Valve apparatus, system and method

[0001] The present invention relates generally to apparatus, systems, and methods for use in a lumen; and more particularly to a valve apparatus, systems, and methods for use in the vasculature system.

[0002] Diseases of the heart valves are grouped according to which valve(s) are involved and the way blood flow is disrupted. The most common valve problems occur in the mitral and aortic valves. Diseases of the tricuspid and pulmonary valves are fairly rare.

[0003] The aortic valve regulates the blood flow from the heart's left ventricle into the aorta. The aorta is the main vessel that supplies oxygenated blood to the rest of the body. Diseases of the aorta can have a significant impact on an individual. Examples of such diseases include aortic regurgitation and aortic stenosis.

[0004] Aortic regurgitation is also called aortic insufficiency or aortic incompetence. It is a condition in which blood flows backward from a widened or weakened aortic valve into the left ventricle of the heart. In its most serious form, aortic regurgitation is caused by an infection that leaves holes in the valve leaflets. Symptoms of aortic regurgitation may not appear for years. When symptoms do appear, it is because the left ventricle must work harder as compared to an uncompromised ventricle to make up for the backflow of blood. The ventricle eventually gets larger and fluid backs up.

[0005] Aortic stenosis is a narrowing or blockage of the aortic valve. Aortic stenosis occurs when the valve leaflets of the aorta become coated with deposits. The deposits change the shape of the leaflets and reduce blood flow through the valve. The left ventricle has to work harder as compared to an uncompromised ventricle to make up for the reduced blood flow. Over time, the extra work can weaken the heart muscle.

[0012] Embodiments of the present invention are directed to an apparatus, system, and method for percutaneous cardiac valve replacement and/or augmentation. For example, the apparatus can include a cardiac valve that can be used to replace an incompetent valve (e.g., an aortic valve, a mitral valve, a tricuspid valve or a pulmonary valve) in a body lumen. Embodiments of the cardiac valve can include a first anchor frame and two or more leaflets that can be implanted through minimally-invasive techniques into a body lumen, such as an artery or a vein. In one example, embodiments of the present invention may help to augment or replace the function of a cardiac valve of individuals having heart valve disease.

[0013] The Figures herein follow a numbering convention in which the first digit or digits correspond to the drawing Figure number and the remaining digits identify an element or component in the drawing. Similar elements or components between different Figures may be identified by the use of similar digits. For example, 110 may reference element “10” in FIG. 1, and a similar element may be referenced as 210 in FIG. 2. As will be appreciated, elements shown in the various embodiments herein can be added, exchanged, and/or eliminated so as to provide any number of additional embodiments of valve. In addition, as will be appreciated the proportion and the relative scale of the elements provided in the figures are intended to illustrate the embodiments of the present invention, and should not be taken in a limiting sense.

[0014] Various embodiments of the invention are illustrated in the figures. Generally, the cardiac valve can be implanted within the fluid passageway of a body lumen, such as for replacement or augmentation of a cardiac valve structure within the body lumen (e.g., an aortic valve at the aortic root), to regulate the flow of a bodily fluid through the body lumen in a single direction. The embodiments of the cardiac valve of the present invention attempt to maximize the effective area of the opening through the cardiac valve. In addition to maximizing the effective area of the opening, the valve leaflets used with the cardiac valve are believed to provide an improvement in the hemodynamics performance of the cardiac valve. For example, it is believed that the embodiments of the present invention help to increase the area of the outflow through the valve, and thus provide for a lower pressure gradient across the valve. As such, embodiments of the present invention are believed to provide not only a large effective flow area relative the total area covered by the valve, but also improved hemodynamic performance of the cardiac valve.

[0015] FIGS. 1A and 1B illustrate one embodiment of a cardiac valve 100. FIGS. 1A and 1B provide a perspective illustration of valve 100 in an open configuration (FIG. 1A) and a closed configuration (FIG. 1B). Cardiac valve 100 includes a first anchor frame 102, two or more leaflets 104, and two or more anchor members 106. The first anchor frame 102 includes a surface 108 defining an opening 110 through the first anchor frame 102. The leaflets 104 are coupled to the first anchor frame 102, as will be discussed herein, where the leaflets 104 can repeatedly move between an open state (FIG. 1A) and a closed state (FIG. 1B) for unidirectional flow of a liquid through the opening 110 of the cardiac valve 100.

[0016] As illustrated, the anchor members 106 extend vertically over the surface 108 defining the opening 110 through the first anchor frame 102 when the cardiac valve 100 is in its fully deployed configuration. For example, in one embodiment the anchoring members 106 extend parallel with a common axis 112 that is perpendicular to a common plane 114 extending through the first anchor frame 102. In an additional embodiment, the anchoring members 106 can extend at an acute angle 116 relative the common plane 114 extending through the first anchor frame 102.

[0017] The first anchor frame 102 can, in addition, have a variety of flexible configurations and be formed from a variety of materials. For example, the first anchor frame 102 can have an overall ring like configuration taken along the common plane 114, where the ring is radially compressible due the zigzag and/or serpentine configuration of the frame 102. As will be appreciated, the ring like configuration can include, but is not limited to, circular, elliptical, and variations on those shapes that may be useful in allowing the shape of the first anchor frame 102 to more closely conform to the physiological shape (e.g., the fibrous ring surrounding the orifice of the cardiac valve that is being augmented or replaced) and/or environment into which the cardiac valve 100 is being implanted. In addition, as will be appreciated the flexible configuration is not limited to the zigzag and/or serpentine configuration, but is only used as one illustration of such a flexible configuration. As such, the present invention should not be limited to the illustration of the first anchor frame 102. In addition, the first anchor frame 102 need not necessarily have a planar configuration, but can also include non-planar configurations as necessary to best conform to the native physiological shape and/or environment into which the cardiac valve 100 is being implanted.

[0018] The first anchor frame 102 can also be configured to display a minimal surface area relative the surface area common plane 114. In one embodiment, this minimal surface area can be tailored to match to the surface area of the fibrous ring surrounding the orifice of the cardiac valve that is being augmented or replaced with the cardiac valve 100. In this way, the amount of surface area for the opening 110 of the cardiac valve 100 can more closely match the surface area of the opening for the native cardiac valve that is being replaced or augmented. In other words, the first anchor frame 102 can have a predetermined circumference that allows for sufficient contact with the fibrous ring surrounding the orifice of the cardiac valve while maximizing the surface area of the opening of the cardiac valve 100.

