Abstract
Apparatus and methods are provided including a mitral valve prosthesis. The prosthesis includes an inner support structure having downstream and upstream sections, the upstream section having a cross-sectional area greater than the downstream section. The inner support structure is configured to be positioned on an atrial side of the native valve complex, and to prevent the prosthesis from being dislodged into the left ventricle. A prosthetic valve having prosthetic valve leaflets is coupled to the inner support structure. An outer support structure has engagement arms, downstream ends of the engagement arms being coupled to the inner support structure. The prosthesis is configured such that, upon implantation thereof: downstream ends of the native valve leaflets, downstream ends of the engagement arms, and downstream ends of the prosthetic leaflets,
are disposed at a longitudinal distance from one another of less than 3 mm. Other embodiments are also described.
Claims
1-40. (canceled)
41. A heart valve prosthesis comprising: a frame having a radially compressed configuration and a radially expanded configuration, the frame comprising: an first support structure having a radially compressed configuration and a radially expanded configuration; and a second support structure including a plurality of engagement arms, the plurality of engagement arms extending in an upstream direction and configured to be placed over native valve leaflets of a native valve; and a valve structure attached the second support structure.
42. The heart valve prosthesis of claim 41, wherein the valve structure comprises prosthetic valve leaflets.
43. The heart valve prosthesis of claim 42, wherein the prosthetic valve leaflets comprise three prosthetic valve leaflets.
44. The heart valve prosthesis of claim 41, wherein the prosthetic valve leaflets comprise bovine pericardium tissue.
45. The heart valve prosthesis of claim 41, wherein the first support structure is an inner support structure and the second support structure is an inner support structure.
46. The heart valve prosthesis of claim 42, wherein downstream ends of the engagement arms are configured to be within 1 mm of a downstream end of native valve leaflets of a native mitral valve when the heart valve prosthesis is deployed at the native mitral valve.
47. The heart valve prosthesis of claim 46, wherein a downstream end of the first support structure is spaced between 2 mm and 15 mm from downstream ends of the prosthetic valve leaflets.
48. The heart valve prosthesis of claim 47, wherein the downstream end of the first support structure is upstream of the downstream ends of the prosthetic valve leaflets.
49. The heart valve prosthesis of claim 41, wherein an upstream section of the frame curves outwardly from a central longitudinal axis of the heart valve prosthesis.
50. The heart valve prosthesis of claim 49, wherein the upstream section has a greater cross-sectional dimension than a downstream section of the frame.
51. The heart valve prosthesis of claim 50, wherein in the radially expanded configuration, the upstream section is D-shaped.
52. The heart valve prosthesis of claim 42, wherein the second support structure includes commissure posts, wherein the prosthetic valve leaflets are attached to the commissure posts.
53. The heart valve prosthesis of claim 52, wherein the engagement arms are coupled to the commissure posts.
Description
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0097] FIGS. 1A-D are schematic illustration of respective views of a mitral valve prosthesis, in accordance with some applications of the present invention;
[0098] FIGS. 2A-D are schematic illustrations of respective views of a mitral valve prosthesis, in accordance with some applications of the present invention;
[0099] FIG. 3 is a schematic illustration of an inner expandable support structure of the prosthesis, in accordance with some applications of the present invention;
[0100] FIGS. 4A-F are schematic illustrations of mitral prostheses, in accordance with some applications of the present invention;
[0101] FIGS. 5A-B are schematic illustrations of the inner expandable support structure of the prosthesis, in accordance with some applications of the present invention;
[0102] FIGS. 6A-D are schematic illustrations of the inner expandable support structure of the prosthesis, in accordance with some applications of the present invention;
[0103] FIGS. 7A-F are schematic illustrations of respective steps of a transapical implantation procedure of the mitral valve prosthesis, in accordance with some applications of the present invention;
[0104] FIGS. 8A-F are schematic illustrations of respective steps of a transatrial implantation procedure of the mitral valve prosthesis, in accordance with some applications of the present invention;
[0105] FIG. 9 is a schematic illustration of an implanted mitral valve prosthesis, in accordance with some applications of the present invention;
[0106] FIGS. 10A-D are schematic illustrations of the engagement arms of the mitral valve prosthesis, in accordance with respective applications of the present invention;
[0107] FIGS. 11A-D are schematic illustrations of an engagement arm assembly, in accordance with some applications of the present invention;
[0108] FIG. 12 is a schematic illustration of the mitral valve prosthesis, in accordance with some applications of the present invention;
[0109] FIG. 13 is a schematic illustration of the mitral valve prosthesis, in accordance with some applications of the present invention;
[0110] FIGS. 14A-B are schematic illustrations of the mitral valve prosthesis, in accordance with some applications of the present invention; and
[0111] FIGS. 15A-B are schematic illustrations of the mitral valve prosthesis, in accordance with some applications of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
[0112] Reference is now made to FIGS. 1A-D, which are schematic illustrations of respective views of a mitral valve prosthesis 100, in accordance with some applications of the present invention.
