveable relative the first arm between a first position and a
second position; and a second proximal element moveable relative to
the second arm between a first position and a second position.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] [1] The present application claims the benefit of U.S.
Provisional Patent Application No. 62/851,573, filed on May 22,
2019 and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/007,854, filed
on Apr. 9, 2020, the full disclosures of which are hereby
incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Field of Disclosed Subject Matter
[0003] The disclosed subject matter is directed to medical devices
for endovascular, percutaneous or minimally invasive surgical
treatment of bodily tissues, such as tissue approximation or valve
repair. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to repair
of valves of the heart, such as the tricuspid valve, and venous
valves.
[0004] The tricuspid valve regulates blood flow in the heart
between the right atrium and the right ventricle. A properly
functioning tricuspid valve opens and closes to enable blood flow
in one direction--i.e., from the right atrium to the right
ventricle. When the right ventricle contracts, the tricuspid valve
closes to prevent blood from flowing backwards from the right
ventricle to the right atrium, and blood is instead forced through
the pulmonary valve and into the pulmonary arteries for delivery to
the lungs. However, in some circumstances the tricuspid valve is
unable to close properly, allowing blood to regurgitate back into
the atrium. Such regurgitation can result in shortness of breath,
fatigue, heart arrhythmias, and even heart failure.
[0005] Tricuspid valve regurgitation has several causes. Functional
tricuspid valve regurgitation (FTR) is characterized by
structurally normal tricuspid valve leaflets that are nevertheless
unable to properly coapt with one another to close properly due to
other structural deformations of surrounding heart structures. For
example, the right ventricle can become dilated as a result of
pulmonary hypertension or an abnormal heart muscle condition
(cardiomyopathy).
[0006] Other causes of tricuspid valve regurgitation are related to
degenerative valves and/or defects of the tricuspid valve leaflets,
tricuspid valve annulus, or other tricuspid valve structures. In
some circumstances, tricuspid valve regurgitation is a result of
infective endocarditis, blunt chest trauma, rheumatic fever, Marfan
syndrome, carcinoid syndrome, improper placement of pacemaker
leads, or congenital defects to the structure of the heart.
[0007] Tricuspid valve conditions are also often associated with
problems related to the left side of the heart, such as mitral
valve regurgitation. In particular, FTR is often associated with
left heart pathologies, though the tricuspid valve is typically
left untreated during left heart surgeries. Left heart pathologies
such as mitral valve regurgitation and stenosis can induce pressure
and volume overload in the right ventricle, which in turn can
induce ventricle enlargement and tricuspid annular dilation. Though
often relatively mild at the time of treatment of the left heart,
this annular dilation of the tricuspid valve can be progressive and
asymmetric, and FTR can become more severe as time goes on.
Reoperation for repair of the tricuspid valve is often needed owing
to the degenerative character of the pathology.
Description of Related Art
[0008] Tricuspid valve regurgitation is often treated by replacing
the tricuspid valve with a replacement valve implant. However, some
patients are not suitable candidates for a valve replacement
procedure.
[0009] Other treatment options involve repairing the valve through
an interventional procedure. Surgical repair of bodily tissues can
involve tissue approximation and fastening of such tissues in the
approximated arrangement. When repairing valves, tissue
approximation (also referred to as "edge-to-edge" repair technique)
includes coapting the leaflets of the valve in a therapeutic
arrangement which can then be maintained by fastening or fixing the
leaflets. Preferably, devices and systems for tricuspid valve
repair can be utilized without open chest access, and, rather, can
be capable of being performed endovascularly, i.e., delivering
repair devices (e.g., a fixation device, also referred to as a
valve repair clip) using delivery systems advanced to the heart
from a point in the patient's vasculature remote from the
heart.
[0010] However, properly positioning and aligning a repair device
with respect to the tricuspid valve can be difficult, particularly
when approaching the tricuspid valve via the inferior vena cava.
FIG. 1A illustrates a schematic cut-away, top-down view of the
heart, including the location of the four heat valves (tricuspid,
mitral, aortic, and pulmonary) as well as the approximate location
of the inferior vena cava. The tricuspid valve typically includes
three leaflets: posterior leaflet, anterior leaflet, and septal
leaflet. When approaching the mitral valve via inferior vena cava,
a delivery system will approach through (up through the page) the
inferior vena cava, across the right atrium above the tricuspid
valve, across the septum and into the left atrium, and back toward
(down into the page) the mitral valve. When approaching the
tricuspid valve via the inferior vena cava, a delivery system will
approach through (up through the page) the inferior vena cava, then
immediately back toward (down into the page) the tricuspid valve,
all within the right atrium. This can make maneuverability of the
distal end of the delivery system more challenging. As an example,
the distal end portion of the delivery system must be steered
across a severe angle within the right atrium without engaging the
right atrium wall or interfering with the tricuspid valve prior to
aligning and deploying the repair device. Accordingly, there is a
need for devices and systems capable of accessing the tricuspid
valve via the inferior vena cava. Such devices and systems likewise
can be useful for repair of other heart valves and tissues in the
body other than heart valves.
SUMMARY
[0011] The purpose and advantages of the disclosed subject matter
will be set forth in and apparent from the description that
follows, as well as will be learned by practice of the disclosed
subject matter. Additional advantages of the disclosed subject
matter will be realized and attained by the systems and methods
particularly pointed out in the written description and claims
hereof, as well as from the appended drawings.
[0012] To achieve these and other advantages and in accordance with
the purpose of the disclosed subject matter, as embodied and
broadly described, the disclosed subject matter is directed to
systems and methods for repairing a tricuspid valve.
