Modular percutaneous valve structure and delivery method

Field of Invention

The present invention relates to prosthetic valve devices for implantation in the body, and to methods for their installation. In particular, the present invention relates to a multicomponent, or modular, prosthetic valve device inserted through the skin, a prosthetic valve, which can be delivered disassembled and assembled inside the body and, as a result, can have a smaller diameter when delivered compared to fully assembled inputs through the skin with valve devices. The present invention also relates to a system comprising such a modular valve device and a delivery device having a reduced diameter compared to a delivery device for a fully assembled skin-inserted valve device, and to a method for delivering and installing such a modular valve device using a system based on a delivery device with a reduced diameter. In addition, the present invention relates to a method for assembling a modular valve device, comprising fastening the device modules together using fastening mechanisms.

State of the art

The human body has a large number of natural valves, including, for example, valves of the heart, esophagus and stomach, intestinal valves and valves in the lymphatic system. Natural valves can be destroyed for various reasons, such as diseases, aging, etc. The valve, in the work of which there are violations, ceases to support the flow of biological fluid in one direction with a minimum pressure drop. An example of a valve that has abnormalities is a heart valve that is prone to stenosis, i.e. incomplete opening of valve flaps, or regurgitation, i.e. improperly closing the valve flaps. It is advisable to restore the function of the valve to restore the normal functioning of the organ with which the valve is associated. For example, the normal functioning of the heart valve keeps the blood flowing through the valve in one direction while minimizing pressure loss, which keeps blood flow and blood pressure constant.

Similarly, the normal functioning of the esophageal valve ensures that there is no irritation or permanent damage to the esophageal lining with acidic gastric secretions.

Several prosthetic valve systems introduced through the skin have been described. One example described by Andersen et al (Apbegkep e! A1., US Patent No. 5,411,552) includes an expandable stent and a compressible valve fixed to a stent prior to installation. The compressible valve may be a biological valve or a valve made of synthetic material. Anderson's prosthetic valve is delivered and installed using a balloon catheter, the balloon of which is used to expand the prosthesis, consisting of a valve and a stent, to its final size. Cm. also US Patent No. 6168614 (Apbegköp e! a1.), entitled WaKe Prgok! ek1k £ og 1r1ai1a1yui ίη 1ye Wobu (Valve prosthesis for implantation in the body) and US Patent No. 5840081 (Apbegkup e! a1.), entitled § apb Me! yob £ og 1tr1apbpd Sagb1ae Ua1uek (System and method for implantation of heart valves). Spencer et al. (§Repkeg e! A1., US Pat. No. 6,893,460) describe another prosthetic valve device comprising a valve structure made of a biological or synthetic material and a support structure such as a stent. The Spencer prosthetic valve is a valve assembly with flexible flaps, consisting of a tube having an inlet and an outlet and made of elastic material, configured to provide compressibility of the walls at the outlet. Before installing the valve, the valve assembly is attached to the support stent. The finished valve device is installed in a predetermined place inside the ducts in the body using installation tools, such as a balloon catheter or similar device. Percutaneous implantation of prosthetic valves is safer, cheaper and requires less time to recover a patient compared to conventional surgical procedures. However, the disadvantage of the known artificial prosthetic valves introduced through the skin is their large size, even after compression for delivery. The problem created by the large size is that it requires that the diameter of the catheter used for delivery be large enough. Large-diameter catheters are usually not suitable for transdermal procedures and require venesection and the participation of a surgeon and / or the use of complex and laborious methods of puncture and suturing. The large sizes and large diameters of known valve devices and delivery systems, combined with the anatomical features of body parts through which devices must be delivered, can also make delivery to the lumen (1 type), problematic in terms of probability of success, accuracy of installation and risk of complications . In particular, delivery complications may arise due to the shape of the lumen, for example, the significant natural curvature of the aortic arch and / or the sinuous iliac / femoral artery through which the catheter is inserted. In addition, catheters of this diameter tend to have less flexibility compared to catheters of smaller diameter, especially when introducing into them a large device that does not differ in flexibility; manipulating a catheter with such contents in a narrow blood vessel, especially in a curved blood vessel,

- 1 027348 significantly increases the possibility of damage to the wall of this blood vessel. Accurate placement of known valve devices introduced through the skin, taking into account the existing natural anatomical features, is often problematic, especially in the case of aortic valve replacement. A prosthetic valve placed too distally (i.e. closer to the aorta) may block or interfere with the blood flow in the mouths of the coronary arteries. For example, depending on the position of the mouths of the coronary arteries or the edges of the prosthetic valve, or the wide valves of the natural valve, pressed against the walls of the aorta, can physically or functionally impair the patency of the holes and prevent blood flow through the coronary arteries. See, for example, the works of ζαζζα N. c1 a1. . e (a1., Regsi apeoe8 Aotys Uake 1tr1ap1ayop Re1todtaye Got (Ne Retoga1 Aietu, Sisi1a1yup, 113: 842-850 (2006). Such a deterioration in the patency of the openings can be both physical and functional, i.e. the mouth of the coronary arteries remain physically intact, but due to changes in the structure of the blood flow caused by the prosthetic valve, the blood flow in the coronary arteries is partially disrupted. The prosthetic valve is too proximal (i.e. closer to the outflow tract of the left ventricle) may interfere with the work of the anterior cusp of the mitral valve, atrioventricular node or bundle of Isa (in conductive tissues). Approximately 30% of patients who install prosthetic valves percutaneously need a pacemaker because the valve is placed at the end of the ventricle too close to or above the left leg of the bundle of Gisa and puts pressure on the electrically conductive system. See e.g. -316 (2008); P ^ aζζa N. e (a1. ApaUtuo £ (Ne Aotis Waakat Sotr1eh apb IprPsaiosch og Tgapzsa1e1eg 1tr1ap1aiop o £ (Not AoSs Uake, C ^^ siayoi Satyuuyusiui: I 81 (2008).

Thus, there is a need to simplify the delivery of artificial valves, as well as to increase the safety of this procedure. Extremely desirable is a valve device with a reduced diameter during delivery compared with pre-assembled valve devices inserted through the skin, suitable for delivery through a blood vessel without additional damage to the walls of the lumen.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a multicomponent, or modular, skin-injected valve device, as well as a system and method for delivering a disassembled prosthetic valve device and assembling a modular valve device within the body.

The present invention provides a modular, skin-injectable prosthetic valve device having minimal invasiveness, a system comprising such a device, and a transdermal valve delivery method.

A modular prosthetic valve device comprises a plurality of modules to be delivered. According to one embodiment of the invention, the plurality of modules includes a valve module and a support structure configured to integrate within the body to form an assembled valve device. The valve module is a part of the valve device equipped with flaps, which, after assembly, forms a tube having an inlet and an outlet end. The valve module itself may comprise a plurality of modules. Therefore, according to one embodiment of the invention, the valve module may also comprise a plurality of valve sections that can be assembled into a valve assembly. Then, the valve assembly can be combined with the support structure to form the valve assembly. According to another embodiment of the invention, the plurality of modules may include a plurality of valve sections that can be installed and assembled to form a valve assembly and implanted in the absence of a support structure. Alternatively, for example, in the pathology of the natural valve leaflet, implantation of individual valve sections is possible.

The system according to the invention includes a modular prosthetic valve device and a delivery device for delivering the valve device to the desired location of the lumen in the body. The system may also include mechanisms designed to create an adjustable connection of the valve module with the support structure and / or the support structure with attachment points. The system of the present invention may also comprise a temporary valve.

The present invention also relates to a method for delivering a modular valve device to a lumen in the body when necessary, and to a method for assembling a modular valve device within a lumen in the body. Various methods can be used to deliver the modules to the desired location with a view to assembling them inside the body. The method proposed in the present invention includes the transdermal introduction of the valve in a disassembled form (in the form of modules), and not entirely, using a delivery device, such as a catheter. These parts may include a support structure and a valve module. The valve module may be a single valve component or a valve assembly consisting of several parts. The assembly of modules can be carried out either subsequently at the site of implantation, or at a place different from the site of implantation (followed by implantation). Assembly and implantation of modules can be carried out in any order corresponding to a specific valve replacement procedure. So, for example, sections of the valve assembly can be assembled at a remote site, including, for example, in the ascending or descending parts of the aortic arch, and then delivered to a predetermined location, where the valve assembly is then attached to the support structure. Alternatively, the combination of the valve and the support structure can be performed at a remote location; then the valve device in assembled form can be delivered to a given location. Another alternative is the ability to fully assemble the valve device in a given location.

The valve module can be attached to the support structure and / or the valve sections can be interconnected using fastening mechanisms. The fastening mechanisms used in the present invention can be integrated into the modules, which means that they together constitute a part of the structure of the modules, or can be attached to one or more modules before delivery and installation inside the lumen in the body. Alternatively, the fastening mechanisms of the present invention may not be an integral part of the modules, which means that at least a part of the fastening mechanism is a structure separate from the modular valve device, i.e. it is used with one or more modules after delivery of the module (s) and installation inside the body, or is removed from the valve device during or after bonding. For example, according to one embodiment of the invention, the valve module may comprise a set of fixing tabs which, when engaged, exert a significant radial force on the support structure sufficient to bind it to the valve module. According to another embodiment of the invention, the support structure may comprise a set of geometrical engagement structures, for example, a ring in a groove that engages with a portion of the valve module configured to exert a radial force on the support structure. According to yet another embodiment of the invention, the valve module and the support structure may comprise components covering other components, wherein the mounting tab containing the male components can be assembled into the valve device and positioned so as to connect to both the valve module and with the supporting structure of the valve device in assembled form for fastening together both components. According to another embodiment of the invention, the valve module can be attached to the support structure using a set of pins or rivets. According to a further embodiment, the edges of the valve module in an unassembled state may include interlocking geometric elements that enable the edges to be fastened by means of a zipper connection. Some other embodiments of the fastening mechanisms are within the scope of the present invention, as described in this application or how easily recognized by specialists in this field of technology. Built-in mounting mechanisms can provide the possibility of interlocking parts of the device modules to be connected to each other, after their proper placement.

The device modules can also be locked in a selected location using friction forces or other local positive forces such as magnetic forces, interference fit or tight fit. To position the valve sections relative to each other during assembly of the valve sections to obtain the valve assembly, drawing wires or push rods can be used, which can also be used as temporary means for placing the valve module (e.g., valve assembly) in the support structure when combining the modules to obtain valve device assembled. Extraction wires can also serve to bind device modules during delivery so that the modules can be delivered and installed one after the other.

