INTRALUMINAL SUPPORT STRUCTURE AND PROSTHETIC VALVE FOR THE SAME

Abstract

An intraluminal support structure having a delivery configuration that is a crimped open configuration to increase flexibility while maneuvering in the anatomy and having a small scarring signature.

Claims

1. A method for delivering an intraluminal support structure to an implantation site in a human or animal body, wherein the intraluminal support structure has a planar configuration with a long axis and a short axis, said method comprising: advancing a distal end of a delivery catheter through a body lumen to the implantation site, wherein the intraluminal support structure is carried on the distal end of the delivery catheter in a d configuration which is elongated along the long axis and has a reduced width along the short axis; transitioning the intraluminal support structure from its crimped configuration to a non-crimped configuration at the implantation site; folding the non-crimped intraluminal support structure to assume a non-planar folded configuration at the implantation site; and locking the non-crimped intraluminal support structure in the folded configuration; wherein the intraluminal support structure is implanted it its locked, folded, non-crimped configuration.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the implantation site comprises a cardiac valve annulus.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein the intraluminal support structure comprises a prosthetic valve assembly coupled to a support structure body.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein folding the non-crimped intraluminal support structure to assume a non-planar folded configuration at the implantation site comprises forming the support structure body into a cylindrical structure.

5. The method of claim 4, further comprising locking ends of the support structure body together to maintain the cylindrical structure.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein individual leaflets of the prosthetic valve assembly are fit together when the support structure body is formed into a cylindrical structure.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein the intraluminal support structure is carried in its crimped configuration inside the distal end of the delivery catheter.

8. The method of claim 1, wherein locking the non-crimped intraluminal support structure in the folded configuration comprises overlapping and interlocking ends of said intraluminal support structure along the short axis.

9. The method of claim 1, wherein said locking members interlocking ends of said intraluminal support structure along the short axis comprises joining any one or combination of pins, hooks, male-female couplers, peg-recess couplers, latches, buckles, sutures, wires, threads, hooks, and loops.

10. The method of claim 1, wherein the intraluminal support structure body comprises a planar scaffold formed as an arrangement of filaments having interlinking points

11. The method of claim 10, wherein the filaments are arranged by one of braiding, weaving, interlacing, or any combination thereof.

12. The method of claim 1, wherein the non-crimped intraluminal support structure is locked, and folded at a final implanted location.

13. The method of claim 1, wherein further comprising maneuvering the locked, folded, non-crimped intraluminal support structure to a final implanted location.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0052] The invention is herein described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. With specific reference now to the drawings in detail, it is stressed that the particulars shown are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of the preferred embodiments of the present invention only, and are presented in order to provide what is believed to be the most useful and readily understood description of the principles and conceptual aspects of the invention. In this regard, no attempt is made to show structural details of the invention in more detail than is necessary for a fundamental understanding of the invention, the description taken with the drawings making apparent to those skilled in the art how the several forms of the invention may be embodied in practice.

[0053] In the drawings:

[0054] FIG. 1A-1D show schematic box diagrams illustrating various views of embodiments of the present invention for an intraluminal support structure; FIG. 1A showing a planar crimped configuration; FIG. 1B showing a planar un-crimped configuration; FIG. 1C showing a long axis folded configuration; FIG. 1D showing a short axis folded configuration;

[0055] FIG. 1E-1G show schematic illustration of a close up views of optional basic unit structures 10 utilized to form the support structure 50 according to embodiments of the present invention;

[0056] FIG. 2A-2E show various views of an illustrative schematic diagram of the prosthetic valve assembly in its final post-delivery configuration once placed at the implantation site according to embodiments of the present invention;

[0057] FIG. 3A-3E show various views of an illustrative schematic diagram of the prosthetic valve in the open non-crimped planar configuration according to embodiments of the present invention;

[0058] FIG. 4 show a perspective view of an illustrative schematic diagram of the prosthetic valve support structure in the open crimped configuration according to embodiments of the present invention;

[0059] FIG. 5A-5B show various view of an illustrative schematic diagram of a support structure in the folded final configuration according to embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] FIG. 6A-6D show various views of an illustrative schematic diagram of a prosthetic valve assembly according to embodiments of the present invention; FIG. 6A shows an open crimped configuration; FIG. 6B shows a non-crimped planar configuration; FIG. 6C shows a partially folded configuration; FIG. 6D shows a close up schematic view of optional locking members utilized to closed the folded configuration of the support structure of the present invention.