[0113] Mitral valve prosthesis 100 includes an inner support structure 102 and an outer support structure 104. Outer support structure 104 includes outer engagement arms (i.e., outer support arms) 106. As shown, mitral valve prosthesis 100 typically includes two outer engagement arms 106 to anatomically match the native mitral valve leaflets 107 (shown in FIG. 1B).
[0114] Sutured to inner support structure 102 is a prosthetic valve 118. For some applications, valve 118 is coupled to inner support structure 102, and/or to engagement arms 106 in accordance with techniques described in US 2008/0071368 to Tuval, which is incorporated herein by reference. Valve 118 can be formed of a biocompatible synthetic material, synthetic polymer, an autograft tissue, xenograft tissue, or other alternative materials. Valve 118 is a bi-leaflet bovine pericardium valve, a tri-leaflet valve, or any other suitable valve (e.g., a valve having a different number of leaflets).
[0115] Mitral-valve prosthesis 100 is typically placed at the subject's native mitral valve complex 128, as shown in FIG. 1D. As used herein, including in the claims, the “native mitral valve complex” includes the native valve leaflets, the annulus of the valve, chordae tendineae, and papillary muscles. Inner support structure 102 and engagement arms 106 facilitate fixation of the mitral valve prosthesis with respect to native mitral valve complex 128. Prosthetic valve 118 functions in a generally similar manner to a healthy native mitral valve, i.e., the prosthetic valve: [0116] opens during diastole to permit the flow of blood from the subject's left atrium to the subject's left ventricle, and [0117] closes during systole to prevent the backflow of blood in the upstream direction from the subject's left ventricle to the subject's left atrium.
[0118] FIG. 1C shows prosthetic valve 118 in a closed state thereof (i.e., during systole). The prosthetic valve shown in FIG. 1C has three leaflets, although as described hereinabove, for some applications, valve 118 has a different number of leaflets.
[0119] As shown in FIG. 1B, upon implantation, mitral valve prosthesis 100 is placed such that native mitral valve leaflets 107 are disposed between outer engagement arms 106 and inner support structure 102. The outer engagement arms embrace, without squeezing, leaflets of the native valve. Typically there is a space between the engagement arms and the inner support structure, such that native valve leaflets are not squeezed. For example, along at least 30% of length L of the engagement arm, the engagement arm is separated from the inner support structure by a distance D of at least 0.5 mm. For some applications, the engagement arm is separated from the inner support structure by a distance D of at least 0.5 mm along at least 50% or 70% of length L of the engagement arm. For some applications, the aforementioned distance D by which the engagement arm is separated from the inner support structure is greater than 1 mm or greater than 4 mm.
[0120] Each outer engagement arm 106 is typically downwardly concave (i.e., concave in a downstream direction) at the region of the outer engagement arm that is adjacent to a downstream section 112 of inner support structure 102, when viewed from outside of the outer support structure, as shown in FIG. 1B, for example. The downstream ends of the engagement arms typically meet at commissure posts 108 (shown in FIG. 1A). For some applications, the engagement arms are coupled to the inner support structure at the commissure posts. Alternatively or additionally, the engagement arms, and/or the inner support structure is coupled to prosthetic valve 118 at the commissure posts, for example, in accordance with techniques described in US 2008/0071368 to Tuval, which is incorporated herein by reference. For some applications, mitral valve prosthesis 100 includes three engagement arms 106, three leaflets, and/or three commissure posts 108, or a different number of the aforementioned components.
[0121] Typically, engagement arms 106 facilitate the anchoring and/or orientation of the mitral valve prosthesis at the desired implantation site. In particular, the engagement arms prevent mitral valve prosthesis 100 from being dislodged upstream of native mitral valve complex 128 (e.g., when valve 118 is closed during systole and an upstream force is exerted on prosthesis 100). This is achieved, because, in response to upstream-directed blood flow pushing the valve prosthesis in the upstream direction (e.g., during systole), tissue of leaflets 107 of the native mitral valve complex exerts a downstream-directed force F1 (shown in FIG. 1B) on the engagement arms. For some applications (e.g., for the configuration of prosthesis 100 shown in FIGS. 4E-F), downstream ends of the native valve leaflets exert the downstream directed force on downstream portions of the engagements arms, i.e., at the portion of the engagement arms at which the engagement arms form shoulders with inner support structure 102.