[0019] In one embodiment, the first anchor frame 102 can be formed of one or more frame members 117. The frame members 117 can also have dimensions that assist in providing the first anchor frame 102 with the minimal surface area relative the surface area common plane 114. The exact dimensions for the frame members 117 will depend upon their cross-sectional shape and also their configuration. In one embodiment, the surface area of the opening 110 can be from 3.0 cm² to 4.0 cm². As will be appreciated, the exact surface area of the opening 110 will be determined based on the specific patient.

[0020] In addition, the cardiac valve 100 can have a diameter from 15 mm to 36 mm, which exact size will be dependent upon the size and type of valve being replaced. The frame members 117 can have a diameter from 0.07 mm to 0.51 mm depending on the valve support material and the target anatomy. The valve 100 can also include a height from 1 cm to 6 cm depending on the valve being replaced and patient size.

[0021] The frame members 117 can have one or more of a variety of cross-sectional shapes and dimensions. For example, the frame members 117 can have a tubular and/or a solid cross-sectional configuration. In addition, the frame members 117 can have cross-sectional shapes that include, but are not limited to, circular, elliptical or oval, I-shaped, T-shaped, triangular, rectangular, and/or polygonal (i.e., multi-sided shapes). The members can also have a single cross-sectional shape (e.g., all members of frame 102 can have a circular cross-sectional shape). In an additional embodiment, the members of the first anchor frame 102 can include two or more cross-sectional shapes. In addition, the type of delivery technique that will be used with the cardiac valve 100, as discussed herein, can also have an influence on the shape and configuration of the first anchor frame 102 used with the cardiac valve 100.

[0022] The frame members 117 of the first anchor frame 102 can be formed from a wide variety of materials. Generally, the first anchor frame 102 has a unitary structure that can have a configuration that allows the frame 102 to be radially expandable through the use of a balloon catheter, as will be discussed herein. In an alternative embodiment, the first anchor frame 102 can also be self-expanding. Examples of self-expanding frames include those formed from temperature-sensitive memory alloy which changes shape at a designated temperature or temperature range. Alternatively, the self-expanding frames can include those having a spring-bias.

[0023] The first anchor frame 102 can be formed from any number of materials. For example, the first anchor frame 102 can be formed from a biocompatible metal, metal alloy, polymeric material, or combination thereof. As discussed herein, the first anchor frame 102 can be self-expanding or balloon expandable. In addition, the first anchor frame can be configured so as to have the ability to move radially between the collapsed state and the expanded state. To accomplish this, the material used to form the first anchor frame should exhibit a low elastic modulus and a high yield stress for large elastic strains that can recover from elastic deformations. Examples of suitable materials include, but are not limited to, medical grade stainless steel (e.g., 316L), titanium, tantalum, platinum alloys, niobium alloys, cobalt alloys, alginate, or combinations thereof. Additional anchor frame embodiments may be formed from a shape-memory material, such as shape memory plastics, polymers, and thermoplastic materials which are inert in the body. Shaped memory alloys having superelastic properties generally made from ratios of nickel and titanium, commonly known as Nitinol, are also possible materials. Other materials are also possible.

[0024] The frame members 117 of the first anchor frame 102 can also be shaped, joined and/or formed in a variety of ways. For example, a single contiguous member can be bent around a tubular mandrel to form the first anchor frame 102. The free ends of the single contiguous member can then be welded, fused, crimped, or otherwise joined together to form the first anchor frame 102. Alternatively, the first anchor frame 102 can be derived (e.g., laser cut, water cut) from a single tubular segment. The first anchor frame 102 can be annealed to relieve internal stress and subsequently polished by methods as is typically known for the material which forms the first anchor frame 102.

[0025] In addition, the anchor members 106 can also be joined and/or formed from the frame members 117 of the first anchor frame 102. For example, anchor members 106 can be separately formed from and then attached to the first anchor frame 102. The anchor members 106 can be welded, fused, crimped, or otherwise joined to the first anchor frame 102 as described herein. In an additional embodiment, the anchor members 106 can be formed from at least a portion of the frame members 117. For example, segments of the frame members 117 could be cut and then bent so as to form the anchor members 106 extending vertically over the surface 108 defining the opening 110 through the first anchor frame 102, as discussed herein.

[0026] As illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the anchor members 106 can each include a first end 118 and a second end 120. The first and second ends 118 and 120 each have a size and configuration that are adapted to both penetrate tissue (e.g., the fibrous tissue that surrounds cardiac valves) and to anchor the cardiac valve 100 to the tissue.

[0027] A variety of structures and configurations of the anchor members 106 are available for anchoring the cardiac valve 100 to the tissue. For example, one or both of the first end 118 and the second end 120 can include a barb for penetrating and anchoring the cardiac valve 100 to the tissue. In an additional embodiment, the anchor members 106 can have material characteristics that allow the cardiac valve 100 to be secured to the cardiac tissue. For example, the anchor members 106 can be constructed and shaped in such a way that the first and second ends 118 and 120 of the anchor members 106 have a driving force to move from a first predetermined shape to a second predetermined shape to anchor the cardiac valve 100 to tissues. In one embodiment, this movement can be on account of the first and second ends 118 and 120 of the anchor members 106 being restrained or held in the first predetermined position under tension. When no longer restrained, the first and second ends 118 and 120 of the anchor members 106 move back towards the second predetermined position. An embodiment of the second predetermined position is illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B. In one embodiment, the first and second ends 118 and 120 are held in tension due to the presence of a deployment member that can be removed from between the first and second ends 118 and 120, as will be discussed more fully herein.

[0028] The anchor members 106 can also have a variety of shapes that allow for the first and second ends 118 and 120 to be held under tension, as will be discussed more fully herein. For example, the anchor members 106 can be held under tension so as to have an overall U-shaped configuration, an overall square configuration (e.g., an un-bend staple configuration), and/or V-shaped configuration. After removing the restraint, one or both of the first and second ends 118 and 120 moves relative to each other to anchor the cardiac valve 100 to the cardiac tissue. For example, one or both of the first and second ends 118 and 120 can move towards each other thereby trapping and/or compressing tissue in their travel path. Alternatively, the first and second ends 118 and 120 can move so as to pierce through a portion of the cardiac tissue so as to embed barbs on the first and second ends 118 and 120 more fully into the cardiac tissue. In an additional example, the first and second ends 118 and 120 can move to provide a hooked end portion (i.e., a J-shaped end) of the anchor member 106. Other shapes and configurations are also possible.

