Valve clamp and assembly

Abstract

The application provides a valve clamp and assembly, the valve clamp comprising a first base, a second base and a clamp; the second base is arranged at the distal end of the first base; the clamp comprises a clamp piece, a capture arm, a connecting arm and three joints; the distal end of the clamp piece is connected with the first base; the distal end of the connecting arm is rotatably connected with the second base through a joint, the proximal end of the connecting arm is rotatably connected with the capture arm through a joint, and the distal end of the capture arm is rotatably connected with the first base through a joint, so as to allow the proximal end of the capture arm to move away from or close to the clamp piece; at least one joint comprises an elastic body, the elastic body pre-stores elastic potential energy to keep the proximal end of each capture arm in a state close to the clamp piece, and the elastic body is deformed when the proximal end of the capture arm moves away from the clamp piece; when the valve clamp is used to perform edge-to-edge repair on mitral regurgitation, the clamping force of the valve clamp on the valve leaflet changes with the opening and closing of the valve, and the tearing of the valve leaflet is effectively avoided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of medical device technology, specifically relating to a valve clamp and its components. Background Technology

[0002] Edge-to-edge repair (TEER) is a minimally invasive treatment for atrioventricular valve regurgitation, such as mitral or tricuspid regurgitation. In the treatment of mitral regurgitation, TEER works by using a clamping device to clamp the anterior and posterior leaflets of the mitral valve, causing them to engage. This reduces or eliminates the gap between the leaflets during cardiac contraction, thus decreasing or eliminating mitral regurgitation. After the clamping device is applied, the mitral valve orifice changes from a large single opening to two or more smaller openings during diastole, but the valve's opening function remains unaffected.

[0003] In existing technologies, the clamping device, after clamping the anterior and posterior leaflets of the mitral valve, uses mechanical locking to maintain the clamped state. This mechanically locked clamping device applies a constant force to the leaflets, increasing the risk of leaflet tearing. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to provide a valve clamp and assembly, which aims to make the force applied to the valve leaflet when the valve clamp is holding the leaflet vary with the opening and closing of the valve, thereby reducing the possibility of leaflet tearing and improving implantation safety.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides a valve clamp, comprising:

[0006] First base;

[0007] The second base is located at the distal end of the first base; and,

[0008] Two clamping members are arranged circumferentially spaced apart from each other in the valve clamp; each clamping member includes a clamp, a capture arm, a connecting arm, and three engaging members; the distal end of the clamp is connected to the first base; the distal end of the connecting arm is rotatably connected to the second base via one of the engaging members, the proximal end of the connecting arm is rotatably connected to the capture arm via another engaging member, and the distal end of the capture arm is rotatably connected to the first base via yet another engaging member, allowing the proximal end of the capture arm to move away from or towards the clamp;

[0009] At least one of the engagement members includes an elastomer configured to pre-store elastic potential energy to keep the proximal end of each of the capture arms close to the corresponding clamp; the elastomer is also configured to deform and further store elastic potential energy as the proximal end of the capture arm moves away from the corresponding clamp.

[0010] Optionally, all of the aforementioned couplings include the elastomer.

[0011] Optionally, the coupling further includes a pivot;

[0012] In the coupling including the elastomer, the elastomer is sleeved on the pivot shaft, and the elastomer torsional deforms as the proximal end of the capture arm moves away from the corresponding clamp.

[0013] Optionally, the rotating shaft includes a shaft body; the cross-section of the shaft body is circular, and the shaft body includes a first segment and two second segments respectively connected to the axial ends of the first segment, the first segment being located within the first object, and each second segment being located between the first object and the second object;

[0014] In the joint including the elastomer, each of the second segments is fitted with one of the elastomers;

[0015] When the first object is one of the capture arm and the first base, the second object is the other of the capture arm and the first base;

[0016] When the first object is one of the capture arm and the connecting arm, the second object is the other of the capture arm and the connecting arm;

[0017] When the first object is one of the connecting arm and the second base, the second object is the other of the connecting arm and the second base.

[0018] Optionally, the outer peripheral surface of the first segment is smooth;

[0019] In the joint including the elastomer, the outer peripheral surface of the second segment is provided with a friction-enhancing pattern.

[0020] Optionally, the elastomer includes a spring.

[0021] Optionally, when the coupling between the first object and the second object includes the elastic element, one axial end of the elastic element is connected to the first object and its relative position with the first object remains unchanged, and the other axial end of the elastic element is connected to the second object and its relative position with the second object remains unchanged, so that the elastic element deforms when the proximal end of the capture arm moves away from the corresponding clip.

