Patent ID: 10799359

Abstract:
Catheter apparatuses and methods are provided for repairing heart valves, particularly mitral valves. The method includes providing a catheter having an elongate, flexible body, with a proximal end and a distal end. The distal end can be transluminally advanced from the left atrium through the mitral valve. A distal anchor zone or portion coupled with the proximal end can extend and along the left ventricular outflow tract into the ascending aorta. A valve repair device is deployed to permanently connect leaflets at a mid-section of a mitral valve while permitting medial and lateral portions of the natural leaflets to open and close. The catheter apparatuses may be positionable using a steering device. The valve repair device detachably connects the distal and proximal ends of the catheter. The valve repair device can be detached using low profile devices actuatable from the proximal or distal ends, e.g., at a venous or arterial access site.