[0061] FIG. 7 shows a schematic illustration of a delivery system for the support structure according to embodiments of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0062] The present invention is for a vessel support structure, such as a stent or valve that is delivered to an implantation site in a crimped planar configuration so as to provide greater flexibility when maneuvering the support structure through the anatomy while leaving a small scarring signature.

[0063] The vessel support structure according to the present invention may be further configured to provide a valve support structure forming a prosthetic valve.

[0064] The vessel support structure of the present invention is configured to be introduced into the body in a crimped planar configuration during delivery and until it reaches its implantation site. Once at the implantation site the support structure is deployed from a delivery sheath wherein the support structure gradually expands to assume its final folded configuration. During deployment the open crimped support structure is configured to transition from its small open crimped delivery configuration to assume its final folded shape so as to assume a vessel support structure configuration that may be utilized as vessel support for example in the form of a stent or a prosthetic valve.

[0065] In embodiments the final shape of the vessel support structure may be configured to assume any structural geometric shape, folded shape, open folded shape, closed folded shape for example including but not limited to cylindrical, bifurcated, furcated, trapezoidal cylinder, curvilinear, tertiary structure, secondary structure helical, double helix, looped, lobular, ellipsoid, ovoid, paraboloid, vortex, hyperboloid, hyperbola, parabola, conical section, toroidal, sigmoidal, multi-loop, solenoidal, any combination thereof or the like.

[0066] The open crimped configuration utilized during delivery provides both flexibility and maneuverability while assuming a small dimension. In particular the open crimped configuration allows a practitioner to maneuver within complicated anatomy and more readily allows the device to assume acute angles, not readily possible with state of the art devices.

[0067] In some embodiments the open crimped vessel support structure may be further fit with at least a portion of a valve anatomy, for example at least two or more valve leaflets, so as to allow formation of a prosthetic valve having at least two or more leaflets in the folded final configuration. Preferably portions of the valve anatomy fit onto the vessel support structure are similarly capable of assuming a small profile and/or crimped configuration allowing the open crimped vessel support structure to retain its flexibility and maneuverability.

[0068] In embodiments the prosthetic valve may for example be configured to form a prosthetic valve of the human or animal body in any anatomical structure, organ, or form of a valve; for example including but not limited to semilunar valve, pulmonary valve, aortic valve, atrioventricular valve (AV valve), mitral valve, bicuspid valve, tricuspid valve, sphincter, cervix, or the like.

[0069] In embodiments the final structural configuration of the anatomical support structure may be composed of a plurality of support structures that may be interlinked, intertwined, coupled and/or associated with one another during the implantation and/or deployment process so as to form a final structural configuration of the support structure. For example, two or more support structures may be delivered to an implantation site substantially simultaneously and/or sequentially in order to allow them to be coupled and/or functionally associated with one another, so as to form a complex support structure during deployment, for example, a bifurcated support structure and/or a helical and/or double helix configuration, or the like.

[0070] The principles and operation of the present invention may be better understood with reference to the drawings and the accompanying description. The following figure reference characters are used throughout the description to refer to similarly functioning components are used throughout the specification hereinbelow. [0071] 10 basic structure; [0072] 10a angel; [0073] 10o open structure; [0074] 10f filament; [0075] 10s sigmoidal connecting structure; [0076] 50 support structure; [0077] 50L long axis; [0078] 50s short axis; [0079] 50c open crimped configuration; [0080] 50e open non-crimped planar configuration; [0081] 50f closed non-planar folded configuration; [0082] 52 support structure body; [0083] 54 locking members; [0084] 54c closed/interlocked members; [0085] 55 axial support member; [0086] 100 prosthetic valve assembly; [0087] 100c open crimped configuration; [0088] 100e open non-crimped planar configuration; [0089] 100f closed non-planar folded configuration; [0090] 100o valve outflow end; [0091] 100i valve inflow end; [0092] 102 valve support structure body; [0093] 102c support structure crimped configuration; [0094] 104 coupling locking member; [0095] 110 valve body; [0096] 112, 114, 116 valve leaf; [0097] 118 valve annulus; [0098] 150 prosthetic atrio-ventricular valve; [0099] 150c crimped planar configuration; [0100] 150e extended planar configuration; [0101] 150f folded configuration; [0102] 152 support structure body; [0103] 152a upper support structure portion; [0104] 152b medial support structure portion; [0105] 152c lower support structure portion; [0106] 152s sigmoidal connecting member; [0107] 154 coupling members; [0108] 154a first coupling member; [0109] 154b second coupling member; [0110] 155 axial support member;

