Billy Ray Singleton

US Patent:

60334193, Mar 7, 2000

Filed:

May 15, 1998

Appl. No.:

9/079796

Inventors:

James Henry Hamblin - Lockhart TX
Billy Ray Singleton - Georgetown TX

Assignee:

Sulzer Carbomedics Inc. - Austin TX

International Classification:

A61B 1734

US Classification:

606184

Abstract:

An apparatus and method are disclosed for cutting a heart valve annulus. The apparatus includes an actuator and a backup plate coupled to the actuator. The apparatus also includes an annulus cutter movably coupled to the actuator. The annulus cutter can thereby oppose and engage the backup plate. The method includes positioning a backup plate proximate heart valve tissue to be removed. An annulus cutter is then positioned proximate the heart valve tissue opposing the backup plate. The annulus cutter is engaged in opposition with the backup plate to cut the heart valve tissue and form a heart valve annulus. The heart valve tissue is then removed.

US Patent:

61970549, Mar 6, 2001

Filed:

Sep 1, 1998

Appl. No.:

9/144805

Inventors:

James Henry Hamblin - Lockhart TX
Billy Ray Singleton - Georgetown TX

Assignee:

Sulzer Carbomedics Inc. - Austin TX

International Classification:

A61F 224

US Classification:

623 238

Abstract:

An improved mechanical heart valve that reduces the time required to perform heart valve replacement surgery is provided. The mechanical heart valve is comprised of a valve body and a plurality of staples extending around the valve body that are coupled to the valve body through at least one intermediate member.