[0122] Typically, downstream ends 105 of engagement arms 106 are within 3 mm (e.g., within 1 mm) of downstream ends 119 of prosthetic leaflets 118 (see FIG. 1A), when measured in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the prosthesis. Further typically, upon implantation of the prosthesis, downstream ends 105 of engagement arms 106 are within 3 mm (e.g., within 1 mm) of downstream ends of the native valve leaflets 107 (see FIG. 1B). Thus, downstream ends of the engagement arms, downstream ends of the native valve leaflets, and downstream ends of the prosthetic valve leaflets are all typically within 3 mm (e.g., within 1 mm) of each other, when measured in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the prosthesis. Typically, this is achieved because (a) the prosthetic valve leaflets are coupled to the inner support structure such that downstream ends of the prosthetic valve leaflets are within 3 mm (e.g., within 3 mm) of the downstream ends of the engagement arms, and (b) longitudinal distance D1 (shown in FIG. 1B) from a downstream end 105 to an upstream end 109 of each of the engagement arms is less than 18 mm (e.g., less than 12 mm, or less than 10 mm), the longitudinal distance being measured in a direction of a longitudinal axis of the prosthesis. Further typically, the downstream ends of the engagement arms are coupled to the inner support structure within 3 mm (e.g., within 1 mm) of a downstream end of the inner support structure.
[0123] Inner support structure 102 includes a downstream section 112, and an upstream section 116. Inner support structure 102 is typically non-cylindrical. In accordance with respective applications, downstream section 112 of inner support structure 102 is formed in a straight fashion (i.e., cylindrical and parallel to the longitudinal axis of prosthesis 100), or in a flared fashion (i.e., diverging away from the longitudinal axis of prosthesis 100). Upstream section 116 of the inner support structure typically curves outwardly from the longitudinal axis of the prosthesis, such that the upstream section has a cross-sectional area that is greater than the cross-sectional area of downstream section 116. The upstream section of the inner support structure is typically wider than the native valve segment at the native annular level.
[0124] Typically, the non-cylindrical shape of the inner support structure facilitates the anchoring and/or orientation of the mitral valve prosthesis at the desired implantation site. In particular, the upstream section of the inner support structure being wider than the native valve segment at the native annular level prevents the mitral valve prosthesis from being dislodged downstream of native mitral valve complex 128. This is achieved, because in response to downstream-directed blood flow pushing the valve prosthesis in a downstream direction, tissue of native mitral valve complex 128 exerts an upstream-directed force F2 (shown in FIG. 1B) on the upstream section of the inner support structure.
[0125] For some applications, the upstream section of the inner support structure being wider than the native valve segment at the native annular level improves sealing of prosthesis 100 against the atrial wall. For some applications, the inner support structure additionally exerts a radially-directed force on tissue of native mitral valve complex 128 that facilitates the anchoring and/or orientation of the prosthetic valve at the desired implantation site. For some applications, upstream section 116 of the inner support structure exerts the radially-directed force on tissue of native mitral valve complex 128.
[0126] Typically, when valve prosthesis 100 is implanted in native mitral valve complex 128, there are variations with time in the mechanical stress exerted on the inner support structure, caused by anatomical and pathological variations of surrounding structures. For some applications, relative to a more cylindrically-shaped inner support structure, non-cylindrical inner support structure resists changes in its shape due to mechanical stress that is exerted on the inner support structure. Typically, by resisting changes in its shape, the inner support structure facilitates the proper functioning of prosthetic valve 118.
[0127] Typically, inner support structure 102 is expandable (e.g., self-expandable). For example, the inner support structure may be formed of a memory alloy, such as nitinol, or another biocompatible metal. Similarly, outer support structure 104 may be formed of a memory alloy, such as nitinol, or another biocompatible metal. In accordance with respective applications, inner support structure 102 and outer support structure 104 are integrally formed, or comprise separate modular components that are attached to one another, as described in further detail hereinbelow.
[0128] For some applications, inner support structure 102 is designed to flex and deform in response to the natural cardiac movements of the heart through the cardiac cycle. Alternatively, inner support structure 102 is generally rigid, to avoid flexing or deformation during the cardiac cycle.
[0129] For some applications, inner support structure 102 includes one or more sections that are configured to expand to a restricted or preset diameter rather than expanding until restrained by surrounding anatomical structures. Thus, a portion of (or the entirety of) inner support structure 102 may have a predetermined configuration, irrespective of the surrounding anatomy. Typically, the predetermined configuration is such that the support structure expands so as to come into contact with the tissue of the native valve complex, but does not exert substantial pressure on the tissue of the native valve complex. For some applications, the controlled expansion diameter of the inner support structure improves the valve geometry, relative to a mitral valve prosthesis having an inner support structure that expands until restrained by the surrounding anatomy. Typically, at least a portion of inner support structure 102 (and further typically, all of the inner support structure) expands until restrained by the surrounding anatomy.
