U.S. patent application number 10/410279 was filed with the patent office on 2003-09-25 for endovascular splinting devices and methods.
This patent application is currently assigned to Myocor, Inc.. Invention is credited to Kalgreen, Jason, Keith, Peter T., Mortier, Todd, Schroeder, Richard F., Schweich, Cyril J. JR., Simmon, Marc, Vidlund, Robert M..
Application Number | 20030181928 10/410279 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 24727366 |
Filed Date | 2003-09-25 |
United States Patent
Application |
20030181928 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Vidlund, Robert M. ; et
al. |
September 25, 2003 |
Endovascular splinting devices and methods
Abstract
A method for placing a splint assembly transverse a heart
chamber includes providing an elongate member having a first end
and a second end and a deployable heart-engaging assembly connected
to at least the first end. The method includes advancing the
elongate member through vasculature structure and into the heart
chamber such that the first end of the elongate member extends
through a first location of a wall surrounding the heart chamber
and the second end extends through a second location of the heart
chamber wall substantially opposite the first location. A
deployable heart-engaging assembly is deployed such that it engages
with a first exterior surface portion of the heart chamber wall
adjacent the first location. The elongate member is secured with
respect to the heart with a second heart-engaging assembly
connected to the second end. The second heart-engaging assembly
engages with a second exterior surface portion of the heart chamber
wall adjacent the second location. A splint assembly includes an
expandable heart-engaging assembly formed partially from portions
forming the elongate member of the splint assembly. A delivery tool
includes a tubular member configured to be advanced through
vasculature structure and has a curved distal end.
Inventors: |
Vidlund, Robert M.;
(Maplewood, MN) ; Simmon, Marc; (Becker, MN)
; Mortier, Todd; (Minneapolis, MN) ; Schweich,
Cyril J. JR.; (St. Paul, MN) ; Keith, Peter T.;
(St. Paul, MN) ; Schroeder, Richard F.; (Fridley,
MN) ; Kalgreen, Jason; (North Plymouth, MN) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Susanne T. Jones
FINNEGAN, HENDERSON, FARABOW,
GARRETT & DUNNER, L.L.P.
1300 I Street, N.W.
Washington
DC
20005-3315
US
|
Assignee: |
Myocor, Inc.
|
Family ID: |
24727366 |
Appl. No.: |
10/410279 |
Filed: |
April 10, 2003 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
10410279 |
Apr 10, 2003 |
|
|
|
09679550 |
Oct 6, 2000 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
606/151 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B 2017/0409 20130101;
A61B 2017/0437 20130101; A61B 17/00234 20130101; A61B 2017/0496
20130101; A61B 2017/00243 20130101; A61B 2017/0404 20130101; A61B
2017/0412 20130101; A61B 2017/00907 20130101; A61B 2017/003
20130101; A61B 2017/0464 20130101; A61B 90/39 20160201; A61B 17/064
20130101; A61B 2017/00557 20130101; A61B 2017/048 20130101; A61F
2/2487 20130101; A61B 17/0682 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
606/151 |
International
Class: |
A61B 017/08 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A method for placing a splint assembly transverse a heart
chamber, the method comprising: providing an elongate member having
a first end and a second end and a deployable heart-engaging
assembly connected to said first end; advancing the elongate member
through vasculature structure and into the heart chamber such that
the first end of the elongate member extends through a first
location of a heart chamber wall and the second end extends through
a second location of a heart chamber wall substantially opposite
the first location; deploying the deployable heart-engaging
assembly such that it engages with a first exterior surface of a
heart chamber wall adjacent the first location; and securing the
elongate member with respect to the heart chamber with a second
heart-engaging assembly connected to the second end, said second
heart-engaging assembly engaging with a second exterior surface of
a heart chamber wall adjacent the second location.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein the chamber is a left ventricle
of the heart.
3. The method of claim 2, wherein the elongate member is advanced
through a guide device endovascularly inserted into the right
ventricle.
4. The method of claim 3, wherein the guide device is a
catheter.
5. The method of claim 3, wherein inserting the guide device
includes extending the guide device across the left ventricle from
the right ventricle through the first location on a free wall
surrounding the left ventricle and through the second location on a
septal wall.