[0022] When the first object is one of the capture arm and the first base, the second object is the other of the capture arm and the first base;

[0023] When the first object is one of the capture arm and the connecting arm, the second object is the other of the capture arm and the connecting arm;

[0024] When the first object is one of the connecting arm and the second base, the second object is the other of the connecting arm and the second base.

[0025] Optionally, the elastic element includes an elastic body and a first joint, wherein there are two first joints, and the two first joints are respectively connected to the two axial ends of the elastic body;

[0026] When the coupling between the first object and the second object includes the elastic member, the first object is provided with a first coupling hole and the second object is provided with a second coupling hole; one of the first coupling portions of the elastic member is at least partially inserted into the first coupling hole and the other of the first coupling portions is at least partially inserted into the second coupling hole.

[0027] Optionally, the rotating shaft includes an axially connected shaft body and a second joint, wherein the cross-section of the shaft body is circular and the cross-section of the second joint is non-circular;

[0028] Each of the aforementioned joints connects a first object and a second object; the first object has a third joint hole with a circular cross-section; the second object has a fourth joint hole with a non-circular cross-section.

[0029] The shaft body of the connecting shaft passes through the third engagement hole at least partially, and the second engagement portion passes through the fourth engagement hole at least partially.

[0030] When the first object is one of the capture arm and the first base, the second object is the other of the capture arm and the first base;

[0031] When the first object is one of the capture arm and the connecting arm, the second object is the other of the capture arm and the connecting arm;

[0032] When the first object is one of the connecting arm and the second base, the second object is the other of the connecting arm and the second base.

[0033] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention also provides a valve clamp assembly, including a valve clamp as described in any of the preceding claims and an operating lever, wherein a first base is provided with a through hole extending through the valve clamp along the axial direction of the valve clamp, the distal end of the operating lever passes through the through hole and is detachably connected to a second base, and the operating lever is capable of driving the first base to move along the axial direction of the valve clamp under the action of an external force.

[0034] Compared with the prior art, the valve clamp and assembly of the present invention have the following advantages:

[0035] The aforementioned valve clamp includes a first base, a second base, and two clamping members; the second base is disposed at the distal end of the first base; the two clamping members are spaced apart circumferentially in the valve clamp; each clamping member includes a clip capturing arm, a connecting arm, and three engaging members; the distal end of the clip is connected to the first base; the distal end of the connecting arm is rotatably connected to the second base via one of the engaging members, the proximal end of the connecting arm is rotatably connected to the capturing arm via another engaging member, and the distal end of the capturing arm is rotatably connected to the first base via yet another engaging member. The valve clamp allows the proximal end of the capture arm to move in a direction away from or towards the clip; at least one of the couplings includes an elastomer configured to pre-store elastic potential energy such that the proximal end of each capture arm remains close to the corresponding clip, the elastomer being further configured to deform and store elastic potential energy as the proximal end of the capture arm moves away from the corresponding clip; when performing edge-to-edge repair of mitral regurgitation using this valve clamp, the clamping force applied by the valve clamp to the leaflet varies with the opening and closing of the valve, reducing or even avoiding adverse events such as leaflet tearing. Attached Figure Description

[0036] The accompanying drawings are provided to better understand the invention and are not intended to unduly limit the scope of the invention. Wherein:

[0037] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the valve clamp assembly provided by the present invention according to an embodiment, wherein the clamping member in the figure is in a closed state;

[0038] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the valve clamp assembly provided by the present invention according to an embodiment. The clamping member in the diagram is in a closed state, and Figure 2 and Figure 1 The observation directions are different;

[0039] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the valve clamp assembly provided by the present invention according to an embodiment, wherein the clamping member in the figure is in a capturing state;

[0040] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the valve clamp assembly provided by the present invention according to an embodiment. The clamping member in the diagram is in a capturing state, and Figure 4 and Figure 3 The observation directions are different;

[0041] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the valve clamp assembly provided by the present invention according to an embodiment, wherein the clamping member in the figure is in an extended state;

[0042] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the valve clamp assembly provided by the present invention according to an embodiment. The clamping member in the diagram is in an extended state, and Figure 6 Observation position and Figure 5 different;

[0043] Figure 7 This is an exploded view of a valve clamp assembly provided according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0044] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the elastic body of the connecting member of the valve clamp provided according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the rotating shaft of the connecting member of the valve clamp provided according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] [The annotations in the attached figures are explained below]:

[0047] 10-Valve clamp, 100-First base, 200-Second base, 300-Clamping element, 310-Clamping piece, 320-Catching arm, 330-Connecting arm, 340-Connecting element, 341-Elastomer, 3411-Elastomer body, 3412-First connecting part, 342-Rotating shaft, 3421-Shaft body, 34211-First segment, 34212-Second segment, 34213-Friction-enhancing pattern, 3422-Second connecting part, 400-Spacer, 500-Third base, 101-First connecting hole, 102-Second connecting hole, 103-Third connecting hole, 104-Fourth connecting hole, 105-Accommodation groove, 20-Operating lever. Detailed Implementation

