A device and method for improving flow through a native blood vessel
valve, such as the aortic valve, are provided. The present invention
allows a miniature valve to be implanted into affected leaflets
percutaneously, obviating the need for coronary bypass surgery. The
method includes the cutting of small holes, on the order of 4 mm, in the
leaflets of a targeted valve, thereby allowing blood to flow through the
newly formed holes. The holes are used as attachment sites for the
miniature valves of the present invention.