System and method for transapical access and closure

Abstract

Embodiments are described for creating and closing tissue access ports, such as transapical access ports, which involve placement of an introducer across the subject tissue structure, and deployment of a controllable port closure device assembly configured to remain in place with a ratcheting mechanism, and to hold the tissue surrounding the previous access port location closed against a sealing disc with proximal and distal strut assemblies, after the introducer has been removed.

1 . An apparatus for closing a defect in a tissue wall, comprising:
 a. a base member having a proximal end and a distal end and an externally projecting seal member disposed therebetween and configured to interface with at least a portion of the tissue wall to assist in sealing the defect, the proximal end being configured to be manually manipulated by an operator;
 wherein the externally projecting seal member defines an outer seal margin defining an outer seal diameter; 
   b. a first plurality of bendable strut members coupled to the distal end of the base member and configured to occupy a collapsed configuration when bent in place toward the base member, and an expanded configuration when unrestrained;
 wherein in the collapsed configuration, each of the bendable strut members project out from a coupling junction with the distal portion of the base member, sweep toward the proximal end of the base member, and bend toward the outer seal margin; 
   c. a proximal hub member movably and coaxially coupled about the outside of the base member and advanceable along a length of the base member; and   d. a second plurality of bendable strut members coupled to the proximal hub member and configured to occupy a collapsed configuration when bent in place toward the base member, and an expanded configuration when unrestrained;
 wherein in the collapsed configuration, each of the bendable strut members project out from a coupling junction with the proximal hub member and sweep toward the distal end of the base member.