Suture-Based Systems and Methods for Treating Septal Defects

Abstract

A system for treating a septal defect having a suture-like implantable treatment apparatus and devices for delivering the implantable treatment apparatus and methods for treating a septal defect are provided. The suture-like apparatus is preferably implantable through a septal wall or portion thereof. The treatment system can include a flexible elongate body member, a delivery device configured to deliver the suture-like apparatus, a stabilization device configured to stabilize the delivery device and a positioning device configured to position the delivery device in a desired location. The suture-like device can include a suture body coupled with one or more lock devices or anchor devices.

1 . A method of treating a septal defect, comprising:
 advancing a flexible outer tubular member having a inner lumen into proximity with a septal defect, the outer tubular member configured to house a first and a second inner elongate tubular member in a first configuration, each inner elongate tubular member having a substantially sharp distal end; and   advancing the first and second inner elongate tubular members out of the inner lumen of the outer tubular member such that the first and second inner elongate tubular members deflect from the first configuration to a second configuration wherein a distal portion of each inner elongate tubular member is deflected away from the other.