[0048] The following specific examples illustrate the implementation of the present invention. Those skilled in the art can easily understand other advantages and effects of the present invention from the content disclosed in this specification. The present invention can also be implemented or applied through other different specific embodiments, and various details in this specification can also be modified or changed based on different viewpoints and applications without departing from the spirit of the present invention. It should be noted that the illustrations provided in this embodiment are only schematic representations of the basic concept of the present invention. Therefore, the drawings only show components related to the present invention and are not drawn according to the actual number, shape, and size of components in the actual implementation. In the actual implementation, the type, quantity, and proportion of each component can be arbitrarily changed, and the component layout may also be more complex.

[0049] Furthermore, while each embodiment described below possesses one or more technical features, this does not imply that users of the present invention must simultaneously implement all technical features in any embodiment, or can only separately implement some or all technical features in different embodiments. In other words, provided it is feasible, those skilled in the art can, based on the disclosure of the present invention and depending on design specifications or implementation requirements, selectively implement some or all technical features in any embodiment, or selectively implement a combination of some or all technical features in multiple embodiments, thereby increasing the flexibility in implementing the present invention.

[0050] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural objects, and the plural form “a plurality” includes two or more objects, unless otherwise expressly indicated. As used herein, the term “or” is generally used to include the meaning of “and / or,” unless otherwise expressly indicated, and the terms “installed,” “connected,” and “linked” should be interpreted broadly, for example, as a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection. Connections can be mechanical or electrical. Connections can be direct or indirect through an intermediate medium, and can be internal communication between two elements or an interaction between two elements. Relational terms such as “first,” “second,” etc., are used merely to distinguish one entity or operation from another, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations, nor do they indicate or imply relative importance or implicitly specify the number of indicated technical features. Those skilled in the art will understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0051] The terms “proximal” and “distal” used in this article are based on the relative positions and orientations of the various components and parts of the medical device. Although they are not restrictive, “distal” refers to the end of the medical device that enters the patient’s body first during normal use, while “proximal” refers to the end opposite to “distal”. “Proximal” enters the patient’s body after “distal”, or “proximal” is located outside the patient’s body.

[0052] The purpose of this invention is to provide a valve clamp that can be used in edge-to-edge repair of mitral regurgitation and can effectively reduce the incidence of adverse events such as valve tearing after the valve clamp is implanted in the patient.

[0053] To make the objectives, advantages, and features of the present invention clearer, the present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the drawings are all in a very simplified form and use non-precise proportions, and are only used to facilitate and clearly illustrate the objectives of the embodiments of the present invention. The same or similar reference numerals in the drawings represent the same or similar parts.

[0054] like Figures 1 to 7 As shown, the valve clamp 10 includes a first base 100, a second base 200, and two clamping members 300. The second base 200 is disposed on the distal side of the first base 100. The two clamping members 300 are arranged circumferentially spaced apart from each other in the valve clamp 10, preferably symmetrically. Each clamping member 300 includes a clamping piece 310, a capturing arm 320, a connecting arm 330, and three connecting members 340. The distal end of the clamping piece 310 is connected to the first base 100. The distal end of the capturing arm 320 is rotatably connected to the first base 100 through one of the connecting members 340. The proximal end of the connecting arm 330 is rotatably connected to the capturing arm 320 through another connecting member 340, and the distal end of the connecting arm 330 is rotatably connected to the second base 200 through yet another connecting member 340. That is, under the action of the three connecting members 340, a linkage mechanism is formed between the capturing arm 320, the connecting arm 330, the second base 200, and the first base 100. This allows the proximal end of the capturing arm 320 to move in a direction away from or towards the clamp 310.

[0055] The clamping member 300 has, for example Figure 1 and Figure 2 The closed state shown, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4 The capture state shown, and as shown Figure 5 and Figure 6 The extended state shown. (As shown) Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, when the clamping member 300 is in the closed state, the distance between the second base 200 and the first base 100 is the initial distance L1, and the proximal end of the capturing arm 320 is close to the clamping piece 310. Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, when the clamping member 300 is in the capturing state, the distance between the second base 200 and the first base 100 is a capturing distance L2 greater than the initial distance L1, and the proximal end of the capturing arm 320 is away from the clamping piece 310. Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, when the clamping member 300 is in the extended state, the distance between the second base 200 and the first base 100 is greater than the extended distance L3 of the capture distance L2, and the proximal end of the capture arm 320 is further away from the clamping piece 310.

