Edwards Lifesciences Corporation
APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR REPLACING A DISEASED CARDIAC VALVE

Abstract:

A method for replacing a native atrioventricular heart valve includes inserting a delivery catheter into the heart with a prosthetic apparatus retained in a compressed state inside of the delivery catheter. The prosthetic apparatus includes an annular anchoring member having a mesh structure made of Nitinol and defining a plurality of circumferentially extending rows of cells. A fabric layer is attached to an inner surface of the anchoring member. An annular support member made of Nitinol is disposed within the anchoring member. The support member is attached to the anchoring member with sutures. A prosthetic valve made of biological tissue is disposed within and secured to the support member. The method further includes allowing the prosthetic apparatus to self-expand to a radially expanded state in which the anchoring member contacts tissue of the native atrioventricular valve.