[0111] FIG. 1A-D shows the different configurations assumed by the intraluminal support structure 50 according to embodiments of the present invention. Namely, support structure is capable of assuming an open crimped configuration 50c as shown in FIG. 1A, an open non-crimped planar configuration 50e as shown in FIG. 1B, and optional folded configurations 50f in the form of a stent-like tubular structure 200 shown in FIG. 1D, and in the form of a valve-like cylindrical structure 100 shown in FIG. 1C.

[0112] FIG. 1A shows schematic illustrative diagram of the open crimped configuration 50c of support structure 50. The open crimped configuration 50c is configured to have a short axis 50s and a long axis 50L. Importantly support structure 50c is flat and/or planar so as to assume minimal dimensions along short axis 50s. Such minimization along the short axis 50s provides the support structure with maneuverability so as to improve its delivery to an anatomical delivery site where it transitions to its final folded configuration 50f, FIG. 1C-D.

[0113] The transition from the open non-crimped planar configuration 50e, shown in FIG. 1B, involves crimping across long axis 50L of support structure 50, as shown by the directional arrows.

[0114] Accordingly the crimped planar configuration 50c is advantageous in that it allows for improved maneuverability of the support structure 50c within the anatomy during the support structure's delivery. As previously described this open crimped configuration 50c according to the present invention allows a practitioner to conveniently maneuver the support structure during delivery while further allowing the practitioner to readily urge the device to assume sharp and/or acute angels, particularly through tortuous anatomy. Furthermore, the open crimped configuration 50c provides a profile further enables a practitioner to reduce scarring size and/or signature when penetrating through tissue for example cardiac tissue such as the cardiac septum. Crimping support structure 50e provides an elongated open crimped configuration, however one that remains sufficiently flexible so as to be able to assume acute angles while being delivered within the anatomy. The longitudinal crimping reduces the width of support structure 50e along short axis 50s by about at least 20% and more preferable up to about 80%, while increasing the length 102L by a factor of up to about 100%. Therefore the delivery configuration has a small short axis 50s that is advantageous in that it is readily maneuverable.

[0115] Support structure 50 may take optional forms for example including but not limited to a vessel support structure to maintain vessel patency such as a stent, FIG. 1C, or may be utilized as an orifice for supporting a valve body, FIG. 1D.

[0116] Support structures 50 may be provided from optional biocompatible materials for example including but not limited to polymers, alloys, smart materials, shape memory materials, nitinol, materials exhibiting plastic deformation, super-elastic metal alloy which transforms from a austenitic state to a martensitic state, any combination thereof or the like as is known in the art.

[0117] In some embodiments at least a portion of support structure 50 may be coated with an agent and/or medicament and/or drug to form a drug eluting support structure, for example as is known in the form of a drug eluting stent.

[0118] Support structure 50 is configured to remain in the open crimped configuration 50c during both the introduction (into the anatomy) until reaching the implantation and/or placement site. During deployment at the implantation site, support structure 50c is configured to transition and/or transform into its folded configuration 50f for example assuming a stent-like shape, FIG. 1C, or valve-like shape, FIG. 1D, at the implantation site. Accordingly, as the open crimped support structure 50c is delivered into the implantation anatomy it begins to expand so as to assume its final folded configuration 50f.

[0119] In embodiments the folded configuration 50f may be configured to assume a variety of optional configuration for example including but not limited to any structural geometric shape, curvilinear shape, folded shape, open folded shape, closed folded shape, cylindrical, bifurcated, furcated, trapezoidal cylinder, curvilinear, tertiary structure, secondary structure helical, double helix, looped, lobular, ellipsoid, ovoid, paraboloid, vortex, hyperboloid, hyperbola, parabola, conical section, toroidal, sigmoidal, multi-loop, solenoidal, any combination thereof or the like.

[0120] During transformation and/or transitioning support structure 50c, may undergo a progressive unfolding and/or unraveling and folding process including expansion, rotation, and torsion, along short axis 50s and/or long axis 50L so as to assume its final shape 50f within the anatomical implantation site.

