FOLDING APPARATUS FOR AN IMPLANTABLE PROSTHETIC VALVE ASSEMBLY AND METHOD OF USING THE SAME

摘要

An implantable prosthetic valve assembly having a frame comprising a first frame portion and a second frame portion connected end-to-end exhibits enhanced rigidity. Each frame portion includes a plurality of circumferential struts formed with multiple bends, with the bends of the first frame portion having angles that are less than the bends of the second frame portion. Some embodiments of the frame have a semi-collapsed state in which the first frame portion is frustoconical and the second frame portion is generally cylindrical. A valve member is attached to the first frame portion.