6. The method of claim 3, wherein inserting the guide device
includes stabilizing the guide device with respect to the left
ventricle.
7. The method of claim 6, wherein the stabilizing includes
inflating balloons disposed proximate a distal end of the guide
device.
8. The method of claim 7, wherein the stabilizing includes
inflating a first balloon adjacent the first exterior surface of
the heart chamber wall and a second balloon adjacent an interior
surface of the heart chamber wall.
9. The method of claim 2, wherein the inserting includes inserting
a guide device into the left ventricle without first entering
another heart chamber.
10. The method of claim 9, wherein the guide device includes a
first guide member and a second guide member, said first guide
member being configured to extend toward a first interior surface
of the chamber wall at the first location and said second guide
member being configured to extend toward a second interior surface
of the chamber wall at the second location.
11. The method of claim 10, wherein the inserting includes
stabilizing said first guide member at the first interior surface
and the second guide member at the second interior surface.
12. The method of claim 11, wherein the stabilizing includes
inflating balloons disposed proximate the distal end of each of the
first and second guide members.
13. The method of claim 12, wherein the stabilizing includes
inflating a first balloon on each of the first and second guide
members adjacent the first and second exterior surfaces of the
chamber wall respectively and a second balloon on each of the guide
members adjacent the first and second interior surfaces of the
chamber wall.
14. The method of claim 10, wherein the first and second guide
members are adjustably curvable catheters.
15. The method of claim 1, wherein the deploying the first
heart-engaging assembly includes expanding at least a portion of
the assembly.
16. The method of claim 15, wherein the expanding includes applying
a outwardly directed force from within the portion of the
assembly.
17. The method of claim 16, wherein the applying includes inflating
the portion of the assembly.
18. The method of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the first
heart-engaging assembly is integrally formed with the elongate
member.
19. The method of claim 1, wherein the securing with the second
heart-engaging assembly includes adjusting a length of the elongate
member between the first and second locations.
20. The method of claim 19, wherein the adjusting the length
includes changing the cross-sectional shape of the heart
chamber.
21. The method of claim 19, wherein the adjusting the length
includes changing the radius of curvature of the heart chamber.
22. The method of claim 1, further comprising inserting a guide
device through vasculature structure and into the heart, wherein
the advancing includes advancing the elongate member through the
guide device.
23. The method of claim 22, wherein inserting the guide device
includes inserting the guide device through the chamber wall at the
first and second locations.
24. The method of claim 23, wherein the inserting through the
chamber wall includes advancing the guide device over a needle
extending through the chamber wall at the first and second
locations.
25. The method of claim 24, wherein the needle extends from a
distal end of the guide device to extend through the chamber
wall.
26. A splint assembly for treating a heart, the splint assembly
comprising: an elongate member configured to extend transverse a
chamber of the heart; and at least one heart-engaging assembly
formed at least partially from portions forming said elongate
member, said heart-engaging assembly having a collapsed
configuration adapted to travel through a heart wall and an
expanded configuration adapted to engage the heart wall.
27. The splint assembly of claim 26, wherein the elongate member
has a braided configuration.
28. The splint assembly of claim 27, wherein the elongate member is
braided with a plurality of bundles.
29. The splint assembly of claim 26, wherein the heart-engaging
assembly further comprises a collapsible ring, the portions of the
elongate member being secured around the ring.
30. The splint assembly of claim 30, wherein the portions of the
elongate member and the ring form a spoke-like shape in the
expanded configuration.
31. The splint assembly of claim 30, wherein the portions are
bundles forming a braided elongate member.
32. The splint assembly of claim 31, wherein the bundles are
unbraided toward the end of the elongate member forming the
heart-engaging assembly.
33. The splint assembly of claim 29, wherein the ring is made of an
elastic material.
34. The splint assembly of claim 26, wherein the heart-engaging
assembly is configured to be held in the collapsed configuration by
a compressive force.
35. The splint assembly of claim 27, wherein the elongate member is
relatively loosely braided at a location proximate the
heart-engaging assembly.