[0029] The anchor members 106 can be formed from a wide variety of materials, such as those described herein for the first anchor frame 102 (e.g., stainless steel, nitinol). In addition, the anchor members 106 held under tension extend over the surface 108 of the first anchor frame 102, as discussed herein, by a predetermined distance. In one embodiment, the predetermined distance is sufficient to allow the first and second ends 118 and 120 of the anchor members 106 to engage the cardiac tissue (e.g., the fibrous ring surrounding the cardiac valve) sufficiently well so that when the deployment member, discussed herein, is removed the motion of the first and second ends 118 and 120 draws the anchor members 106 further into the cardiac tissue. As such, the length of the anchor members 106 used for the cardiac valve 100 will be dependent upon the implant location of the valve 100.

[0030] While the anchor members 106 are shown positioned completely around the first anchor frame 102, other placement configurations for the anchor members 106 are possible. For example, the anchor members 106 may be equally spaced around the first anchor frame 102. Alternatively, the anchor members 106 may be unequally spaced around the first anchor frame 102, where portions of the first anchor frame 102 may have relatively few or no anchor members 106 as compared to similar sized areas on the first anchor frame 102. In other words, there may be regions of the first anchor frame 102 where there are gaps in the placement of the anchor members 106. In one embodiment, this can be done to accommodate the physiological environment into which the cardiac valve 100 is to be implanted. For example, the region of the cardiac valve may not present enough fibrous tissue, or it may be too small of an area, to effectively implant the anchor members 106.

[0031] The cardiac valve 100 can further include one or more radiopaque markers (e.g., tabs, sleeves, welds). For example, one or more portions of the first anchor frame 102 can be formed from a radiopaque material. Radiopaque markers can be attached to and/or coated onto one or more locations along the first anchor frame 102. Examples of radiopaque material include, but are not limited to, gold, tantalum, and platinum. The position of the one or more radiopaque markers can be selected so as to provide information on the position, location and orientation of the valve 100 during its implantation.

[0032] The cardiac valve 100 further includes leaflets 104 having surfaces defining a reversibly sealable opening 122 for unidirectional flow of a liquid through the valve 100. For example, the leaflets 104 can be coupled to the first anchor member 102 so as to span and control fluid flow through the opening 110 of the cardiac valve 100. In one embodiment, the leaflets 104 can be derived from a xenograft cardiac valve. As will be appreciated, sources for xenograft cardiac valves include, but are not limited to, mammalian sources such as porcine, equine, and sheep.

[0033] In one embodiment, the leaflets 104 are provided by a valve root 124 derived from the xenographic donor. The valve root 124 includes the leaflets 104 of the valve along with a segment of the native valve with which to couple to the first anchor frame 102. For example, the valve root 124 can include an aortic root that includes both the leaflets and the segment of the aortic root sufficiently large enough to allow the aortic root to be coupled to the first anchor frame 102. Other valve roots besides the aortic root can be used with the embodiments of the present invention (e.g., a mitral valve root having two leaflets).

[0034] The valve root 124 can be mounted to the first anchor frame 102 in a variety of ways. For example, the first anchor frame 102 can include a sewing cushion 126 to which the valve root 124 can be attached. In one embodiment, the sewing cushion 126 can be coupled to the surface 108 of the first anchor frame 102 adjacent the anchor members 106. In an alternative embodiment, the sewing cushion 126 can be coupled to the surface 108 of the first anchor frame 102 where the sewing cushion 126 extends around the anchor members 106 so as not to interfere with their function. In an additional embodiment, the sewing cushion 126 can have a porous structure to allow for the in growth of tissue into the fabric.

[0035] The valve root 124 can then be coupled to the first anchor frame 102 in a number of ways that allow the leaflets 104 to be functionally positioned within the opening 110 of the cardiac valve 100. In one embodiment, the valve root 124 can be stitched to the sewing cushion 126 so that the valve root 124 is positioned completely within a perimeter defined by the anchoring members 106. Alternatively, the valve root 124 could be modified so as to be positioned at least partially on the sewing cushion while also being at least partially positioned around the anchoring members 106.

[0036] In addition to stitching, there are other techniques may be employed to secure the leaflets 104/valve root 124 to the first anchor frame 102 including the sewing cushion 126. These techniques can include, but are not limited to, the use of fasteners (such as biocompatible staples, glues), heat setting, adhesive welding, interlocking, application of uniform force and other bonding techniques, including methods described in U.S. Patent Application Publication US 2002/0178570 to Sogard et al. or combinations thereof. In an additional embodiment, the valve root 124 can be coupled to the first anchor frame 102 through the use of heat sealing, solvent bonding, adhesive bonding, or welding the valve root 124 to either a portion of the valve root 124 (i.e., itself) and/or the first anchor frame 102.

[0037] In an additional embodiment, the valve root 124 discussed herein could also be completely or partially constructed of natural or synthetic materials. Natural materials include, without limitation, standard porcine heart valves, equine heart valves, sheep heart valves, modified natural heart valves include those having a leaflet with a septal shelf replaced with a leaflet from another valve, and natural tissue valves wherein the cusps of the valve are formed from separate pieces of pericardial or fascia lata tissue.

[0038] Synthetic materials include, without limitation, those materials sufficiently thin and pliable so as to permit radially-collapsing of the valve leaflets for delivery by catheter to a location within a body lumen. For example, the leaflets 104 can be constructed of a biocompatible material that can be either synthetic or biologic or a combination of synthetic and biologic biocompatible material. Possible synthetic materials include, but are not limited to, expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polystyrene-polyisobutylene-polystyrene (SIBS), polyurethane, segmented poly(carbonate-urethane), polyester, polyethlylene (PE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), silk, urethane, Rayon, Silicone, or the like. In an additional embodiment, the synthetic material can also include metals, such as stainless steel (e.g., 316L) and nitinol. These synthetic materials can be in a woven, a knit, a cast or other known physical fluid-impermeable or permeable configurations.

[0039] Additional biologic materials include, but are not limited to, autologous, allogeneic or xenograft material. These include explanted veins, pericardium, facia lata, harvested cardiac valves, bladder, vein wall, various collagen types, elastin, intestinal submucosa, and decellularized basement membrane materials, such as small intestine submucosa (SIS), amniotic tissue, or umbilical vein.

[0040] The first anchor frame 102, the sewing cushion 126, the leaflets 104 and/or the valve root 124 may also be treated and/or coated with any number of surface or material treatments. For example, suitable bioactive agents which may be incorporated with or utilized together with the present invention may be selected from silver antimicrobial agents, metallic antimicrobial materials, growth factors, cellular migration agents, cellular proliferation agents, anti-coagulant substances, stenosis inhibitors, thrombo-resistant agents, antibiotic agents, anti-tumor agents, anti-proliferative agents, growth hormones, antiviral agents, anti-angiogenic agents, angiogenic agents, cholesterol-lowering agents, vasodilating agents, agents that interfere with endogenous vasoactive mechanisms, hormones, their homologs, derivatives, fragments, pharmaceutical salts and combinations thereof.