[0013] In accordance with the disclosed subject matter, a medical
delivery system for accessing a tricuspid valve via an inferior
vena cava is provided. The system includes an outer guide catheter,
an inner guide catheter, and an interventional catheter. The outer
guide catheter includes a proximal end portion, a first deflection
portion, a second deflection portion, and a distal end portion each
aligned in series along a length of the outer guide catheter. The
outer guide catheter also includes a steering assembly comprising a
first steering mechanism and a second steering mechanism. The outer
guide catheter defines a lumen extending from the proximal end
portion to the distal end portion. The inner guide catheter is
position coaxially within the lumen of the outer guide catheter,
and includes a proximal end portion, a first deflection portion,
and a distal end portion each aligned in series along a length of
the inner guide catheter. The inner guide catheter also includes a
steering assembly consisting essentially of a first steering
mechanism. The inner guide catheter defines a lumen extending from
the proximal end portion to the distal end portion. The
interventional catheter is positioned coaxially within the lumen of
the inner guide catheter. The interventional catheter includes a
proximal end portion and a distal end portion, and an implantable
fixation device coupled to the distal end portion. The first
deflection portion of the outer guide catheter is steerable to
define a first outer-guide-catheter curve and the second deflection
portion of the outer guide catheter is steerable to define a second
outer-guide-catheter curve. The first deflection portion of the
inner guide catheter is steerable to define a first
inner-guide-catheter curve.
[0014] In accordance with the disclosed subject matter, the first
steering mechanism of the outer guide catheter can be configured to
steer the first deflection portion of the outer guide catheter, and
the second steering mechanism of the outer guide catheter can be
configured to steer the second deflection portion of the outer
guide catheter. Each of the first outer-guide-catheter curve and
the second outer-guide-catheter curve can each be preformed in the
outer guide catheter. The first steering mechanism of the inner
guide catheter can be configured to steer the first deflection
portion of the inner guide catheter. The first inner-guide-catheter
curve can be preformed in the inner guide catheter. The second
outer-guide-catheter curve can be in a first plane and the first
inner-guide-catheter curve can be in a second plane. The first
plane and the second plane can be the same plane.
[0015] The implantable fixation device can include a first arm and
a second arm, a first proximal element moveable relative the first
arm between a first position and a second position, and a second
proximal element moveable relative to the second arm between a
first position and a second position.
[0016] In accordance with the disclosed subject matter, a method of
repairing a tricuspid valve is provided. The method can include
providing a medical delivery system for accessing the tricuspid
valve. The medical delivery system can include an outer guide
catheter, and inner guide catheter, and an interventional catheter.
The outer guide catheter can have a proximal end portion, a first
deflection portion, a second deflection portion, and a distal end
portion each aligned in series along a length of the outer guide
catheter, and a steering assembly including a first steering
mechanism and a second steering mechanism. The outer guide catheter
can define a lumen extending from the proximal end portion to the
distal end portion. The inner guide catheter can be positioned
coaxially within the lumen of the outer guide catheter. The inner
guide catheter can include a proximal end portion, a first
deflection portion, and a distal end portion each aligned in series
along a length of the inner guide catheter, and a steering assembly
consisting essentially of a first steering mechanism. The inner
guide catheter can define a lumen extending from the proximal end
portion to the distal end portion. The interventional catheter can
be positioned coaxially within the lumen of the inner guide
catheter. The interventional catheter can include a proximal end
portion and a distal end portion, and have an implantable fixation
device coupled to the distal end portion. The method can include
delivering the outer guide catheter to a right atrium via an
inferior vena cava. The method can further include actuating the
first steering mechanism of the outer guide catheter to steer the
first deflection portion of the outer guide catheter such that the
distal end portion of the outer guide catheter moves within the
right atrium relative the tricuspid valve and advancing the inner
guide catheter longitudinally relative the outer guide catheter
such that the first deflection portion of the inner guide catheter
extends distally from the distal end portion of the outer guide
catheter. The method can include actuating the first steering
mechanism of the inner guide catheter to steer the first deflection
portion of the inner guide catheter such that the distal end
portion of the inner guide catheter moves within the right atrium
relative the tricuspid valve and aligning the implantable fixation
device with the tricuspid valve by operating the first and second
steering mechanism of the outer guide catheter and the first
steering mechanism of the inner guide catheter. The method can
include deploying the implantable fixation device to repair the
tricuspid valve.
[0017] The first deflection portion of the outer guide catheter can
be steerable to define a first outer-guide-catheter curve and the
second deflection portion of the outer guide catheter can be
steerable to define a second outer-guide-catheter curve. The first
deflection portion of the inner guide catheter can be steerable to
define a first inner-guide-catheter curve. The first
outer-guide-catheter curve can be in a first plane and the first
inner-guide-catheter curve can be in a second plane. The first
plane and the second plane can be the same plane.
[0018] The implantable fixation device can include a first arm and
a second arm, a first proximal element moveable relative the first
arm between a first position and a second position, and a second
proximal element moveable relative to the second arm between a
first position and a second position.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0019] FIG. 1 is a schematic top down, cut-away view of the heart
showing the left and right atriums and the four heart valves.
[0020] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an exemplary interventional
catheter assembly in accordance with the disclosed subject
matter.
[0021] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an exemplary medical
delivery system for accessing and repairing a heart valve, in
accordance with the disclosed subject matter.
[0022] FIGS. 4A-C are schematic side views of a length of an
exemplary outer guide catheter in accordance with the disclosed
subject matter.
[0023] FIGS. 5A-5B are schematic side views of a length of an
exemplary inner guide catheter in accordance with the disclosed
subject matter.
[0024] FIGS. 6A-6B are side views of a distal end portion of
exemplary catheters including steering mechanisms in accordance
with the disclosed subject matter.
[0025] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an exemplary tip ring in
accordance with the disclosed subject matter.
[0026] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a distal end portion of an
exemplary catheter including multiple tip rings, in accordance with
the disclosed subject matter.
[0027] FIG. 9A is a perspective detail view of the engagement
between an exemplary outer guide catheter and an exemplary inner
guide catheter including notches and protrusions, respectively, in
accordance with the disclosed subject matter.
[0028] FIG. 9B is a cross-section view of the outer guide catheter
of FIG. 9A.
[0029] FIG. 9C is a cross-section view of the inner guide catheter
of FIG. 9A.
[0030] FIG. 10 is a schematic top down view of a tricuspid
valve.
[0031] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of
a fixation device for use in accordance with the disclosed subject
matter.