[0121] Support structure 50 may be expanded from its crimped configuration along its long axis 50L in a rotated or torsade manner around a central axis in order to obtain its work configuration with a curvilinear or the like folded and/or circular structure.

[0122] In some embodiments a plurality of crimped support structures 50c may be transformed substantially simultaneously so as to combine to form a final complex structural configuration, for example including but not limited to a bifurcated support structure or the like, not shown.

[0123] The transformation form a planar crimped support structure 50c to the folded configuration 50f of support structure 50 is provided at the anatomical delivery site. The transformation may be provided by controlling the transformation conditions at the delivery site. For example, the transformation may be triggered and/or initiated in response to exposure to a triggering agent and/or signal for example including but not limited to a temperature change, either an increase and/or a decrease. A transformation triggering agents and/or signal may for example include but is not limited to at least one or more, or a combination of selected from: temperature change, chemical agent, electromagnetic field, electromagnetic current, acoustic signal, optical signal, magnetic field, the like as is known in the art or any combination thereof.

[0124] Preferably following and/or during the final stages of the transformation phase the planar crimped structure is closed and interlocked and/or folded and/or overlapping onto itself to define a closed structure 50f along at least one of a short side 50s, a long side 50L, or a combination thereof.

[0125] In embodiments support structure 50 may comprise at least one or more coupling and/or locking members 54 that provided for folding and/or closing the support structure to its closed folded configuration 50f In embodiments locking members 54 may be located along any portion of support structure 50 for example including but not limited to short axis 50s, long axis 50L, support structure body 52, or any combination thereof.

[0126] In some embodiments support structure 50 may comprise two or more coupling and/or locking members 54 that are provided in optional forms and configured to correspond and/or lock with one another. Optionally the two or more coupling member may correspond to one another.

[0127] In embodiments locking members 54 may be coupled with one another with the aid of a dedicated tool, for provided in optional forms for example including but not limited to plyers, leads, guidewire, leading wires, threading wire, the like or any combination thereof.

[0128] In embodiments corresponding locking member 54 may be coupled to form an interlocked and/or closed coupling member 54c, for example as shown in FIG. 1C-D.

[0129] In embodiments locking members may be provided in optional forms for example including but not limited to pin and hooks, male/female couplers, peg and recess, latch and buckle, sutures, hook and loop, wire the like or any combination thereof.

[0130] In embodiments couplers 54 may optionally be provided in the form of a biocompatible adhesives and/or cement that may be cured during deployment process.

[0131] In some embodiments support structure 50 may be provided in the form of a substantially rectangular configuration having opposing long edges along long axis 50L and opposing short edge along short axis 50s, that define a support structure body 52. The support structure body 52 is formed from a plurality filaments 10, shown in FIG. 1E-G. Support structure is not limited to a rectangular configuration as shown here it may assume any shape.

[0132] Support structure body 52 is provided from a plurality of basic structures 10, FIG. 1E-G, that form of a braided scaffold structure of filaments 10f defining a plurality of interlinking points 10i that form a rhomboid recess 10o. The interlinked filaments forming recess 10o along an intersection point 10i provides the necessary flexibility of support structure 50 and the capability of assuming the various configuration of support structure including open crimped configuration 50c, folded 50f, and open non-crimped planar 50e, as shown in FIG. 1A-D.

[0133] In embodiments, the basic structure 10 provides support member 50 with the ability to control and assume the different configurations by crimping along at least one dimension of the support structure body 52, either along its long side 52L or short side 52s. Accordingly controlling the relative position of filaments 10 relative to one another allows body 52 to assume the smaller open crimped configuration 50c prior to introduction into a delivery sheath and/or device, for example a catheter (not shown); or to assume the larger configuration in the form of an open non-crimped planar configuration 50e, and finally a folded configuration 100f during deployment at the implantation site following a transition phase.

[0134] FIG. 1E-G show the basic units 10 that may be utilized to form a support structure 50 is formed from a plurality of filaments 10f, arranged at an angle 10a relative to one another forming an intersection 10i defining an opening 10o.

[0135] In some embodiments, opening 10o may assume a polygonal shape, FIG. 1E, resembling at least one or more of a parallelogram, a rhombus, a regular rhomboid, an irregular rhomboid, or the like polygon or quadrilateral. In some embodiments opening 10o may assume a closed curvilinear configuration, FIG. 1F, resembling a circle, ovoid, ellipsoid, circular like structure, or the like closed curvilinear structure.