[0041] In the various embodiments of the present invention, the most useful bioactive agents can include those that modulate thrombosis, those that encourage cellular ingrowth, throughgrowth, and endothelialization, those that resist infection, and those that reduce calcification. For example, coating treatments can include one or more biologically active compounds and/or materials that may promote and/or inhibit endothelial, smooth muscle, fibroblast, and/or other cellular growth onto or into the frame 102 and/or the valve root 124, including the leaflets 104. Examples of such coatings include, but are not limited to, polyglactic acid, poly-L-lactic acid, glycol-compounds, and lipid compounds. Additionally, coatings can include medications, genetic agents, chemical agents, and/or other materials and additives. In addition, agents that limit or decrease cellular proliferation can be useful. Similarly, the frame 102 and/or the valve root 124, including the leaflets 104, may be seeded and covered with cultured tissue cells (e.g., endothelial cells) derived from a either a donor or the host patient which are attached to the valve leaflets 104. The cultured tissue cells may be initially positioned to extend either partially or fully over the valve leaflets 104.

[0042] Cells can be associated with the present invention. For example, cells that have been genetically engineered to deliver bioactive proteins, such as the growth factors or antibodies mentioned herein, to the implant site can be associated with the present invention. Cells can be of human origin (autologous or allogenic) or from an animal source (xenogenic). Cells can be pre-treated with medication or pre-processed such as by sorting or encapsulation. The delivery media can be formulated as needed to maintain cell function and viability.

[0043] Thrombo-resistant agents associated with the valve may be selected from, but not limited to, heparin, heparin sulfate, hirudin, hyaluronic acid, chondroitin sulfate, dermatan sulfate, keratin sulfate, PPack (detropyenylalanine praline arginine chloromethylketone), lytic agents, including urokinase and streptokinase, their homologs, analogs, fragments, derivatives and pharmaceutical salts thereof.

[0044] Anti-coagulants can include, but are not limited to, D-Phe-Pro-Arg chloromethyl ketone, an RGD peptide-containing compound, heparain, antithrombin compounds, platelet receptor antagonists, anti-thrombin antibodies, anti-platelet receptor antibodies, aspirin, prostaglandin inhibitors, platelet inhibitors, tick antiplatelet peptides and combinations thereof.

[0045] Antibiotic agents can include, but are not limited to, penicillins, cephalosportins, vancomycins, aminoglycosides, quinolonges, polymyxins, erythromycins, tetracyclines, chloraphenicols, clindamycins, lincomycins, sulfonamides, their homologs, analogs, derivatives, pharmaceutical salts and combinations thereof.

[0046] Anti-proliferative agents for use in the present invention can include, but are not limited to, the following: paclitaxel, sirolimus, everolimus, or monoclonal antibodies capable of blocking smooth muscle cell proliferation, related compounds, derivatives, and combinations thereof.

[0047] Vascular cell growth inhibitors can include, but are not limited to, growth factor inhibitors, growth factor receptor antagonists, transcriptional repressors, translational repressors, replication inhibitors, inhibitory antibodies, antibodies directed against growth factors, bifunctional molecules consisting of a growth factor and a cytotoxin, bifunctional molecules consisting of a an antibody and a cytotoxin.

[0048] Vascular cell growth promoters include, but are not limited to, transcriptional activators and transcriptional promoters. Anti-inflammatory agents can include, but are not limited to, dexametbasone, prednisolone, corticosterone, budesonide, estrogen, sulfasalazinemesalamne, and combinations thereof.

[0049] Although the embodiments in FIGS. 1A and 1B illustrate and describe a tri-leaflet configuration for the valve 100 of the present invention, designs employing a different number of valve leaflets are possible. For example, bi-leaflet configurations (e.g., mitral valve) are also possible.

[0050] FIG. 2 illustrates an embodiment of the valve 200 where the anchor members 206 extend from the fist anchor frame 202 has just the first end 218. In other words, the anchor members 206 have a single shaft extending from the fist anchor frame 202 that ends with the first end 218. As discussed herein, the anchor members 206 extend vertically over the surface 208 defining the opening 210 through the first anchor frame 202 when the cardiac valve 200 is in its fully deployed configuration. For example, in one embodiment the anchoring members 206 extend parallel with a common axis 212 that is perpendicular to a common plane 214 extending through the first anchor frame 202. In an additional embodiment, the anchoring members 206 can extend at an acute angle 216 to the common axis 212 that is perpendicular to the common plane 214 extending through the first anchor frame 202.

[0051] As discussed herein, the first end 218 of the anchor members 206 each have a size and configuration that are adapted to both penetrate tissue (e.g., the fibrous tissue that surrounds cardiac valves) and to anchor the cardiac valve 200 to the tissue. In addition, a variety of structures and configurations of the anchor members 206 are available for anchoring the cardiac valve 200 to the tissue. For example, the first end 218 can include a barb for penetrating and anchoring the cardiac valve 200 to the tissue.

[0052] In an additional embodiment, the anchor members 206 can have material characteristics that allow the cardiac valve 200 to be secured to the cardiac tissue, as discussed herein. For example, the anchor members 206 can be imparted with a driving force to move from a first predetermined shape to a second predetermined shape to anchor the cardiac valve 200 to tissues. In one embodiment, this movement can be on account of the first end 218 of the anchor members 106 being restrained or held in the first predetermined position under tension. When no longer restrained, the first end 218 of the anchor members 206 move back towards the second predetermined position. In the present example, the first end 218 of the anchor members 206 move in a radial direction toward the perimeter of the first anchor frame 202. In one embodiment, the first end 218 are held in tension due to the presence of a deployment member that can be radially compressing the first end 218 of the anchor members 206, as will be discussed more fully herein.

[0053] The anchor members 206 can also have a variety of shapes that allow for the first end 218 to be held under tension. For example, the anchor members 206 can be held under tension so as to have an overall linear-shaped configuration. After removing the restraint, the first end 218 moves radially to anchor the cardiac valve 200 to the cardiac tissue. For example, the first end 218 of the anchor members 206 can move radially from the opening 210 to take on a J-shaped configuration, thereby drawing and securing the valve 200 into the cardiac tissue surrounding native cardiac valve. Other shapes and configurations are also possible. The first end 218 of the anchor member 206 can also include a barb, as discussed herein.

[0054] The anchor members 206 can be formed from a wide variety of materials and can display the same dimensions relative the first anchor frame 202 (e.g., extending of the surface 208 of the first anchor frame 202 by the predetermined distance), as discussed herein. In addition, while the anchor members 206 are shown positioned completely around the first anchor frame 202, other placement configurations for the anchor members 206 are possible, as discussed herein.

