Patent Application
20220211497
The present invention generally relates to prosthetic valves for implantation in body channels. More particularly, the present invention relates to prosthetic heart valves configured to be surgically implanted in less time than current valves.
Due to aortic stenosis and other heart valve diseases, thousands of patients undergo surgery each year wherein the defective native heart valve is replaced by a prosthetic valve, either bioprosthetic or mechanical. When the valve is replaced, surgical implantation of the prosthetic valve typically requires an open-chest surgery during which the heart is stopped and patient placed on cardiopulmonary bypass (a so-called “heart-lung machine”). In one common surgical procedure, the diseased native valve leaflets are excised and a prosthetic valve is sutured to the surrounding tissue at the valve annulus. Because of the trauma associated with the procedure and the attendant duration of extracorporeal blood circulation, some patients do not survive the surgical procedure or die shortly thereafter. It is well known that the risk to the patient increases with the amount of time required on extracorporeal circulation. Due to these risks, a substantial number of patients with defective valves are deemed inoperable because their condition is too frail to withstand the procedure. By some estimates, about 30 to 50% of the subjects suffering from aortic stenosis who are older than 80 years cannot be operated on for aortic valve replacement.
Because of the drawbacks associated with conventional open-heart surgery, percutaneous and minimally-invasive surgical approaches are garnering intense attention. In one technique, a prosthetic valve is configured to be implanted in a much less invasive procedure by way of catheterization. For instance, U.S. Pat. No. 5,411,552 to Andersen et al. describes a collapsible valve percutaneously introduced in a compressed state through a catheter and expanded in the desired position by balloon inflation. Although these remote implantation techniques have shown great promise for treating certain patients, replacing a valve via surgical intervention is still the preferred treatment procedure. One hurdle to the acceptance of remote implantation is resistance from doctors who are understandably anxious about converting from an effective, if imperfect, regimen to a novel approach that promises great outcomes but is relatively foreign. In conjunction with the understandable caution exercised by surgeons in switching to new regimens of heart valve replacement, regulatory bodies around the world are moving slowly as well. Numerous successful clinical trials and follow-up studies are in process, but much more experience with these new technologies will be required before they are completely accepted. One question that remains unanswered is whether the new expandable valves will have the same durability as conventional prosthetic heart valves.
Accordingly, there is a need for an improved device and associated method of use wherein a prosthetic valve can be surgically implanted in a body channel in a more efficient procedure that reduces the time required on extracorporeal circulation. It is desirable that such a device and method be capable of helping patients with defective valves that are deemed inoperable because their condition is too frail to withstand a lengthy conventional surgical procedure. The present invention addresses this need.
Various embodiments of the present invention provide prosthetic valves and methods of use for replacing a defective native valve in a human heart. Certain embodiments are particularly well adapted for use in a surgical procedure for quickly and easily replacing a heart valve while minimizing time using extracorporeal circulation (i.e., bypass pump).
In one embodiment, a method for treating a native aortic valve in a human heart, comprises: 1) accessing a native valve through an opening in a chest; 2) advancing an expandable support structure to the site of a native aortic valve, the support structure being radially compressed during the advancement; 3) radially expanding the support structure at the site of the native aortic valve; and 4) mechanically coupling a valve member to the expanded support structure, wherein the valve member replaces the function of the native aortic valve. A further understanding of the nature and advantages of the present invention are set forth in the following description and claims, particularly when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which like parts bear like reference numerals.
In one variation, the support structure is a stent, which may comprise a metallic frame. In one embodiment, at least a portion of the metallic frame is made of stainless steel. In another embodiment, at least a portion of the metallic frame is made of a shape memory material. The valve member may take a variety of forms. In one preferred embodiment, the valve member comprises biological tissue. The valve member further comprises a coupling portion configured to be connected to the support structure in a quick and efficient manner. In another variation of this method, the metallic frame is viewed under fluoroscopy during advancement of the prosthetic valve toward the native aortic valve.
The native valve leaflets may be removed before delivering the prosthetic valve. Alternatively, the native leaflets may be left in place to reduce surgery time and to provide a stable base for fixing the support structure within the native valve. In one advantage of this method, the native leaflets recoil inward to enhance the fixation of the metallic frame in the body channel. When the native leaflets are left in place, a balloon or other expansion member may be used to push the valve leaflets out of the way and thereby dilate the native valve before implantation of the support structure.