36. The splint assembly of claim 26, wherein the heart-engaging
assembly includes a wire within the portions of the elongate
member.
37. The splint assembly of claim 36, wherein at least a portion of
the wire has a spiral configuration in the absence of a compressive
force exerted on the wire.
38. The splint assembly of claim 36, wherein at least a portion of
said wire is configured to create an outward force on the portions
of the elongate member to thereby expand the portions.
39. The splint assembly of claim 26, wherein the heart-engaging
assembly includes an inflatable member inserted within the portions
of the elongage member.
40. The splint assembly of claim 39, wherein inflation of the
inflatable member is configured to create an outward force on the
portions of the elongate member to thereby expand the portions.
41. The splint assembly of claim 40, wherein the inflatable member
is configured to be inflated with a hardenable material.
42. A delivery tool for delivering a transventricular splint
assembly to a chamber of the heart, the delivery tool comprising: a
tubular member having a distal end and a proximal end, the distal
end having a curved configuration and the tubular member defining a
lumen configured to carry at least a portion of the splint
assembly; and at least one support mechanism disposed proximate the
distal end of the tubular member, the support mechanism being
configured to stabilize the tubular member with respect to a heart
wall surrounding the chamber, wherein the tubular member is
configured to be advanced through vasculature structure and into
the heart chamber.
43. The delivery tool of claim 42, wherein the support mechanism
includes at least one inflatable member configured to engage the
heart wall.
44. The delivery tool of claim 43, wherein the support mechanism
includes at least two inflatable members, one of the inflatable
members being configured to engage an interior surface portion of
the heart wall and the other of the inflatable members being
configured to engage an exterior surface portion of the heart wall
adjacent the interior surface portion.
45. The delivery tool of claim 44, wherein the two inflatable
members are balloons.
46. The delivery tool of claim 44, wherein the two inflatable
members are in fluid communication with separate lumens defined by
the tubular member.
47. The delivery tool of claim 44, wherein the two inflatable
members are configured to be inflated with a fluid capable of
providing visualization of the members from outside the heart
chamber.
48. The delivery tool of claim 42, wherein the support mechanism
includes a support wire configured to engage the heart wall.
49. The delivery tool of claim 48, wherein the support wire is
configured to engage an interior surface of the heart wall.
50. The delivery tool of claim 49, wherein the support wire is
configured to engage the interior surface of the heart wall at two
substantially opposite locations of the chamber.
51. The delivery tool of claim 42, wherein the tubular member is
configured to be advanced through a portion of the heart wall.
52. The delivery tool of claim 42, further comprising a guidewire
configured to be extended from the tubular member past the distal
end of the tubular member.
53. The delivery tool of claim 42, further comprising: a second
tubular member having a distal end and a proximal end, the distal
end of the second tubular member having a curved configuration and
the second tubular member defining a lumen configured to carry at
least a portion of the splint assembly; and at least one support
mechanism disposed proximate the distal end of the second tubular
member, the support mechanism of the second tubular member being
configured to stabilize the second tubular member with respect to a
heart wall surrounding the chamber, wherein the second tubular
member is configured to be advanced through vasculature structure
and into the heart chamber along with the first tubular member.
54. The delivery tool of claim 53, wherein the first and second
tubular members are configured to be advanced through substantially
opposite portions of the heart wall.
55. The delivery tool of claim 53, wherein the distal ends of the
first and second tubular members curve in substantially opposite
directions when the tubular members are advanced into the heart
chamber.
56. The delivery tool of claim 53, further comprising first and
second guidewires configured to extend respectively from first and
second tubular members past the distal ends of the first and second
tubular members.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention pertains to devices for treating a
failing heart and related methods for placing the devices. In
particular, the invention pertains to splinting devices placed on
the-heart to reduce the radius of curvature and/or alter the
geometry or shape of the heart to thereby reduce wall stress in the
heart and improve the heart's pumping performance. The devices and
methods of the present invention are directed toward endovascular
techniques used to facilitate placement of the splinting devices on
the heart.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Heart failure is a common outcome in the progression of many
forms of heart disease. Heart failure may be considered as the
condition in which an abnormality of cardiac function is
responsible for the inability of the heart to pump blood at a rate
commensurate with the requirements of the metabolizing tissues, or
can do so only at an abnormally elevated filling pressure. There
are many specific disease processes that can lead to heart failure.
