Device and method for modifying the shape of a body organ

Abstract

An intravascular support device includes a support or reshaper wire, a proximal anchor and a distal anchor. The support wire engages a vessel wall to change the shape of tissue adjacent the vessel in which the intravascular support is placed. The anchors and support wire are designed such that the vessel in which the support is placed remains open and can be accessed by other devices if necessary. The device provides a minimal metal surface area to blood flowing within the vessel to limit the creation of thrombosis. The anchors can be locked in place to secure the support within the vessel.

1 - 8 . (canceled)  
   
   
       9 . A method of manipulating the mitral valve, comprising the steps of: providing a catheter, having a prosthesis thereon, the prosthesis having a first tissue anchor and a second tissue anchor; inserting the catheter into the venous system; transluminally advancing the prosthesis into the coronary sinus; attaching the first and second tissue anchors to the wall of the coronary sinus; and manipulating the prosthesis to exert a lateral force on the wall of the coronary sinus in between the first and second tissue anchors.  
   
   
       10 . A method as in  claim 9 , further comprising the step of percutaneously accessing the venous system prior to the transluminally advancing step.  
   
   
       11 . A method as in  claim 10 , wherein the accessing step is accomplished by accessing one of the internal jugular, subclavian and femoral veins.  
   
   
       12 . A method as in  claim 9 , further comprising the step of measuring hemodynamic function following the manipulating step.  
   
   
       13 . A method of performing annuloplasty of the mitral valve comprising positioning a prosthesis in a curved portion of the coronary sinus; engaging a proximal tissue anchor and a distal tissue anchor on the device into tissue on an inside radius of the curve; manipulating a first portion of the device with respect to a second portion of the device to provide a compressive force on the inside radius of the curve in between the first and second anchors; and securing the device to maintain the compressive force within the coronary sinus.  
   
   
       14 . A method as in  claim 13 , further comprising the step of percutaneously accessing the venous system prior to the positioning step.  
   
   
       15 . A method as in  claim 14 , wherein the accessing step is accomplished by accessing one of the internal jugular, subclavian and femoral veins.  
   
   
       16 . A method as in  claim 13 , wherein the securing step comprises providing an interference fit.  
   
   
       17 . A method as in  claim 13 , wherein the securing step comprises providing a compression fit.  
   
   
       18 . A method as in  claim 13 , further comprising the step of measuring hemodynamic function following the manipulating step.