In another preferred embodiment, a method for treating a native aortic valve in a human heart, comprises accessing a native valve through an opening in a chest; advancing an expandable member to a position within the native aortic valve, the native aortic valve having at least two valvular leaflets; dilating the native aortic valve by expanding the expandable member to push aside the valvular leaflets of the native aortic valve; collapsing the expandable member and withdrawing the expandable member from the native aortic valve; advancing an expandable support structure to a position within the dilated native aortic valve, the support structure being radially compressed during the advancement; radially expanding the support structure within the dilated aortic valve, wherein the expanded support structure maintains the native aortic valve in the dilated condition; and coupling a valve member to the expanded support structure, wherein the valve member replaces the function of the native aortic valve.
In another aspect, an improved prosthetic valve comprises an expandable stent sized for implantation at the site of a native aortic valve, the stent having a coupling means (e.g., a plurality of tines extending from a first end thereof); and a valve member comprising three leaflets mounted on a base portion. The coupling means is configured for attachment to the valve member. Alternatively, the coupling means may be provided on the valve member or on both the stent and valve member.
A particularly useful configuration of the present invention is a two-stage prosthetic heart valve, comprising an expandable anchoring member sized to contact a heart valve annulus in an expanded state and a substantially non-expandable valve member configured for connection to the anchoring member. Desirably, the valve member includes a base ring surrounding an inflow end thereof, and the anchoring member comprises a tubular structure having connectors adapted to engage the base ring. The connectors may comprise prongs that change shape and engage the base ring. For example, the base ring may be made of a suture-permeable material, and the prongs are configured to pierce the base ring, or the prongs are shaped to wrap around the base ring.
In an exemplary embodiment, the valve member includes a plurality of discrete connectors spaced around a peripheral inflow end thereof, and the anchoring member comprises a tubular structure having a plurality of mating connectors spaced around a peripheral outflow end thereof. The connectors on the valve member and anchoring member engage one another by displacing the valve member toward the anchoring member. For instance, the connectors on either the valve member or anchoring member comprise latches, and the connectors on the other of the valve member or anchoring member comprise brackets, the latches configured to engage and lock to the brackets upon axial movement of the latches and brackets toward one another. Additionally, a plurality of guide filaments may be provided, at least one for each of the connectors on the anchoring member and slidingly received by the associated connector on the valve member. The guide filaments guide the valve member in proper orientation with respect to the anchoring member to ensure engagement of the mating connectors.
Desirably, the anchoring member comprises a stent having a wider outflow end than an inflow end thereof, wherein the valve member comprises a base ring surrounding an inflow end thereof that fits within the outflow end of the stent. In one embodiment, the valve member includes a suture-permeable base ring surrounding an inflow end thereof, and the anchoring member comprises a tubular structure having a suture-permeable fixation ring attached thereto, wherein the valve member connects to the anchoring member via sutures looped between the base ring and the fixation ring.
Another embodiment of the present invention comprises a two-stage prosthetic heart valve, having an expandable anchoring member sized to contact a heart valve annulus in an expanded state, a valve member, and an adapter sized to surround the valve member and engage the anchoring member, to connect the valve member and anchoring member. The adapter may be an annular ring or a wireform-shaped member that closely surrounds and conforms to cusps and commissures of a flexible leaflet valve member.
Whatever its shape, the adapter desirably includes a plurality of discrete connectors, and the anchoring member comprises a tubular structure having a plurality of mating connectors spaced around a peripheral outflow end thereof. The connectors on the adapter and anchoring member are configured to engage one another by displacing the adapter toward the anchoring member. For example, the connectors on either the adapter or anchoring member comprise latches, and the connectors on the other of the adapter or anchoring member comprise brackets, the latches being configured to engage and lock to the brackets upon axial movement of the latches and brackets toward one another. In addition, the valve member preferably has a base ring surrounding an inflow end thereof, and the adapter further includes a plurality of connectors adapted to engage and couple the adapter directly to the base ring.
Another aspect of the present invention is a system for retrofitting a conventional prosthetic heart valve, comprising an off-the-shelf, non-expandable prosthetic heart valve having a sewing ring capable of being implanted using sutures through the sewing ring in an open-heart procedure. An expandable anchoring member contacts and anchors to a heart valve annulus in an expanded state. Coupling means connects the prosthetic heart valve to the anchoring member, the prosthetic heart valve thus being attached to the heart valve annulus via the anchoring member.
