Patent ID: 7214180
Filing Date: 2007-05-08
Classification: A61B,A61F,A61N

Abstract:
1. A method for constraining expansion of the heart comprising the steps for: forming a subxiphoid entry incision; introducing through the subxiphoid entry incision an endoscopic cannula having at least one lumen extending therethrough; advancing the endoscopic cannula toward the pericardium; introducing through a lumen of the endoscopic cannula a pericardial entry instrument to form an aperture near the apical pericardium into the intrapericardial space about the heart; advancing the endoscopic cannula through the aperture; introducing cardiac restraint apparatus through a lumen of the endoscopic cannula into engagement with the heart; and manipulating the cardiac restraint apparatus within the intrapericardial space into substantially surrounding engagement about at least a portion of the heart.