[0055] FIG. 3 illustrates an additional embodiment of the cardiac valve 300. The cardiac valve 300 includes the first anchor frame 302, two or more leaflets 304, and two or more anchor members 306, as discussed herein. In addition, the cardiac valve 300 further includes a second anchor frame 328 connected to the first anchor frame 302 through struts 329 extending between the first anchor frame 302 and the second anchor frame 328. In one embodiment, the leaflets 304 can be coupled to the struts 329 and the first anchor frame 302. In addition, the struts 329 can allow for tension to be developed between the first and second anchor frames 302 and 328 when the cardiac valve 300 is implanted, as will be more fully discussed herein.

[0056] The second anchor frame 328 includes a surface 330 defining an opening 332 through the second anchor frame 328. The second anchor frame 328 can optionally include leaflets, as discussed herein, for unidirectional flow of the liquid through the opening 332.

[0057] The second anchor frame 328 further includes two or more anchor members 334 extending from the surface 330 of the second anchor frame 328. As illustrated, the anchor members 334 extend at an acute angle 316 to the common plane 336 extending through the second anchor frame 328 when the cardiac valve 300 is in its fully deployed configuration. In an additional embodiment, the anchoring members 334 can extend perpendicular to the common axis 312 that is parallel to the common plane 336 extending through the second anchor frame 328 (i.e., the anchoring members 334 can be parallel with the common plane 336).

[0058] The second anchor frame 328 can have a variety of configurations and can be formed from a variety of materials, as were discussed herein for the first anchor frame 302. In addition, the second anchor frame 328 can be configured to be implanted in an artery or vein, while the first anchor frame 302 resides in the fibrous ring surrounding the orifice of the cardiac valve that is being augmented or replaced with the cardiac valve 300. For example, the second anchor frame 328 can be configured to be implanted in the aorta, while the first anchor frame 302 resides in the fibrous ring surrounding the orifice of the aortic valve. Other locations are possible.

[0059] In addition, the anchor members 334 can also be joined and/or formed from the same materials and/or the frame members of the second anchor frame 328, as discussed herein for the first anchor frame 302. As illustrated in FIG. 3, the anchor members 334 can each include at least a first end 338, where the anchor members 334 have a size and configuration that are adapted to both embed into the tissue (e.g., the artery or vein) and to help anchor the cardiac valve 300.

[0060] A variety of structures and configurations of the anchor members 334 are available for anchoring the cardiac valve 300 to the tissue. For example, the first end 338 can include a barb for penetrating and anchoring the cardiac valve 300. In addition, while the anchor members 334 are shown positioned completely around the second anchor frame 328, other placement configurations for the anchor members 334 are possible such as those discussed herein for the anchor members 306.

[0061] In an additional embodiment, the anchor members 334 can have dimensional and material characteristics that allow the cardiac valve 300 to be secured to the cardiac tissue, as discussed herein for anchor members 306. For example, the anchor members 334 can be constructed and shaped in such a way that the first ends 338 of the anchor members 334 have a driving force to move from a first predetermined shape to a second predetermined shape to anchor the cardiac valve 300, as discussed herein for anchor members 306. In one embodiment, this movement can be on account of the first ends 338 of the anchor members 334 being restrained or held in the first predetermined position under tension. When no longer restrained, the first ends 338 of the anchor members 334 move back towards the second predetermined position. An embodiment of the second predetermined position is illustrated in FIG. 3. In one embodiment, the first second ends 338 are held in tension due to the presence of a deployment member that can be removed from the first ends 338 and 120, as will be discussed more fully herein.

[0062] The anchor members 334 can also have a variety of shapes that allow for the first ends 338 to be held under tension, as will be discussed more fully herein. For example, the anchor members 334 can be held under tension so as to have an overall linear configuration that changes to have a hooked end portion (i.e., a J-shaped end) after removing the restraint. Other shapes and configurations are also possible.

[0063] As illustrated, the cardiac valve 300 includes struts 329 that connect the second anchor frame 328 to the first anchor frame 302. In one embodiment, the struts 329 can generally have a circular cross section and be of substantially uniform diameter throughout their entire extent. Alternatively, the struts 329 can have a rectangular profile. As will be appreciated, other cross-sectional shapes are also possible (e.g., square, triangular, oval, etc.). In one embodiment, the cross-sectional shape of the struts 329 is the same as the cross-sectional shape of the frame members of the first and second anchor frames 302 and 328.

[0064] FIG. 3 provides an illustration in which the struts 329 extend linearly between the valve 300 and the second anchor frame 328. As will be appreciated, the struts 329 can have a number of different cross-sectional and elongate configurations. For example, the struts 329 may have a rectangular profile and extend between the valve 300 and the second anchor frame 328 in a serpentine shape. In one embodiment, the cross-sectional shape and elongate configurations of the struts 329 can allow for additional contact area to be provided between the struts 329 and the tissue of the implant site. For example, the rectangular cross-sectional shape and the serpentine elongate configuration can allow for aligning and confining the patients existing cardiac valve leaflets in an open position during and after the implantation of the cardiac valve 300.

[0065] As illustrated in FIG. 3, the struts 329 can be integral to the first and second anchor frames 302 and 328. Alternatively, the struts 329 can be separately coupled to the first and second anchor frames 302 and 328 through the coupling processes described herein or that are known. In addition, the struts 329 can allow for tension to be developed between the first and second anchor frames 302 and 328 when the cardiac valve 300 is implanted, as will be more fully discussed herein.

[0066] In an additional embodiment, the struts 329 can be configured to extend into the opening 310 of the first anchor frame 302. This allows, besides other things, for the struts 329 to be clear of the vertically oriented anchoring members 306. The struts 329 can then arch back radially to couple to the second anchor frame 328.

[0067] The struts 329 may be formed of, for example, any material which is non-corrosive, fatigue resistant, and biocompatible. Examples of such materials have been provided herein in connection with the first and second anchor frames 302 and 328. As will be appreciated, the first and second anchor frames 302 and 328 and the struts 329 can be formed from in a single piece (e.g., through a laser or water cutting process) of tubular material. Alternatively, each of the first and second anchor frames 302 and 328 and the struts 329 could be formed separately and then coupled as described herein. The edges of the resulting structure can then be polished and contoured.

[0068] In addition to joining the first and second anchor frames 302 and 328, the configuration of the struts 329 also allow for additional options in coupling the leaflets 304 to the valve 300. For example, at least part of the leaflets 304, as discussed herein, can be coupled to the struts 329 and the first anchor frame 302 to provide the reversibly sealable opening 322 for unidirectional flow of a liquid through the valve 300. As will be appreciated, the valve root 324 derived from the xenographic donor can also be coupled to at least part of both the struts 329 and the first anchor frame 302.