In the system for retrofitting a conventional prosthetic heart valve, the anchoring member may comprise a tubular structure having a suture-permeable fixation ring attached thereto, wherein the coupling means comprises sutures looped between the base ring and the fixation ring. An adapter sized to surround the heart valve engages the anchoring member, to connect the heart valve and anchoring member. The adapter may be annular or wireform-shaped. Desirably, the adapter includes a plurality of discrete connectors, and the anchoring member comprises a tubular structure having a plurality of mating connectors spaced around a peripheral outflow end thereof, the connectors on the adapter and anchoring member being configured to engage one another by displacing the adapter toward the anchoring member.
A surgical method of implanting a prosthetic heart valve of the present invention in a patient involves providing a two-stage prosthetic heart valve comprising an expandable anchoring member and a valve member, the anchoring member being sized to contact a heart valve annulus in an expanded state and the valve member being configured to connect to the anchoring member. The patient is prepared for surgery by placing him/her on cardiopulmonary bypass. The surgeon creates a direct access pathway to the heart valve annulus that preferably permits direct (i.e., naked eye) visualization of the heart valve annulus. The anchoring member is delivered and expanded to contact the valve annulus, and the valve member is delivered and connected to the anchoring member. Preferably, the direct access pathway is created by performing open-heart surgery. The method may include balloon-expanding the anchoring member. Further, the valve member may be expandable and the method includes delivering the valve member in a compressed state and expanding it prior to connecting it to the anchoring member.
In one embodiment, the valve member and the anchoring member are provided with mating connectors, and the step of delivering and connecting the valve member to the anchoring member comprises axially displacing the valve member toward the anchoring member so that the mating connectors engage. In another embodiment, the anchoring member comprises a stent having an outflow end larger than an inflow end thereof, and the valve member comprises a non-expandable valve member having a base ring on an inflow end thereof sized to fit within the outflow end of the stent. The anchoring member may be provided with bendable connectors on an outflow end thereof, and the method includes causing the connectors to bend inward and engage a peripheral base ring of the valve member. For example, a bending tool may be used to bend connectors inward.
Another surgical method of implanting a two-stage prosthetic heart valve in a patient of the present invention includes providing an expandable anchoring member sized to contact a heart valve annulus in an expanded state, delivering and attaching the anchoring member to the heart valve annulus, providing a non-expandable valve member, and delivering and connecting the valve member to the anchoring member. The valve member and the anchoring member may be provided with mating connectors, and the step of delivering and connecting the valve member to the anchoring member comprises axially displacing the valve member toward the anchoring member so that the mating connectors engage. Desirably, the anchoring member comprises a stent having an outflow end larger than an inflow end thereof, and wherein the valve member comprises a base ring on an inflow end thereof sized to fit within the outflow end of the stent. The anchoring member may be provided with bendable connectors on an outflow end thereof, and the method includes causing the connectors to bend inward and engage a peripheral base ring of the valve member, such as by using a bending tool.
In an exemplary embodiment, the valve member includes a base ring on an inflow end thereof, and the method further includes providing an adapter sized to surround the valve member and seat on the base ring. The method therefore includes the step of delivering and connecting the valve member and coupling the adapter to the anchoring member. For instance, the adapter includes a plurality of discrete connectors, and the anchoring member comprises a tubular structure having a plurality of mating connectors spaced around a peripheral outflow end thereof. The step of coupling the adapter to the anchoring member comprises displacing the adapter toward the anchoring member to engage the mating connectors thereon. Additionally, the adapter may further have a plurality of connectors adapted to engage and couple the adapter directly to the base ring, and the method includes causing the connectors to engage the base ring.
In a still further surgical method of implanting a prosthetic heart valve in a patient, a prosthetic heart valve and a separate expandable anchoring member are provided. The prosthetic heart valve and anchoring member are positioned within a valve dilator/delivery tube having an exterior diameter sized to dilate a heart valve annulus. The valve dilator/delivery tube advances to the heart valve annulus, and the annulus is dilated using the valve dilator/delivery tube. The anchoring member is expulsed from the tube and expanded to contact the heart valve annulus. The prosthetic heart valve is then expulsed from the valve dilator/delivery tube, and connected to the anchoring member.
Another method of the present invention comprises retrofitting and rapidly implanting a conventional prosthetic heart valve in a patient. The method includes providing an off-the-shelf non-expandable prosthetic heart valve having a sewing ring capable of being implanted using sutures through the sewing ring in an open-heart procedure. An expandable tissue anchoring member sized to contact a heart valve annulus in an expanded state is delivered and expanded into contact with the heart valve annulus. Finally, the prosthetic heart valve is delivered and connected to the tissue anchoring member.