[0056] It is understood that by moving the second base 200 in the direction from the proximal end to the distal end, the clamping member 300 can be switched from the closed state to the capturing state, and can be further switched to the extended state; by moving the second base 200 in the direction from the distal end to the proximal end, the clamping member 300 can be returned to the closed state.

[0057] It should be noted that, in practice, the middle portion of the capture arm 320 is rotatably connected to the connecting arm 330. Here, "middle portion" refers to the position located between the proximal and distal ends of the capture arm 320. It can be at half the length of the capture arm 320, or it can be offset from half the length of the capture arm 320 and closer to the proximal or distal end of the capture arm 320.

[0058] In an embodiment of the invention, at least one of the engagement members 340 includes an elastic body 341. The elastic body 341 is configured to pre-store elastic potential energy such that the proximal end of each capture arm 320 remains close to the corresponding clamp 310, thereby keeping each clamping member 300 in the closed state. The elastic body 341 is also configured to deform and further store elastic potential energy when the proximal end of the capture arm 320 moves away from the corresponding clamp 310 under the action of an external force.

[0059] As previously stated, each clamping member 300 includes three engaging members 340, therefore the two clamping members 300 together include six engaging members 340. Here, "at least one engaging member 340 includes the elastomer 341" means that at least one of the six engaging members 340 includes the elastomer 341. That is, in some examples, only one engaging member 340 includes the elastomer 341; in some examples, two engaging members 340 include the elastomer 341; in some examples, three engaging members 340 include the elastomer 341; in some examples, four engaging members 340 include the elastomer 341; in some examples, five engaging members 340 include the elastomer 341; and in some examples, all six engaging members 340 include the elastomer 341. It should be noted that when there are two or three of the connecting members 340 that include the elastic body 341, all the connecting members 340 that include the elastic body 341 can be located in the same clamping member 300 or can be located in two clamping members 300 respectively. This embodiment of the present invention does not limit this.

[0060] The state of the elastic element 341 when the clamping member 300 is in the closed state is referred to as the first state, and the state of the elastic element 341 when the proximal end of the capturing arm 320 is away from the clamping piece 310 is referred to as the second state. The elastic element 341 in the first state deforms relative to the elastic element 341 in its natural state to achieve the purpose of pre-storing elastic potential energy. During the movement of the proximal end of the capturing arm 320 away from the corresponding clamping piece 310 under the action of an external force, the elastic element 341 further deforms based on the first state to further store elastic potential energy and switches to the second state. It should be noted that the elastic element 341 in its natural state does not deform and does not store elastic potential energy. It should also be noted that when the proximal end of the capturing wall 320 is away from the clamping piece 310, the clamping member 300 may be in one of the following states: between the closed state and the capturing state, the capturing state, between the capturing state and the extended state, or the extended state.

[0061] It is understood that when the external force causing the proximal end of the capture arm 320 to move away from the corresponding clamp 310 is removed, the elastomer 341 releases some elastic potential energy to switch from the second state to the first state, while simultaneously driving the proximal end of the capture arm 320 to move closer to the corresponding clamp 310. Here, the external force refers to a force from outside the valve clamp 10 itself, such as a force from the operator or a force from the valve leaflet.

[0062] The valve clip 10 is implanted in the heart to perform edge-to-edge repair of a mitral valve that has developed regurgitation. In application, the proximal end of the valve clip 10 is detachably connected to a push rod (not shown), and the second base 200 is detachably connected to the distal end of an operating lever 20. The procedure for implanting the valve clip 10 into the heart is as follows:

[0063] Step S1: Using the push rod, the valve clamp 10 is pushed into the heart along a vascular pathway and reaches the mitral valve. During this process, the clamp 300 is in the closed state, and the elastic body 341 is in the first state.

[0064] Step S2: Apply a force from proximal to distal end to the second base 200 via the control lever 20 to drive the second base 200 to move in the proximal-distal direction, thereby driving the proximal end of the capture arm 320 to move away from the corresponding clamp 310 until the clamping member 300 switches to the capture state. During this process, the elastic body 341 deforms and further stores elastic potential energy, that is, the elastic body 341 switches from the first state to the second state.

[0065] Step S3: Apply a force from proximal to distal end to the control lever 20 to keep the valve clamp 10 in the capture state. At the same time, adjust the position of the valve clamp 10 so that the anterior leaflet of the mitral valve enters between one capture arm 320 and the corresponding clamp 310, and the posterior leaflet enters between the other capture arm 320 and the corresponding clamp 310. The operator judges whether the relative positions of the two leaflets of the mitral valve (i.e., the anterior leaflet and the posterior leaflet) and the valve clamp 10 are appropriate. If appropriate, proceed to step S4; if inappropriate, proceed to step S5.

