An apparatus for percutaneously replacing a diseased cardiac valve
includes an expandable support member for positioning in an atrial
chamber. The expandable support member includes at least one anchoring
portion for anchoring in at least one opening that extends from the
atrial chamber and a main body portion located adjacent the at least one
anchoring portion. The main body portion has a cage-like structure and is
adapted to conform to a size and shape of the atrial chamber. An
expandable ring is selectively connected to the main body portion. The
expandable ring is adapted to engage an annulus of the diseased cardiac
valve. A prosthetic valve is attached to the expandable ring. The
prosthetic valve is adapted to replace the diseased cardiac valve. A
method for percutaneously replacing a diseased cardiac valve is also
described.