Patent ID: 8128691
Filing Date: 2012-03-06
Classification: A61F

Abstract:
1. A device for improving the function of a heart valve comprised of valve tissue including an annulus and a plurality of leaflets for allowing and preventing blood flow, the device comprising: a support member at least partially formed from a shape memory material operable to assume an activated shape and an inactivated shape, and a restraining member, which is arranged to provide a restraining action on a course of the support member, said support member being configured to abut one side of the valve and being arranged to conform to the shape of at least a part of the valve annulus upon said shape memory material assuming said activated shape while the restraining member exerts the restraining action on the course of the support member, and the restraining member being formed of a biodegradable material to be degraded when the device is implanted in a patient, wherein degradation of the restraining member removes the restraining action and allows the support member to assume a desired, altered course; wherein the support member is arranged to assume a reduced radius of curvature upon the restraining action being removed.