Typically these processes result in dilatation of the left
ventricular chamber. Etiologies that can lead to this form of
failure include idiopathic, valvular, viral, and ischemic
cardiomyopathies, including ventricular aneurysms.
[0003] The process of ventricular dilatation is generally the
result of chronic volume overload or specific damage to the
myocardium. In a normal heart that is exposed to long term
increased cardiac output requirements, for example, that of an
athlete, there is: an adaptive process of slight ventricular
dilation and muscle myocyte hypertrophy. In this way, the heart
fully compensates for the increased cardiac output requirements.
With damage to the myocardium or chronic volume overload, however,
there are increased requirements put on the contracting myocardium
to such a level that this compensated state is never achieved and
the heart continues to dilate.
[0004] One problem with a large dilated left ventricle is that
there is a significant increase in wall tension and/or stress both
during diastolic filling and during systolic contraction. In a
normal heart, the adaptation of muscle hypertrophy (thickening) and
ventricular dilatation maintain a fairly constant wall tension for
systolic contraction. However, in a failing heart, the ongoing
dilatation is greater than the hypertrophy and the result is a
rising wall tension requirement for systolic contraction. This is
felt to be an ongoing insult to the muscle myocyte resulting in
further muscle damage. The increase in wall stress also occurs
during diastolic filling. Additionally, because of the lack of
cardiac output, a rise in ventricular filling pressure generally
results from several physiologic mechanisms.
[0005] Moreover, in diastole there is both a diameter increase and
a pressure increase over normal, both contributing to higher wall
stress levels. The increase in diastolic wall stress is felt to be
the primary contributor to ongoing dilatation of the chamber.
[0006] Mitral regurgitation is a condition whereby blood leaks
through the mitral valve due to an improper positioning of the
valve structures that causes the valve not to close entirely.
Geometric abnormalities resulting from a dilated left ventricle may
cause or exacerbate improper functioning of the mitral valve,
including mitral valve regurgitation, by altering the normal
position and dimension of the valve, particularly the valve
annulus.
[0007] Prior treatments for heart failure associated with such
dilatation fall into three general categories. The first being
pharmacological, for example, diuretics and ACE inhibitors. The
second being assist systems, for example, pumps. Finally, surgical
treatments also have been experimented with.
[0008] With respect to pharmacological treatments, diuretics have
been used to reduce the workload of the heart by reducing blood
volume and preload. Diuretics typically reduce extra cellular fluid
which builds in congestive heart failure patients increasing
preload conditions. Nitrates, arteriolar vasodilators, angiotensin
converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors have been used to treat heart
failure through the reduction of cardiac workload by reducing
afterload. Inotropes function to increase cardiac output by
increasing the force and speed of cardiac muscle contraction. These
drug therapies offer some beneficial effects but do not stop the
progression of the disease.
[0009] Assist devices include mechanical pumps. Mechanical pumps
reduce the load on the heart by performing all or part of the
pumping function normally done by the heart. Currently, mechanical
pumps are used to sustain the patient while a donor heart for
transplantation becomes available for the patient.
[0010] There are at least four surgical procedures for treatment of
heart failure associated with dilatation: 1) heart transplantation;
2) dynamic cardiomyoplasty; and 3) the Batista partial left
ventriculectomy, and 4) the Jatene and Dor procedures for ischemic
cardiomyopathy. These procedures are set forth in slightly more
detail in U.S. application Ser. No. 09/532,049, filed Mar. 21,
2000, entitled "Splint Assembly for Improving Cardiac Function in
Hearts, and Method for Implanting the Splint Assembly," the entire
disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein.
Hereinafter, this application will be referred to as "the '049
application."
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0011] Due to the drawbacks and limitations of the previous devices
and techniques for treating a failing heart, including such a heart
having dilated, infarcted, and/or aneurysmal tissue, there exists a
need for alternative methods and devices that are less invasive and
pose less risk to the patient, both after and during placement, and
are likely to possess more clinical utility.
