Patent ID: 7536228
Filing Date: 2009-05-19
Classification: A61F

Abstract:
1. An activation device, for applying energy to an implanted annuloplasty ring, comprising: an outer elongate member having an outer elongate member distal end and an outer elongate member proximal end, and a lumen therebetween; an inner elongate member having an inner elongate member distal end and an inner elongate member proximal end, wherein the inner elongate member is disposed within the lumen of the outer elongate member; at least one elongate flexible element having an elongate flexible element proximal end and an elongate flexible element distal end, the elongate flexible element distal end connected to the inner elongate member distal end and the elongate flexible element proximal end connected to the outer elongate member distal end, wherein the elongate flexible element is configured to advance radially outward as the inner elongate member distal end is drawn proximally toward the outer elongate member distal end; and at least one energy-transfer element disposed within a medially-disposed concavity of said at least one elongate flexible element, said medially-disposed concavity configured to receive the annuloplasty ring, wherein said at least one energy-transfer element comprises a radially outwardly extending penetrating member, said penetrating member configured to penetrate an outer surface of the annuloplasty ring.