The invention will now be explained and other advantages and features will appear with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings wherein:
The present invention attempts to overcome drawbacks associated with conventional, open-heart surgery, while also adopting some of the techniques of newer technologies which decrease the duration of the treatment procedure. The prosthetic heart valves of the present invention are primarily intended to be delivered and implanted using conventional surgical techniques, including the aforementioned open-heart surgery. There are a number of approaches in such surgeries, all of which result in the formation of a direct access pathway to the particular heart valve annulus. For clarification, a direct access pathway is one that permits direct (i.e., naked eye) visualization of the heart valve annulus. In addition, it will be recognized that embodiments of the two-stage prosthetic heart valves described herein may also be configured for delivery using percutaneous approaches, and those minimally-invasive surgical approaches that require remote implantation of the valve using indirect visualization.
One primary aspect of the present invention is a two-stage prosthetic heart valve wherein the tasks of implanting a tissue anchor and a valve member are somewhat separated and certain advantages result. For example, a two-stage prosthetic heart valve of the present invention may have an expandable tissue anchoring member that is secured in the appropriate location using a balloon or other expansion technique. A valve member is then coupled to the tissue anchoring member in a separate or sequential operation. By utilizing an expandable anchoring member, the duration of the initial anchoring operation is greatly reduced as compared with a conventional sewing procedure utilizing an array of sutures. The expandable anchoring member may simply be radially expanded outward into contact with the implantation site, or may be provided with additional anchoring means, such as barbs. The operation may be carried out using a conventional open-heart approach and cardiopulmonary bypass. In one advantageous feature, the time on bypass is greatly reduced due to the relative speed of implanting the expandable anchoring member.
For definitional purposes, the term “tissue anchoring member,” or simply “anchoring member” refers to a structural component of a heart valve that is capable of attaching to tissue of a heart valve annulus. The anchoring members described herein are most typically tubular stents, or stents having varying diameters. A stent is normally formed of a biocompatible metal wire frame, such as stainless steel or Nitinol. Other anchoring members that could be used with valves of the present invention include rigid rings, spirally-wound tubes, and other such tubes that fit tightly within a valve annulus and define an orifice therethrough for the passage of blood, or within which a valve member is mounted. It is entirely conceivable, however, that the anchoring member could be separate clamps or hooks that do not define a continuous periphery. Although such devices sacrifice some dynamic stability, these devices can be configured to work well in conjunction with a particular valve member.
The term “valve member” refers to that component of a heart valve that possesses the fluid occluding surfaces to prevent blood flow in one direction while permitting it in another. As mentioned above, various constructions of valve numbers are available, including those with flexible leaflets and those with rigid leaflets or a ball and cage arrangement. The leaflets may be bioprosthetic, synthetic, or metallic.
A primary focus of the present invention is the two-stage prosthetic heart valve having a first stage in which an anchoring member secures to a valve annulus, and a subsequent second stage in which a valve member connects to the anchoring member. It should be noted that these stages can be done almost simultaneously, such as if the two components were mounted on the same delivery device, or can be done in two separate clinical steps, with the anchoring member deployed using a first delivery device, and then the valve member using another delivery device. It should also be noted that the term “two-stage” does not necessarily limit the valve to just two parts, as will be seen below.
Another potential benefit of a two-stage prosthetic heart valve, including an anchoring member and a valve member, is that the valve member may be replaced after implantation without replacing the anchoring member. That is, an easily detachable means for coupling the valve member and anchoring member may be used that permits a new valve member to be implanted with relative ease. Various configurations for coupling the valve member and anchoring member are described herein.
It should be understood, therefore, that certain benefits of the invention are independent of whether the anchoring member or valve member are expandable or not. That is, various embodiments illustrate an expandable anchoring member coupled to a conventional valve member. However, the same coupling structure may be utilized for a non-expandable anchoring member and conventional valve member. Additionally, although a primary embodiment of the present invention is an expandable anchoring member coupled with a conventional valve member, both could be expandable and introduced percutaneously or through a minimally-invasive approach. Therefore, the invention should not be construed as being limited in these regards, but instead should be interpreted via the appended claims.
As a point of further definition, the term “expandable” is used herein to refer to a component of the heart valve capable of expanding from a first, delivery diameter to a second, implantation diameter. An expandable structure, therefore, does not mean one that might undergo slight expansion from a rise in temperature, or other such incidental cause. Conversely, “non-expandable” should not be interpreted to mean completely rigid or a dimensionally stable, as some slight expansion of conventional “non-expandable” heart valves, for example, may be observed.
