Transvalvular intraannular band for valve repair

Abstract

Aortic regurgitation can be treating by implanting in the aortic annulus a transvalvular intraannular band. The band has a first end, a first anchoring portion located proximate the first end, a second end, a second anchoring portion located proximate the second end, and a central portion. The central portion is positioned so that it extends transversely across a coaptive edge formed by the closure of the aortic valve leaflets. The band may be implanted via translumenal access or via thoracotomy.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A transvalvular intraannular band, comprising:
 an elongate and arcuate body having a first end, a first anchoring portion located proximate the first end, a second end, a second anchoring portion located proximate the second end, and a central portion, the central portion displaced transversely from a plane which includes the first end and the second end;   wherein the first end and the second end are configured to be attached to the aortic valve annulus within the plane of the annulus and the central portion is configured to support the aortic valve leaflets at a point displaced toward the ventricle from the plane.