[0130] As shown (in FIGS. 1A, 1C and 1D, for example), for some applications, downstream section 112 and upstream section 116 of inner support structure 102 include generally-diamond-shaped cells 103, which are described in further detail hereinbelow, with reference to FIG. 3. Alternatively, other shapes and configurations of the cells 103 are employed, for example, as described hereinbelow. For some applications, the locations of junctions of members of a cell with those of adjacent cells are positioned asymmetrically, and/or cells are shaped asymmetrically. For some applications, structural members of the cells are shaped curvilinearly. Alternatively, structural members of the cells are formed in a generally zigzag configuration to form symmetrical or asymmetrical cells. For some applications, using structural members that are shaped in a zigzag configuration distributes the stress associated with radial expansion and contraction of the support member to a plurality of points between junctions. In accordance with respective applications, the inner support structure includes heterogeneous patterns of cells, or homogeneous patterns, or both.
[0131] Typically, the ratio of the cell height (H) to cell width (W) (H and W shown in FIGS. 1A and 1C) of cells 103 is greater than 0.5:1 and/or less than 3:1, e.g., 0.5:1 to 3:1. For example, the ratio may be greater than 1.5:1 and/or less than 2.5:1, e.g. 1.5:1 to 2.5:1. For example, the ratio may be greater than 1.75:1 and/or less than 2.25:1, e.g., 1.75:1 to 2.25:1. For some applications, having cells having the aforementioned ratios of cell height to cell width facilitates the expansion and/or the maintenance of the structure of inner support structure 102.
[0132] Reference is now made to FIGS. 2A-D, which are schematic illustrations of respective views of mitral valve prosthesis 100, in accordance with some applications of the present invention. For some applications, a length L2 (shown in FIG. 2B) of an anterior engagement arm 106A is greater than a length L3 of a posterior engagement arm 106P. For some applications, the different lengths of the anterior and posterior engagement arms correspond to the anatomy of most people, most people having a native anterior mitral valve leaflet having a greater length than their native posterior mitral valve leaflet. In all other aspects, the mitral valve prosthesis shown in FIGS. 2A-D is generally similar to the mitral valve prosthesis described with reference to FIGS. 1A-D.
[0133] Typically, length L2 of the anterior engagement arm is greater than 2 mm and less than 35 mm, e.g., 15 mm to 25 mm. Further typically, length L3 of the posterior engagement arm is greater than 2 mm and less than 35 mm, e.g., 7 mm to 23 mm. Still further typically, for applications in which the anterior and posterior engagement arms have different lengths, the ratio of the length of the anterior engagement arm to the length of the posterior engagement arm is greater than 1.1:1, and/or less than 15:1, e.g., 1.3:1 to 2:1.
[0134] Reference is now made to FIG. 3, which is a schematic illustration of inner support structure 102 of mitral valve prosthesis 100, in accordance with some applications of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 3, for some applications, cells 103 of the inner support structure have respective characteristics at different longitudinal locations along the inner support structure.
[0135] For some applications, downstream section 112 of the inner support structure includes cells that have relatively short heights, and relatively high strut width relative to height. In addition, the cells typically define relatively high angles. For some applications, cells having the aforementioned characteristics provide the downstream section of the support structure with a high radial force area to maintain circularity of the valve, and/or fatigue resistance against high pressure gradients. Typically, the downstream section of the support structure is relatively short, so as to minimize protrusion of the inner support structure into the ventricle beyond the annular plane.
[0136] For some applications, upstream section 116 of inner support structure includes an intermediate section 116A, and an upstream-most section 116B, intermediate section 116B being disposed between upstream-most section 116A and downstream section 112 of the support structure. The cells of intermediate section 116A and upstream-most section 116B have respective characteristics.
[0137] Cells 103 of intermediate section 116A typically have relatively short heights, and relatively high strut width relative to height. In addition, the cells typically define relatively high angles. For some applications, cells having the aforementioned characteristics provide the intermediate section of the support structure with high pinching resistance. The intermediate section of the support structure is typically shaped so as to facilitate annular sealing on the atrial side of the mitral valve complex, above the annulus. Alternatively or additionally, the intermediate section of the support structure is shaped so as to prevent downstream migration of mitral valve prosthesis 100.
[0138] Cells 103 of upstream-most section 116B typically have large heights. The shape of the cells of the upstream-most portion typically exert relatively low radial pressure on the surrounding anatomy, such that the upstream-most section of the support structure enhances sealing of the native valve complex, by conforming to the atrial anatomy. Furthermore, by conforming to the atrial anatomy, the upstream-most section preserves atrial contraction. The upstream-most section of the support structure typically has a relatively large cross-sectional area, which typically prevents downstream migration of mitral valve prosthesis 100.
[0139] Reference is now made to FIGS. 4A-F, which are schematic illustrations of mitral prosthesis 100, in accordance with some applications of the present invention. As shown in FIGS. 4A-D, for some applications, inner support structure 102 of mitral valve prosthesis 100 does not extend to the downstream end of the prosthesis. For example, as shown, the inner support structure may extend from an upstream end 120 to substantially halfway between upstream and downstream ends of the prosthesis, such that the downstream end of the inner support structure is between 2 mm and 15 mm from downstream ends 119 of prosthetic leaflets 118. Alternatively, inner support structure 102 of mitral valve prosthesis 100 does extend substantially to the downstream end of the prosthesis, for example, such that the downstream end of the inner support structure is within 1 mm of downstream ends 119 of prosthetic leaflets 118 (a shown in FIG. 1C, for example).