In the description that follows, the term “body channel” is used to define a blood conduit or vessel within the body. Of course, the particular application of the prosthetic heart valve determines the body channel at issue. An aortic valve replacement, for example, would be implanted in, or adjacent to, the aortic annulus. Likewise, a mitral valve replacement will be implanted at the mitral annulus. Certain features of the present invention are particularly advantageous for one implantation site or the other. However, unless the combination is structurally impossible, or excluded by claim language, any of the heart valve embodiments described herein could be implanted in any body channel.
With reference now to
The stent may be securely deployed in the body channel using an expandable member, such as, for example, a balloon. Because the stent is expanded before the valve member is attached, the valve member will not be damaged or otherwise adversely affected during the stent deployment. After the stent has been deployed in the body channel, the valve member may be connected to the stent. In one preferred application, the two-stage prosthetic valve is well-suited for use in heart valve replacement. In this application, the stent may be advantageously used to push the native leaflets aside such that the valve member can replace the function of the native valve. The anchoring members or stents described herein could include barbs or other such tissue anchors to further secure the stent to the tissue. In one preferred embodiment, the barbs are deployable (e.g., configured to extend or be pushed radially outward) by the expansion of a balloon.
In another advantageous feature, the two-stage prosthetic valve illustrated in
When used for aortic valve replacement, the valve member 30 preferably has three leaflets 36 which provide the valvular function for replacing the function of the native valve. In various preferred embodiments, the valve leaflets may be taken from another human heart (cadaver), a cow (bovine), a pig (porcine valve) or a horse (equine). In other preferred variations, the valve member may comprise mechanical components rather than biological tissue. In one preferred embodiment, the valve is compressible in diameter. Accordingly, the valve may be reduced in diameter for delivery into the stent and then expanded. The three leaflets are supported by three commissural posts 34. A ring 32 is provided along the base portion of the valve member.
With continued reference to
The upper portion 24 of the stent 20 has a larger diameter sized for receiving the valve member 30. A transition region 28 between the upper and lower portions of the stent body may be advantageously used to provide a seat for the bottom end of the valve member. The stent may further comprise a ridge (not shown) along an inner wall for providing a more definite seat portion within the stent.
With continued reference to
In a preferred embodiment, the stent 20 is expandable, but the valve member 30 is a conventional, non-expandable prosthetic heart valve, such as the Carpentier-Edwards PERIMOUNT Magna® Aortic Heart Valve available from Edwards Lifesciences of Irvine, Calif. In this sense, a “conventional” prosthetic heart valve is an off-the-shelf (i.e., suitable for stand-alone sale and use) non-expandable prosthetic heart valve having a sewing ring capable of being implanted using sutures through the sewing ring in an open-heart procedure. An implant procedure therefore involves first delivering and expanding the stent 20 and the aortic annulus, and then coupling the valve member 30 thereto. Because the valve member 30 is non-expandable, the entire procedure is typically done using the conventional open-heart technique. However, because the stent 20 is delivered and implanted by simple expansion, the entire operation takes less time. This hybrid approach will also be much more comfortable to surgeons familiar with the open-heart procedures and conventional heart valves. Moreover, the relatively small change in procedure coupled with the use of proven heart valves should create a much easier regulatory path than strictly expandable, remote procedures.
A variation of the embodiment described in
With reference now to
Once again, the stent 40 is desirably an expandable member that can be easily delivered and implanted at the body channel. The valve member 30 may be conventional, or may also be expandable. The illustrated embodiment shows a conventional valve 30 having the sewing ring portion 32 surrounding an inflow end. Sewing rings are typically made of suture-permeable material covered with cloth. The tines 46 may be sharp enough to pierce the material of the sewing ring portion 32 (
With reference now to
With reference now to
With reference now to
The embodiment of
As noted above, the anchoring members or stents described herein could include barbs or other anchors to further secure the stent to the tissue. Further, the barbs could be deployable (e.g., configured to extend or be pushed radially outward) by the expansion of a balloon. Likewise, the stent can be covered to promote in-growth and/or to reduce paravalvular leakage. The cover would be similar to those on other valves, e.g., a Dacron tube or the like.
Alternatively, the valve member may be constructed with a tubular frame or cage for engaging one or both stents 60, 62. In various preferred embodiments, the stents may be self-expanding or balloon-expandable. In one advantageous feature, the valve member 30 of this embodiment is not required to be mounted within a cylindrical frame or stent. Accordingly, the flow through area of the valve member may be maximized to improve valve function. In another variation, the first and second stents may be integrated as a single unit forming a chamber therebetween. In this variation, the valve member may be expanded within the chamber for securely deploying the valve member in the body channel.
With reference now to
The stent 70 preferably includes a circular ridge 76 formed along the transition region between the large and small diameters. The ridge provides a seat for the base of the valve member 30A. In one preferred embodiment, the ridge 76 incorporates a support wire 78 that extends at least partially through the ridge for strength and may be used to provide a radiopaque marker. The remaining portion of the ridge may be formed of Dacron or any other suitable material. The stent 70 may be comprised of a screen or mesh. A cover 75, such as a polymer sheet, may be provided along at least a portion of the stent to help prevent leakage and enhance sealing. In addition, a sponge or cloth may be provided along the exterior portion of the stent for further enhancing sealing.
The stent 70 of
With reference now to
With reference now to
With reference now to
A series of tabs or flanges 114 project slightly inwardly from an outflow end of the stent 110. The flanges 114 are configured to mate with exterior threading 116 on a downwardly-projecting shoulder of the locking ring 112. The number and configuration of the flanges 114 is selected to avoid interfering with radial expansion of the stent 110, and also to mate with the threads 116 of the locking ring 112. Desirably, a series of space-apart flanges 114, for example eight, evenly spaced around the outflow rim of the stent 110 project inward therefrom a distance of between 1-3 mm.
An inner bore 118 of the locking ring 112 possesses a diameter large enough to pass over the entire valve member 30 except for the base ring 32, which could be a sewing ring of a conventional heart valve. When coupled together, the locking ring 112 surrounds the valve member 30 and desirably includes an inner ledge that rests on the base ring 32 thereof. The inner diameter of the shoulder having the exterior threading 116 is sized larger than the base ring 32 and extends downwardly into engagement with the flanges 114. By screwing down the locking ring 112, the components can be easily and rapidly assembled. After implantation, removal and replacement of the valve member 30 merely requires releasing the locking ring 112 from any tissue ingrowth, unscrewing and removing it, and releasing the valve member 30 from the stent 110 by cutting away any tissue ingrowth therebetween.
The adapter 142 carries a plurality of securing tabs 144, 146. In the illustrated embodiment, three lower securing tabs 144 are located at the apex of the three cusps of the wireform-shape, and two upper securing tabs 146 are located at each of the upstanding commissures of the wireform-shape, for a total of six at the commissures.
Again, a supplemental tool may be used to accomplish the bending of the securing members 144, 146, or they may exhibit temperature-changing properties. In the illustrated embodiment, the securing tabs 144, 146 are malleable, though other configurations are within the scope of the invention. For example, the lower securing tabs 144 may be barbs or tangs which pierce the base ring 32 and hook around the stent 140, while the upper securing tabs 146 may be resilient straps that wrap around each one of the commissures of the valve member 30.
To further secure the valve member 30 to the stent 140, the stent includes a plurality of upstanding barbs 147 comprising spaced apart posts having teeth 140. The adapter 142 possesses a plurality of outwardly projecting brackets 149 defining slots therethrough. As seen in
Another possibility is that the securing tabs 144, 146 are not initially carried by the adapter 142, but instead are added after the assembly of the three components. For instance, staples or even sutures may be used after the valve member 30 seats on the stent 140, and the adapter 142 is lowered around the valve member. Even if sutures are used, the time required relative to a conventional sewing operation is greatly reduced. Moreover, the structural support and anchoring properties of the wireform-shaped adapter 142 greatly enhances the overall integrity of the assembly. In this regard, securing tabs such as those shown may be placed more continuously around the adapter 142 so as to provide more uniform contact with the valve member 30. One possible configuration is a series of small hooks or brackets extending along the undulating adapter 142 that loop over the corresponding undulating shape on the valve member 30. The valve member 30 is therefore restrained from upward movement relative to the adapter simply by lowering the adapter 142 over the valve member. In such an arrangement, only the lower securing members need be actively attached, such as by causing their shape to change and bend into engagement with the stent 140, as seen in
A further prosthetic valve embodiment 10L seen in
To aid in guiding the latches 166 through the slots 164, one or more guide members may be used to direct the coupling ring toward the stent such that the slots are aligned with the latch members. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, a plurality of guide filaments 170 are attached to each one of the upstanding latch members and passed through the corresponding slots.
The exemplary embodiment shows the latches 166 extending around the outside of the base ring 32 of the valve member 30. It is entirely feasible, on the other hand, to design the latches 166 to pierce through the base ring 32. Inclusion of the coupling ring 162 is suggested, because of its washer-like function in holding the assembly together. However, the latches 166 may be designed to pierce through and securely fasten to stent 160 to the base ring 32 without the use of the coupling ring 162. In this regard, the latches 166 may be configured differently, or more than the number shown may be provided. For example, 4, 6, 8, or more single latch members having a configuration such as shown with a leading sharp point and rearwardly directed barb (much like a fishhook) could fight adequate anchorage through a conventional base ring 32 made of a silicone sponge covered with cloth. Those of skill in the art will understand that there are numerous alternatives available.
The stent 160 in
With reference to
At this stage, it is important to note that any of the fixation rings (i.e., locking ring 112, fixation ring 134, adapter 142, coupling ring 162, or coupling ring 182) described above could be designed to engage the surrounding tissue (annulus) and provide additional protection again paravalvular leakage. For example, a tissue growth factor or fibrin glue or the like may be coated on the exterior of any of these fixation rings for a better seal. Alternatively, the fixation rings might have an outer rim of fabric for encouraging tissue ingrowth. Moreover, the various fixation rings described and the base ring 32 of the valve member 32 may be constructed as a single component. For example, the base ring 32 could be configured to have slots (or any coupling member) in lieu of a separate fixation ring.
With reference now to
The stent 200 possesses a plurality of prongs that extend inward therefrom to capture the valve member 30. As seen in
In the illustrated embodiment, the stent 200 includes twelve axial struts 202, and one of each of the prongs 208, 212 between each adjacent pair of axial struts, resulting in twelve each of the lower and upper prongs. Of course, the number of prongs could be more or less depending on the configuration of the stent 200. Further, there may be more than one prong between adjacent pairs of axial struts 202, or the prongs may be provided only between every other pair. The prongs 208, 212 may be initially flat within the profile of the surrounding struts to prevent interference with an expansion-balloon. After stent deployment they may be bent inward into the angles shown using a tool (not shown). Alternatively, the balloon wall could be relatively thick and able to withstand puncture by the round heads of the prongs 208, 212 such that they are at all times biased inward and automatically assume the angles shown after balloon removal.
To deploy the prosthetic heart valve of
The outer diameter of the base ring 32 of the valve member 30 is sized approximately the same as the inner diameter of the tubular upper portion of the stent 200. The valve member 30 advances from the outflow end of the stent 200 toward the inflow end until the base ring 32 contacts the circular row of upper prongs 212. The upper prongs 212 are flexible, hinged, or otherwise capable of being displaced outward by the base ring 32 as the valve member 30 passes. Ultimately, the base ring 32 seats on the circular row of relatively non-flexible lower prongs 28 and the valve member 30 cannot be advanced farther. The spacing between the lower prongs 208 and the upper prongs 212 is such that the upper prongs 212 spring inward at the point that the base ring 32 seats on the lower prongs 208. The upper prongs 212 may be formed with blunt heads like the lower prongs 208, or may be straight or even sharp-pointed to pierce the base ring 32 and provided enhanced anchorage. In a preferred embodiment, both the lower prongs 208 and upper prongs 212 possess enlarged, blunt heads such that the base ring 32 is merely trapped between the two sets of prongs.
The design of the stent 200 of
With reference to
With reference to
With reference now to the sectional view of
As seen in
The entire procedure will now be described in conjunction with use of the valve dilator/delivery tube 240. As mentioned above, the valve replacement procedures described herein are sometimes done without removing the existing native valve. The annulus and valve leaflets are often heavily calcified, and sometimes provide a serious impediment to passage and implant of a replacement valve, even a valve that is initially quite small and balloon expanded. To help widened the orifice in which the prosthetic valve 230 will be implanted, the delivery tube 240 receives all of the valve components therein and acts as a protective sleeve and dilator. In a preferred embodiment, just the sealing ring 252 extends out of the delivery tube 240 at an inflow or leading end thereof.
First, the attachment sutures 234 are preinstalled within the fixation ring 250 and, while maintaining a non-crossing circular array, are passed through the delivery tube 240 to be accessible out the upper end. The sutures 234 are then passed through the appropriate locations within the base ring 32 of the valve member 30. Of course, this can be done during fabrication of the prosthetic heart valve 230, though some structure for maintaining the relative position and orientation of two components is required. In any event, a holder (not shown) attached to the valve member 30 is used to advance the valve member along the array of sutures 234 and within the delivery tube 240, into the approximate position seen in
When the patient has been prepared, and an access opening to the target implantation site created, the assembly of the prosthetic heart valve 230 within the delivery tube 240 advances into the body. The leading end comprises the sealing ring 252 and an outwardly bulged portion 254 in the delivery tube 240. For installation in the aortic annulus, the delivery tube 240 advances down the ascending aorta until the stent 232 lines up with the annulus (with the help of radiopaque markers or the like). The outwardly bulged portion 254 in the delivery tube 240 helps open up the calcified annulus. Even if the native valve is resected, sometimes the annulus will shrink a little prior to implant of the valve. The valve dilator/delivery tube 240 thus helps open up the annulus to permit implant of a desired diameter valve. The contour of the bulged portion 254 is relatively smooth, and the material may be Teflon or other such highly lubricated surface so that the tube easily slips through the annulus. A slight back-and-forth movement may be required to fully open the annulus.