[0032] FIG. 12 is a front view of the fixation device of FIG. 11 at
a different position, wherein optional arms of greater length are
depicted in dashed lines.
[0033] FIGS. 13A-13C are front views of the fixation device of FIG.
11 at various positions, wherein optional arms of greater length
are depicted with dashed lines.
[0034] FIG. 14A is a front schematic view of the fixation device of
FIG. 11 having leaflets captured therein.
[0035] FIG. 14B is a side view of the fixation device of FIG. 11
schematically depicting a contact patch area.
[0036] FIG. 15 is flow chart of a method of repairing a tricuspid
valve in accordance with the disclosed subject matter.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0037] Reference will now be made in detail to the various
exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, exemplary
embodiments of which are illustrated in the accompanying
drawings.
[0038] Transcatheter (e.g., trans-septal) edge-to-edge valve repair
for the mitral valve has been established using a fixation device,
such as the MitraClip Transcatheter Mitral Valve Repair device.
These fixation devices generally are configured to capture and
secure opposing native leaflets using two types of leaflet
contacting elements. The first element is a sub-valvular arm (also
known as a distal element or fixation element) to contact the
ventricular side of a native leaflet to be grasped. With the arm
positioned underneath to stabilize the native leaflet in a beating
heart, a second gripping element (also known as a proximal element)
can be lowered or moved into contact with the atrial side of the
native leaflet to capture the leaflet therebetween. Once each
opposing leaflet is captured by a respective arm and gripper
element, the fixation device can be closed by moving the arms
toward a center of the fixation device such that the leaflets are
brought into coaptation, which results in a reduction in valvular
regurgitation during ventricular systole. Furthermore, a covering
can be provided on the arms and/or gripper elements to facilitate
tissue ingrowth with the captured leaflets. Such fixation devices
can be delivered to the mitral valve using a delivery system. There
is also evidence that the MitraClip device can be useful in
tricuspid valve repair.
[0039] Additional details of exemplary fixation devices and
delivery systems in accordance with the disclosed subject matter
are set forth below. Furthermore, various patents and published
applications disclose additional details of such fixation devices
and delivery systems and related operations, for example, U.S. Pat.
No. 7,226,467 to Lucatero et al., U.S. Pat. No. 7,563,267 to
Goldfarb et al., U.S. Pat. No. 7,655,015 to Goldfarb et al., U.S.
Pat. No. 7,736,388 to Goldfarb et al., U.S. Pat. No. 7,811,296 to
Goldfarb et al., U.S. Pat. No. 8,057,493 to Goldfarb et al., U.S.
Pat. No. 8,303,608 to Goldfarb et al., U.S. Pat. No. 8,500,761 to
Goldfarb et al., U.S. Pat. No. 8,734,505 to Goldfarb et al., U.S.
Pat. No. 8,740,920 to Goldfarb et al., U.S. Pat. No. 9,510,829 to
Goldfarb et al., U.S. Pat. No. 7,635,329 to Goldfarb et al., U.S.
Pat. No. 8,945,177 to Dell et al., U.S. Pat No. 9,011,468 to Ketai
et al., U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2017/0042546 to
Goldfarb et al., U.S. Patent Application Publication No.
2018/0146966 to Hernandez et al., U.S. Patent Application
Publication No. 2017/0239048 to Goldfarb et al., U.S. Patent
Application Publication No. 2018/0325671 to Abunassar et al., the
entirety of the contents of each of these patents and published
applications is incorporated herein by reference.
[0040] In accordance with the disclosed subject matter, a medical
delivery system for accessing a tricuspid valve via an inferior
vena cava is provided. The system includes an outer guide catheter,
an inner guide catheter, and an interventional catheter. The outer
guide catheter includes a proximal end portion, a first deflection
portion, a second deflection portion, and a distal end portion each
aligned in series along a length of the outer guide catheter. The
outer guide catheter also includes a steering assembly comprising a
first steering mechanism and a second steering mechanism. The outer
guide catheter defines a lumen extending from the proximal end
portion to the distal end portion. The inner guide catheter is
position coaxially within the lumen of the outer guide catheter,
and includes a proximal end portion, a first deflection portion,
and a distal end portion each aligned in series along a length of
the inner guide catheter. The inner guide catheter also includes a
steering assembly consisting essentially of a first steering
mechanism. The inner guide catheter defines a lumen extending from
the proximal end portion to the distal end portion. The
interventional catheter is positioned coaxially within the lumen of
the inner guide catheter. The interventional catheter includes a
proximal end portion and a distal end portion, and an implantable
fixation device coupled to the distal end portion. The first
deflection portion of the outer guide catheter is steerable to
define a first outer-guide-catheter curve and the second deflection
portion of the outer guide catheter is steerable to define a second
outer-guide-catheter curve. The first deflection portion of the
inner guide catheter is steerable to define a first
inner-guide-catheter curve.
[0041] Referring to FIG. 2 for purpose of illustration and not
limitation, an exemplary interventional catheter assembly 300 is
provided for delivery of a fixation device, such as fixation device
104 (described in greater detail below). That is, the
interventional catheter assembly 300 can be used to introduce and
position a fixation device 104. The interventional catheter
assembly 300 can include an interventional catheter 302, having a
proximal end portion 322 and a distal end portion 324, and a handle
304 attached to the proximal end portion 322. A fixation device 104
can be removably coupleable to the distal end portion 324 for
delivery to a site within the body, for example, the tricuspid
valve. Thus, extending from the distal end portion 324 is actuator
rod 64. The actuator rod 64 is connectable with the fixation device
104 and can act to manipulate the fixation device 104, for example,
opening and closing the arms. Handle 304 of the interventional
catheter assembly 300 is shown, including main body 308, proximal
element line handle 312, lock line handle 310, the actuator rod
control 314, and the actuator rod handle 316, among other
features.