[0069] The valve root 324 can be mounted to the first anchor frame 302 and the struts 329 in a variety of ways. For example, the first anchor frame 302 and the struts 329 can both include a least a portion of the sewing cushion 326 to which the valve root 324 can be attached. The valve root 324 can then be stitched to the sewing cushion 326, as discussed herein. Other coupling techniques, as discussed herein, could also be used. In an additional embodiment, the valve root 324 can be coupled to the first anchor frame 302 and/or the struts 329 through the use of heat sealing, solvent bonding, adhesive bonding, or welding the valve root 324 to either a portion of the valve root 324 (i.e., itself) and/or the first anchor frame 302 and the struts 329.

[0070] FIGS. 4A-4C illustrate one embodiment of a system 440. System 440 includes valve 400, as described herein, releasably joined to a delivery catheter 442. FIG. 4A illustrates an embodiment in which the valve 400 in an undeployed configuration is releasably joined to a delivery catheter 442. FIG. 4B illustrates an embodiment in which the valve 400 is in its fully deployed configuration while being releasably joined to a delivery catheter 442. Finally, FIG. 4C illustrates an embodiment in which the valve 400 in its fully deployed configuration has been released from the delivery catheter 442. In one embodiment, the valve 400 can be reversibly joined to the delivery catheter 442 through the use of one or more deployment members 444, as will be discussed below.

[0071] In the example illustrated in FIGS. 4A-4C, the delivery catheter 442 includes an elongate body 446 having a proximal end 448 and a distal end 450, where valve 400 can be located between the proximal end 448 and distal end 450. The delivery catheter 442 further includes a first delivery lumen 452, a second delivery lumen 454, and a third delivery lumen 456 extending from the proximal end 448 towards the distal end 450 of the delivery catheter 442.

[0072] The delivery catheter 442 also includes a first placement guide 458, a second placement guide 460, and a third placement guide 462. Each of the first, second, and third placement guides 458, 460, and 462 has an elongate body 464 with a lumen 466 extending there through. As illustrated in FIGS. 4A-4C, each of the first, second, and third placement guides 458, 460, and 462 are positioned and can travel longitudinally within their respective delivery lumens 452, 454, and 456. In one embodiment, this allows at least a portion of the first, second, and third placement guides 458, 460, and 462 to extend beyond the distal end 450 of the delivery catheter 442.

[0073] The delivery catheter 442 also has deployment members 444 that extend through the lumens of the first, second, and third placement guides 458, 460, and 462. In one embodiment, the deployment members 444 extend beyond the first, second, and third placement guides 458, 460, and 462 and are releaseably positioned adjacent the anchoring members 406. For example, the deployment members 444 can be releaseably positioned so as to constrain the first end 418 and the second end 420 of the anchor members 406 in the first predetermined relationship. The deployment members 444 can then be retracted from their positions relative the anchoring members 406, whereupon the first end 418 and the second end 420 of the anchor members 406 to move to the second predetermined relationship.

[0074] Referring now to FIG. 4A, there is illustrated the system 440 with the valve 400 in an undeployed configuration releasably coupled to the delivery catheter 442. In one embodiment, the valve 400 can be releasably coupled to the delivery catheter 442 through the deployment members 444. For example, the deployment members 444 can extend from one or more of the first, second, and third placement guides 458, 460, and 462 to contact the anchor members 406. As discussed above, the anchor members 406 are constructed and shaped in such a way that the first and second ends 418 and 420 of the anchor members 106 have a driving force to move from a first predetermined shape to a second predetermined shape to anchor the cardiac valve 400 to tissues. In one embodiment, this movement can be on account of the first and second ends 418 and 420 of the anchor members 406 being restrained or held in the first predetermined position under tension by the presence of the deployment members 444.

[0075] In addition to holding the first and second ends 418 and 420 of the anchor members 406 in the first predetermined position under tension, the deployment members 444 also releasably couples the valve 400 to the delivery catheter 442. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4A the valve 400 has been coupled to the delivery catheter 442 in its undeployed configuration. In one embodiment, in its undeployed configuration the valve 400 has been radially compressed (e.g., the first anchor frame 402 has been radially compressed) to reduce the size of the valve 400. As illustrated in FIG. 4A, the valve 400 in its undeployed configuration can further be held in place (e.g., constrained) by the presence of a retractable sheath 466 positioned adjacent the distal end 450 of the delivery catheter 442.

[0076] In one embodiment, the retractable sheath 466 can be positioned over at least a portion of the elongate body 446, where the retractable sheath 466 can move longitudinally along the elongate body 446. The valve 400 can be positioned at least partially within the retractable sheath 466, where the retractable sheath 466 moves along the elongate body 446 to help deploy the valve 400. In one embodiment, a retraction system 468 can be used to help move the retractable sheath 466, where the system 468 includes one or more wires coupled to the retractable sheath 466. The wires of the retraction system 468 can longitudinally extend at least partially through lumens in the elongate body 446. Wires of the retraction system 468 can then be used to retract the retractable sheath 466 in deploying valve 400.

[0077] FIG. 4B illustrates an embodiment in which the valve 400 is being expanded into its fully deployed configuration while still being releasably joined to a delivery catheter 442. As illustrated, the retraction system 468 has been used to retract the retractable sheath 466 in deploying valve 400. The first, second, and third placement guides 458, 460, and 462 have also been extended from the distal end 450 of the delivery catheter 442. As compared to FIG. 4A, the first anchor frame 402 illustrated in FIG. 4B has expanded from a first predetermined configuration (e.g., the undeployed configuration) to the fully deployed configuration as the first, second, and third placement guides 458, 460, and 462 extend beyond the distal end 450 of the delivery catheter 442.

[0078] As illustrated, the first, second, and third placement guides 458, 460, and 462 can connect to the cardiac valve 400 through the separate portions of the deployment member 444 at points symmetrically positioned around the first anchor frame 402 of the cardiac valve 400. Other non-symmetrical connection points for the placement guides 458, 460, and 462 and the first anchor frame 402 of the cardiac valve 400 are also possible.

[0079] In one embodiment, as the placement guides 458, 460, and 462 are extended from the delivery catheter 442 they flare radially as the valve 400 begins to move from its undeployed configuration to its deployed configuration. As illustrated, in one embodiment the first, second, and third placement guides 458, 460, and 462 are positioned adjacent the anchor members 406 so as not to interfere with the anchor members 406 as they are embedded into, for example, the cardiac tissue surrounding a cardiac valve.