[0140] For some applications, outer support structure 104 includes outer engagement arms 106 that are coupled to upstream ends of commissure post 108, rather than being coupled to downstream ends of the commissure posts, as described with reference to FIGS. 1A-D. As shown in FIG. 4B, for some applications, commissure post 108 extends downstream from the ends of engagement arms 106. For such applications, the downstream ends of commissure posts 108 are level with the ends of prosthetic valve leaflets 118. In all other respects, prosthesis 100 of FIG. 4B is generally similar to prosthesis 100 as described hereinabove with reference to FIGS. 1-3.
[0141] For some applications, not having the inner support structure extend to the downstream end of the prosthesis, allows for prosthesis 200 to be constructed of less material, and/or reduces the weight of prosthesis 200.
[0142] As shown in FIGS. 4E-F, for some applications, engagement arms 106 and prosthetic valve 118 are coupled to inner support structure 102 such that downstream ends 119 of the prosthetic valve leaflets are at a longitudinal distance D2 upstream of the downstream ends 105 of the engagement arms. Thus, prosthesis 100 is configured such that upon implantation thereof, the downstream end of the inner support structure 102 and downstream ends 119 of the prosthetic valve leaflets 118 are at a longitudinal distance D2 upstream of the downstream ends of the native valve leaflets 107. Typically, distance D2 is at least 4 mm, e.g., at least 10 mm. Further typically, upon implantation of the prosthesis, downstream ends of native valve leaflets of the native mitral valve complex, and downstream ends 105 of the engagement arms are disposed at a longitudinal distance from one another of less than 3 mm.
[0143] Reference is now made to FIGS. 5A-B, which are schematic illustrations of inner expandable support structure 104 of mitral valve prosthesis 100, in accordance with some applications of the present invention. As shown, for some applications, apices of the inner support structure at the upstream end of the support structure are rounded. FIG. 5B shows slightly rounded apices, and FIG. 5A shows more rounded apices. For some applications, using apices that are rounded reduces trauma to the atrial endocardium, and/or enhances local radial stiffness of the inner support structure, relative to using an inner support structure having a non-rounded upstream end. For some applications, the downstream end of the inner support structure also has rounded cell-apices. In alternative applications, the apices of the cells at the downstream end of the inner support structure are non-rounded (as shown in FIGS. 5A-B), or the apices of the cells at both ends of the inner support structure are non-rounded (as shown in FIG. 1A).
[0144] Reference is now made to FIGS. 6A-D, which are schematic illustrations of inner expandable support structure 102 of prosthesis 100, in accordance with some applications of the present invention.
[0145] Prosthesis 100 shown in FIGS. 6A-B is generally similar to the prosthesis described hereinabove, the prosthesis including inner support structure 102 and outer support structure 104. However, the shape of inner support structure 102 differs from the shape of inner support structure 102 of FIG. 1A. Specifically, upstream section 116 of inner support structure 102 is formed asymmetrically to accommodate the anterior horn of the atrium (which is associated anatomically with the position of the aortic valve), as shown in FIG. 6B, which shows the prosthesis implanted inside the subject's heart. For example, as shown in FIG. 6A, the length of prosthesis 100 from downstream section 112 to upstream section 116 is increased at an area corresponding to the anterior horn of the atrium. This area also extends radially farther from the longitudinal axis of the prosthesis, in order to accommodate the anterior horn. As described hereinabove, upstream section 116 is generally wider than the native valve segment at the native annular level. Such a configuration prevents migration of prosthesis 100 into the ventricle and improves sealing of prosthesis 100 against the atrial wall.
[0146] For some applications, as shown, downstream section 112 of the inner support structure has a circular cross-section, while upstream section 116 has a non-circular cross-section. Typically, for applications in which inner support structure is shaped to accommodate the anterior horn of the atrium, the cross-section of inner support structure 102 is a non-uniform, non-circular shape, for example, a D-shape, or oval.
[0147] FIG. 6B is a sagittal cut through a human heart 124 depicting the implanted mitral valve prosthesis 100 of FIG. 6A. Chordae tendineae 126, which are disposed in left ventricle 127, connect native mitral valve 128 to papillary muscles 130. Engagement arms 106 wrap around leaflets 107 of native mitral valve 128. As shown in FIG. 6B, upstream section 116 has a non-circular, asymmetric shape to accommodate the anterior horn of atrium 132, which is associated anatomically with the position of aortic valve 134. The shape of upstream section 116 facilitates axial fixation, facilitates prevention of outflow obstruction, and/or facilitates sealing of prosthesis 100 against the wall of left atrium 132.
