Perfusion balloon design

Abstract

This application relates to perfusion balloon design. This document discloses designs of improved expandable structures for use in minimally invasive cardiovascular procedures. These expandable structures facilitate blood perfusion through anatomical structures, such as heart valves, during cardiovascular procedures. The expandable structure is formed by a plurality of balloons arranged radially around a central location. These plurality of balloons form a cavity through which blood flows. Each of the plurality of balloons is shaped or configured to stabilize adjacent balloons, restricting their relative movement to each other. For example, some embodiments may feature a balloon with a trapezoidal shape that restricts inward movement of the balloon toward the cavity. Some embodiments may also include a support coil extending through the cavity. This support coil keeps the cavity open for perfusion even in the early stages of balloon inflation.

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