[0136] More preferably support structure is configured such that the angle 10a formed at filament intersection 10i is controllable to determine the dimensions of the support structure 50.

[0137] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 1G, filament intersection 10i may be provided in the form of a sigmoidal connecting structure 10s, as shown. Such a sigmoidal connecting structure 10s renders additional flexibility along the long axis 50L therein allowing the intersection to be stretched and condensed in the long axis 50L controlling the shape and size of structure 50.

[0138] Support structure flexibility is obtained from its structure comprising a plurality of angled intersections wherein the intersection angle 10a, is controllable in that it may be changed when transitioning between the crimped planar 50c and the open non-crimped planar 50e configurations or vice versa.

[0139] In embodiments the polygonal recess 10o may be distributed in any manner along support structure 50 to form a desired configuration of support structure 50.

[0140] In embodiments support structure 50 may be provided from a sheet material that is laser cut to assume the support structure configuration, defining a plurality of polygonal recess 10.

[0141] In embodiments support structure 50 may be provided by way of braiding and/or weaving of a plurality of filaments 10f to form the support structure. During the braiding of a plurality of filaments the angles formed between filaments may be controlled so as to form the desired polygonal intersecting structure.

[0142] In embodiments the size of basic structure 10 is controllable so as to allow it to assume a planar crimped configuration 50c having minimal short dimension (FIG. 1A), or open non-crimped planar configuration 50e having maximal short dimension (FIG. 1B).

[0143] In embodiments, the support structure 50 comprising a plurality of polygon frame structures 10 is expandable in its long axis in a linear, rotated or torsade manner around a central axis in order to obtain its work configuration with a circular shape.

[0144] In some embodiments support structure body 52 may optionally further feature at least one or more axial support member 55, an example of which is shown in FIG. 1A. Axial support member 55 provides a longitudinal axis and/or anchor point along the long dimension 50L of body 52. Axial support member 55 may be provided in the form of a continuous flexible sheet utilized to increase the strength of folded configuration 50f by providing an anchoring axis while retaining the flexibility of the planar-crimped configuration 50c. Axial support member 55 may feature a locking member 54 at an end thereof, as described in greater detail with respect to FIG. 6A-D.

[0145] FIG. 2A shows a perspective side view of an intraluminal support structure in the form of a prosthetic valve 100 according to embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 2A shows the prosthetic valve 100 in its final deployed configuration as it would be deployed within the required anatomy, for example including but not limited to the heart so as to replace a cardiac valve.

[0146] Prosthetic valve 100 includes a cylindrical support structure 102 that is fit with a valve body 110.

[0147] In embodiments valve body 110 may comprise at least two or more leaflets 112, 114,116. Valve body 110 is a provided from prosthetic valve tissue or tissue like membrane that may be made of variable biocompatible materials for example including but not limited to biological tissue, biological matter, engineered materials, grown materials, transplanted tissue, biocompatible polymeric materials, the like materials or any combination thereof.

[0148] In embodiments valve body 110 may be configured in terms of sizing, shape, number of leaflets, according to at least one valve parameter for example including but not limited to the intended anatomy, the implantation site, form and function of the prosthetic valve, or any combination thereof.

[0149] Support structure 102 forms a cylindrical body having a radius and height that are configured according to the intended form and function of the prosthetic valve 100. Sizing of the support structure is accordingly adjusted and/or configured according to the intended anatomy, implantation site, form and function of the prosthetic valve, or any combination thereof.

[0150] FIG. 2A-E show support structure 100 in its final deployed and folded form 100f. Accordingly, in its final folded form 100f support structure 102 defines a cylindrical body formed from a support structure that has folded over itself over a short edge and coupled along corresponding short ends. As shown, the short edge of support structure 102 overlap over corresponding locking members 104 so as to form the folded cylindrical structure 100f.

[0151] Locking members 104 are utilized to form the cylindrical shape of prosthetic valve body 100. Folding of support structure provides for forming overlapping portions of the support structure 102, for example along its short axis 102s or long axis 102L, shown in FIG. 3A. Such overlapping may be configured to allow for locking and/or closing the support structure with locking members 104 enabling support structure to assume its final folded shape configuration 100f.

