| abstract |
An implantable support device that is applied externally about a vein at an incompetent venous valve site which device serves to flatten or compress but not occlude the vein. Flattening is induced generally normal to the coapting edges of the valve cusps restoring the competence of the valve by causing an elongating tension to be applied to the free edges of the cusps to bring them into apposition. In the preferred embodiment, the support has opposed compression members fabricated from a biocompatible material and incorporates a reinforcing or spring-like member such as stainless steel wire to provide strength and rigidity. |