[0066] Step S4: Stop applying the force from the proximal end to the distal end to the second base 200, or apply the force from the distal end to the proximal end to the second base 200 through the control lever 20, so that the elastic body 341 returns to the first state and releases part of the elastic potential energy, and so that the second base 200 moves in the direction from the distal end to the proximal end until the clamping member 300 switches to the closed state, thereby so that the two clamping members 300 respectively clamp the two leaflets of the mitral valve.

[0067] Step S5: Apply a proximal-to-distal force to the second base 200 via the control lever 20 to drive the second base 200 to move further proximal-to-distal until the clamping member 300 switches to the extended state, allowing the mitral valve leaflets to disengage from the valve clamp 10. Then return to step S2 and subsequent steps.

[0068] Those skilled in the art will know that after step S4 is completed, the operator will disconnect the control lever 20 from the second base 200 and the push rod from the valve clamp 10, and remove the control lever 20 and the push rod from the body, so that the valve clamp 10 remains in the body as an implant.

[0069] The valve clamp 10, placed in the body, moves with the cardiac cycle. During systole, the valve clamp 10 remains closed to reduce or even eliminate mitral regurgitation. During diastole, the mitral valve tends to open, and each leaflet exerts a force away from the corresponding clip 310 on its corresponding capture arm 320 (i.e., the leaflet exerts an external force on the capture arm 320), causing the proximal end of the capture arm 320 to move slightly away from the corresponding clip 310. This reduces the force exerted by the clamp 300 on the leaflet, thereby reducing or eliminating the possibility of leaflet tearing. It is understood that during the process of the proximal end of the capture arm 320 moving slightly away from the corresponding clip 310, the elastic body 341 deforms and switches to the second state. When the heart enters systole again, the mitral valve closes and the leaflets of the mitral valve no longer exert force on the corresponding capture arm 320 (i.e., the external force is canceled). At this time, the elastic body 341 returns to the first state and drives the proximal end of the capture arm 320 to move closer to the clip 310 to re-clamp the leaflets.

[0070] It should be noted that during diastole, the proximal end of the capture arm 320 moves very little, so that the clamping member 300 is in a state between the closed state and the capture state, and this state will not cause the leaflet to detach from the valve clamp 10.

[0071] The structure of the valve clamp 10 will now be described with reference to a preferred embodiment.

[0072] For ease of description, the two components connected by each of the connecting members 340 are referred to as the first object and the second object, respectively. That is, for the connecting member 340 connected between the connecting arm 330 and the second base 200, the corresponding first object is one of the connecting arm 330 and the second base 200, and the second object is the other of the connecting arm 330 and the second base 200; for the connecting member 340 connected between the connecting arm 330 and the capturing arm 320, the corresponding first object is one of the connecting arm 330 and the capturing arm 320, and the second object is the other of the connecting arm 330 and the capturing arm 320; for the connecting member 340 connected between the capturing arm 320 and the first base 100, the corresponding first object is one of the capturing arm 320 and the first base 100, and the second object is the other of the capturing arm 320 and the first base 100.

[0073] like Figures 1 to 7 , Figure 9 As shown, each of the couplings 340 includes a pivot 342, and each pivot 342 connects a first object and a corresponding second object. Optionally, the first object has a third coupling hole 103 with a circular cross-section, and the second object has a fourth coupling hole 104 with a non-circular cross-section. The pivot 342 includes an axially connected shaft body 3421 and a second coupling portion 3422. The shaft body 3421 has a circular cross-section, and the second coupling portion 3422 has a non-circular cross-section, specifically the same shape as the cross-section of the third coupling hole 102. The shaft body 3421 passes at least partially through the third coupling hole 103 on the corresponding first object, and the second coupling portion 3422 passes at least partially through the fourth coupling hole 102 on the corresponding second object.

[0074] Optionally, the second object is provided with a receiving groove 105, and each of the two opposite groove walls of the receiving groove 105 is provided with a third engaging hole 103. The first object is partially disposed within the receiving groove 105. The rotating shaft 342 includes two second engaging portions 3422, which are respectively connected to the two axial ends of the shaft body 3421, and each second engaging portion 3422 is at least partially inserted into one of the fourth engaging holes 104.

