Device for regulating blood flow
An implantable device for regulating blood flow through a blood vessel comprising an elongated support dimensioned and configured to be implanted in a blood vessel. The support includes a linking member linking axially spaced apart portions to one another. A valve membrane extends between the axially spaced apart support portions and includes first region folded over the first linking member and attached thereto and a second region adjacent the first region and unattached to the first linking member. The second region is movable between a first position to enable blood flow and a second position to inhibit blood flow.
1. An implantable device for regulating blood flow through a blood vessel, comprising:
an elongated support dimensioned and configured to be implanted in a blood vessel; and
a valve membrane supported by the elongated support and having a first condition to enable blood flow and a second condition to inhibit blood flow, the valve membrane configured to be positioned in the blood vessel at a first angle extending across the blood vessel to traverse a longitudinal axis of the blood vessel such that opposite ends of the valve membrane are adjacent opposing walls of the blood vessel, and the valve membrane remaining substantially at the first angle in the first and second conditions;
wherein the valve membrane has a first region unattached to the elongated support, the first unattached region formed by at least one cut in the valve membrane, the first unattached region creating an opening adjacent the elongated support during antegrade blood flow.
2. The implantable device of claim 1 , wherein the first unattached region moves adjacent the elongated support to close the opening during retrograde blood flow.