[0042] Referring to FIG. 3 for purpose of illustration and not
limitation, medical delivery system 1 including an outer guide
catheter 1000 and an inner guide catheter 1020 (e.g., collectively
steerable guide system 3) and interventional catheter assembly 300
is provided. The steerable guide system 3 can include one or more
steerable catheter components. For example, and not limitation,
steerable guide system 3 can include an outer guide catheter 1000,
having a proximal end portion 1014 and a distal end portion 1016,
and an inner guide catheter 1020, having a proximal end portion
1024 and a distal end portion 1026, wherein the inner guide
catheter 1020 is positioned coaxially within the outer guide
catheter 1000, as shown. In addition, a hemostatic valve 1090 can
be disposed within handle 1056, or external to handle 1056 as
shown, to provide leak-free sealing with or without the inner guide
catheter 1020 in place. The distal end portions 1016, 1026 of guide
catheters 1000, 1020, respectively, are sized to be passable to a
body cavity, typically through a body lumen such as a vascular
lumen.
[0043] Referring to FIGS. 4A-4C for purpose of illustration and not
limitation, outer guide catheter 1000 can include a proximal end
portion 1014, a first deflection portion 1015A, a second deflection
portion 1015B, and a distal end portion 1016 each aligned in series
along a length of the outer guide catheter 1000. The first
deflection portion 1015A can be steerable to define a first
outer-guide catheter curve 1017A. First outer-guide catheter curve
1017A can have a radius of curvature R.sub.1. The radius of
curvature R.sub.1 can be suitable for positioning within the right
atrium proximate the tricuspid valve with the outer guide catheter
1000 extending from the vena cava. As such, distal end portion 1016
can be deflected to the appropriate angle by steering the outer
guide catheter 1000 at deflection portion 1015A. The second
deflection portion 1015B can be steerable to define a second
outer-guide catheter curve 1017B. Second outer-guide catheter curve
1017B can have a radius of curvature R.sub.2. The radius of
curvature R.sub.2 can be suitable for positioning within the right
atrium proximate the tricuspid valve with the outer guide catheter
1000 extending from the vena cava. As such, distal end portion 1016
can be deflected to the appropriate angle by steering the outer
guide catheter 1000 at deflection portion 1015B. First outer-guide
catheter curve 1017A and second outer-guide catheter curve 1017B
can be in the same plane or in different planes. For example, first
outer-guide catheter curve 1017A and second outer-guide catheter
curve 1017B can exist on planes that are orthogonal to one another.
The proximal end portion 1014, first deflection portion 1015A,
second deflection portion 1015B, and distal end portion 1016 can
each have a respective length that can be suitable for positioning
within the right atrium proximate the tricuspid valve with the
outer guide catheter 1000 extending from the vena cava.
[0044] Referring to FIGS. 5A-5B for purpose of illustration and not
limitation, inner guide catheter 1020 can include a proximal end
portion 1024, deflection portion 1025, and distal end portion 1026
each aligned in series along a length of the outer guide catheter.
The deflection portion 1025 can be steerable to define an inner
guide-catheter curve 1027. The inner-guide catheter curve 1027 can
have a radius of curvature R.sub.3. The radius of curvature R.sub.3
can be suitable to align with the tricuspid valve when the inner
guide catheter 1020 is extending from the outer guide catheter
1000. As such, distal end portion 1026 can be deflected to an
appropriate angle by steering the inner guide catheter 1020 at
deflection portion 1025. The inner guide-catheter curve 1027 can be
in a plane, for example, the same plane as second outer-guide
catheter curve 1017B. For example, the inner guide catheter 1020
and the outer guide catheter 1000 can be provided with markers,
intended to manually align the two planes, or can be provide with
mating or engaging features (such as keying features, as described
in greater detail below) to self-align as desired. When the
inner-guide catheter curve 1027 and second outer-guide catheter
curve 1017B are in the same plane, both guide catheters 1000, 1020
can be adjusted to achieve proper position relative the tricuspid
valve (e.g., alignment relative the valve and height above the
valve) such as by compensating for one another, as set forth in
greater detail below. The proximal end portion 1024, deflection
portion 1025, and distal end portion 1026 can each have a
respective length that can be suitable for positioning within the
right atrium proximate the tricuspid valve when the inner guide
catheter 1020 is extending from the outer guide catheter 1000. When
inner guide catheter 1020 includes one deflection portion (i.e.,
deflection portion 1025), a limited portion of the inner guide
catheter 1020 (e.g., distal end portion 1026 and deflection portion
1025) can extend from the outer guide catheter 1000 to be steered
within the right atrium. Adding additional deflection portions can
require additional portions of the inner guide catheter 1020 to
extend from the outer guide catheter 1000. However, to achieve a
more acute delivery angle (for example, the inner guide catheter
curve 1027) it can be beneficial to maintain a small profile and
omit extraneous catheter features for the inner guide catheter
1020. Therefore, inner guide catheter 1020 can include one
deflection portion (i.e., deflection portion 1025).
[0045] The curvatures can be formed in catheters 1000, 1020 by
precurving, steering or any suitable means. For example, guide
catheters 1000, 1020 can be curved by a combination of precurving
and steering. Precurving involves preforming or setting a specific
curvature in the catheter prior to usage, such as by heat setting a
polymer or by utilizing a shape-memory alloy. Since the catheters
are generally flexible, steering can be used to straighten the
catheter throughout the deflection portions 1015A, 1015B, 1025.
Once the catheter is positioned in the anatomy, the steering can be
adjusted and the catheter can relax or bias back toward the
precurved setting.
[0046] Steering assemblies can be used to steer guide catheters
1000, 1020. The steering assemblies can include one or more
steering mechanisms, such as cables or pull wires within the wall
of the guide catheters 1000, 1020. For example, a steering
mechanism can be provided for each curve portion, such that the
outer guide catheter 1000 can include a first steering mechanism to
steer the first outer-guide catheter curve 1017A and a second
steering mechanism to steer the second outer-guide catheter curve
1017B. The inner guide catheter 1020 can include a first steering
mechanism to steer the inner-guide catheter curve 1027. To achieve
a more acute delivery angle (for example, the inner guide catheter
curve 1027) it can be beneficial to maintain a small profile and
omit extraneous catheter features for the inner guide catheter
1020. Therefore inner guide catheter 1020 can consist essentially
of a single steering mechanism (i.e., the first steering
mechanism).
