Robert van Tassel

CoAptus Medical Corporation is an early stage medical device company developing a therapeutic product for the treatment of a structural heart defect called a patent foramen ovale, or PFO. A PFO is a flap-like opening, or tunnel between the upper chambers of the heart. Normally, this passageway closes shortly after birth. However, in approximately 25% of the population, the passageway remains open or patent, and may permit the passage of blood clots or chemicals that would normally be filtered by the lungs to pass into the left heart and into the arterial circulation of the body including the brain. PFO's have been associated with stroke, transient ischemic attacks (TIA's), and migraine headaches. CoAptus is developing a non-implant, therapeutic catheter device to coapt the tunnel tissues closed and apply RF energy for a permanent seal. Nothing is left behind in the heart after the procedure is completed.

InterValve, Inc. operates as a medical device company which develops aortic valvuloplasty balloons for treatment of calcific aortic stenosis. Its V8 product is enhanced with leaflet hyperextension without increasing the risk of annulus over-distension. The firm also develops tools for the percutaneous and trans-apical aortic valve replacement procedure. The company was founded by Wes Pedersen, Mark Ungs, Robert S. Schwartz and Robert A. Van Tassel in 2008 and is headquartered in Plymouth, MN.

Atritech, Inc. is a private company that provides therapies to treat patients suffering from atrial fibrillation. They offer their services to clients who are at increased risk of stroke by offering permanent alternatives to medications. The company was founded in 2000 and is headquartered in Plymouth, MN.

Abbott Northwestern Hospital provides healthcare services. The firm also provides comprehensive health care services to patients and their families. The company was founded by Harriet G. Walker in 1882 and is headquartered in Minneapolis, MN.

Tricardia Ventures LLC provides investment services. It seeks to acquire in the development of promising technology in the field of cardiovascular medicine. The company is headquartered in Eden Prairie, MN.

Sinus Rhythm Technologies, Inc. develops devices for the prevention of atrial fibrillation. It treats causes of atrial fibrillation with an implanted apparatus that creates scar tissue and blocks electrical current. The company was founded by Robert A. van Tassel and Daniel J. Sullivan is headquartered in Plymouth, MN.