[0075] In a specific example, for the connector 340 located between the connecting arm 330 and the second base 200, the connecting arm 330, as the first object, has the third engagement hole 103 at its distal end, and the second base 200, as the second object, has the receiving groove 105, with a fourth engagement hole 104 on each of the two opposite groove walls of the receiving groove 105. The shaft body 3421 of the rotating shaft 342 of the connector 340 located between the connecting arm 330 and the second base 200 at least partially passes through the third engagement hole 103, one second engagement portion 3422 is at least partially inserted into one of the fourth engagement holes 104 of the second base 200, and the other second engagement portion 3422 is at least partially inserted into the other fourth engagement hole 104 of the second base 200. For the coupling member 340 located between the connecting arm 330 and the capturing arm 320, the connecting arm 330, as the first object, has a third engagement hole 103 provided on its proximal end. The capturing arm 320, as the second object, has a receiving groove 105 formed in its middle, and a fourth engagement hole 104 is provided on each of the two opposite groove walls of the receiving groove 105. The shaft body 3421 of the rotating shaft 342 of the coupling member 340 located between the connecting arm 330 and the capturing arm 320 passes at least partially through the third engagement hole 103 at the proximal end of the connecting arm 330, a second engagement portion 3422 passes at least partially through one of the fourth engagement holes 104 in the middle of the capturing arm 320, and another second engagement portion 3422 passes at least partially through another fourth engagement hole 104 in the middle of the capturing arm 320. For the connector 340 located between the capture arm 320 and the first base 100, the first base 100 serves as the first object and is provided with the third engagement hole 103. The capture arm 320 serves as the second object, and its distal end forms the receiving groove 105. A fourth engagement hole 104 is provided on each of the two opposing groove walls of the receiving groove 105. The shaft body 3421 of the rotating shaft 342 of the connector 340 located between the capture arm 320 and the first base 100 at least partially passes through the engagement hole 103 on the first base 100; one second engagement portion 3422 at least partially passes through one of the fourth engagement holes 104 on the distal end of the capture arm 320; and another second engagement portion 3422 at least partially passes through another fourth engagement hole 104 on the distal end of the capture arm 320.

[0076] Optionally, the receiving groove 105 in the middle of the capturing arm 320 is interconnected with the receiving groove 105 at its distal end to form a whole.

[0077] In the coupling 340 including the elastic body 341, the elastic body 341 can be disposed at any suitable position between the corresponding first object and the second object, and one axial end of the elastic body 341 is connected to the corresponding first object, such that the relative position between the axial end of the elastic body 341 and the corresponding first object remains unchanged, and the other axial end of the elastic body 341 is connected to the corresponding second object, such that the relative position between the other axial end of the elastic body 341 and the corresponding second object remains unchanged. In this way, when the proximal end of the capturing arm 320 moves away from the corresponding clamp 310, causing the corresponding first object and the second object to rotate relative to each other, the elastic body 341 can undergo torsional deformation and further store elastic potential energy to switch from the first state to the second state. Conversely, when the elastic body 341 returns from the second state to the first state and releases part of the elastic potential energy, it also drives the corresponding first object and the second object to rotate relative to each other.

[0078] Optionally, such as Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the elastic element 341 includes an elastic body 3411 and two first engaging portions 3412, each connected to one of the two axial ends of the elastic body 3411. For the first object and the second object corresponding to the engaging element 340 including the elastic body 341, the first object has a first engaging hole 101, and the second object has a second engaging hole 102. One of the first engaging portions 3412 of the elastic element 341 is at least partially inserted into the first engaging hole 101, and the other first engaging portion 3412 is at least partially inserted into the second engaging hole 102, such that the relative position of one axial end of the elastic element 341 with the corresponding first object remains unchanged, and the relative position of the other axial end of the elastic element 341 with the corresponding second object remains unchanged.

[0079] For example, when the coupling member 340 located between the connecting arm 330 and the second base 200 includes the elastic body 341, the connecting arm 330 can be used as the first object, the second base 200 can be used as the second object, and the first engagement hole 101 is provided at the distal end of the connecting arm 330, and the second engagement hole 102 is provided on the second base 200. Thus, one first engagement portion 3412 of the elastic body 341 of the coupling member 340 located between the connecting arm 330 and the second base 200 is at least partially inserted into the first engagement hole 101 at the distal end of the connecting arm 330, and the other first engagement portion 3412 is at least partially inserted into the second engagement hole 102 on the second base 200, such that the relative position of one axial end of the elastic body 341 of the coupling member 340 between the connecting arm 330 and the second base 200 with respect to the connecting arm 330 remains unchanged, and the relative position of the other axial end with respect to the second base 200 remains unchanged.