[0080] FIG. 4C illustrates an embodiment in which the valve 400 in its fully deployed configuration has been released from the delivery catheter 442. In one embodiment, releasing the valve 400 in its fully deployed configuration can be accomplished by retracting the portions of the one or more deployment members 444 from being in contact with the anchor members 406. In one embodiment, this can be accomplished by pulling on the deployment members 444 to release the cardiac valve 400 from the first, second, and third placement guides 458, 460, and 462 and the delivery catheter 442. Upon removing the deployment members 444, the anchor members 406 can then move from a first predetermined shape (as illustrated in FIGS. 4A and 4B) to a second predetermined shape (as illustrated in FIG. 4C) to anchor the cardiac valve 400 to tissues.

[0081] In one embodiment, the deployment members 444 can have a variety of configurations and be constructed of a variety of materials. For example, the deployment members 444 can have a wire configuration with a size sufficiently large to hold the anchor members 406 in the first predetermined shape. Examples of different configurations for cross-sectional shapes of the wire can include, but are not limited to, round, oval, square, triangular and other shape as are known. Examples of suitable materials include medical grade stainless steel (e.g., 316L), titanium, cobalt alloys, alginate, or combinations thereof.

[0082] In an additional embodiment, the cardiac valve 400 can further include a sealing material 470 positioned between the first anchor frame 406 and the deployment member 444. In one embodiment, upon removing the deployment member 444 to anchor the cardiac valve 400 to the tissue the sealing material 470 can swell due the presence of liquid to occupy volume between the first anchor frame 402 and the tissue on which the valve has been implanted so as to prevent leakage of the liquid outside of the opening 410 of the cardiac valve 400. In alternative embodiment, the sealing material 470 can have a microcoil configuration. Examples of microcoil structures include, but are not limited to, those sold by the Micrus Corporation of Sunnyvale Calif. under the trade designator “ACT MicroCoil.”

[0083] A variety of suitable materials for the sealing material 470 are possible. For example, the sealing material 470 can be selected from the general class of materials that include polysaccharides, proteins, and biocompatible gels. Specific examples of these polymeric materials can include, but are not limited to, those derived from poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO), poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG), poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA), poly(vinylpyrrolidone) (PVP), poly(ethyloxazoline) (PEOX) polyaminoacids, pseudopolyamino acids, and polyethyloxazoline, as well as copolymers of these with each other or other water soluble polymers or water insoluble polymers. Examples of the polysaccharide include those derived from alginate, hyaluronic acid, chondroitin sulfate, dextran, dextran sulfate, heparin, heparin sulfate, heparan sulfate, chitosan, gellan gum, xanthan gum, guar gum, water soluble cellulose derivatives, and carrageenan. Examples of proteins include those derived from gelatin, collagen, elastin, zein, and albumin, whether produced from natural or recombinant sources.

[0084] As will be appreciated, the sealing material 470 can be presented on the first anchor frame 402 in such a way as to expand in volume upon contacting the liquid. In one embodiment, in order to inhibit the sealing material 470 from swelling prior to implanting the valve 400, the sealing material 470 can be positioned between the anchor frame 402 and the deployment members 444 so as to keep the sealing material 470 from contacting liquid until the deployment members 444 are removed from the valve 400.

[0085] FIGS. 5A-5C illustrate an additional embodiment of a system 572. System 572 includes valve 500, as described herein, releasably joined to a delivery catheter 574. FIG. 5A illustrates an embodiment in which the valve 500 in an undeployed configuration is releasably joined to a delivery catheter 574. FIG. 5B illustrates an embodiment in which the valve 500 is in its fully deployed configuration while being releasably joined to a delivery catheter 574. Finally, FIG. 5C illustrates an embodiment in which the valve 500 in its fully deployed configuration has been released from the delivery catheter 574. In one embodiment, the valve 500 can be reversibly joined to the delivery catheter 574 through the use of a first inflatable balloon 576, as will be discussed below.

[0086] In the example illustrated in FIGS. 5A-5C, the delivery catheter 574 includes an elongate body 578 having a proximal end 580 and a distal end 582. The delivery catheter 574 further includes the first inflatable balloon 576 positioned adjacent the distal end 582, and a first inflatable lumen 584 longitudinally extending in the elongate body 578 of the catheter 574 from within the first inflatable balloon 576 to the distal end 582. As will be appreciated, an inflating apparatus 586 can be used to inflated and deflate the first inflatable balloon 576.

[0087] In the present example, the first inflatable balloon 576 can be at least partially positioned within the opening 510 of the first anchor frame 502. In one embodiment, the first inflatable balloon 576 can be inflated to expand the first anchor frame 502 of the cardiac valve 500 from a first predetermined configuration to the fully deployed configuration.

[0088] In an additional embodiment, the first inflatable balloon 576 can be used to help align the expanded cardiac valve 500 and the fibrous tissue that surrounds cardiac valve prior to the cardiac valve 500 being implanted. For example, the first inflatable balloon 576 can be sufficiently long that the first inflatable balloon 576 with the undeployed cardiac valve 500 (as illustrated in FIG. 5A) can be passed through the native cardiac valve to position the cardiac valve 500 adjacent its implant site while still having a portion of the balloon adjacent the native cardiac valve. The first inflatable balloon 576 can then be inflated to both expand the cardiac valve 500 to its undeployed configuration and to contact the native cardiac valve. In this way, the first inflatable balloon 576 has aligned the expanded cardiac valve with its vertically projecting anchoring members 506 with the fibrous tissue surrounding the native cardiac valve. While the first inflatable balloon 576 is still inflated, the delivery catheter 574 can then be pulled so as to embed and anchor the anchoring members 506 into the fibrous tissue surrounding the native cardiac valve. The first inflatable balloon 576 can then be deflated and removed leaving the cardiac valve 500 in its implant location.

[0089] FIGS. 6A-6D illustrate an additional embodiment of the system 672. As illustrated, the system 672 includes valve 600, as described herein, releasably joined to a delivery catheter 674. FIG. 6A illustrates an embodiment in which the valve 600 in an undeployed configuration is releasably joined to a delivery catheter 674. FIG. 6B illustrates an embodiment in which the first anchor frame 602 of the valve 600 is in its fully deployed configuration while being releasably joined to a delivery catheter 674. FIG. 6C illustrates an embodiment in which the second anchor frame 628 of the valve 600 is in its fully deployed configuration while being releasably joined to a delivery catheter 674. Finally, FIG. 6D illustrates an embodiment in which the valve 600 in its fully deployed configuration has been released from the delivery catheter 674. In one embodiment, the valve 600 can be reversibly joined to the delivery catheter 674 through the use of the first inflatable balloon 676 and a second inflatable balloon 688, as will be discussed below.