[0047] Referring to FIG. 6A for purpose of illustration and not
limitation, the outer guide catheter 1000 can include one or more
pull wires 1111, 1112 slidably disposed in lumens within the wall
of the catheter 1000 and extending to the distal end portion 1016.
By applying tension to the pull wire 1111 in the proximal
direction, the distal end portion 1016 curves in the direction of
the pull wire 1111 as illustrated by arrow 1113. Likewise, by
applying tension to pull wire 1112 in the proximal direction, the
distal end portion 1016 curves in the direction of pull wire 1112
as illustrated by arrow 1114. Diametrically opposing placement of
pull wires 1111, 1112 within the walls of guide catheter 10000
allows the distal end portion 1016 to be steered in opposite
directions 1113, 1114. This can provide a means of correcting or
adjusting a curvature. For example, if tension is applied to one
pull wire to create a curvature, the curvature can be lessened by
applying tension to the diametrically opposite pull wire. Referring
to FIG. 6B for purpose of illustration and not limitation, an
additional set of opposing pull wires 1111' and 1112' can extend
within the wall of guide catheter 1000 to steer guide catheter 1000
toward arrows 1113', 1114', respectively. This combination of pull
wires 1111, 1112, 1111', 1112' can allow guide catheter 1000 to be
curved along first outer-guide catheter curve 1017A and second
outer-guide catheter curve 1017B. For example, pull wires 1111,
1112 can be a first steering mechanism and can be used to steer
along first outer-guide catheter curve 1017A and pull wires 1111',
1112' can be a second steering mechanism and can be used to steer
along second outer-guide catheter curve 1017B. As another example
and not by way of limitation, guide catheter 1000 can include two
pull wires, for example pull wire 1111 which can be a first
steering mechanism and can be used to steer along first outer-guide
catheter curve 1017A and pull wire 1111' which can be a second
steering mechanism and can be used to steer along second
outer-guide catheter curve 1017B. Inner guide catheter 1020, which
can be steerable at deflection portion 1025, can include one pull
wire 1121 (not shown), which can be a first steering mechanism, or
one set of opposing pull wires 1121, 1122 (not shown), which can be
a first steering mechanism, to steer along inner guide-catheter
curve 1027.
[0048] In accordance with the disclosed subject matter, pull wires
1111, 1112, 1111', 1112' and associated lumens can be placed in any
arrangement, singly or in pairs, symmetrically or nonsymmetrically,
and any number of pull wires can be present. This can allow
curvature in any direction and about various axis. The pull wires
1111, 1112, 1111', 1112' can be fixed at any location along the
length of the catheter by any suitable method, such as by gluing,
tying, soldering, or potting. When tension is applied to the pull
wire, the curvature is formed from the point of attachment of the
pull wire toward the proximal direction. Therefore, curvatures can
be formed throughout the length of the catheter depending upon the
locations of the points of attachment of the pull wires. The pull
wires can be attached near the distal end of the catheter, the
distal end of the first deflection portion 1015A, the distal end of
the second deflection portion 1015B, or the distal end of the
deflection portion 1025, for example, using tip ring 280,
illustrated in FIG. 7. As shown, the pull wire 1111 can pass
through an orifice 286 in the tip ring 280, form a loop shape, and
pass back through the orifice 286 and travel back through the
catheter wall (not shown). The loop formed can be captured by a
portion (not shown) of the tip ring 280. In accordance with the
disclosed subject matter, catheter 1000 can include two or more tip
rings 280 located at different locations along the length of
catheter 1000. Referring to FIG. 8 for example, and not by way of
limitation, catheter 1000A includes two tip rings 280A, 280B
located at different locations along the length of catheter 1000A.
Pull wire 1111A passes through an orifice in tip ring 280A, forms a
loop shape, and passes back through the orifice to travel back
through the catheter wall. Pull wire 1111A' extends through tip
ring 280A to tip ring 280B, passes through an orifice in tip ring
280B, forms a loop shape, and passes back through the orifice to
travel back through the catheter wall. As noted above, such a
configuration can cause the curvature formed by pull wire 1111A to
have a different location than the curvature formed by pull wire
1111A'.
[0049] Additionally or alternatively, precurvature of the catheter
can focus the location of the curvature. For example, when the
catheter is precurved at a deflection portion 1015A, 1015B, 1025,
the pull wires can be used to straighten the deflection portion
1015A, 1015B, 1025 or allow the deflection portion to relax toward
the predefined curve. In addition, the lumens which house the pull
wires can be straight or curved.
[0050] The outer guide catheter 1000 and inner guide catheter 1020
can have similar or different construction which can include any
suitable material or combination of materials to create the above
described curvatures. For example, when the guide catheter 1000,
1020 is precurved in addition to being steerable, the guide
catheter 1000, 1020 can include a polymer or copolymer which is
able to be set in a desired curve, such as by heat setting.
Likewise, the guide catheter 1000, 1020 can include a shape-memory
alloy.
[0051] Additionally or alternatively, the guide catheter 1000, 1020
can include one or more of a variety of materials, either along the
length of the guide catheter 1000, 1020, or in various segments
(e.g., 1014, 1015A, 1015B, 1016). Example materials can include
polyurethane, Pebax, nylon, polyester, polyethylene, polyimide,
polyethylenetelephthalate (PET), or polyetheretherketone (PEEK). In
addition, the walls of the guide catheter 1000, 1020 can include
multiple layers of materials and can be reinforced with a variety
of structures, such as metal braids or coils. Such reinforcements
can be along the length of the guide catheter 1000, 1020, or in
various segments (e.g., 1014, 1015A, 1015B, 1016).
[0052] In accordance with the disclosed subject matter, one or more
of outer guide catheter 1000, inner guide catheter 1020, and
interventional catheter 302 can be combined as a catheter assembly.
For example, outer guide catheter 1000 and inner guide catheter
1020 can be combined as a catheter assembly. As another example,
inner guide catheter 1020 and interventional catheter 302 can be
combined as a catheter assembly. As another example, outer guide
catheter 1000, inner guide catheter 1020, and interventional
catheter 302 can be combined as a catheter assembly.