[0148] Prosthesis 100 shown in FIGS. 6C-D is generally similar to the prosthesis described hereinabove, the prosthesis including inner support structure 102 and outer support structure 104. However, in accordance with some applications of the invention, upstream section 116 of the inner support structure includes fixation members 190 (e.g., barbs, as shown, hooks, anchors, or clips) to provide further fixation support and to prevent migration of prosthesis 100 into the ventricle.
[0149] FIG. 6D is a sagittal cut through a human heart 124, depicting an implanted mitral valve prosthesis 100. As shown in FIG. 6D, upstream section 116 has a non-circular, asymmetric shape to accommodate the anterior horn of left atrium 132. The shape of upstream section 116 facilitates axial fixation, facilitates prevention of outflow obstruction, and/or facilitates sealing of prosthesis 100 against the wall of left atrium 132. Further, barbs 190 penetrate to the mitral annulus and serve as a locking mechanism to prevent migration of prosthesis 100 into left ventricle 127.
[0150] Reference is now made to FIGS. 7A-F, which are schematic illustrations of respective steps of a transapical implantation procedure of mitral valve prosthesis 100 (described hereinabove with reference to any of FIGS. 1-6), in accordance with some applications of the present invention.
[0151] As shown in FIG. 7A, a trocar (i.e., an overtube) 730 is inserted into the left ventricle 127 through an incision created in the apex 724 of a patient's heart 124. A dilator 732 is used to aid in the insertion of trocar 730. In this transapical approach, the native mitral valve 128 is approached from the downstream direction. As shown in FIG. 7B, subsequently, trocar 730 is retracted sufficiently to release the self-expanding engagement arms 106 of the mitral valve prosthesis. Typically, dilator 732 is presented between leaflets of valve 128. Trocar 730 can be rotated and adjusted as necessary to align the valve prosthesis so that engagement arms 106 are positioned so as to be placed around leaflets of native valve 128.
[0152] As shown in FIG. 7C, subsequently, trocar 730 and the valve prosthesis are advanced forward, such that outer engagement arms 106 embrace without squeezing leaflets of native valve 128. As shown in FIG. 7D, subsequently, dilator 732 is advanced into the left atrium to further expose inner support structure 102, and more specifically, to begin disengaging upstream section 116 from dilator 732. FIG. 7E shows upstream section 116 released from dilator 732, and expanded to press against the interior wall of native mitral valve 128. (For some applications, upstream section 116 does not expand against the interior wall of the native valve so as to exert a substantial radial force on the inner wall of the valve. Rather, the upstream section is configured to prevent the prosthesis from migrating into the left ventricle, as described hereinabove.) Subsequently, trocar 730 is withdrawn from heart 124, and the incision in apex 724 is closed, as shown in FIG. 7F.
[0153] It is noted that in the transition from FIG. 7C to FIG. 7E, the width W1 that is spanned by each of the engagement arms increases. Typically, during placement of the engagement arms on the native valve leaflets, each of the engagement arms spans a width that is less than 12 mm, e.g. less than 8 mm, as shown in FIG. 7C. Typically, this prevents the engagement arms from coming into contact with the papillary muscles, since the engagement arms span a sufficiently narrow width so as to be placed between the papillary muscles. Further typically, this allows the native valve to continue functioning at least in part, since there are portions of the leaflets that are outside the engagement arms that may continue to open and close, at least partially. Subsequently, the engagement arms expand (typically, due to the expansion of the inner support structure) such that each of the engagement arms spans a width of more than 15 mm, e.g., more than 35 mm, as shown in FIG. 7E.
[0154] Reference is now made to FIGS. 8A-F, which are schematic illustrations of respective steps of a transatrial implantation procedure of mitral valve prosthesis 100 (described hereinabove with reference to any of FIGS. 1-6), in accordance with some applications of the present invention.
[0155] As shown in FIG. 8A, dilator 732 and trocar 730 are inserted through an incision 840 made in the wall of the left atrium of heart 124. Dilator 732 and trocar 730 are advanced through the native mitral valve 128 and into the left ventricle of heart 124. As shown in FIG. 8B, subsequently, dilator 732 is withdrawn from trocar 732. Subsequently, a guide wire 842 is advanced through trocar 730 to the point where mitral valve prosthesis 100 comes to the end of trocar 730, as shown in FIG. 8C. As shown in FIG. 8D, subsequently, mitral valve prosthesis 100 is advanced sufficiently to release the self-expanding engagement arms 106 from trocar 730. Trocar 730 is typically rotated and adjusted as necessary to properly align the valve prosthesis with native valve 128. Subsequently, trocar 730 is withdrawn slightly so as to place engagement arms 106 around the outside of leaflets of native valve 128, as shown in FIG. 8E. Subsequently, trocar 730 is completely withdrawn from heart 124 such that mitral valve prosthesis 100 self-expands into position and assumes the function of native mitral valve 128, as shown in FIG. 8F.