[0152] The support structures 102 in its working folded configuration defines an inflow end 100i, shown in FIG. 2B-C, and an outflow end 100o, shown in FIG. 2D-E.

[0153] Most preferably during deployment with the necessary tools the support structure 102 expands from the open crimped configuration 100c, utilized during introduction and delivery as shown in FIG. 4, to assume the folded circular shape 100f, as shown in FIG. 2A-E.

[0154] Once folded placed and functionally integrated within the appropriate anatomical structure, valve 100 is rendered functional wherein valve body 110 to ensures a one-way fluid direction from the inflow end 100i, FIG. 2B-C, to the outflow end 100o, FIG. 2D-E.

[0155] FIG. 2B shows a top down view of the proximal surface of the prosthetic valve 100 revealing the commissural juncture of valve body 110, exemplarily shown in the form of a three leaflet valve utilizing leaflets 112,114,116, therein defining the inflow end 100i, forming a prosthetic tricuspid valve.

[0156] FIG. 2C shows a perspective top down view of the prosthetic valve assembly 100 depicted in FIG. 2B, therein showing the inflow end 100i.

[0157] FIG. 2D shows a perspective bottom up view of the distal surface of the prosthetic valve 100, revealing the outflow end 100o.

[0158] FIG. 2E shows a perspective side view of valve assembly 100, further showing the valve body formation.

[0159] FIG. 3A-E show various views of prosthetic valve 100 in the open non-crimped planar configuration 100e showing an expanded configuration. The expanded/non-crimped configuration 100e depicts the pre-crimped configuration of valve 100, prior to crimping in preparation for introduction and delivery within the anatomy. Most preferably crimping of open non-crimped planar configuration 100e is provided with dedicated process and tools so as to allow placement of valve 100 into a delivery system 250 for example utilizing a catheter and/or sheath 220, as schematically shown in FIG. 7.

[0160] In some embodiments the fully open non-crimped planar configuration 100e may be used during deployment within the anatomical implantation site. More preferably, during deployment of valve 100 is configured to transition from the open crimped configuration 100c to the folded configuration 100f wherein the open non-crimped planar configuration 100e is a temporary and/or gradual transitional phase for portion of the valve body 102 such that the fully open non-crimped planar configuration 100e, as shown, is not necessarily realized within the implantation site.

[0161] In embodiments the open non-crimped planar configuration 100e may be assume the folded configuration 100f by optional means and/or tools for example including but not limited to folding, rotation, torsion, and/or overlapping along a short axis 102s. The open non-crimped planar configuration 100e as shown in FIG. 3A-E are shown here for illustrative purposes only as preferably it is not a state that is maintained for an extended period of time within the anatomy. Preferably within the implantation site anatomy the transformation and/or transition from a crimped planar configuration 100c, FIG. 4, to the folded final configuration, 100f as shown in FIG. 2A, takes place in an efficient manner such that the transition phase, for example including but not limited to folding, torsion occurs, simultaneously during the transformation process, such that the fully open non-crimped planar configuration of the vessel support structure is in its largest expanded dimensions is generally not exhibited within the anatomy.

[0162] In some embodiments the vessel support structure may be delivered and/or placed within the implantation site in an open non-crimped planar configuration 100e.

[0163] FIG. 3A shows the internal surface of valve assembly 100 that is fit with a valve body 110 showing individual valve leaflets 112, 114, 116 of and valve annulus 118 that form valve body 110 that is featured along the open non-crimped planar surface 100e of support structure 102.

[0164] In embodiments, valve body 110 is associated with and/or coupled with support structure 102 to form prosthetic valve 100, in a manner as is known and accepted in the art for example including but not limited to suturing, biocompatible adhesives, mounting clips, couplers, any combination thereof or the like as is known in the art.

[0165] FIG. 3B shows an external surface view of valve assembly 100 that shows the support structure 102 and coupling members 104. Coupling members 104 are utilized to form the folded structure valve assembly 100f so as to provide a cylindrical conformation 100f from the planar conformation 100e, 100c by way of folding over short edges and utilizing coupling members 104 to lock short edges. Coupling members 104 are shown in an optional configuration herein depicted in the non-limiting form of pegs that may be manipulated to interlock the short ends 102s of support structure 102.

