Patent ID: 7427291
Filing Date: 2008-09-23
Classification: A61F

Abstract:
1. A method for performing an annuloplasty on a heart valve, the method comprising the steps of: providing an elongated length of autologous or non-autologous graft tissue; fashioning the elongated length of graft tissue into an elongate band comprising a plurality of overlaid layers of the graft tissue; wherein the fashioning comprises rolling the elongated length of graft tissue along an axis thereof so as to create the band comprising the plurality of overlaid layers of graft tissue; sizing the elongate band to the annulus of the valve; and implanting the elongate band of graft tissue onto the annulus of the valve; wherein the elongated length of graft tissue is rolled about a flexible axle having two opposing ends, and further wherein the step of implanting the elongate band of graft tissue comprises the following sub-steps: (a) positioning the band around the annular peripheral surface of a mounting ring, (b) attaching the opposing ends to one another so as to secure the band to the mounting ring, (c) using the mounting ring to position the elongate band of graft tissue proximate the annulus of the valve, (d) securing the elongate band of graft tissue onto the annulus of the valve, and (e) separating the mounting ring from the elongate band of graft tissue.