Also proposed is a valve delivery system that allows you to maintain valve function during assembly of the modular valve device and its placement at the implantation site, and a method for maintaining valve function during assembly and accurate implantation of the modular valve device introduced through the skin by applying a temporary valve. According to one embodiment of the invention, the temporary valve may be part of the delivery system (for example, it may be attached to the delivery device) and may be removed when the delivery system is removed from the blood vessel. According to another embodiment of the invention, a temporary valve can be mounted on a support structure of a permanent valve device; and implantation of a permanent valve valve module (e.g., a leaf substructure, valve assembly, or individual valve sections) can cause breakage or collapse of the temporary valve flaps. A method for delivering a modular prosthetic valve may include an intermediate step of installing a temporary valve. The use of the temporary valve according to the present invention aims to increase the safety and the number of successful outcomes of procedures for replacing the valves introduced through the skin, although the proposed method for the delivery of a modular valve device does not require the use of a temporary valve.

Advantages that can be achieved with the present invention include that the prosthetic valve system of the invention introduced through the skin can reduce the size of the delivered valve and increase the flexibility of the delivery device. In addition, the prosthetic valve device has a minimum invasiveness; the transdermal delivery method reduces traumatic injuries and minimizes complications as a result of this procedure, which increases the safety of the procedure and the number of medical facilities having the equipment necessary to perform procedures for replacing the valves introduced through the skin. The advantage of installing a temporary valve prior to implanting a permanent prosthetic valve is that it reduces the time required for assembly and placement of the valve device inserted through the skin by preventing maximum regurgitation during the replacement procedure. The use of a temporary valve allows the operator some time to assemble a modular skin-inserted valve device, to accurately and accurately place the prosthetic valve device, and to adjust the position of the valve without negatively affecting the outcome of the valve replacement procedure.

Brief Description of the Drawings

In FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of the assembly of a modular prosthetic valve device (bottom) by combining the valve module (shown above) with a support structure (in the center), according to this embodiment, using exhaust wires.

In FIG. 2 shows an embodiment of a valve module comprising a plurality of valve sections. In this example, three valve sections are assembled to form a valve assembly.

In FIG. 3 shows a valve device comprising four modules: three valve sections (forming a valve module) and a support structure that can subsequently be inserted into the delivery device according to this embodiment, a catheter, the catheter providing a vehicle for delivering the modules to a predetermined location in the body and their installation there.

In FIG. 4A-C show how drawing wires can be used to assemble an embodiment of a valve device comprising four modules. In FIG. 4A shows exhaust wires passed through the modules in an unassembled form of a valve device, such as the embodiment of FIG. 3. In FIG. 4B illustrates the use of a draw wire and a push rod for assembling valve sections into a valve assembly. In FIG. 4C shows the use of a draw wire and a push rod for assembling a valve assembly and a support structure into a valve device.

In FIG. 5A-C show a valve module comprising a flap substructure in an unassembled configuration (FIG. 5A), in a delivery configuration (FIG. 5B) and assembled into a valve component (FIG. 5C).

In FIG. 6A-C show a valve module comprising a ring with flaps, in an unassembled configuration (FIG. 6A), in a configuration upon delivery (FIG. 6B) and assembled into a valve component (FIG. 6C).

In FIG. 7 and 7A show an embodiment of a mounting mechanism for attaching the valve flaps shown in FIG. 2, to obtain a valve assembly.

In FIG. 8A-C illustrate an embodiment of a mounting mechanism for attaching a valve module to a support structure.

In FIG. 9 shows an embodiment of a mounting foot used as an integrated mounting mechanism for attaching a valve module to a support structure.

In FIG. 10Α-Ό, an embodiment of a bolt-notch type attachment is shown (8! Ib-aib-legbog 1osk), used as an integrated mounting mechanism for attaching the valve module to the support structure. In FIG. 10A depicts bolts located on a valve module ring and a recess in a strut of a support structure; in FIG. 10B shows a bolt docked with a recess in a rack of a support structure; in FIG. 10C and 10C 'depict a vertical channel located on the bolt, which is a part of the mounting of the type of crest-groove between the bolt and the recess, in vertical and horizontal projections, respectively; in FIG. 10Ό and 10Ό 'show a vertical ridge located in the recess and representing a part of the crest-groove type attachment between the bolt and the recess, in the side and vertical projections, respectively.

In FIG. 11A-B show an embodiment of a quick release fastener for attaching a valve module to a support structure.

In FIG. 12A-B show an embodiment of a snap fastener used as an integrated mounting mechanism or non-integrated mounting mechanism. In FIG. 12A depicts a non-integrated snap fastener used to attach the valve module to a support structure; in FIG. 12A 'shows a snap pin; in FIG. 12B shows another embodiment of a non-integrated snap fastener provided with a snap-in holder, securing the valve module to a support structure.

In FIG. 13A-E illustrate locking geometric elements used as non-integrated mounting mechanisms for attaching a valve module to a support structure. In FIG. 13A shows a pin; in FIG. 13B shows the use of a pin; in FIG. 13C shows a finger; in FIG. 13Ό shows a rivet; in FIG. 13E shows a bolt-tube type connecting member.

In FIG. 14A-C illustrate aspects of an embodiment of a locking mechanism with a curved groove. In FIG. 14A shows how the sides of the valve module can be assembled unassembled with

- 4 027348 using a locking mechanism with a curved groove using threads, in a lateral projection; in FIG. 14B shows an embodiment of a locking fastening mechanism with a curved groove in cross section; in FIG. 14C and 14C 'show another embodiment of a locking fastening mechanism with a curved groove in cross section, in open (Fig. 14C) and closed (Fig. 14C') states.

In FIG. 15 shows a stand attached to a support structure.

In FIG. 16 shows an embodiment of a temporary valve as part of a delivery system according to the present invention.

In FIG. 17 shows an embodiment of a temporary valve attached to and delivered with a support structure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides implantable modular skin-inserted prosthetic valve devices, systems and methods for transdermal delivery and installation of implantable skin-inserted modular heart valve devices and other implantable, skin-inserted modular valve devices into the body lumens. The invention provides a modular prosthetic valve system that enables safe delivery of the prosthetic valve device to the lumens without the need for invasive surgical procedures.

The artificial valve device according to the invention comprises a plurality of modules for the delivery and assembly of ίη νίνο. The device modules can be delivered to a specified location in the body, for example, near the valve implantation site, to the valve implantation site, or to a place located at a certain distance from the implantation site, where they can be assembled to form the valve device in assembled form. In terms of functionality, a plurality of modules may include a support structure and a valve module. The supporting structure provides the skeleton, or the bearing part, of the device, accommodating and holding the valve module in a selected place inside the lumen of the body. The valve module comprises valve valve flaps, and when assembled into a working configuration, it forms a tube having an inlet and an outlet end. A valve module may comprise multiple modules or be a single module.

In the present application, the term device module refers to components of a modular valve device, for example, a support structure, a wing structure or valve section (for example, a part of a valve assembly), which deliver to the lumen unassembled and then can be assembled into the valve device ίη νίνο. As used herein, the term valve module refers to one or more modules that can be delivered unassembled, in a collapsible configuration, and assembled to form part of a permanent valve device comprising one or more valves, such as a valve assembly. Thus, the valve assembly may itself comprise one or more modules. The term temporary valve refers to a valve that is installed for temporary operation, in contrast to a modular valve device, which is a permanently installed valve. In the present description, the terms multicomponent and modular are used interchangeably. As used herein, the terms implantation site, implantation site, and target site are used interchangeably.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the modular valve device comprises a plurality of modules: a support structure and a plurality of valve sections (each of which contains one valve leaf) that can be assembled into the valve assembly. Many valve sections have such a geometric shape that they can fit together to form a valve assembly, the opening and closing of which provides fluid flow in one direction. Valve or leaf sections function in exact accordance with the physiological action of a normally functioning natural valve. The support structure and valve sections can be delivered to the lumens sequentially. The valve sections can be combined into a valve assembly within the support structure, or they can be combined into a valve assembly followed by integration with the support structure. Alternatively, the valve sections can be attached to the support structure one after another to obtain the valve device assembled.

According to another embodiment of the invention, the modular valve device may comprise a plurality of valve sections that deliver, assemble and implant without the use of a support structure.

The valve assembly, which may include, but is not limited to, a three-leaf structure, can be mounted on a support structure adapted to be placed at a predetermined location within the lumen in the body. The valve assembly may comprise 2, 3, 4 or more valve sections. The support structure can be connected with the possibility of regulation with the wall of the blood vessel and the valve module can be connected with the possibility of regulation with the support structure in a way that allows you to re-fine control the position of the support structure relative to the wall of the vessel or valve module relative to the support structure after installation.

According to yet another embodiment, the modular valve device comprises two modules, a support structure and a valve module, which is an integral valve component; two

- 5 027348 modules of which can be sequentially delivered to the lumen and assembled inside the body. The integral valve component may have an unassembled configuration that provides a geometric shape suitable for folding the valve component into a configuration with a small cross section and a working assembled configuration containing a tube. According to one embodiment of the invention, the integral valve component in an unassembled configuration may be a leaf substructure, a substantially flat single layer structure having a first end, a second end and an axis extending from the base to the apex. The collapsible substructure can be collapsed into a configuration for delivery, for example, by folding along one axis, delivered separately from the support structure (or firmly attached to the support structure), deploy and assemble to form the valve component (in the working configuration), the first and second the ends can be fastened together. The leaf substructure includes a plastically deformable element that can be rolled together with the leaf substructure to form a ring, which contributes to the transformation of the leaf substructure into a working assembled configuration. According to another embodiment of the invention, the integral valve in an unassembled configuration may be a ring with wings, a substantially flat two-layer structure having a first end, a second end and an axis extending from the base to the top. An unassembled ring with flaps can be collapsed into a configuration upon delivery, for example, by folding along one axis. A folded ring with the valves in unassembled form can be delivered to a predetermined location, and then deploy and assemble to obtain the valve component (in the working configuration). The sash ring includes a plastically deformable ring member having an unassembled configuration that allows the sash ring to be retained in its unassembled configuration and an assembled configuration to which it can be expanded to maintain the sash ring in its operational assembled configuration.

According to another embodiment of the invention, after converting the geometrical shape in an unassembled form to an assembled working configuration, the integral valve component can be combined with the support structure and fixed to it to obtain the valve device in assembled form. Examples of such valve integral components including self-assembly members and methods for folding and assembling them using a self-assembly member are described in detail in FIG. 2A-4B and in §§ [043], [048] - [057] in the pending application for US patent No. 12/686338 (self-assembly), entitled 5> e1G-A55etLpd Moi1at Regsiapei8 Ua1ue uii Me1you8o £ Po filed January 12, 2010, and incorporated into this description by reference.

According to another embodiment of a modular valve device, it is possible to provide a support structure in the form of more than one module. For example, the support structure can be divided along the axis along the perimeter and contain, for example, two expandable tubular structures that can be oriented in the longitudinal direction and assembled by bonding together. According to such an embodiment of the invention, each part of the composite support structure could have greater radial stiffness than the integral support structure, but still maintain longitudinal flexibility during delivery, since the support structure is delivered in the form of more than one compressed tube. Alternatively, it is possible to separate the support structure along the longitudinal axis and deliver it in the form of two tube halves, each half can be compressed to a diameter smaller than the entire support structure.

In the present application, the term assembled means that the valve assembly, valve component or valve device are in a working configuration (for example, they are essentially tubular rather than flat, folded or separate modules), however, the modules are not necessarily bonded to each other . The assembled configuration is also called the working configuration, in which the valve module is essentially tubular and provides at a predetermined location the tube into which the flaps are installed. The assembled valve module can be folded for delivery (configuration on delivery) or deployed and ready for assembly. An unassembled valve component can include a leaf substructure having first and second ends, which, as described above, can be arranged in the form of a ring in such a way that these ends come into contact and form the valve component in assembled form (in a working configuration). Similarly, as set forth above, the valve assembly, unassembled, includes a plurality of valve sections that can be connected to each other in series and not in the form of a ring, for example arranged in a row, to optimize folding of the modules for delivery. Alternatively, the valve sections may not be interconnected and delivered separately.

The unassembled configuration of one or more of the modules constituting the valve module is a particular advantage during delivery, since the valve module can be folded into a delivery configuration that minimizes the diameter of the valve module upon delivery; this feature is absent in known valve devices introduced through the skin.

The present invention provides mounting mechanisms for interconnecting modules of an implantable modular skin-inserted valve device or the ends of an integral valve component in an unassembled state. The fastening mechanisms according to the invention can be built-in or non-built-in fastening mechanisms. The term “built-in” means 027348 that the component (s) of the mounting mechanism are in contact with one or more modules of the device, in the sense that they are attached to the modules or are their structural part during delivery. Integrated mounting mechanisms typically mount the modules during or after assembly. The term non-integrated means that the fastening mechanism contains one or more structures that exist separately from the modules, preferably delivered in the same delivery device as the device modules, and used in the modules after assembling the valve device in order to bond them together or removed from the valve devices in the process of bonding or after it. For example, non-built-in mounting mechanisms can be delivered separately from the modules and used in them after assembling the valve device to hold the models together. Alternatively, the non-integrated mechanism may be an anti-bonding member, such as a mounting tab, which can be removed to secure the modules. Non-integrated mounting mechanisms may partially utilize the integrated elements of the device modules, such as holes, grooves, or other parts of the structure with which the non-integrated element interacts. The integrated fastening mechanisms according to the invention can also be used to fasten parts of a pre-assembled valve device inserted through the skin to each other.

For example, valve sections (or sides of a wing substructure) can be connected using built-in fastening mechanisms, such as connecting components such as tenon grooves, hook mechanisms with slots, a locking mechanism with a curved groove (zipper); interference fit; friction clamp; an integrated snap mechanism comprising a snap pin and a snap holder; as well as hook-and-eye components; hook with a beard; connecting or locking geometrical elements (for example, dovetail mounts or pins, fingers, rivets or bolt-tube connectors). Alternatively, the valve sections or sides of the leaf substructure can be interconnected using separate (non-built-in) fastening components, including snap-on pins and holders, push-fit fasteners and non-built-in locking geometric elements, including pins, fingers, rivets and connecting elements such as a bolt tube.

Similarly, the present invention provides mounting mechanisms for connecting a valve module and a support structure. For example, the valve module and the support structure can be connected using built-in fastening mechanisms, such as a hook with a groove; hook mechanisms with slots; mounting foot; bolt-notch type mount; protrusion-cavity connecting components; built-in snap mechanism; ear hook type components; hook with a beard; and built-in locking geometrical elements, including pins, fingers, rivets and bolt-notch connectors. Alternatively, the valve module and the support structure can be interconnected using separate (non-integrated) fasteners, such as pressure-sensitive fittings; non-integrated snap-in mechanisms; and non-built-in locking geometric elements, including pins, fingers, rivets and bolt-tube connectors.

The fastening mechanisms can be made of the same materials as the support structure, for example, stainless steel, shape-memory alloys, including, for example, nitinol, or an amorphous metal of suitable atomic composition, for example cobalt and chromium, or molded from valve material module or other suitable biocompatible materials recognized in the art.

The system according to the invention comprises valve device modules and a delivery device. The modular valve device is delivered disassembled to the delivery device. Two or more modules of the valve device can be provided by preloading the delivery device, such as a catheter or other similar device known in the art, or these modules can be loaded into the delivery device after introducing this device into the lumen in the body. The support structure and valve module (or valve sections) can be loaded into the catheter one after another. Alternatively, the support structure can be loaded into the catheter first and delivered, then the valve module or valve sections can be loaded into the catheter one by one and delivered to the support structure in which the finished device is assembled.

The present invention also provides methods for delivering a modular valve device to a predetermined location in the lumen and assembling the valve device. Delivery of the modules can be carried out sequentially within a suitable delivery device, such as a catheter, for example an endovascular catheter or endoluminal catheter. Modules can be provided by preloading the delivery device, or they can be loaded into the delivery device after the device is inserted into the lumen in the body. Delivery of device modules can be performed in any order.

According to a particular embodiment of the invention, in which the device modules include a support structure and a plurality of valve sections, it is possible to first deliver the support structure, followed by delivery of each valve section. After delivery and installation from the device

- 7 027348 delivery modules can be assembled inside the body, for example in the lumen in the body, including in the lumen or at the site of implantation, to obtain the valve device fully assembled, and interconnected using the fastening mechanisms according to the invention. The assembly of the modules can be carried out, for example, using the exhaust wires used to place the modules or parts of the modules relative to each other. For example, a plurality of valve sections can be connected using exhaust wires for subsequent delivery, and then, after delivery of one section after another and placement in a predetermined location, the exhaust wires can be used to position the device modules relative to each other during assembly of the valve sections. The exhaust wires can also simplify the connection of the valve sections to the support structure by means of fastening mechanisms, and also help to place the valve assembly within the support structure to obtain the valve assembly assembled. According to other embodiments of the invention, push rods can be used to assemble modules, alone or with other elements, for example, in combination with exhaust wires. Push rods may be, for example, rigid wires or tubular structures. The assembly of parts within the body can be simplified by remotely manipulating the device modules. Alternatively, the modules can be assembled, at least in part, using self-assembled elements, for example wire or tape with a shape memory effect, as described in detail in §§ [036] - [038], [045] - [046], [051 ] - [069] and in FIG. 2a-10 in US pending application No. 12/686338 (self-assembly) filed on the same date as this application and incorporated herein by reference. For example, a leaf substructure can be delivered in conjunction with a self-assembled element, which, with or without the use of push rods, is used to assemble the leaf substructure into a valve component; the edges of the leaf substructure are interconnected, and the fastening of the edges of the leaf substructure can be carried out using the fastening mechanism according to the present invention. A second self-assembly member may assist in assembling the valve component and support structure, which can then be coupled using the fastening mechanism of the invention. The valve module can be associated with the support structure in an adjustable manner, which allows for the final adjustment of the position of the valve module after implantation of the valve device. Similarly, using the delivery device, it is possible to deliver and install non-integrated mounting mechanisms.

The methods described in this application make possible the transdermal delivery of an artificial prosthetic valve through gaps having a smaller diameter than the diameter required for artificial valves introduced from the prior art through the skin by delivering the valve device in unassembled sections and assembly sections of the valve inside the body. When assembling the valve device modules in parts, for example, at the final site of implantation or inside the lumen in the body, for example, in the ascending part of the aortic arch, before moving the position to the final predetermined location, the size of the hole required to insert the prosthetic valve into the body decreases, and delivery device in the right place the blood vessel is simplified and becomes more flexible. The reduced cross-section of the valve device in an unassembled form according to the invention allows to significantly reduce the diameter of the delivery device according to the invention in comparison with the usual diameter of the delivery devices required in the art. So, for example, the diameter of the delivery device according to the present invention can be less than 15 units on the scale of the Charrier or less than 5 mm

In addition, the system according to the invention may include a device for maintaining the activity of the natural valve during the assembly and implantation of the modular valve device. For example, in order to be able to continue assembling a modular valve introduced through the skin for more than about 30 seconds, a temporary valve can be used that will function during assembly and implantation of the modular valve device and maintain the activity of the natural valve. Since such a valve is used only temporarily, there is no need for its optimal, multiple and predictable operation over an extended period of time, which is necessary for a permanent valve. There is also no need for its complete opening or complete closure. Since the temporary valve should not have the same accuracy and duration of operation, be made of the same materials or have the same long-term resistance to the conditions of use in the body as the permanent valve, the temporary valve may have a more efficient design. It can be made of thin material, its wings can only be partially fixed, which is sufficient for temporary functioning of the valve during replacement, and therefore, the temporary valve can be designed so that it takes up less space, for example, during delivery.

According to one embodiment of the invention, in order to maintain the functions of the valve, the temporary valve can be fixed on the delivery device and quickly deployed, with no need for its exact placement, during which time the modular valve device is assembled and its exact location at the implantation site. The temporary valve can be placed at the site of implantation of the permanent valve or at a position remote from the site of implantation of the permanent valve. According to another embodiment of the invention, a temporary valve can be attached to the support

- 8 027348 structure to create some valve functions immediately after the expansion and implantation of the supporting structure. Thanks to this, the operator receives time to assemble the valve module (s) and its precise movement to a predetermined location inside the support structure, and introduces less disturbance to the normal blood flow. The valve module (s) can be placed above the temporary valve and combined with the support structure. The temporary valve is preferably an integral structure, for example a membrane with a simple structure that is conveniently folded for percutaneous delivery, easy to install and easy to open during surgery. Alternatively, the temporary valve may contain more than one part, however, it is still preferable to be conveniently folded for percutaneous delivery, easy to install, and easy to open during surgery. By delivering the temporary valve in the folded state inside the compressed support structure, it is possible to achieve a reduction in the delivery cross section compared to the cross section of the pre-assembled permanent inserted through the skin valve device, since the temporary valve can have a simplified geometry and can be made of thinner and less durable materials than the permanent valve module . According to some aspects of this embodiment, the temporary valve may be made from biodegradable material. The devices, systems and methods of the invention are particularly suited for use in transdermal replacement of the aortic valve, however, they can also be used as substitutes for other heart valves, such as, for example, pulmonary, mitral and tricuspid valves, as well as peripheral vascular valves system or valves located in other lumens in the body, including the digestive tract, lymphatic ducts, bile duct and in any other lumens containing valves requiring replacement or requiring valve implantation. If the modular valve device is intended to replace the aortic valve, it can be assembled in the ascending part of the aortic arch, in the descending part of the aortic arch, in the ventricle, at the site of implantation or partially at the site of implantation, partly in the aorta. Although the described devices, systems and methods are particularly adapted for use in lumens in the human body, they can also be used in the treatment of animals. The valve component and valve assembly included in the modular valve device may be made from suitable materials such as polymers, metals, or biological material. The choice of material, structure and manufacturing method is preferably made taking into account the optimization of functions, durability and biocompatibility of the valve.

The support structure is preferably capable of expanding, so that it can be delivered in a compressed (non-deployed) form, followed by expansion for implantation and assembly of the valve device. The support structure can be made of a biocompatible material that is sufficiently durable so that the structure can withstand the valve component while maintaining the position of the device in the lumen. The material of the support structure is also compatible with the delivery of the support structure in a compressed state and the expansion of the compressed support structure when it is installed in the lumen. According to one embodiment of the present invention, the support structure is made of stainless steel or an alloy with a shape memory effect, such as, for example, nitinol. According to another embodiment of the invention, said structure can be made of an alloy of amorphous metals of suitable atomic composition, which are known in the art. Other additional embodiments of the support structure can be made from similar biocompatible materials known in the art. According to one embodiment of the invention, the support structure is in the form of a ring, however, it can also be provided in other forms depending on the shape of the cross section of the lumen at the place where the valve is to be implanted. One non-limiting example of a suitable support structure is a stent. A stent or any other supporting structure can be self-expanding or expanding using a spray can. Other similar support structures are known in the art and can replace the stent according to this invention. During installation, the supporting structure must create adhesion to the wall of the lumen in order to fix on it, which ensures that the assembled valve does not move in the lumen and does not move relative to the desired location, for example, under the influence of the fluid flow pressure through the valve or from the dynamic action of the liquid on the closed valve. The support structure may include mounting mechanisms, such as those described herein, for securing the valve assembly (or valve component) within it. In addition, the support structure may include hooks, ribs, hinges or other anchor devices to facilitate the assembly of the valve device in assembled form to the wall of the lumen. The connection of the support structure with the wall of the blood vessel and the valve assembly with the support structure in a given place can be adjusted. The devices and methods according to the invention are particularly suitable for use when replacing aortic valve inserted through the skin, however, they can also be used as substitutes for other heart valves, such as, for example, pulmonary, mitral and tricuspid valves, as well as peripheral vascular system valves or valves located in other lumens, such as the digestive tract, lymphatic ducts, bile duct, and in any other lumens, containing valves requiring replacement or requiring implantation of valves. If the modular valve device is designed to replace the aortic valve, it can be

- 9 027348 to collect in the ascending part of the aortic arch, in the descending part of the aortic arch, left ventricle, at the site of implantation or partially at the site of implantation, partly in the aorta. Although the described devices, systems and methods are particularly adapted for use in lumens in the human body, they can also be used to treat animals.

The embodiments of the invention described above, as well as other embodiments, delivery methods, various designs and various types of valve devices and mounting mechanisms are described and explained below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the drawings are given as examples for understanding the present invention and schematically illustrate specific embodiments thereof. One of ordinary skill in the art will easily recognize other similar examples that are equally within the scope of the present invention. The drawings are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention defined in the attached claims. In FIG. 1 shows one embodiment of an assembly of a valve module 10 and a support structure 20 of a modular artificial valve device. In order to show how the valve module and the support structure are combined to produce the assembled valve device, FIG. 1, the valve module is shown assembled and may be a valve assembly or valve component. According to this embodiment of the invention, the valve module 10 and the support structure 20 can be assembled using the exhaust wires 40 or similar parts to obtain the valve device 30 assembled. The support structure 20 and the valve module 10 can be delivered sequentially, possibly one after another, as shown in FIG. 1 - in this case, the modules can be attached to each other using the exhaust wires 40. The valve module 10 can be pulled inside the support structure 20 using the exhaust wires 40, which can be connected to both modules, and then the valve module 10 can be attached to the support structure 20 . This assembly stage can be carried out, for example, in the lumen of the aortic excretory tract or in the ascending part of the aortic arch. The attachment of the valve module 10 to the support structure 20 can be accomplished using any of several mounting mechanisms described in the present invention. Alternatively, the support structure 20 and the valve module 10 can be delivered separately, i.e. not one after another (not shown). For example, it is possible to carry out the delivery and installation of the support structure 20 in the final position, and then to carry out the delivery of the valve module 10 inside the support structure 20, thereby collecting the modules in the valve device 30 in assembled form.

In FIG. 2 shows an embodiment of a modular valve device comprising four modules: a support structure (not shown) and three valve sections 50a-50c. The valve sections 50a-50c are designed in such a way that they are adjacent to each other to form the valve assembly 15. When used, the valve sections act in much the same way as the folds of fabric in a natural valve. The valve sections 50a-50c can be pre-joined to each other and connected using the exhaust wires 40 or threads.

Exhaust wires 40 or threads can have a dual purpose. Firstly, the exhaust wires 40 can bind together the valve sections 50a-50c for delivery, so that they can be delivered through the lumen one after another. Secondly, the exhaust wires 40 extending outward from the end of the catheter can be stretched to assemble valve sections 50a-50c to form the valve assembly 15. As an example of the use of the exhaust wires to assemble the modular valve device shown in FIG. 2, the exhaust wires can be pulled one after the other to assemble the valve sections to form the valve assembly within the support structure, or alternatively to assemble the valve sections outside of the support structure to form a ready-made valve assembly, and then direct the valve assembly to the inside of the support structure . To place and attach the valve sections, other means can be used that are easily recognized by a person skilled in the art in light of the present application. According to one aspect of this embodiment (not shown), the sections of the valve 50a-50c can also be connected to the support structure 20 using the exhaust wires (see FIG. 3), so that the exhaust wires 40 can be tensioned to assemble the valve assembly 15 and the support structure 20 in a manner similar to that shown in FIG. 1, to obtain the valve device in an assembled form (not shown). The exact number of valve sections may vary from one embodiment to another, in particular the valve assembly may include, for example, from 2-6 valve sections or more. According to one embodiment of the invention, the assembled valve device for replacing the tricuspid valve may have four modules — three valve sections that form the assembled valve assembly that is secured within the lumen using a support structure. An assembled valve device designed to replace the mitral valve may, for example, have three modules — two valve sections that form the valve assembly when assembled, which is attached inside the lumen using a support structure. In FIG. 3 schematically shows how four modules can be packaged according to the embodiment of FIG. 2, for the purpose of delivering an inside lumen in the body. All four modules can be tied with exhaust wires and delivered one after another, and, as shown, the supporting structure is the leading module. Alternatively, the delivery of the valve sections can be carried out one after the other, however, the support structure is not tied to the valve sections. As shown in FIG. 3, the support structure 20 and the three valve sections 50a-50c are loosely connected to each other by the use of exhaust wires 40 so as to enable consistent delivery and assembly. As shown on the right side of the drawing, the modules are folded to obtain a configuration upon delivery in order to load them into a delivery device, in this case, a catheter 60. The support structure 20 may be self-expanding and / or it may be rolled around a container for delivery and installation, or it may be deployed from its compressed configuration using other means known in the art. Then a chain of modules (four of which in FIG. 3) is inserted into the catheter 60; after this, the loaded catheter is ready for use to deliver the modules to the installation site in the lumen. Valve modules can be placed in the delivery device before or after its introduction into the lumen, depending on the requirements of a particular procedure. According to an embodiment in which the catheter 60 is an endovascular catheter, it can be mounted on a guide wire.

A method for the delivery and assembly of an embodiment of the modular prosthetic valve device according to the invention, comprising the valve assembly 15 shown in FIG. 2 can be implemented, for example, as follows: a delivery device such as a catheter 60 transporting the support structure 20 and the multiple valve sections 50a-50c shown in FIG. 3 can be brought through suitable blood vessels to the end position in which the valve device is to be implanted. The support structure may be installed first so that it can receive valve sections. After placing the support structure in the right place, valve sections 50a-50c can be sequentially installed; according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the valve sections are attached to each other and are installed one after another. The valve sections 50a-50c can be combined, for example, using the exhaust wires 40, to obtain the valve assembly 15, as described above. The modules of the valve assembly 15 can be assembled either inside the support structure 20 or outside the support structure 20, followed by the placement of the valve assembly 15 inside the support structure 20, as described in connection with FIG. 1. After assembling the valve sections 50a-50c to form the valve assembly 15 within the support structure 20, each valve section 50a-50c can be sequentially attached to the support structure 20 and then interconnected. The valve sections 50a-50c can be interconnected, and then the valve assembly can be fixed to the support structure using any of several fastening mechanisms described in this application. The valve device shown in FIG. 2 and 3, can be assembled in the body, followed by placement for implantation at the final site, or it can be collected at the final site. If necessary, additional anchor mechanisms can be adapted and applied to direct the fully assembled valve device to the walls of the lumen or to the residual tissues of the natural wall of the valve and / or to fix it to them.

The exhaust wires can be passed through the valve assembly and the support structure so that they freely connect them together for delivery, and also provide the ability to combine or assemble the device modules when the operator pulls the exhaust wires. The exhaust wires can be attached to the modules of the modular prosthetic valve device using any suitable means known in the art that can be easily untied by pulling on one end of the wire to remove the exhaust wires after the device is implanted and secured in the lumen in the body. So, for example, the valve device modules may contain loops or small holes through which the exhaust wires are pulled. Alternatively, the exhaust wires can be integrated into a delivery system including mechanisms for manipulating the exhaust wires to assemble valve sections and integrate the valve assembly with the support structure. For example, an activator (mechanical mechanism or electric current) can be used to tension the exhaust wires to assemble the modules in the delivery system.

In FIG. 4A-4C show one example of how modules can be assembled using exhaust wires and push rods. Other methods of arranging and assembling the modules of the invention can also be used in the present invention, for example, only exhaust wires, only push rods or push rods in combination with self-assembled elements, or only self-assembled elements, for example shape memory wires. Self-assembly elements are described in detail in §§ [036] - [038], [045] - [046], [051] - [069] and in FIG. 2A-10 in U.S. Patent Application No. 12/686338 (self-assembly), pending January 12, 2010, and incorporated herein by reference.

In particular, in FIG. 4A-4C illustrate one method of using drawing wires and push rods having a tubular structure to assemble an embodiment of a modular valve device comprising four modules, such as the embodiment shown in FIG. 3. In FIG. 4A shows a first draw wire 41 passed through the valve sections 50a-50c and containing the first loop 41a, and a second draw wire 42 passed through the valve sections 50a-50c and the support structure 20 and containing the second loop 42a located in the body lumen, such as , aorta 81. For clarity, the delivery device is not shown in any of FIG. 4A-4C. The first loop 41a may be threaded through the first valve section 50a, and the ends 41b of the first draw wire 41 may extend outward from the proximal end of the delivery device. The first exhaust wire 11 027348 can also be passed through other sections of the valve (not shown for clarity). The second loop 42a may be threaded through the support structure 20; the ends 42b of the second draw wire 42 may extend outward from the proximal end of the delivery device. In FIG. 4B shows a subsequent assembly step, in which the valve sections are already assembled into the valve assembly 15 using the first exhaust wire 41 in the aorta 81. According to this embodiment, two pushing rods of the tubular structure shown in FIG. 4B and 4C in the form of a first tube 63 and a second tube 64, although one or more structures may be used as the first tube 63 and the second tube 64. To assemble valve sections 50a-50c, as shown in FIG. 4A, the first tube 63 can be placed above the ends of the exhaust wire 41, inserted into and through the delivery device and advanced to the valve section most proximal to the aorta 81 (for example, to section 50c in FIG. 4A). Then, both ends 41b of the first exhaust wire 41 can be tightened relative to the first tube 63 for assembling the valve sections to obtain the valve assembly 15, as shown in FIG. 4B, and to facilitate bonding of the valve sections to each other. Then, the first tube 63 can be removed. In FIG. 4B shows that, according to this embodiment of the invention, the first loop 41a is cut off while being threaded through the perimeter of the valve assembly 15; however, the first draw wire 41 and the first loop 41a can be passed through the valve sections in any way that facilitates the assembly of the valve sections to form a valve assembly. The first draw wire 41 can be removed by pulling at one end. Alternatively, the first draw wire 41 may be secured and then cut; while the valve assembly remains assembled. The second loop 42a remains threaded through the still separate support structure 20 and the second draw wire 42 remains passed through the valve assembly 15.

Then, the support structure 20 can be placed at a predetermined implantation point 70 of the valve device and deployed. As shown in FIG. 4C, to assemble the support structure and the valve device, the second tube 64 can be put on the ends of the second exhaust wire 42, inserted into the delivery device and passed through it (not shown) and advanced to the valve assembly 15. Then, both ends 42b of the second drawing wire 42 can be tightened relative to the second tube 64 for assembling the valve assembly 15 and the support structure 20 into the valve assembly when assembled. In particular, the second draw wires 42 can be used to precisely position the valve assembly 15 with respect to the support structure 20. The position of the valve assembly 15 can be adjusted by stepwise pulling the second draw wire 42 and then attaching it to the support structure 20. Then, the second tube 64 can be removed. In FIG. 4C shows that, according to this embodiment of the invention, the second loop 42a is cut off, being threaded along the perimeter of the support structure 20, however, the second loop 42a can be passed through the support structure 20 in any way that facilitates the assembly of the valve device and the placement of the valve assembly 15 in the support structure 20 In FIG. 4C also shows a support structure 20 placed and deployed so as to press the flaps of the natural valve 76 up against the aortic wall 82; however, if this procedure requires, the flaps of the natural valve can be removed before placing and expanding the support structure. After placing the valve device assembled at the implantation site 70, the second exhaust wire 42 can be removed by pulling on one end. Alternatively, the second exhaust wire 42 can be secured and then cut. The first and second exhaust wires may contain biodegradable material, so they can be left to decompose at a given implantation site. According to the embodiment of FIG. 4A-4C, the support structure 20 is positioned and deployed after assembly of the valve sections 50a-50c so as to minimize the time during which the patient valve is inactive. However, in an alternative embodiment of the invention, the support structure 20 can be placed before assembling the valve sections into the valve assembly. For example, the support structure can be placed using the second drawing wire 42 and the second tube 64 and then expanded; thereafter, the second tube 64 is preferably removed and the second exhaust wire 42 is left in place, after which the valve sections 50a-50c can be assembled using the first exhaust wire 41 and the first tube 63 to form the valve assembly 15. Then, the valve assembly 15 can be moved to a predetermined position and connected to the support structure 20 using the first and second exhaust wires 41, 42. These valve assembly methods are applicable to modular valve devices containing more or less than four modules shown in FIG. 4A-4C, including modular valve devices containing only valve sections as modules, with such methods being within the scope of the present invention. For example, in a similar way with the help of exhaust wires and tubes it is possible to assemble a modular valve device consisting of two modules, i.e. valve component and support structure, which is within the competence of specialists in this field of technology in the light of the above description. If necessary, more than two sets of exhaust wires can be used to assemble the device modules. If necessary, a person skilled in the art can easily apply other assembly means similar to those described above or described in US Patent Application No. 12/686338 (self-assembly), which is undergoing simultaneous consideration.

In FIG. 5A-5C depict an embodiment of a one-piece valve module, which is unassembled

- 12 027348 form may contain a folding substructure 150, which can be folded so as to minimize the diameter upon delivery, i.e. its delivery configuration. Prior to loading the flap substructure 150 into the delivery device, it can be placed in a deployed unassembled, essentially flat, usually rectangular or trapezoidal shape having a vertical axis extending from the base to the apex (i.e. along the longitudinal axis of the valve device in assembled form), and the circular axis 101, as shown in FIG. 5A. According to the embodiment of FIG. 5A-5C, leaflet substructure 150 comprises three leaflets 150a-150c, however, according to other embodiments of the invention, leaf leaf substructures may comprise two or more leafs. The circular axis 101 of the leaf substructure corresponds to a perimeter covering the leaf substructure in its configuration 110 of the valve component assembled (see Fig. 5C). The plastically deformable element 100 can be attached along the circular axis 101 of the leaf substructure, so that, for example, in the unassembled state, the plastically deformable element 100 can be attached along the line of the base 102, as shown in FIG. 5A, either along the commissural line 103 (not shown) or along another perimeter line along the base-top axis. Before loading into the delivery device, the flap substructure 150 can be rolled along its circular axis, or from the base to the top, as shown in FIG. 5B, or from the top to the base, with the first and second ends 151, 152 of the sash 150 forming the ends of the cylindrical delivery configuration of the folded sash 150. After installing the folded leaflet substructure from the leaflet delivery device, it is possible to decompose and assemble to obtain a three-dimensional structure of the valve component, as shown in FIG. 5C. The deployment of the wing substructure 155 from its configuration for delivery can be performed using, for example, a balloon catheter, exhaust wires and / or push rods, or by a combination thereof (not shown). According to one embodiment of the invention, drawing wires and / or push rods can be used to expand the structure and give the first and second ends 151, 152 of the sash substructure 150 and the ends of the plastically deformable element 100 of a ring shape, for example a circle, ellipse, E-shape or other shape suitable for valve module. According to one such embodiment of the invention, the plastically deformable element 100 can be attached to the line of the base 102, the flap substructure 150 can be rolled along the circular axis 101 from the base to the top, and the plastically deformable element 100 can be wrapped with a folded flap substructure 155, as shown in FIG. 5B. According to this embodiment of the invention, one or more exhaust wires (not shown) can be passed through the base of the wing substructure 150 and wrapped with a folded leaf substructure 155. In order to facilitate the deployment of the wing substructure 155 from its configuration upon delivery to its unassembled configuration 150, it is possible to stretch the exhaust wires, for example, together with a pushing rod of a tubular shape, similar to that shown in FIG. 4B-4C. As one of ordinary skill in the art understands, one or more draw wires can alternatively be attached to one or more axes of the flaps 150a-150c of the flap substructure 150 and wrap with a folded flap substructure 155, for example, in embodiments of the invention in which the flap substructures are folded from peaks to the base (not shown).

For example, according to one embodiment of the invention, to obtain a three-dimensional valve component 110, the first and second ends 151, 152 of the sash substructure 150 can be connected, for example, using pull wires and / or push rods (not shown). For example, a draw wire (not shown) may be attached to one end of the plastically deformable element 100, and a loop may be provided at the other end of the plastically deformable element 100 through which a draw wire (not shown) is passed. Likewise, the first and second ends 151, 152 of the leaf substructures may comprise drawing wires attached thereto and passed through them. A push rod, for example, a tubular push rod, similar to the rod described above in FIG. 4B-C can be used in combination with one or more drawing wires to bring together the ends of the plastically deformable element 100 and the sash substructure 150 to form a tubular structure (not shown). Then the balloon catheter can be inserted through the tubular structure and inflated to expand the plastically deformable element 100 and the flap substructure 150 to an annular shape with the formation of the valve component 110 in assembled form, i.e. a working configuration comprising a tube as shown in FIG. 5C. The annular shape can be round, elliptical, lobed, Ό-shaped or have any other shape suitable for the valve device. Attachment mechanisms can be provided to fasten the first end 151 to the second end 152, as described below, before or after deployment to the assembled configuration. In another aspect of an embodiment of the one-piece valve module shown in FIG. 6A-6C, the valve module may be a sash ring (sash ring) 250. According to this embodiment, the sash ring 250 may have an unassembled configuration, a substantially flat two-layer structure, as shown in FIG. 6A. The sash ring 250 may comprise a plastically deformable ring member 200 attached, for example, to or integrated into the base of the valve module (see FIG. 6C). The sash ring 250 is in an unassembled configuration having the two-layer, substantially flat shape shown in FIG. 6A. At

- 13 027348 deformation, essentially to a flat unassembled configuration, the ring with wings 250 has a length (or a circular axis) and a width (or height). The plastically deformable annular member 200 in an unassembled configuration may comprise two substantially parallel elongated portions 200a and two curved ends 200b, as shown in FIG. 6A capable of holding a ring with flaps 250 substantially in its flat, unassembled configuration. From this unassembled configuration, the ring with wings 250 can be folded into a configuration for delivery 255 by folding along a circular axis in the direction of its height, for example, from the top to the base, as indicated by the arrows in FIG. 6A and shown in FIG. 6B, or from the base to the top.

To deploy a folded unassembled ring with sashes 255 from its configuration, delivery wires and push rods (not shown) can be used for delivery. For example, in one embodiment (not shown), the top of the ring with flaps 250 can be connected to one or more pull wires that can be rolled together with the ring with flaps for delivery. A rolled ring with flaps 255 can be deployed by pulling one or more exhaust wires. One of ordinary skill in the art will understand that, as an alternative, one or more exhaust wires can be attached to the base of the sash ring, for example, when the sash ring is folded from the base to the top to facilitate deployment of the rolled ring with sash 255 from its configuration for delivery .

To obtain a three-dimensional valve component 210, the plastically deformable annular element 200a, 200b is unassembled deployed, for example, by expanding the can using push rods and / or drawing wires or a combination thereof, thereby turning the ring with wings 250 into the valve component 210 in the assembled form, i.e. in a working configuration comprising a tube, as shown in FIG. 6C. For example, according to one embodiment of the invention, a balloon catheter (not shown) can be inserted through a deployed unassembled ring with flaps 250 and inflated to expand the plastically deformable ring member 200 to an annular shape. The annular shape can be round, elliptical, Ό-shaped or have any other shape suitable for the valve device. According to one aspect of this embodiment (not shown), in order to facilitate insertion of the balloon catheter into the ring with the leaflets 250, the suture or pull wire may be preliminarily passed through the leaflets 250, one end of which is connected to the balloon catheter. After assembling the ring with wings 250 into a three-dimensional valve component 210, said component 210 can be combined with the support structure and attached to it (not shown) using fastening mechanisms to form the valve device in assembled form. In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the ring with wings 250 can be assembled into a three-dimensional valve component inside the support structure.

FIG. 7-15 show examples of fastening mechanisms that can be used to secure or connect the device modules to each other after their combination or assembly.

In FIG. 7 and 7A show one embodiment of mounting mechanisms that may be suitable for connecting valve sections, for example 50a, 50b, to each other to form the valve assembly 15 shown in FIG. 2. The exhaust wires 40 can be used to pull the valve sections 50a, 50b to each other, as a result of which the first side 51a of the first section of the valve 50a engages with the second side 52b of the second section of the valve 50b. In FIG. 7A shows one embodiment of a mounting mechanism. Each valve section may have a plurality of attachment points, including, for example, a mounting mechanism including male protrusion components 16 and female hollow components 17. The male components 16 and female components 17 are arranged so that the male component 16 from one valve section will fit into the female component of another valve section.

As specifically shown in FIG. 7A, for example, the first section 50a may comprise a plurality of male components 16 on a first side 51a that are joined to a plurality of female components 17 on a second side 52b of a second section of the valve 50b. The male component 16 of the first section of the valve 50a captures the female component 17 of the other section of the valve 50b. When there are three valve sections, the second side 52a of the first section of the valve 50a may comprise a plurality of female components 17, which in turn are mated with a plurality of male components 16 on a first side (not shown) of a third valve section (not shown), and a first side 51b of the second section of the valve 50b may comprise a plurality of male components 16, which, in turn, mating with a plurality of female components 17 on a second side (not shown) of a third valve section (not shown). Similar arrangements are possible for valve assemblies comprising two, four, five or more valve sections. The attachment points on the valve sections can be positioned along the lateral edges of the sections, as shown in FIG. 7.

In FIG. 8A-C show one embodiment of a mounting mechanism for attaching a valve module to a support structure. In particular, as shown in FIG. 8A and 8B, the support structure 20 comprises a plurality of attachment points containing hooks 21. The valve module 10 comprises a groove 22 extending along its proximal edge 12, which is determined by the flow of fluid in the lumen of the vessel, the proximal edge 12 is an upstream edge.

- 14 027348

The hooks 21 on the support structure 20 fit into the groove 22 of the valve module 10, as shown in FIG. 8B, and fasten the two modules together, as shown in FIG. 8C. The groove 22 can extend along the entire proximal edge 12 of the valve module 10, so that the hooks 21 can engage the groove 22 regardless of the rotation angle of the valve module 10 along the axis. Alternatively, the valve module 10 may comprise a plurality of short grooves located around the proximal edge 12 so that it is in a straight line with the hooks 21 on the support structure 20.

The support structure can be designed so that the valve sections can be attached to it in different axial positions. For example, the support structure 20 may contain several sets of hooks 2 located at regular intervals along the longitudinal axis, so that there is more than one attachment point in the direction from the proximal to the distal. Such a design allows the clinician to be more flexible in determining the location of the valve assembly within the support structure 20.

In FIG. 9 shows an embodiment of a mounting tab 392 for attaching valve module 310 to a support structure (not shown for clarity). The mounting tab 392 holds the device modules together by a tight fit. The valve module 310 comprises or is attached to the ring 300, and the mounting tab 392 is also attached to the ring 300. As shown in FIG. 9, the mounting tab 392 is connected to the valve module 310 at its base. After combining the valve module 310 and the support structure, one or more mounting tabs 392 can be actuated to engage with the support structure to connect the valve module and the support structure. An embodiment of the mounting tab 392 shown in FIG. 9 is an interference fit mounting mechanism that employs a component integrated in a valve module configured to rotate between an open position 392a and a locked position 392b about a rotation axis 395. The valve module 392 preferably comprises two or more mounting tabs.

As shown in FIG. 9, the fastening tab 392 has a pivot end 397 and a pivot end 399, and acts by rotation between the open position 392a in which the pivot end 399 is oriented toward the middle of the module and the locked position 392b in which the pivot end 399 is oriented in the axial direction , i.e. parallel to the longitudinal axis of the valve device. The pivot end 397 has a substantially circular shape and comprises an axis of rotation 395 around which the pivot end 397 of the fastening tab 392 rotates. As shown in FIG. 9, the axis of rotation 395 is not located in the center of the rotary end 397, having a substantially circular shape, so that in the open position 392a, the lateral edge 394a of the rotary end is essentially flush with the perimeter of the valve module 310, while in locked position 392b, the lateral edge 394b of the rotary end 397 extends beyond the perimeter of the valve module and exerts a radial force on the support structure, sufficient for fastening the modules together according to the principle of interference fit.

In FIG. 10Ά-Ό, another embodiment of the built-in fastening mechanism is shown — bolt-recess type fastening. A bolt-notch mount can be used to attach the valve module to the support structure. According to this embodiment, the valve module 410 comprises a ring 400 extending along its outer perimeter. As shown in FIG. 10A, the ring 400 comprises a plurality of bolts 404 located on its outer surface at regular intervals around the perimeter of the ring 400. The bolt 404 is rigidly fixed and protrudes outwardly relative to the outer surface of the ring 400. A support structure (not shown) comprises a plurality of struts 426 attached to its inner surface oriented and longitudinal. Many racks 426 are attached to the support structure at regular intervals around the inner perimeter, which correspond to the location of the bolts 404 on the ring 400. Each rack 426 contains on the inner surface a plurality of recesses 425 (for example, cut grooves). The recess 425 is configured to receive bolts 404 while aligning. Thus, a bolt-type mount includes a bolt 404 located on the ring 400 to which the valve module 410 is attached, which fits into a recess 425 located on the strut 426, which is attached to the support structure, thereby securing the valve module and the support structure.

The bolt 404 on the ring 400 can be joined with the recess 425 on the strut 426 by rotating the valve module 410 relative to the support structure (not shown), so that the bolt 404 is in line with the recesses 425, as shown in FIG. 10B, and thereby connects both modules. The bolt 404 and the recess 425 can be fastened together, for example, by interference fit, using magnetic attraction, ratchet, the principle of a vertical groove-groove or other mechanisms known in the art. Depending on the choice of a particular fastening mechanism, the device modules can be connected or disconnected by turning the valve module 410 in one direction or another, for example, clockwise or counterclockwise, as shown in the example of the vertical groove-crest mechanism in FIG. 10C, 10C ', 10Ό and 10Ό', or according to an embodiment in which the bolt 404 and the recess 425 are interconnected using a ratchet mechanism by rotating the valve module 410 in one direction, for example, clockwise.

- 15 027348

As shown in FIG. 10C and 10C ', the bolt 404 may have a vertical groove 408, and, as shown in FIG. 10Ό and 10Ό ', the recess 425 may comprise a vertical ridge 428. In FIG. 10C shows a front view of a groove 408 on a bolt 404 on a ring 400; in FIG. 10 'shows a top view of the groove 408 on the bolt 404. In FIG. 10Ό is a side view of a strut 426 with a ridge 428 in a recess 425, and in FIG. 10Ό 'shows a front view of the ridge 426 in the recess 425. The valve module 410 can be rotated until it engages the vertical groove 408 on the bolt 404 with the vertical ridge 428 in the groove 425, restricting the further rotation of the valve module 410.

In the ratchet mechanism (not shown), the bolt 404 and the recess 425 can be installed at additional angles (for example, in a sawtooth arrangement), so that the valve module will rotate in one direction, for example, clockwise, since the front side of the bolt is smaller than its rear side. According to this embodiment, the bolt 404 and the recess 425 in the form of a ratchet-type mechanism can be fixed to the valve module 410 by rotating it in one direction relative to the strut 426, for example, clockwise, until the recess 425, adapted for alignment with the bolt 404, will hold it in the selected place. At this stage, due to the geometric shape of the bolt and the recess, they can be separated, if necessary, by rotating the valve module 410 in the same direction, for example, clockwise, relative to the rack. Turning in the opposite direction, for example counterclockwise, is difficult due to a sharp change in the radius between the ring 400 and the rear side of the bolt 404.

In FIG. 11A and 11B show a quick release button fastening mechanism comprising a plurality of buttons 505 that fit snugly into the recesses 525. As shown in FIG. 11A, valve module 510 can be attached to ring 500 or it can contain it. The ring 500 includes a plurality of buttons 505 located at regular intervals on its outer surface around the perimeter of the ring 500. The support structure (not shown for clarity) comprises a plurality of struts 526 attached to its inner surface and oriented in the longitudinal direction, as shown in FIG. 11B. Many racks 526 are attached to the support structure at regular intervals along the inner perimeter, which correspond to the location of the buttons on the ring 500. Each rack 526 on the inner surface includes a recess 525 (for example, a cut recess). As shown in FIG. 11B, ring 500 and, as a result, valve module 510 can be attached to a support structure (not shown) using button-notch pairs, buttons 505 containing a quick disconnect mechanism are connected to recesses 525 located on a plurality of struts 526 attached to the support structure. In FIG. 11A and 11B show an embodiment in which the valve device includes four paired positions in which the buttons of the valve module are engaged with the recesses of the support structure; however, according to other embodiments of the invention, the valve device may comprise three or as many as six or eight such paired positions. According to another embodiment of the invention, the valve module may comprise, for example, two or three times more buttons on the ring compared to the number of posts on the support structure (or vice versa), which facilitates the angular placement of the valve module relative to the support structure. According to another embodiment of the invention, the recess element may comprise a ring with a groove on the inner surface of the support structure.

The quick release mechanism of the buttons 505 may include a spring or release mechanism by pushing or pushing, or any other suitable configuration that will be apparent to a person skilled in the art. According to one aspect of the embodiment depicted in FIG. 11A and 11B, pressing or popping the safety latch may trigger or disengage the quick release mechanism. For example, when the safety latch is turned on, the buttons 505 can go into operation so that they protrude outward relative to the outer surface of the ring 500 and thereby connect to the recesses 525 of the rack 526. Similarly, when the safety latch is turned off, the buttons 505 become inoperative, so that they are retracted from the recesses 525 and are essentially at the same level with the outer surface of the ring 500, thereby separating the valve element and the frame of the device. In an alternative aspect of this embodiment, the buttons 505 may be spring loaded and enter a working and inoperative state depending on whether the spring is compressed or unloaded. The buttons in operating and inoperative states are shown in FIG. 11B. Thus, in the case of a spring-based system, the button 505a opposite the strut 526 has a limited ability to protrude toward the strut 526, which allows the ring 500a to move longitudinally along the strut 526 until it contacts the recess 525. The button 505 opposite the recess 525 can freely protrude out of the ring 500 and form a grip with a recess 525. When sufficient force is applied, the button 505 can be disconnected from the recess 525 and limited to the strut 526, and the ring 500 can again move in the direction of the longitudinal axis along the strut. In FIG. 11B also depicts a selection of struts 526 containing a plurality of recesses 525, the arrangement of which is suitable for fine-tuning the valve module 510 relative to the support structure, as described in detail in FIG. 1a-1b and in §§ [028] - [029] in the pending application for US patent No. 12/686340 (regulation), entitled MeOuy apy Lrrata Shk £ οτ she LDDDD o o o £ £ a Regsi Regsisiapapap88888a .............. filed January 12

- 16 027348

2010 g included in the present description by reference.

Modules of the valve device can also be connected using a component separate from the modules (ie not built into them). Non-integrated mounting mechanisms can be used to link the valve sections together or to attach the valve module to a support structure. Thus, a separate component can be used as a fastening mechanism for connecting the device modules to each other, as shown by the example of connecting the valve module with the support structure in FIG. 12-14. The fastening mechanisms according to the invention, which are devices which are not integrated in the modules, are preferably mechanisms of this kind that can easily engage from a remote location and also provide a reliable assembly that will not come apart during use. Alternatively, non-integrated mounting mechanisms may include elements attached to the valve module and / or support structure that prevent engagement until they are removed, such as a foot that prevents engagement of two components.

After assembling and placing the valve module (s) and support structure into the valve device, one or more components can be inserted percutaneously into the valve device and placed so that they fasten the two modules together, for example, by means of a snap mechanism , as shown in FIG. 12A-12V. In FIG. 12A shows one embodiment of a separate (non-integrated) latch snap mechanism that utilizes a one-piece latch pin 692 comprising a leading end 692a and a base 692b. A detail of the snap pin 692 is shown in FIG. 12A '. According to the embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 12A, the valve module 610 may include a plurality of axial tabs 613 on or near its base, which, for example, are attached to the ring 600 at regular intervals around the perimeter, extending in the longitudinal direction relative to the valve module 610. Each longitudinal tab 613 contains an opening (not shown ), each of which is adapted to insert a snap-in pin 692. Alternatively, a plurality of holes 611 can be positioned directly on the ring or on the base of the valve module 610 (as shown in FIG. 12B). The support structure (not shown for clarity) comprises a plurality of struts 626 attached to its inner surface and oriented in the longitudinal direction. A plurality of struts 626 are attached to the support structure at regular intervals around the inner perimeter that correspond (i.e. match) the location of the longitudinal tabs 613 of the valve module. Each strut 626 contains an opening (not shown) that is also adapted to insert the snap-in pin 692 at the same level with respect to the longitudinal axis, so that when assembling the valve module 610 and the support structure, each opening in the strut 626 can be aligned with the hole in the longitudinal tab 613 valve module 610.

According to another embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 12B, the snap mechanism is a two-component mechanism. The snap pin 692 can be inserted using the snap holder 693 located on the opposite side of the second hole to engage intermediate components of the device containing integrated holes through which the snap pin can be inserted. In particular, in FIG. 12B schematically shows how, using the snap-in pin 692 base 692, one device module can be secured, here the valve module 610, and how the leading end 692a of the snap-in pin 692 can pass through the built-in hole 611 in the valve module 610 and the built-in hole 627 in the support structure 620 and to engage with the snap-on holder 693, thereby securing the valve module and the support structure. According to another aspect of a two-component snap mechanism (not shown), a snap pin 692 and a snap holder 693 can also be used in conjunction with the longitudinal tab 613 and stand 626.

The latch pin 692 may be positioned in a portion from the inside of the valve device when assembled to the outside of the valve device, as shown in FIG. 12V, i.e. the leading end 692a first passes through the hole 611 in the valve module 610, and then through the hole 627 in the strut of the support structure 610. Alternatively, the snap pin 692 can be positioned in the area from the outside of the valve device toward the center, as shown in FIG. 12A, and in doing so, it first passes through an opening in the strut 626, and then through the opening 611 of the valve module. In the latter case, the snap pin 692 can be positioned inside the valve module and support structure before the support structure is fully expanded and implanted into the implantation site of the valve device.

The snap fastening mechanism may operate in a similar manner in one embodiment depicted in FIG. 12A or 2B, for connecting the sides of the valve sections (not shown), for example, for connecting the first side of the first valve section to the second side of the second valve section, or for connecting the sides of the leaf substructure to each other. The snap fastening mechanism may also be an integrated fastening mechanism (not shown). For example, a snap-on pin can be integrated into the rack of the support structure, in which case the base is adjacent to the support structure. According to this embodiment of the invention, the valve module may comprise openings or a receiving space, which is a structural equivalent of a snap-in holder located at intervals around the perimeter that can be combined with each rack; however, the lumenal end of the integrated snap-in pin can be positioned in an opening integrated in the valve module or in the integrated receiving space in a manner applicable to connecting the two modules of the device. Alternatively, the snap pin may be integrated into the base of the valve module or into a ring attached to the valve module and engage with a hole integrated in the support structure, or the rack may include a receiving space that is the structural equivalent of a snap holder, for example, on a rack .

In FIG. 13A-13E illustrate locking geometric elements associated with the non-integrated snap-in mechanism shown in FIG. 12A-12B, which are sometimes referred to as pins, fingers, rivets or bolt-tube connectors. For example, in FIG. 13A depicts a pin mechanism 792 securing the first and second modules 718, 719 in the form of a sandwich. The pin mechanism 792 according to the invention comprises a driving end 792a and a base 792b. The base 792b preferably comprises a head that secures the base 792b of the pin 792 on one side of the module sandwich. The leading end 792a contains two teeth 795a, 795b, which are straight when the leading end 792a of the pin 792 is placed in the first and second modules 718, 719 of the device and can be bent so that they can lie horizontally on the outer surface of the sandwich from the modules, on the opposite side, on which is the head of the base 792b. As shown in FIG. 13B, the pin 792 can be placed inside the hole embedded in the foot of the pin 713 extending from the base of the valve module 710 through the hole 727 integrated in the support structure rack 726 (not shown for clarity). The pin foot 713 can be attached, for example, to a ring 700 on a valve module 710, while the ring 700 can be, for example, a self-assembled element, a plastically deformable ring, or a similar structure. According to the embodiment depicted in FIG. 13B, the pin 792 is oriented in such a way that it fastens the device modules in the direction from the side of the blood vessel to the lumenal side of the valve device, so that it can first be placed in the hole of the strut 727, and then in the hole of the valve module (not shown). Then , a pin fastening device can be inserted into the valve device, bending the teeth of the pin 795a, 795b close to the lumen surface of the pin foot 713. Alternatively, the prong teeth 795a, 795b can be made of a shape memory material with a predetermined curved configuration. A suitable device may include an inflatable balloon catheter. Alternatively, the pins can be placed in the first and second modules 718, 179 of the device in opposite directions. In this case, to fix the pin by bending its teeth 795a, 795b, you can use the wall of the lumen of the vessel. In FIG. 13C-13E show other possible geometric elements for embodiments using pins, fingers, rivets and bolt-tube-type connecting elements. In particular, in FIG. 13C shows a finger 892 according to the present invention, which can be used in conjunction with an opening in a rack or with an opening in a valve module; FIG. 13Ό shows a rivet 992 according to the present invention, which can be used with an opening in a rack or with an opening in a valve module; in FIG. 13E shows a bolt-tube connector 1092 according to the present invention that can be used with an opening in a rack or with an opening in a valve module. The device modules can also be made in such a way that structures equivalent to any of the fastening mechanisms such as a pin, a rivet or a bolt-tube connecting element shown in FIG. 13C-13E, or structures similar to the pin shown in FIG. 13A-13B, were built into the components of the device, due to which there is no need to use locking geometric elements in the components of the device, which can simplify the assembly procedure. Other types of locking geometrical elements, which may be integrated fastening mechanisms, within the scope of the present invention include dovetail, rivet elements and eye-hook elements. For example, a bolt-notch mechanism can be designed in the dovetail geometry.

In each of the above embodiments, the ring may be, for example, a compressible but strong part of the valve module, which can be positioned at the base of the module, or a plastically deformable element described in this application. Alternatively, the ring may be, for example, a self-assembled element, as described, for example, in §§ [0367] - [038], [045] - [046], [051] - [069] and in FIG. 2a-10 of U.S. Patent Application No. 12/686338 (self-assembly), pending January 12, 2010, incorporated herein by reference.

Another example of an integrated locking geometrical mechanism is a fastening mechanism with a curved groove, also known in the art as the zipper mechanism shown in FIG. 14A-14C, which is particularly suitable for interconnecting the edges of valve sections or the edges of a wing substructure. According to one aspect of this embodiment, the mounting mechanism with a curved groove may be a sliding mounting mechanism with a curved groove.

- 18 027348

As shown in FIG. 14A-C, the first side 1151 and the second side 1152 of the valve module can be fastened together using a fastening mechanism with a curved groove, since the first side 1151 has a geometric shape that can form engagement when aligned with the second side 1152. As shown in FIG. 14A, the first side 1151 and the second side 1152 of the valve module can be moved towards each other using yarns 1145 or wire passed through the first side 1151 and second side 1152. The yarns 1145 can be drawn wires, as described in FIG. 4A-4C. The first side 1151 may have an edge with an onion-like cross section 1153; wherein the onion-shaped edge 1153 may have a rounded, for example substantially circular shape, as shown in FIG. 14B, however, it may also have a rectangular (including square), triangular or any other suitable geometric shape, for example, as shown in FIG. 14C and 14C '. The second side 1152 of the valve module may have an additional receiving channel edge 1154 having a cross section adapted to align with the cross sectional shape of the bulbous edge 1153 of the first side 1151. Therefore, for example, when the onion-shaped edge 1153 of the first side 1151 is substantially rounded or substantially circular, as shown in FIG. 14B, the receiving channel edge 1154 of the second side 1152 has an additional circular cross-section with which the onion-shaped edge 1153 of the first side 1151 forms engagement or engages by engagement and interference fit. Such a fixing mechanism is called a curving groove fixing mechanism, because, as shown in FIG. 14A, the bulbous edge 1153 and the receiving channel edge 1154, preferably each, comprise strips extending along all of the contacting portions of the first and second sides 1151, 1152 of the valve module. Thus, the onion-shaped edge 1153 may be substantially cylindrical, for example, according to an embodiment in which the cross section is substantially circular; and the receiving channel edge 1154 may be a substantially cylindrical groove. According to another aspect of the curved groove fixing mechanism shown in FIG. 14C, the edge of the first side 1151 may be in the form of a hook 1157 and the edge of the second side 1152 may be in the form of a hook 1158, while the first and second hook-shaped edges 1157, 1158 are able to be fastened and held by tight fit or interference fit, as shown in FIG. 14C '. According to one aspect of said mounting mechanism with a curved groove, or an embodiment of a zipper, in which the valve module in an unassembled configuration is a whole leaf structure, as described, for example, with reference to FIG. 5A-C, as well as a leaf substructure containing a self-assembled element, as described in §§ [052] and in FIG. 2a-2c, and in U.S. Patent Application No. 12/686338 (self-assembly), both of which the first side 1151 and the second side 1152, containing locking geometric elements at the edges, may be the first and second sides of the leaf substructure shown above. In this aspect of an embodiment of the zipper, a push rod and / or draw wires or guide threads can be used to begin the process of combining the bulbous first end and the additional receiving path of the second end of the leaf substructure.

According to another aspect of a curved groove fastening mechanism or an embodiment of a zipper in which the valve module comprises a plurality of valve sections, as described, for example, with reference to FIG. 2-4C above, as well as valve sections containing a self-assembly member, as described in §§ [048] - [051] and in FIG. 1a-b in US patent pending No. 12/686338 (self-assembly), the first side 1151 and the second side 1152, which contain locking geometric elements at the edges, may be the first side of the first valve section and the second side of the adjacent second valve section. Thus, as an illustration of a valve module containing three valve sections, a linear mechanism by the principle of interference fit can work as follows. The first side of the first valve section may have an onion-shaped edge mating with the receiving channel of the second side of the second valve section by aligning this end into the receiving channel of the second side of the second valve section. The edges of each valve section can be pulled together, for example, using wires 1145, such as, for example, drawing wires or thread, passed through the edges, as shown in FIG. 14A, or under the action of a self-assembly element. Push rods can be used in combination with exhaust wires or thread. An interference fit can begin from either the proximal or distal end of the valve assembly. Similarly, the first side of the second valve section may comprise an onion-shaped edge mating with the receiving channel of the second side of the third valve section, and the first side of the third valve section may comprise the onion-shaped edge mating with the receiving channel of the second side of the first valve section of the second edge. Such arrangements are within the competence of those skilled in the art of valve modules comprising two valve sections or more than three valve sections, in light of the descriptions herein.

According to the embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 14A and 14B, a linear fastening mechanism based on an interference fit includes mating edges of the first and second sides of the valve

- 19 027348 modules. However, according to another embodiment of the zipper, applicable both to the leaf substructure and to the plurality of valve sections, the mounting mechanism with a curved groove can be placed between opposing surfaces of the first and second sides 1151, 1152, for example between the inner surface of the first side 1151 and the outer surface the second side 1152, while the opposing surfaces are located near the edges of the first and second sides 1151, 1152. The locking geometrical elements can be connected by interference fit, in a manner analogous to the method shown, for example, in FIG. 6, 7 and in columns 3, II. 31-37 of US patent No. 5540366 and in FIG. 2, 3 and in columns 1, II. 31-36 of US patent No. 2039887, which is incorporated into this description by reference. According to one aspect, the fastening mechanism may be a zipper-type mechanism, in which the onion-shaped edge 1153 or the first hook-shaped edge 1157 of the first side 1151 and the edge of the receiving channel 1154 or the second hook-shaped edge 1158 of the second side 1152 or locking opposing surfaces can be made in this way that they form an engagement or interface with the device, which slides along the indicated edges and leads to the combination of additional geometric structures, similar to the design of a zipper with a slider. An embodiment of the fastening mechanism according to the interference fit principle used to attach the valve module to the support structure, in particular when the valve module includes a self-assembled element with a predetermined annular configuration, is described in detail in FIG. 7 and in § 60, pending US patent application No. 12/686338 (self-assembly), filed January 12, 2010, both the present application and incorporated herein by reference. In short, the valve module can be attached to a self-assembled element or passed through a self-assembled element, such as a ring or tape, which can go from a configuration for delivery to a predetermined ring configuration. The support structure may comprise a groove or similar structure in which it is possible to place a ring or tape that it extrudes outward to obtain a predetermined configuration, thereby securing the valve module with the support structure according to the interference fit principle.

In FIG. 15 shows struts 1226 attached to a support structure 1220.

In particular, in FIG. 15 shows how a rack according to any of the embodiments of the invention shown in FIG. 9-13, can be attached to the frame or support structure without interfering with the structure's ability to expand. The stand is preferably flexible enough not to unduly hinder the flexibility of the support structure in the axial direction, however, it has a stiffness in the radial direction sufficient to perform the functions required in the particular implementation in which it is used. Racks can be made of the same material as the valve body, or of a compatible material that does not chemically interact with the material of the valve body. According to any of the embodiments of the invention shown in FIG. 9-13, the struts can be replaced with grooves, for example, annular cutouts on the support structure. The recesses and openings in the uprights, as described for the embodiments shown in FIG. 10-13 may be recesses or holes in the groove.

The fastening mechanisms can be any connecting elements, preferably elements of this kind, which easily form engagement from a remote location, and also provide a reliable assembly that will not be disconnected during use. A person skilled in the art will readily understand the interchangeability of various mounting mechanisms and their application within the framework of this application.

According to any one of the embodiments of the invention, it is possible and it may be necessary to adjust the valve module to the support structure in order to ensure accurate final placement of the valve module. Therefore, for example, the valve assembly can be connected to the support structure in a controlled manner, which will provide final control of the position of the valve assembly relative to the support structure after implantation of the valve device. The mechanisms for adjusting the position of the valve module relative to the support structure are described in detail in §§ [021] - [024], [028] - [039] and in FIG. 1a-7, which is undergoing simultaneous review in U.S. Patent Application No. 12/686340, entitled Mayuy Arraga! The support structure can also be controlledly connected to the vessel wall.

According to embodiments of the invention in which a temporary valve is used, the latter can be placed at the site of implantation of the permanent valve or at a position remote from the site of implantation of the permanent valve. As demonstrated by the example shown in FIG. 16, when replacing the aortic valve, the temporary valve can be placed in the ascending part of the aortic arch, in the proximal (downstream) position relative to the implantation site of the modular valve device. This installation scheme can be used during procedures in which the delivery of the modular valve occurs with apical access (i.e., when the device is inserted from the ventricular side of the coronary sinus valve). See, for example, δίπ§Η, TM. e1 a1., Regsiapaeyo8 1geaepepo o а aygis ya1ue Chain, Ul. SPP I. May., 75 (11), 805-812 (2008). However, circumstances can equally contribute.

- 20 027348 to the proximal placement of the temporary valve relative to the implantation site with retrograde access (i.e., when the device is inserted from the arterial side of the coronary sinus valve).

One embodiment of a temporary valve according to the invention is depicted in FIG. 16. According to this embodiment, the temporary valve 1395 is an integral structure that is the same length as the delivery system, in this case, the catheter 1360, however, the temporary valve may consist of two or more parts. The advantage of using a temporary valve, the same in length with the delivery system or connected to it, is the ease of its removal when the delivery system is removed. The catheter 1360, to which the temporary valve 1395 is attached, can be advanced approximately to the position where the modular valve device according to this embodiment will be implanted, in the aorta 1381 to a position distal relative to the coronary artery orifice 1386, 1387, the temporary valve 1395 can be brought into action for the purpose of its automatic expansion, like an inverted umbrella, using, for example, a wire with the effect of shape memorization. In an alternative embodiment of the invention (not shown), the temporary valve may contain two parts and may be designed so that the device modules can pass to the implantation site through the temporary valve. In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the temporary valve can be disconnected from the delivery device, but connected using exhaust wires that can be used to remove the temporary valve from the aorta in the absence of further need for its use.

If the temporary valve is installed in a predetermined place and the device modules are to be assembled in a place remote from the implantation site, after placing the temporary valve, the delivery device can be pulled back to install the permanent valve modules. When the temporary valve is placed in a predetermined location, the support structure can be implanted before insertion of the temporary valve, either 1) using a separate catheter by reverse transdermal access from the delivery device carrying the temporary valve, or 2) by installing the supporting structure from the delivery device before installing the temporary valve.

According to another embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 17, the temporary valve can be attached to the support structure, delivered, installed and deployed together with the support structure. The temporary valve 1495 can be attached to the support structure by stitching, gluing, or similar methods known in the art for pre-assembled valves inserted through the skin, or using detachable means. Thus, for example, a temporary valve 1495, according to this embodiment, depicted as a two-component structure, is attached to the support structure 1420 before compressing the support structure 1420 and placing it in a delivery device (not shown). As shown in FIG. 17, after expanding the support structure 1420, a temporary valve 1495 is placed that controls blood flow until the valve portion of the modular valve device (not shown) is combined with the support structure 1420. According to this embodiment, the temporary valve 1495 can be used with a self-expanding support structure or with a support structure expandable by a can. In the latter case, it is possible to connect a temporary valve with a supporting structure with subsequent placement on a balloon catheter. According to the embodiment depicted in FIG. 17, after combining the valve module (s) with the support structure 1420, the temporary valve 1495 is not removed, but broken or destroyed in another way. In an alternative embodiment of the invention, such a temporary valve can be removed immediately before installing the valve module in assembled form or after attaching the valve module in assembled form to the support structure.

It is important that the prosthetic device is placed in the vessel (or in the lumen) with accuracy, ensuring the correct functioning of the valve and patient safety. Accordingly, the device and system according to the invention, as well as the device delivery method, can be used in conjunction with the placement system and the placement method of the modular device described in §§ 67-82 and in FIG. 7a-8 in US priority application No. 61/144007 and in §§ 1a-2 and FIG. 24-42 in U.S. Patent Application No. 12/686337 (pending), under convention entitled A § 81.8 apb Msbyub Tot R1sc§a and Regsiapeo8 Ua1ue Osuyus. filed January 12, 2010, incorporated herein by reference. As described in priority application for US patent No. 61/144007 and in the process of simultaneous consideration of patent application US No. 12/686337 (placement), the method of placing the prosthetic valve device in the lumen of the body with increased accuracy includes, for example, fixing the latch in the lumen body in the selected place of implantation of a permanent valve and the use of the specified clamp in order to direct the specified prosthetic valve device to the specified place of implantation. The placement system includes a valve device, a delivery device and a latch. The latches may include a push-button or rivet-type device, hooks, a guiding suture thread inserted under the skin, connecting geometric elements, or any other type of docking device. The system may also include installation wires associated with the clips. According to embodiments in which the latch is connected to the installation wire, the method may also include passing said installation wire through said valve device, loading said valve device into a delivery device such that the free ends of said installation wires exit the proximal end of said delivery devices and the direction of the specified device to the specified latch along the specified installation wire. According to embodiments in which the latch comprises a guide thread, the method may also include passing said guide thread through said valve device; loading said valve device into a delivery device. Methods of placing the valve device in the gaps include the use of other types of retainers. It will be obvious to a person skilled in the art that many variations, additions and modifications and other applications can be made with respect to the discovery that has been shown and described in detail in this application using embodiments, without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Accordingly, it is understood that the scope of the invention as defined by the claims below includes all foreseeable variations, additions, modifications or applications.