Patent ID: 7297150

Claim:
An implantable device for controlling the internal circumference of an anatomic orifice or lumen, comprising: an implantable device with a body and having an adjustable member configured to adjust the dimensions of the implantable device over a variable range of functional dimensions, the implantable device configured to accept a fastener that provides fastening of said implantable device to tissue around the anatomic orifice or lumen, the implantable device having a surface that comes in direct contact with the anatomic orifice or lumen, said surface substantially defining a plane; an adjustment tool configured to actuate the adjustable member and provide for adjustment before, during and after the anatomic orifice or lumen resumes near normal to normal physiologic function; and wherein when the adjustment tool is coupled to an interface location of the adjustable member, the adjustment tool is positioned in an off-plane, non-planar orientation relative to the plane defined by said surface of the implantable device wherein the implantable device is adapted to be adjusted on a beating heart to cause leaflet coaptation and said interface location is positioned to enable attachment of the tool and adjustment of the implantable device, and detachment of the tool from the implantable device and removal of the tool from the body under normal physiologic conditions.