Rachel Ann Cooney

Title: Innovations by Rachel Ann Cooney in Heart Valve Technology

Introduction

Rachel Ann Cooney is a prominent inventor based in Costa Mesa, CA, known for her significant contributions to heart valve technology. With a total of three patents to her name, she has made remarkable advancements in the field of medical devices, particularly in the sterilization and sealing of heart valves.

Latest Patents

One of her latest patents is a method for sterilizing heart valves. This innovative method involves compressing a compressible frame of a heart valve from an expanded configuration to a crimped configuration. The heart valve comprises the frame and a plurality of leaflets made from dry, unfixed, decellularized, antigen-free biological tissue. These leaflets are treated with a solution containing a polyol or polyhydric alcohol. The heart valve is then packaged within a sealed packaging system while in the crimped configuration and sterilized using cycles of electron beam radiation.

Another notable patent is for heart valve sealing devices and delivery devices. This device is designed for treating a native valve and includes a sealing element made from a braided mesh material. The sealing element is dimensioned to be deployed in the annulus of a native valve of the heart, creating a seal to prevent regurgitation of blood during ventricular systole. The anchoring element is coupled to the sealing element and supports it at the desired position between native valve leaflets.

Career Highlights

Rachel Ann Cooney works at Edwards Lifesciences Corporation, a leading company in the field of heart valve technology. Her work has been instrumental in developing innovative solutions that enhance the effectiveness and safety of heart valve procedures.

Collaborations

Throughout her career, Rachel has collaborated with talented individuals such as Alex Philip McCann and Grant Matthew Stearns. These collaborations have contributed to her success and the advancement of heart valve technology.

Conclusion

Rachel Ann Cooney's innovative work in heart valve technology has led to significant advancements in medical devices. Her patents reflect her commitment to improving patient outcomes and enhancing the safety of heart valve procedures.