Patent ID: 7247134
Filing Date: 2007-07-24
Classification: A61B,A61F

Abstract:
1. A method for improving heart valve function, the method comprising: providing a device comprising a first anchor configured to be secured to heart tissue, a second anchor configured to be secured to heart tissue, and an interconnecting member connecting the first anchor and the second anchor; delivering the device to a heart via a transthoracic subxiphoid approach; positioning at least a portion of the interconnecting member in contact with an external surface of a heart wall proximate a valve such that the device exerts an inward force on the heart wall sufficient to alter the valve function; and securing the first anchor and the second anchor to an epicardial layer of the heart, wherein the interconnecting member is configured to be selectively adjustable so as to alter a tension of the interconnecting member between the first anchor and the second anchor.