[0090] In the example illustrated in FIGS. 6A-6D, the delivery catheter 674 includes the elongate body 678 having a proximal end 680 and a distal end 682. The delivery catheter 674 further includes the first inflatable balloon 676 positioned adjacent the distal end 682, and the first inflatable lumen 684 longitudinally extending in the elongate body 678 of the catheter 674 from within the first inflatable balloon 676 to the distal end 682. The delivery catheter 674 also the second inflatable balloon 688 positioned proximal to the first inflatable balloon 676, where a second inflatable lumen 690 longitudinally extends in the elongate body 678 of the catheter 674 from within the second inflatable balloon 688 to the distal end 682. As will be appreciated, an inflating apparatus 686 can be used to inflated and deflate the first and second inflatable balloons 676 and 688 either simultaneously or separately.

[0091] In the present example, the first inflatable balloon 676 can be at least partially positioned within the opening 610 of the first anchor frame 602. Similarly, the second inflatable balloon 688 can be at least partially positioned within the opening 632 of the second anchor frame 628. In one embodiment, the first and second inflatable balloons 676 and 688 can be inflated to expand the first anchor frame 602 and the second anchor frame 628, respectively, of the cardiac valve 600 from a first predetermined configuration to the fully deployed configuration.

[0092] In an additional embodiment, the first inflatable balloon 676 can be used to help align the expanded first anchor frame 602 of the cardiac valve 600 and the fibrous tissue that surrounds cardiac valve prior to the cardiac valve 600 being implanted, as discussed above. In one embodiment, while implanting the first anchor frame 602 as discussed, the second inflatable balloon 688 remains in its deflated state at least partially positioned within the opening 632 of the second anchor frame 628 in its first predetermined configuration.

[0093] The second inflatable balloon 688 can then be implanted through the use of the second inflatable balloon 688. For example, upon implanting the first anchor frame 602 the first inflatable balloon 676 can be deflated. The first anchor frame 602 is still connected to the second anchor frame 628 with the struts 629. As a result, the second inflatable balloon 688 can be used to maintain pressure between the first anchor frame 602 and the tissue into which it is implanted by pulling on the delivery catheter 674. As the tension is being applied, the second inflatable balloon 688 can then be used to expand the second anchor frame 628 of the cardiac valve 600 into its fully deployed configuration.

[0094] In one embodiment, the second anchor frame 628 can be implanted into an artery or vein downstream of the first anchor frame 602. For example, the at least part of the delivery catheter 674 with the cardiac valve 600 could be positioned at a predetermined location such as in the region of the aortic valve. The first anchor frame 602 could be implanted adjacent the aortic valve, where the second anchor frame 628 would be positioned and implanted into the aorta of the patient. In an additional embodiment, the struts 629 would be sufficiently long enough so that the second anchor frame 628 would not interfere with the inlets to the coronary arteries, such as in the ascending aorta above the left and right coronary artery inlets. Other implant locations are also possible.

[0095] As will be appreciated, additional implantable medical devices might also be implanted in conjunction with the cardiac valve 600, as described herein. For example, cardiac stents might be placed in the coronary arteries adjacent their inlets from the aorta sinus. Stenting the arteries in this manner may help in maintaining their patent shape after the cardiac valve 600 has been implanted.

[0096] The embodiments of the valve described herein may be used to replace, supplement, or augment valve structures within one or more lumens of the body. For example, embodiments of the present invention may be used to replace an incompetent cardiac valve of the heart, such as the aortic, pulmonary and/or mitral valves of the heart. In one embodiment, the cardiac valve can either remain in place or be removed prior to implanting the cardiac valve discussed herein.

[0097] In addition, positioning the delivery catheter including the valve as discussed herein includes introducing the delivery catheter into the cardiovascular system of the patient using minimally invasive percutaneous, transluminal catheter based delivery system, as is known in the art. For example, a guidewire can be positioned within the cardiovascular system of a patient that includes the predetermined location. The delivery catheter, including valve, as described herein, can be positioned over the guidewire and the catheter advanced so as to position the valve at or adjacent the predetermined location. In one embodiment, radiopaque markers on the catheter and/or the valve, as described herein, can be used to help locate and position the valve.

[0098] The valve can be deployed from the delivery catheter at the predetermined location in any number of ways, as described herein. In one embodiment, valve of the present invention can be deployed and placed in any number of cardiovascular locations. For example, valve can be deployed and placed within a major artery of a patient. In one embodiment, major arteries include, but are not limited to, the aorta. In addition, valves of the present invention can be deployed and placed within other major arteries of the heart and/or within the heart itself, such as in the pulmonary artery for replacement and/or augmentation of the pulmonary valve and between the left atrium and the left ventricle for replacement and/or augmentation of the mitral valve. Other locations are also possible.

[0099] As discussed herein, the valve can be deployed from the catheter in any number of ways. For example, the catheter can include the retractable sheath in which valve can be at least partially housed, as discussed herein. Valve can be deployed by retracting the retractable sheath of the delivery catheter and extending the placement guides so that the valve expands to be positioned at the predetermined location. In an additional embodiment, the valve can be deployed through the use of one or more inflatable balloons, as discussed herein. In a further embodiment, the valve can partially self-expand upon retracting a sheath in which the valve is located, and then deployed through the use of an inflatable balloon.

[0100] Once implanted, the valve can provide sufficient contact with the body lumen wall to prevent retrograde flow between the valve and the body lumen wall, and to securely located the valve and prevent migration of the valve. The valve described herein also display sufficient flexibility and resilience so as to accommodate changes in the body lumen diameter, while maintaining the proper placement of valve. As described herein, the valve can engage the lumen so as to reduce the volume of retrograde flow through and around valve. It is, however, understood that some leaking or fluid flow may occur between the valve and the body lumen and/or through valve leaflets.

[0101] While the present invention has been shown and described in detail above, it will be clear to the person skilled in the art that changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. As such, that which is set forth in the foregoing description and accompanying drawings is offered by way of illustration only and not as a limitation. The actual scope of the invention is intended to be defined by the following claims, along with the full range of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

[0102] In addition, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate upon reading and understanding this disclosure that other variations for the invention described herein can be included within the scope of the present invention. For example, the anchor frame(s) and/or the leaflets can be coated with a non-thrombogenic biocompatible material, as are known or will be known. Other biologically active agents or cells may also be utilized.

[0103] In the foregoing Detailed Description, various features are grouped together in several embodiments for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. This method of disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the embodiments of the invention require more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive subject matter lies in less than all features of a single disclosed embodiment. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment.