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Multi-stranded heat set annuloplasty rings

  • US 9,687,346 B2
  • Filed: 02/25/2014
  • Issued: 06/27/2017
  • Est. Priority Date: 03/14/2013
  • Status: Active Grant
First Claim
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1. A method for forming an annuloplasty ring, comprising:

  • providing a flexible core member comprising a braided metal cable made of a metal having an austenite start temperature of at least 500°

    C.;

    providing a holding fixture having a base member and at least one clamping member, wherein the base member and clamping member have complementary channels therein that together provide a three-dimensional mold for the desired peripheral shape of the annuloplasty ring;

    holding the core member in a desired peripheral shape of the annuloplasty ring by placing the core member between the base member and the at least one clamping member;

    while being held in the desired peripheral shape, heating the core member above its austenitic final temperature and maintaining that temperature for a period of time to cause a crystalline structure alteration from martensitic to austenitic;

    cooling the core member with a quench; and

    adding a suture-permeable outer covering around the flexible core member.

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