[0166] Embodiments of the present invention are not limited to this form of coupling and/or locking members and may be provided in any form for example including but not limited to male/female couplers, peg and recess, latch and buckle, sutures, hook and loop, wires, corresponding threading, the like or any combination thereof.

[0167] In embodiments locking members 104 may be locked with the aid of a dedicated tool, provided in optional forms, for example including but not limited to plyers, leads, guidewire, leading wires, threading wire, the like or any combination thereof.

[0168] In embodiments coupling member 104 may be provided from dedicated smart materials, shape memory materials that are configured to undergo a specific transition to assume the locked configuration when exposed to transitioning conditions and or elements during the deployment process.

[0169] In embodiments couplers 104 may optionally be provided in the form of a biocompatible adhesives and/or cement that may be cured during deployment process.

[0170] Optionally coupling members 104 may be provided in the form of pin and hooks so as to allow for the overlapping extremity to form an overlapping tight and stable seal between overlapping edges, for example as shown in FIG. 2A.

[0171] Optionally support structure 100 may comprise two or more coupling and/or locking members 104 that are provided in optional forms and configured to correspond and/or lock with one another.

[0172] FIG. 3A shows a face on view from the short end 102s showing a leaflet 112,114,116 and annulus 118 of valve body 110 as extending away from support structure 102. FIG. 3C shows an end view of valve 100 showing the placement of valve body 110 relative to support structure 102.

[0173] FIG. 3D shows a face on view of external surface of valve assembly 100 similar to the depicted in FIG. 3B.

[0174] FIG. 3E shows a perspective view along the long edge 102L of support structure 102

[0175] FIG. 4 shows schematic diagram of the crimped-planar configuration 100c of support structure 100 where for illustrative purposes valve body 110 is removed. As shown, support structure 102 in its open crimped configuration 100c is provided in the form of a support structure having a minimal dimension along the short end of axis 102s. The transition from the open non-crimped planar configuration 100e, shown in FIG. 3B, involves crimping across opposing long edges of long axis 102L of support structure 102, as shown by the directional arrows. Such crimping provides a long configuration however one that remains sufficiently flexible so as to be able to assume an acute angle while being introduced within the anatomy. The longitudinal crimping reduces the width of support structure 102 along short edge of short axis 102s by about at least 20% and more preferable up to about 80%, while increasing the length of axis 102L by a factor of up to about 100%. Therefore the delivery configuration has a small short edge along axis 102s that is advantageous in that it is readily maneuverable in tortuous anatomy and has a small scar size and/or signature when penetrating through cardiac tissue for example including but not limited to cardiac septum.

[0176] FIG. 5A-B show various view support structure 102 that is folded assuming its final configuration in the form of a stent. Structure 102 is shown where is folded over the short edge of axis 102s, however it may similarly be folded along its long edge of axis 102L.

[0177] FIG. 5B shows two short edges of axis 102s that are interlocked over locking members 104. The location of locking members may be controlled in order to determine the final structural shape of support structure 102.

[0178] FIG. 6A-D shows an optional embodiment for a prosthetic valve support structure 150 featuring an axial support member 155. Axial support member preferably provides additional structural integrity and strength along the length of valve 150 while maintaining both maneuverability and flexibility of the overall structure 150. In embodiments axial support member 155 may be provided from a valve support structure 150 includes two axial support members 155 are disposed along the long axis 150L. FIG. 6A shows an open crimped configuration 150c. FIG. 6B shows an open non-crimped planar configuration 150e. FIG. 6C shows an open configuration of a partially folded configuration 150f of valve 150

[0179] The two axial support members define three sub segments of support structure body 152 including an upper portion 152a, a medial portion 152b and a lower portion 152c.

[0180] In embodiments upper portion 152a may be formed from a plurality of basic structures 10 extending above a first axial support member 155a. In an optional embodiment each basic structure 10 of upper portion 152a may be individually connected to and extending from the first axial support member 155a. In an optional embodiment a plurality of basic structure 10 may be interconnected with one another and collectively extend from first axial support member 155a, so as to form upper portion 152a. In embodiments interconnected basic structures 10 may be coupled and/or associated with one another utilizing a sigmoidal connecting member 152s.