At this stage, the delivery tube 240 retracts relative to the stent 232, through the use of a pusher (not shown) for example, such that the stent 232 may fully expand into the annulus. The stent 232 may be self-expanding and thus be only partially expanded within the delivery tube 240. When the delivery tube 240 is removed, the stent 232 springs outward into firm engagement with the annulus. Alternatively, a balloon (not shown) may be used to accomplish the final expansion of the stent 232, which configuration would require a catheter passing through the center of the valve leaflets 34. If the stent 232 is balloon expandable, consideration must be taken of the continual attachment of the valve to the guide sutures 234. On the other hand, if the stent 232 is self-expanding, then typically an auxiliary sheath would be provided to hold the stent in the contracted condition.
When the user is satisfied that the stent 232 is properly positioned, the valve member 30 is advanced using the aforementioned holder (not shown). As the valve member 30 advances, care is taken to ensure that the attachment sutures 234 remain untangled and taut. Ultimately, the valve member 30 seats on the fixation ring 250 as seen in
In one advantageous feature, preferred embodiments of the component based prosthetic valves described herein may be used with existing technology. For example, certain stent embodiments may be configured for attachment to sewing rings provided on existing prosthetic valves. In other cases, the valve member requires only small variations in order to be used with the component-based system. Not only will this contribute to a lower price for the final valve, but also lend familiarity to the system for surgeons who might be hesitant to adopt a completely new system.
It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that embodiments of the present invention provide important new devices and methods wherein a valve may be securely anchored to a body lumen in a quick and efficient manner. Embodiments of the present invention provide a means for implanting a prosthetic valve in a surgical procedure without requiring the surgeon to suture the valve to the tissue. Accordingly, the surgical procedure time is substantially decreased. Furthermore, in addition to providing an anchoring member for the valve, the stent may be used to maintain the native valve in a dilated condition. As a result, it is not necessary for the surgeon to remove the native leaflets, thereby further reducing the procedure time.
It will also be appreciated that the present invention provides an improved system wherein a valve member may be replaced in a more quick and efficient manner. More particularly, it is not necessary to cut any sutures in order to remove the valve. Rather, the valve member may be disconnected from the stent (or other support structure) and a new valve member may be connected in its place. This is an important advantage when using biological tissue valves or other valves having limited design lives. Still further, it will be appreciated that the devices and methods of the present invention may be configured for use in a minimally invasive approach (e.g., through a small incision between the ribs) or in a percutaneous procedure while still remaining within the scope of the invention.
While the invention has been described in its preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that the words which have been used are words of description and not of limitation. Therefore, changes may be made within the appended claims without departing from the true scope of the invention.
This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/666,099, filed Oct. 28, 2019, now U.S. Pat. No. 11,284,998, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/298,616, filed Mar. 11, 2019, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,456,251, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/197,280, filed Nov. 20, 2018, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,226,338, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/403,458, filed Jan. 11, 2017, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,130,468, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/571,141, filed Dec. 15, 2014, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,554,903, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/954,822, filed Jul. 30, 2013, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,911,493, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/441,406, filed May 24, 2006, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,500,798, which claims the benefit of U.S. Patent Application No. 60/684,443, filed on May 24, 2005, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated by reference.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 60684443 | May 2005 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 16666099 | Oct 2019 | US |
| Child | 17705215 | US | |
| Parent | 16298616 | Mar 2019 | US |
| Child | 16666099 | US | |
| Parent | 16197280 | Nov 2018 | US |
| Child | 16298616 | US | |
| Parent | 15403458 | Jan 2017 | US |
| Child | 16197280 | US | |
| Parent | 14571141 | Dec 2014 | US |
| Child | 15403458 | US | |
| Parent | 13954822 | Jul 2013 | US |
| Child | 14571141 | US | |
| Parent | 11441406 | May 2006 | US |
| Child | 13954822 | US |