[0053] Referring to FIGS. 9A-9C for purpose of illustration and not
limitation, outer guide catheter 1000 and inner guide catheter 1020
can include a keying feature. The keying feature can be used to
maintain rotational relationship between the guide catheters 1000,
1020 to assist in steering capabilities. For example, inner guide
catheter 1020 can include one or more protrusions 1400 which can
extend radially outwardly. FIG. 9A illustrates four protrusions
1400, equally spaced around the exterior of the inner guide
catheter 1020. Likewise, outer guide catheter 1000 can include
corresponding notches 1402, which can align with the protrusions
1400. FIG. 9A illustrates four notches 1402 equally spaced around
the central lumen 1018. Thus, inner guide catheter 1020 is able to
be translated within outer guide catheter 1000, however rotation of
inner guide catheter 1020 is prevented by the keying features,
i.e., the interlocking protrusions 1400 and notches 1402. Such
keying can help maintain a known correlation of position between
the inner guide catheter 1020 and outer guide catheter 1000.
Although the protrusions and notches are illustrated on the inner
guide catheter 1020, and outer guide catheter 1000, respectively,
the protrusions and/or notches can be on either the inner guide
catheter 1020 and outer guide catheter 1000, which corresponding
protrusions or notches on the other.
[0054] FIG. 9B illustrates a cross-sectional view of outer guide
catheter 1000 of FIG. 9A. The catheter includes a notched layer
1404 along the inner surface of the central lumen 1018. The notched
layer 1404 can include notches 1402 in any size, shape, arrangement
and number. Optionally, the notched layer 1404 can include lumens
1406, for passage of pull wires 1111, 1112, 1111', 1112'. However,
lumens 1406 can alternatively or additionally have other uses.
Notched layer 1404 can be incorporated into the wall of outer guide
catheter 10000, such as by extrusion, or can be a separate layer
positioned within the outer guide catheter 1000. Notched layer 1404
can extend the entire length of outer guide catheter 1000, the
entire length of one or more segments 1014, 1015A, 1015B, 1016, or
along a portion of one or more segments 1014, 1015A, 1015B, 1016,
including a small strip at a designated location along the length
of outer guide catheter 1000.
[0055] FIG. 9C illustrates a cross-sectional view of the inner
guide catheter 1020 of FIG. 9A. The inner guide catheter 1020
includes protrusions 1400 along the outer surface of the inner
guide catheter 1020. The protrusions 1400 can be of any size,
shape, arrangement and number. Protrusions can be incorporated into
the wall of inner guide catheter 1020, such as by extrusion, or can
be included in a separate cylindrical layer on the outer surface of
the inner guide catheter 1020. Alternatively, the protrusions 1400
can be individually adhered to the outer surface of guide catheter
1020. Protrusions can extend the entire length of inner guide
catheter 1020, the entire length of one or more segments 1024,
1025, 1026, or along a portion of one or more segments 1024, 1025,
1026, including a small strip at a designated location along the
length of inner guide catheter 1020.
[0056] In accordance with the disclosed subject matter, outer guide
catheter 1000 and inner guide catheter 1020 can be provided without
keying features.
[0057] Referring again to FIGS. 2 and 3 for purpose of illustration
and not limitation, manipulation of the guide catheters 1000, 1020
can be achieved with the use of handles 1056, 1057 attached to the
proximal end portions 1014, 1024 of catheters 1000, 1020,
respectively. As shown, handle 1056 is attached to the proximal end
portion 1014 of outer guide catheter 1000 and handle 1057 is
attached to the proximal end portion 1024 of inner guide catheter
1020. Inner guide catheter 1020 is inserted through handle 1056 and
is positioned coaxially within outer guide catheter 1000. The
interventional catheter 302 can be inserted though handle 1057 and
can be positioned coaxially within inner guide catheter 1020 and
outer guide catheter 1000.
[0058] Handle 1056 can include two steering knobs 1300A, 1300B
emerging from a handle housing 1302 for manipulation by the user.
Steering knob 1300A can be disposed on the side of housing 1302 and
steering knob 1300B can be disposed on a face of the housing 1302.
Steering knob 1300A can be coupled to pull wires 1111, 1112, which
can be arranged to steer the second deflection portion 1015B of
outer guide catheter 1000. Steering knob 1300B can be coupled to
pull wires 1111', 1112', which can be arranged to steer the first
deflection portion 1015A of outer guide catheter 1000. Although the
steering knobs are described as steering particular deflection
portions, the steering knobs can steer any deflection portion.
Handle 1057 can include one steering knob 1300C emerging from a
handle housing 1302A for manipulation by the user. Steering knob
1300C can be disposed on a face of the housing 1302A. Steering knob
1300C can be coupled to pull wires 1121, 1122, which can be
arranged to steer the deflection portion 1025 of inner guide
catheter 1020. Although the steering knobs are described in
particular locations, placement can be based on a variety of
factors, including type of steering mechanism, size and shape of
handle, type and arrangement of parts within handle, and
ergonomics, among others. Furthermore, while control of the pull
wires is illustrated with steering knobs, any control mechanisms
can be used, including, for example, sliders, triggers or
actuatable handles.
[0059] Referring to FIG. 10 for purpose of illustration and not
limitation, FIG. 10 provides a top-down, cut-away view of the
tricuspid valve. FIG. 10 also shows the axis that will be used
while describing positioning the fixation device 104 relative to
the tricuspid valve. Particularly, the aortic-posterior axis
includes the aortic direction, which is toward the anterior leaflet
of the tricuspid valve (and the aorta) and the posterior direction,
which is toward the posterior leaflet of the tricuspid valve. The
septal-lateral axis includes the septal direction, which is toward
the septal leaflet of the tricuspid valve and the lateral
direction, which is toward the aortic-posterior commissure. In
addition to being properly aligned along the aortic-posterior axis
and septal-lateral axis relative to the tricuspid valve, the
fixation device 104 can be positioned at the proper height relative
to the tricuspid valve. As used herein, gaining height will refer
to moving away from the tricuspid valve (up out of the page) and
losing height will refer to moving toward the tricuspid valve (down
into the page).