[0156] For some applications (not shown), prosthesis 100 (described hereinabove with reference to any of FIGS. 1-6) is implanted transseptally. For such applications, the prosthesis is advanced via the femoral vein, into the right atrium. An incision is made in the septum of the heart to provide access to the left atrium. The prosthesis is then advanced through the incision in the septum and is implanted through a technique similar to the one described hereinabove with reference to FIGS. 8C-8F. Such a method typically includes some or all of the following: making an incision in a femoral vein; inserting a trocar through the incision in the femoral vein and advancing the trocar into the right atrium of the heart; making an incision in the septum of the heart;
[0157] advancing the trocar through the incision in the septum of the heart and into the left atrium; advancing a mitral valve prosthesis through the trocar and into the left atrium of the heart; advancing the trocar past the native mitral valve and into the left ventricle of the heart; releasing the engagement arms from the trocar; retracting the trocar such that the engagement arms are placed around the outer surface of the native mitral valve leaflets; releasing the inner support structure from the trocar; closing the incision in the septum; and withdrawing the trocar from the heart.
[0158] Reference is now made to FIG. 9, which is a schematic illustration of implanted mitral valve prosthesis 100 (described hereinabove with reference to any of FIGS. 1-6), in accordance with some applications of the present invention. Mitral valve prosthesis 100 has engagement arms 106 that are placed around leaflets of native valve 128. Typically, downstream ends of engagement arms define a rotational gap. When valve prosthesis 100 is implanted in the native mitral valve, the commissures of the native mitral valve, and the regions of the native leaflets adjacent to the commissures are squeezed within the gap between the two ends of outer engagement arms 106. The leaflets are squeezed within the gap such that the regions of the anterior and posterior leaflets that are adjacent to the commissures are squeezed against one another and seal the commisures.
[0159] Reference is now made to FIGS. 10A-D, which are schematic illustrations of engagement arms 106 of mitral valve prosthesis 100, in accordance with respective applications of the present invention. In accordance with respective applications, engagement arms 106 form a U-shaped troughs 110 (FIG. 10A), circular-shaped troughs 111 (FIG. 10B), bulging flask-shaped troughs 113 (FIG. 10C), and/or undulating, bottle-nipple shaped trough 115 (FIG. 10D). For some applications (not shown), the engagement arms are shaped to include two or more parallel arches.
[0160] Reference is now made to FIGS. 11A-D, which are schematic illustrations of outer support structure 104, in accordance with some applications of the present invention. FIG. 11A shows a single continuous structure that includes engagement arms 106, the engagement arms emerging from respective points of a connecting frame 121 of the outer support structure. As shown in FIG. 11B, the outer support structure is placed over inner support structure 102, and is coupled to the inner support structure. For some applications, using a single continuous structure from which the engagement arms emerge ensures that the engagement arms are placed symmetrically on the prosthesis, facilitates assembly of the prosthesis, and/or enhances the overall frame strength of the prosthesis.
[0161] As shown in FIG. 11A, for some applications, the engagements arms include a leaflet capturing element 123 (e.g., additional struts, as shown) to reduce motion of the native valve leaflets, to immobilize the native valve leaflets, and/or to prevent systolic anterior motion of the leaflets. Typically, by preventing systolic anterior motion of the leaflets, the engagement arms prevent the native leaflets from blocking or interfering with the LVOT. For some applications, engagement arms 106, as described with reference to FIGS. 11A-D, or elsewhere in the present application, prevent systolic anterior motion of the native leaflets even in the absence of the leaflet capturing element or any other additional element.
[0162] As shown in FIGS. 11C-D, for some applications, the whole of outer support structure 104 (FIG. 11C), or a portion thereof (FIG. 11D), is covered with a biocompatible cloth 145 (e.g., polyester). Typically, the cover helps to prevent systolic anterior motion of the native leaflets through engagement arms 106, and/or to reduce metal to metal abrasion between the outer and inner support structures. For some applications, the cover generally may help capture calcific, thrombotic, or other material which might be dislodged from the native valve or the surrounding tissue.
[0163] Reference is now made to FIG. 12, which is a schematic illustration of the mitral valve prosthesis 100, in accordance with some applications of the present invention. Prosthesis 100, as shown in FIG. 12, is generally similar to prosthesis 100 described hereinabove, except that the downstream ends of engagement arms 106 of prosthesis 100 as shown in FIG. 12 are connected directly to inner support structure 102. As shown in FIG. 12, engagement arms 106 are attached to inner support structure 102 at downstream section 112 of the inner support structure. In accordance with some applications, engagement arms 106 are directly attached to inner support structure 102 at any suitable location, including but not limited to downstream section 112, intermediate section 116A, and/or upstream-most section 116B (the aforementioned sections typically being as described hereinabove with reference to FIG. 3). For some applications, the engagement arms are integrally formed with the inner support structure.