[0080] For example, when the coupling member 340 located between the connecting arm 330 and the capturing arm 320 includes the elastic body 341, the connecting arm 330 can be used as the first object, the capturing arm 320 as the second object, and the first engagement hole 101 is provided at the proximal end of the connecting arm 330, and the second engagement hole 102 is provided at the middle part of the capturing arm 320, such that one of the first engagement portions 3412 of the elastic body 341 of the coupling member 340 located between the connecting arm 330 and the capturing arm 320 is at least partially inserted into the first engagement hole 101 at the proximal end of the connecting arm 330, and the other first engagement portion 3412 is at least partially inserted into the second engagement hole 102 at the middle part of the capturing arm 320, such that the relative position of one axial end of the elastic body 341 of the coupling member 340 located between the connecting arm 330 and the capturing arm 320 with respect to the connecting arm 330 remains unchanged, and the relative position of the other axial end with respect to the capturing arm 320 remains unchanged.

[0081] For example, when the connecting member 340 located between the capture arm 320 and the first base 100 includes the elastic body 341, the first base 100 can be used as the first object, the capture arm 320 as the second object, and a second engaging hole 102 is provided at the distal end of the capture arm 320, while a first engaging hole 101 is provided on the first base 100. Thus, one first engaging portion 3412 of the elastic body 341 of the connecting member 340 located between the capture arm 320 and the first base 100 is at least partially inserted into the second engaging hole 102 at the distal end of the capture arm 320, and the other first engaging portion 3412 is at least partially inserted into the first engaging hole 101 on the first base 100, such that the relative position of one axial end of the elastic body 341 of the connecting member 340 between the capture arm 320 and the first base 100 with respect to the capture arm 320 remains unchanged, and the relative position of the other axial end with respect to the first base 100 remains unchanged.

[0082] It should be noted that the two first joint portions 3412 can be identical, and correspondingly, the first joint hole 101 and the second joint hole 102 are also identical.

[0083] In this embodiment of the invention, the elastic body 341 may be a spring (e.g., Figures 1 to 7 , Figure 9 (As shown), it can also be other elastic elements with sufficient stiffness and elasticity, as long as the elastic element 341 can keep the clamping member 300 in the closed state under the action of the pre-stored elastic potential energy, and can torsionally deform when the proximal end of the capturing arm 320 moves away from the corresponding clamping piece 310. It is understood that the spring includes, but is not limited to, a torsion spring.

[0084] Preferably, the elastic body 341 is sleeved on the corresponding rotating shaft 342. This can improve the smoothness of the elastic body 341 during the process of switching from the first state to the second state and from the second state to the first state, and prevent the elastic body 341 from twisting.

[0085] It is understood that the spring is a three-dimensional helical structure made of spirally wound wire. When the elastic element 341 includes the spring, the elastic body 3411 includes the three-dimensional helical structure, and the two first joints 3412 can be respectively connected to the two axial ends of the wire. Furthermore, the two first joints 3412 and the wire are an integral structure.

[0086] Optionally, the shaft body 3421 is divided into three segments, namely a first segment 34211 and two second segments 34212 (e.g., ...). Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown), two second segments 34212 are respectively connected to the axial ends of the first segment 34211. The first segment 34211 is used to at least partially pass through the third engagement hole 103, and each second segment 34212 is at least partially located between the corresponding first object and the second object.

[0087] In the coupling 340 that includes the elastic body 341, there are two elastic bodies 341, and the two elastic bodies 341 correspond one-to-one with the two second segments 34212 of the corresponding rotating shaft 342, with each elastic body 341 being sleeved on a corresponding second segment 34212.

[0088] Furthermore, in the coupling member 300 including the elastomer 341, the outer peripheral surface of the second segment 34212 is provided with a friction-enhancing pattern 34213 to enhance the friction between the elastomer 341 and the second segment 34212. This makes it easier for the elastomer 34212 to torsion deform and switch from the first state to the second state as it moves away from the corresponding clamp 310 at the proximal end of the capture arm 320, and also makes it easier to switch from the second state to the first state.

[0089] Furthermore, the first base 100 is provided with a through hole (not shown) extending axially through the valve clamp 10. The valve clamp 10 may also include a spacer 400. The spacer 400 extends axially along the valve clamp 10, its distal end is connected to the first base 100, and surrounds the outer periphery of the through hole. The spacer 400 is provided with a clearance channel (not shown) extending axially through the valve clamp 10, communicating with the through hole. Thus, the distal end of the operating lever 20 can be detachably connected to the second base 200 after passing through the clearance channel and the through hole. The spacer 400 includes an elastic member formed of nickel-titanium material, which can seal the gap between the anterior and posterior leaflets after the valve clamp 10 captures the leaflets. In addition, a third base 500 is provided at the proximal end of the spacer 400, the third base 500 being used for detachable connection with the conveyor.