[0060] In operation, the medical delivery system 1 can be used to
properly position the fixation device 104 relative to the tricuspid
valve. To properly position the fixation device 104, steering knob
1300A, 1300B, and 1300C can be used. Additionally, all or a portion
of the delivery system 1 can be advanced, and all or a portion of
the delivery system 1 can be rotated. For example, positioning can
be controlled by the following actions.
TABLE-US-00001 Device Axial Height Maneuver movement Effect Advance
entire Toward aortic direction May gain height delivery system 1
Retract entire Toward posterior direction May lose height delivery
system 1 Steering knob 1300B Toward septal direction May gain
height clockwise (CW) Steering knob 1300B Toward lateral direction
May lose height counter clock wise (CCW) Steering knob 1300A CW
Toward posterior/ Lose height septal direction Steering knob 1300A
CCW Toward aortic/ Gain height septal direction Steering knob 1300C
CW Toward posterior/ Lose height septal direction Steering knob
1300C CCW Toward aortic/ Gain height septal direction Rotate handle
300 CW Toward septal direction May gain height Rotate handle 300
CCW Toward lateral direction May lose height
Positioning of the fixation device 104 can be achieved with
iterative adjustments of the delivery system 1 using translation
(advance/retract), torque (rotating handle 300), and knob
adjustments (as described above). Steering knobs 1300A, 1300C, and
translation of delivery system 1 can be used as the primary
movements for successful positioning. Because steering knobs 1300A
and 1300C control steering through the second outer-guide catheter
curve 1017B and the inner-guide catheter curve 1027, respectively,
which can be co-planar, steering knobs 1300A and 1300C can be
adjusted to maintain proper height and alignment, and can
compensate for each other. Once the fixation device 104 is properly
positioned relative to the tricuspid valve, the leaflets can be
grasped, as set forth below, and the fixation device 104 can be
released for implantation.
[0061] Referring to FIGS. 11-14 for purpose illustration and not
limitation, an exemplary fixation device 104 for fixation of native
leaflets of a heart valve is disclosed herein. The fixation device
104 as embodied herein can include a central assembly 171. The
central assembly 171 can include various central components for
operation and release of the fixation device 104 for example, a
coupling member 174 as described in the disclosures of the patents
and applications incorporated by reference herein. The fixation
device 104 as depicted can include at least one arm 108 moveably
coupled to the central assembly 171. As shown, the fixation device
104 can further include a second arm 110 moveably coupled to the
central assembly 171.
[0062] With reference to FIG. 12, and further in accordance with
the disclosed subject matter, each arm 108, 110 can be rotatable
about a respective axis point 148, 150 between closed, open and
inverted positions, as well as any position therebetween.
Furthermore, the arms 108, 110 can be selected from a range of
suitable lengths, wherein the appropriate length can be selected by
the physician or health care provided, for example after inspection
of a patient. For purpose of comparison, a first length of each arm
108, 110 is depicted in FIG. 12 in solid lines, and a second longer
length of each arm of the disclosed subject matter is depicted in
dashed lines. The arms in solid lines can be an entirely separate
arm with a different length as compared to the arm in dashed
lines.
[0063] As depicted herein in FIGS. 13A-13C, various positions of
the fixation device 104 are depicted for purpose of illustration
and not limitation. Elongated arms are illustrated in dashed lines
for comparison to shorter arms (in solid lines). In FIG. 13A, the
fixation device 104 is in the closed position, wherein the arms are
positioned axially in alignment, e.g., vertically or nearly
vertically as shown. FIGS. 13B and 13C illustrate the arms
positioned with an angle A between each other. In FIG. 13B, angle A
is about 10 degrees, and in FIG. 13C, angle A is about 60 degrees.
As disclosed herein, the fixation device 104 is in the closed
position when angle A is about 30 or less degrees. Although not
depicted, the arms can continue to open until angle A exceeds 180
degrees, e.g., inverted.
[0064] The fixation device 104 can further include at least one
gripping element 116 moveable relative to the at least one arm 108
to capture native leaflet therebetween. In accordance with the
disclosed subject matter, each arm can be configured to define or
have a trough aligned along the longitudinal axis. The trough can
have a width sized greater than a width of the gripper element so
as to receive the gripper element therein.
[0065] The fixation device 104 can further include a second
gripping element 118 moveable relative to the second arm 110 to
capture a second native leaflet therebetween. Further, in
accordance with the disclosed subject matter, the at least one
gripping element 116, 118 can have at least one friction element
152 along a length thereof. As embodied herein, each gripping
element 116, 118 can include a plurality of friction elements 152,
which can be disposed in rows. For example, each gripping element
116 and 118 can have a least four rows of friction elements 152.
The friction elements 152 can allow for improved tissue engagement
during leaflet capture. This gripping element design can increase
the assurance that single device leaflet detachment will not occur
during or after a procedure. To adjust the fixation device 104
after an initial leaflet capture, the arms can be opened, the
gripping element can be raised vertically, and tissue can disengage
from the fixation device 104, facilitating re-grasp and
capture.
[0066] As further embodied herein, each gripping element 116, 118
can be biased toward each respective arm 108, 110. Prior to leaflet
capture, each gripping element 116, 118 can be moved inwardly
toward a longitudinal center of the device (e.g., away from each
respective arm 108, 110) and held with the aid of one or more
gripper element lines (not shown), which can be in the form of
sutures, wire, nitinol wires, rods, cables, polymeric lines, or
other suitable structures. The sutures can be operatively connected
with the gripping elements 116, 118 in a variety of ways, such as
by being threaded though loops disposed on gripping elements 116,
118.
[0067] Fixation device 104 can further include two link members or
legs 168, and as embodied herein, each leg 168 has a first end
rotatably joined with one of the arms 108, 110 and a second end
rotatably joined with a base 170. The base 170 can be operatively
connected with a stud 176 which can be operatively attached to an
actuator rod 64 of the delivery system (see FIG. 9). In some
embodiments, the stud 176 can be threaded such that the actuator
rod 64 can attach to the stud 176 by a screw-type action. Further,
the connection point between the stud 176 and the actuator rod 64
can be disposed within the coupling member 174. However, the
actuator rod 64 and stud 176 can be operatively connected by any
mechanism which is releasable to allow the fixation device 104 to
be detached. The stud 176 can be axially extendable and retractable
to move the base and therefore the legs 168, which can rotate the
arms 108, 110 between closed, open and inverted positions.