[0181] In embodiments lower portion 152c may be formed from a plurality of basic structures 10 extending below a second axial support member 155b. In an optional embodiment each basic structure 10 of lower portion 152c may be individually connected to and extend from second axial support member 155b. In an optional embodiment a plurality of basic structure 10 may be interconnected with one another and collectively extend from second axial support member 155b, so as to form lower portion 152c. In embodiments interconnected basic structures 10 may be coupled and/or associated with one another utilizing a sigmoidal connecting member 152s, for example as shown.

[0182] In embodiments medial portion 152b may be formed from a plurality of interconnected basic structures 10 disposed between a first axial support member 155a and a second axial support member 155b, therein connecting both axial support members 155. In embodiments interconnected basic structures 10 may be coupled and/or associated with one another utilizing a sigmoidal connecting member 152s, for example as shown.

[0183] In embodiments each support structure portion 152a,b,c may be individually crimped to assume an open crimped configuration.

[0184] In embodiments each support structure portion 152a,b,c may be individually un-crimped to assume an open non-crimped planar and/or folded configurations.

[0185] In embodiments medial portion 152b is preferably crimped to assume a crimped planar configuration as previously described, for example as shown in FIG. 6A. The open crimped configuration may be achieved by crimping along short axis so as to urge axial support members 155 toward one another, as is depicted by the directional arrow. FIG. 6B shows the open non-crimped planar configuration 150e where medial portion 152b is extended as shown with directional arrow wherein support members 155a,b are extended away from one another.

[0186] FIG. 6C shows as folded configuration 150f of prosthetic valve support structure 150 in an open configuration, as it would appear following deployment in the implantation site anatomy and prior to closure of the prosthetic valve utilizing corresponding locking members 154, so as to form the closed valve structure (no shown).

[0187] In embodiments support member 155 may optionally and preferably feature a locking member 154 along an end thereof, for example as shown. FIG. 6A-D shows a close up view of optional locking members 154 provided in the form of a male latch member 154a and female buckle member 154b configuration. As previously described locking members may be provided in a plurality of optional forms.

[0188] In some embodiments locking members 154 may be coupled with one another with the aid of a dedicated tool, provided in optional forms for example including but not limited to plyers, leads, guidewire, leading wires, threading wire, the like or any combination thereof.

[0189] FIG. 7 shows a schematic illustration of the process of delivering and deploying the support structure 50, 100, 150 as previously described, that is delivered with a delivery sheath and/or catheter 220 once loaded forming a delivery catheter 250. An additional advantage of the support structure according to the present invention is that a single delivery system, for example a catheter and/or sheath 250 may be utilized for a plurality of optional support structures having variable diameters and/or sizes. That is because the final shape of the folded configuration 50f has no bearing on the delivery system. This is an improvement over the state of the art delivery systems that must be specific relative to the size of the support structure being delivered.

[0190] Accordingly embodiment of the present invention provide for use of a single delivery system irrespective of the final diameter and/or size of the support structure being delivered this is specifically due to the crimping along the short axis as previously described.

[0191] While the invention has been described with respect to a limited number of embodiment, it is to be realized that the optimum dimensional relationships for the parts of the invention, to include variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner of operation, assembly and use, are deemed readily apparent and obvious to one skilled in the art, and all equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawings and described in the specification are intended to be encompassed by the present invention.

[0192] Therefore, the foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the invention. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not described to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown and described and accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to, falling within the scope of the invention.

[0193] It should be noted that where reference numerals appear in the claims, such numerals are included solely or the purpose of improving the intelligibility of the claims and are no way limiting on the scope of the claims.

[0194] Having described a specific preferred embodiment of the invention with reference to the accompanying drawings, it will be appreciated that the present invention is not limited to that precise embodiment and that various changes and modifications can be effected therein by one of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention defined by the appended claims.

[0195] Further modifications of the invention will also occur to persons skilled in the art and all such are deemed to fall within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

[0196] It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination or as suitable in any other described embodiment of the invention. Certain features described in the context of various embodiments are not to be considered essential features of those embodiments, unless the embodiment is inoperative without those elements.

[0197] Although the invention has been described in conjunction with specific embodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations that fall within the scope of the appended claims.

[0198] Citation or identification of any reference in this application shall not be construed as an admission that such reference is available as prior art to the invention.

[0199] Section headings are used herein to ease understanding of the specification and should not be construed as necessarily limiting.

[0200] While the invention has been described with respect to a limited number of embodiments, it will be appreciated that many variations, modifications and other applications of the invention may be made.