[0164] Reference is now made to FIG. 13, which is a schematic illustration of mitral valve prosthesis 100, in accordance with some applications of the present invention. Prosthesis 100, as shown in FIG. 13, is generally similar to prosthesis 100 described with reference to FIG. 12. However, relative to the prosthesis shown in FIG. 12, the prosthesis shown in FIG. 13 includes a shorter downstream section 112 of more than 1 mm and/or less than 20 mm, e.g., 1-20 mm (for example, more than 10 mm and/or less than 14 mm, e.g., 10-14 mm). In addition, relative to the prosthesis shown in FIG. 12, engagement arms 106 of the prosthesis shown in FIG. 13 are attached to inner support structure 102 closer to the downstream end of the prosthesis. For some applications, use of a shorter prosthesis improves the maneuverability of the prosthesis when loaded on a delivery catheter, thereby facilitating implantation of such devices and reducing the time required to perform the implantation procedure, relative to the use of a longer prosthesis. For some applications, use of a shorter prosthesis reduces interference of the prosthesis with the left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT), relative to a longer prosthesis.
[0165] Reference is now made to FIGS. 14A-B, which are schematic illustrations of portions of mitral valve prosthesis 100, in accordance with some applications of the present invention. FIGS. 14A-B shows a single outer support structure 104 that includes engagement arms 106, the engagement arms emerging from respective points of the continuous structure. Connecting frame 123 of the outer support structure includes struts that are geometrically similar in structure to the corresponding struts on the inner support structure 102. For some applications, using struts that are similar to the corresponding struts on the inner support structure enhances the frame strength of the prosthesis, when the inner and outer support structures are coupled to one another.
[0166] In accordance with respective applications, engagement arms 106 are coupled to connecting frame 123 of outer support structure 104, or the engagement arms and the connecting frame form a single continuous structure. As described hereinabove with reference to FIGS. 11A-B, for some applications, using a single continuous structure from which the engagement arms emerge ensures that the engagement arms are placed symmetrically on the prosthesis, facilitates assembly of the prosthesis, and/or enhances the overall frame strength of the prosthesis.
[0167] As shown in FIG. 14B, for some applications, at least a portion of outer support structure 104 is covered with a biocompatible cloth 145 (e.g., polyester). Typically, the cover helps to prevent systolic anterior motion of the native leaflets through engagement arms 106, and/or to reduce metal to metal abrasion between the outer and inner support structures. For some applications, the cover generally may help capture calcific, thrombotic, or other material which might be dislodged from the native valve or the surrounding tissue.
[0168] Reference is now made to FIGS. 15A-B, which are schematic illustrations of mitral valve prosthesis 100, in accordance with some applications of the present invention. For some applications, during the construction of the mitral valve prosthesis, engagement arms 106 are cut as integral parts of inner support structure 102. Engagement arms 106 are folded into position with respect to inner support structure 102 using heat treatment. FIG. 15B shows the engagement arms having been folded into position, with respect to the inner support structure.
[0169] Features of mitral valve prosthesis 100 described with reference to respective figures are not limited to the prostheses shown in those figures. Rather, features of the prosthesis shown in any of the figures could be used in combination with any of the other features described herein, mutatis mutandis. Examples of the features that may be combined with each other include, but are not limited to: [0170] structures of the cells of inner support structure 102 [0171] asymmetrical engagement arms 106 of FIGS. 2A-D, [0172] the features of inner support structure 102 and outer support structure 104 described with reference to FIGS. 4A-F [0173] the features of inner support structure 102 described with reference to FIGS. 5A-B [0174] the asymmetric inner support structure, and fixation barbs of the inner support structure, as described with reference to FIGS. 6A-D [0175] features of the outer support structure, and/or the engagement arms described with reference to FIGS. 9-15B.
[0176] Further, any of the surgical techniques described herein can be used for implantation of prosthesis 100, including but not limited to, methods of implanting the mitral valve prosthesis transapically, transatrially, and transseptally, for example, as described hereinabove with reference to FIGS. 7-8.
[0177] As used herein, the terms “upstream” and “downstream” are used to refer to the upstream and downstream directions of the blood flow when mitral valve prosthesis 100 is implanted inside the subject's heart. The terms “upstream” and “downstream” should be interpreted as being interchangeable, respectively, with the terms “proximal” and “distal.”
[0178] The techniques described herein may be combined with the techniques described in one or more of the following applications, all of which applications are incorporated herein by reference: [0179] US 2008/0071368 to Tuval [0180] US 2009/0281618 to Hill [0181] US 2010-0036479 to Hill
[0182] It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to what has been particularly shown and described hereinabove. Rather, the scope of the present invention includes both combinations and subcombinations of the various features described hereinabove, as well as variations and modifications thereof that are not in the prior art, which would occur to persons skilled in the art upon reading the foregoing description.