Immobilization of the stud, such as by a locking mechanism, can
hold the legs 168 in place and therefore lock the arms 108, 110 in
a desired position. Further details are disclosed in the patents
and published applications incorporated by reference herein.
[0068] As previously noted, a native leaflet can be captured
between each arm and respective gripping element. Each arm can then
be moved toward its closed position. In this matter, adjacent
leaflets can further be captured between the arms in the closed
position. For example, and for illustration only, FIGS. 14A and 14B
show the fixation device 104 depicted with arms 108, 110 at an
angle A of about 10 to 30 degrees with two leaflets captured
therebetween, wherein each leaflet is captured between an arm and a
respective gripping element (gripping elements not shown). As
illustrated in FIG. 14B, a contact patch area 222 depicted in
dashed lines and is defined by the area of tissue captured between
the arms. The contact patch area 222 can depict a tissue-to-tissue
contact patch area defined by area of a leaflet in contact with a
counterpart leaflet. As previously noted, FIG. 14B depicts the
contact patch area 222 when the fixation device 104 is oriented at
angle A of about 10 to 30 degrees.
[0069] FIG. 15 illustrates an exemplary method 10000 for repairing
a tricuspid valve in accordance with the disclosed subject matter.
The method can begin at step 10100, where the method includes
providing a medical delivery system for accessing the tricuspid
valve. The medical delivery system includes an outer guide catheter
having a proximal end portion, a first deflection portion, a second
deflection portion, and a distal end portion each aligned in series
along a length of the outer guide catheter, and having a steering
assembly comprising a first steering mechanism and a second
steering mechanism, the outer guide catheter defining a lumen
extending from the proximal end portion to the distal end portion,
an inner guide catheter positioned coaxially within the lumen of
the outer guide catheter, the inner guide catheter having a
proximal end portion, a first deflection portion, and a distal end
portion each aligned in series along a length of the inner guide
catheter, and having a steering assembly consisting essentially of
a first steering mechanism, and the inner guide catheter defining a
lumen extending from the proximal end portion to the distal end
portion, and an interventional catheter positioned coaxially within
the lumen of the inner guide catheter, the interventional catheter
having a proximal end portion and a distal end portion, and having
an implantable fixation device coupled to the distal end portion At
step 10200 the method includes delivering the outer guide catheter
to a right atrium via an inferior vena cava. At step 10300 the
method includes actuating the first steering mechanism of the outer
guide catheter to steer the first deflection portion of the outer
guide catheter such that the distal end portion of the outer guide
catheter moves within the right atrium relative the tricuspid
valve. At step 10400 the method includes advancing the inner guide
catheter longitudinally relative the outer guide catheter such that
the first deflection portion of the inner guide catheter extends
distally from the distal end portion of the outer guide catheter.
At step 10500 the method includes actuating the first steering
mechanism of the inner guide catheter to steer the first deflection
portion of the inner guide catheter such that the distal end
portion of the inner guide catheter moves within the right atrium
relative the tricuspid valve. At step 10600 the method includes
aligning the implantable fixation device with the tricuspid valve
by operating the first and second steering mechanism of the outer
guide catheter and the first steering mechanism of the inner guide
catheter. At step 10700 the method includes deploying the
implantable fixation device to repair the tricuspid valve. In
accordance with the disclosed subject matter, the method can repeat
one or more steps of the method of FIG. 15, where appropriate.
Although this disclosure describes and illustrates particular steps
of the method of FIG. 15 as occurring in a particular order, this
disclosure contemplates any suitable steps of the method of FIG. 15
occurring in any suitable order. Moreover, although this disclosure
describes and illustrates an example method repairing a tricuspid
valve including the particular steps of the method of FIG. 15, this
disclosure contemplates any suitable method for repairing a
tricuspid valve including any suitable steps, which can include
all, some, or none of the steps of the method of FIG. 15, where
appropriate. Furthermore, although this disclosure describes and
illustrates particular components, devices, or systems carrying out
particular steps of the method of FIG. 15, this disclosure
contemplates any suitable combination of any suitable components,
devices, or systems carrying out any suitable steps of the method
of FIG. 15.
[0070] While the embodiments disclosed herein utilize a
push-to-open, pull-to-close mechanism for opening and closing arms
it should be understood that other suitable mechanisms can be used,
such as a pull-to-open, push-to-close mechanism. A closure bias can
be included, for example using a compliant mechanism such as a
linear spring, helical spring, or leaf spring. Other actuation
elements can be used for deployment of the gripper elements.
[0071] While the disclosed subject matter is described herein in
terms of certain preferred embodiments for purpose of illustration
and not limitation, those skilled in the art will recognize that
various modifications and improvements can be made to the disclosed
subject matter without departing from the scope thereof. Moreover,
although individual features of one embodiment of the disclosed
subject matter can be discussed herein or shown in the drawings of
one embodiment and not in other embodiments, it should be readily
apparent that individual features of one embodiment can be combined
with one or more features of another embodiment or features from a
plurality of embodiments.
[0072] In addition to the specific embodiments claimed below, the
disclosed subject matter is also directed to other embodiments
having any other possible combination of the dependent features
claimed below and those disclosed above. As such, the particular
features presented in the dependent claims and disclosed above can
be combined with each other in other possible combinations. Thus,
the foregoing description of specific embodiments of the disclosed
subject matter has been presented for purposes of illustration and
description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the
disclosed subject matter to those embodiments disclosed.
[0073] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various
modifications and variations can be made in the method and system
of the disclosed subject matter without departing from the spirit
or scope of the disclosed subject matter. Thus, it is intended that
the disclosed subject matter include modifications and variations
that are within the scope of the appended claims and their
equivalents.
* * * * *