Jerry Lee Hodge

Title: Innovations by Jerry Lee Hodge in Heart Valve Prostheses

Introduction

Jerry Lee Hodge is an accomplished inventor based in Austin, Texas. He has made significant contributions to the field of medical devices, particularly in the area of heart valve prostheses. His innovative approach has led to the development of a unique method for inserting occluders in prosthetic heart valves.

Latest Patents

Hodge holds a patent for a method and apparatus of inserting occluder(s) in heart valve prostheses. This patent describes a technique where one or more occluders are inserted into the housing of a prosthetic heart valve by compressing the housing at four discrete locations. This compression causes the housing to deform sufficiently, allowing for the insertion of occluders between diametrically opposed pivot supports on the inner surface of the housing. The method identifies appropriate locations for applying compressive forces, which can be executed using either pin blocks or v-shaped blocks. Once the occluders are inserted, the compressive forces are released, allowing the housing to return to its unstressed generally annular shape, thereby securing the occluders in place.

Career Highlights

Hodge is currently associated with Sulzer Carbomedics Inc., where he continues to innovate in the field of medical devices. His work has been instrumental in advancing the technology used in heart valve prostheses, contributing to improved patient outcomes.

Collaborations

Hodge collaborates with John Kenneth Ryder, who is also involved in the development of medical technologies. Their partnership has fostered an environment of innovation and creativity, leading to advancements in heart valve prosthesis technology.

Conclusion

Jerry Lee Hodge's contributions to the field of heart valve prostheses exemplify the impact of innovative thinking in medical technology. His patented method for inserting occluders represents a significant advancement in the design and functionality of prosthetic heart valves.