[0090] Furthermore, a second objective of this invention is to provide a valve clamp assembly, the valve clamp assembly including the aforementioned valve clamp 10 and the control lever 200, the distal end of the control lever 200 being detachably connected to the second base 200.

[0091] While the present invention has been disclosed above, it is not limited thereto. Those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations to the present invention without departing from its spirit and scope. Therefore, if such modifications and variations fall within the scope of the claims and their equivalents, the present invention also intends to include such modifications and variations.

Claims

1. A valve clamp, characterized in that, include: First base; The second base is located on the distal side of the first base; as well as, Two clamping elements are arranged at intervals around the valve clamp; The clamping component includes a clamping plate, a capturing arm, a connecting arm, and three engaging components; The distal end of the clamp is connected to the first base; the distal end of the connecting arm is rotatably connected to the second base via one of the couplings, the proximal end of the connecting arm is rotatably connected to the capturing arm via another coupling, and the distal end of the capturing arm is rotatably connected to the first base via yet another coupling, so as to allow the proximal end of the capturing arm to move away from or towards the clamp. At least one of the engagement members includes an elastomer configured to pre-store elastic potential energy to keep the proximal end of each of the capture arms close to the corresponding clamp; the elastomer is also configured to deform and further store elastic potential energy as the proximal end of the capture arm moves away from the corresponding clamp.

2. The valve clamp according to claim 1, characterized in that, All of the aforementioned joints include the elastomer.

3. The valve clamp according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The coupling also includes a pivot; In the coupling including the elastomer, the elastomer is sleeved on the pivot shaft, and the elastomer torsional deforms as the proximal end of the capture arm moves away from the corresponding clamp.

4. The valve clamp according to claim 3, characterized in that, The rotating shaft includes a shaft body with a circular cross-section. The shaft body includes a first segment and two second segments connected to the axial ends of the first segment. The first segment is located inside a first object, and each second segment is located between the first object and the second object. In the joint including the elastomer, each of the second segments is fitted with one of the elastomers; When the first object is one of the capture arm and the first base, the second object is the other of the capture arm and the first base; When the first object is one of the capture arm and the connecting arm, the second object is the other of the capture arm and the connecting arm; When the first object is one of the connecting arm and the second base, the second object is the other of the connecting arm and the second base.

5. The valve clamp according to claim 4, characterized in that, The outer peripheral surface of the first segment is smooth; In the joint including the elastomer, the outer peripheral surface of the second segment is provided with a friction-enhancing pattern.

6. The valve clamp according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The elastic body includes a spring.

7. The valve clamp according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, When the coupling between the first object and the second object includes the elastic element, one axial end of the elastic element is connected to the first object and its relative position with the first object remains unchanged, and the other axial end of the elastic element is connected to the second object and its relative position with the second object remains unchanged, so that the elastic element deforms as the proximal end of the capture arm moves away from the corresponding clip. When the first object is one of the capture arm and the first base, the second object is the other of the capture arm and the first base; When the first object is one of the capture arm and the connecting arm, the second object is the other of the capture arm and the connecting arm; When the first object is one of the connecting arm and the second base, the second object is the other of the connecting arm and the second base.

8. The valve clamp according to claim 7, characterized in that, The elastic element includes an elastic body and a first joint, and there are two first joints, which are respectively connected to the two ends of the elastic body in the axial direction. When the coupling between the first object and the second object includes the elastic member, the first object is provided with a first coupling hole and the second object is provided with a second coupling hole; one of the first coupling portions of the elastic member is at least partially inserted into the first coupling hole and the other of the first coupling portions is at least partially inserted into the second coupling hole.

9. The valve clamp according to claim 3, characterized in that, The rotating shaft includes an axially connected shaft body and a second joint. The cross-section of the shaft body is circular, and the cross-section of the second joint is non-circular. Each of the aforementioned couplings connects a first object and a second object; the first object has a third coupling hole with a circular cross-section; the second object has a fourth coupling hole with a non-circular cross-section. The shaft body of the connecting shaft passes through the third engagement hole at least partially, and the second engagement portion passes through the fourth engagement hole at least partially. When the first object is one of the capture arm and the first base, the second object is the other of the capture arm and the first base; When the first object is one of the capture arm and the connecting arm, the second object is the other of the capture arm and the connecting arm; When the first object is one of the connecting arm and the second base, the second object is the other of the connecting arm and the second base.

10. A valve clamp assembly, characterized in that, The device includes a valve clamp and a lever as described in any one of claims 1-9, wherein a first base has a through hole extending through the valve clamp along the axial direction of the valve clamp, the distal end of the lever passes through the through hole and is detachably connected to a second base, and the lever is capable of driving the first base to move along the axial direction of the valve clamp under the action of an external force.

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