Company Filing History:
Years Active: 2011-2019
Title: Hugues Lafrance: Innovator in Prosthetic Valve Technology
Introduction
Hugues Lafrance, based in Mission Viejo, California, is an esteemed inventor with a remarkable portfolio of 8 patents. His contributions to the field of medical technology, particularly in prosthetic heart valves, showcase his commitment to innovation and improving patient outcomes.
Latest Patents
Among Lafrance's latest innovations are two groundbreaking prosthetic valve designs. The first is a **prosthetic mitral valve** featuring a compressible and expandable base structure. This design is circumferentially oval, elliptical, or D-shaped, with specific major and minor axis ratios. It incorporates a primary member surrounded by a secondary member, with three flexible leaflets arranged in a tri-foil configuration. An atrial ring at the inflow end further enhances its functionality.
The second innovation is a **prosthetic valve with ventricular tethers**, which integrates a support frame and valve leaflets with tethers designed to connect to papillary muscles or other ventricular tissue. This unique design avoids interference with valve leaflet movement while providing a secure tethering mechanism, showcasing Lafrance's forward-thinking approach in prosthetic development.
Career Highlights
Lafrance has made significant strides in the medical device industry as a key figure at Edwards Lifesciences Corporation. His work not only highlights his inventive spirit but also reflects his dedication to advancing cardiovascular health solutions. His 8 patents underscore his prolific contributions to the field, making him a respected name among innovators.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Lafrance has collaborated with esteemed colleagues such as Alain F. Carpentier and Hung Ly Lam. These partnerships foster innovation and underscore the collaborative nature of advancements in medical technology, as shared expertise accelerates the development of cutting-edge solutions.
Conclusion
Hugues Lafrance epitomizes the spirit of innovation in the realm of medical inventions. His advancements in prosthetic valve technology significantly impact many lives, exemplifying how dedicated inventors can transform healthcare through their ingenuity and collaborative efforts.
Inventor’s Patent Attorneys refers to legal professionals with specialized expertise in representing inventors throughout the patent process. These attorneys assist inventors in navigating the complexities of patent law, including filing patent applications, conducting patent searches, and protecting intellectual property rights. They play a crucial role in helping inventors secure patents for their innovative creations.