Patent ID: 7927371
Filing Date: 2011-04-19
Classification: A61F

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for modifying the annulus of a cardiac valve to reduce regurgitation of blood flow through the cardiac valve, said apparatus comprising: a first annuloplasty ring having a first diameter and being disposed about a first aspect of the annulus of the cardiac valve, said first annuloplasty ring including a terminal end and a connecting section spaced apart by a predetermined length, said connecting section including a means for disconnecting from a main body portion and a receptacle portion adapted to receive and interconnect with said terminal end; and an elongate flexible body comprising proximal and distal end portions and being insertable into said first annuloplasty ring, said elongate flexible body including an adjustable mechanism for selectively adjusting said elongate flexible body from a first relaxed configuration to a second tensioned configuration; said first annuloplasty ring being adaptable to obtain a second smaller diameter and to cause the annulus of the cardiac valve to be modified and reduce regurgitation of blood flow through the cardiac valve when said elongate flexible body obtains said second tensioned configuration.