[0012] Thus, a more recent procedure for treating the various forms
of heart failure discussed above includes placing devices on the
heart to reduce the radius of curvature of the heart and/or alter
the cross-sectional shape of the heart to reduce wall stress. The
devices are configured to reduce the tension in the heart wall, and
thereby reverse, stop or slow the disease process of a failing
heart as it reduces the energy consumption of the failing heart,
decreases isovolumetric contraction, increases isotonic contraction
(sarcomere shortening), which in turn increases stroke volume. The
devices reduce wall tension by changing chamber geometry or shape
and/or changing the radius of curvature or cross-section of a heart
chamber. These changes may occur during the entire cardiac cycle or
during only a portion of the cardiac cycle. The devices of the
present invention which reduce heart wall stress in this way can be
referred to generally as "splints." These splints can be in the
form of external devices, as described in U.S. application Ser. No.
09/157,486, filed Sep. 21, 1998, entitled "External Stress
Reduction Device and Method," the entire disclosure of which is
incorporated by reference herein, or in the form of
transventricular elongate tension members with heart-engaging
assemblies, typically in the form of anchor pads, disposed on each
end configured to engage substantially opposite portions of the
chamber wall, embodiments of which are disclosed in the '049
application incorporated above.
[0013] An aspect of the present invention pertains to splint
devices, and related splinting methods, for endovascular
implantation on the heart. The splints of the present invention may
be implanted endovascularly through remote vascular access sites.
The inventive techniques and devices thus are minimally invasive
and less risky to patients.
[0014] The advantages and purpose of the invention will be set
forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be
obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the
invention. The advantages and purpose of the invention will be
realized and attained by means of the elements and combinations
particularly pointed out in the appended claims.
[0015] According to an aspect of the invention, a method for
placing a splint assembly transverse a heart chamber comprises
providing an elongate member having a first end and a second end
and a deployable heart-engaging assembly connected to at least the
first end. The method further includes advancing the elongate
member through vasculature structure and into the heart chamber
such that the first end of the elongate member extends through a
first location of a wall surrounding the heart chamber and the
second end extends through a second location of the heart chamber
wall substantially opposite the first location. A deployable
heart-engaging assembly is deployed such that it engages with a
first exterior surface portion of the heart chamber wall adjacent
the first location. The elongate member is secured with respect to
the heart with a second heart-engaging assembly connected to the
second end. The second heart-engaging assembly engages with a
second exterior surface portion of the heart chamber wall adjacent
the second location.
[0016] Another aspect of the invention includes a splint assembly
for treating a heart, comprising an elongate member configured to
extend transverse a chamber of the heart and at least one
heart-engaging assembly formed at least partially from portions
forming the elongate member. The heart-engaging assembly has a
collapsed configuration adapted to travel through a heart wall and
an expanded configuration adapted to engage the heart wall.
[0017] Yet another aspect of the invention includes a delivery tool
for delivering a transventricular splint assembly to a chamber of
the heart, comprising a tubular member having a distal end and a
proximal end, the distal end having a curved configuration and the
tube defining a lumen configured to carry at least a portion of the
splint assembly. The delivery tool further includes at least one
support mechanism disposed proximate the distal end of the tubular
member, the support mechanism being configured to stabilize the
tubular member with respect to a heart wall surrounding the
chamber. The tubular member is configured to be advanced through
vasculature structure and into the heart chamber.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0018] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and
constitute a part of this specification, illustrate several
embodiments of the invention and together with the description,
serve to explain the principles of the invention. In the
drawings,
[0019] FIG. 1 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the heart
showing a delivery catheter inserted endovascularly into the right
ventricule according to an aspect of the present invention;
[0020] FIG. 2 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the heart
showing a guide wire extending from the catheter of FIG. 1 through
the septal wall, across the left ventricular chamber and into the
free wall according to an aspect of the present invention;
[0021] FIG. 3 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the heart
showing the deliver catheter of FIG. 1 positioned over the
guidewire of FIG. 2 with positioning balloons inflated on either
side of the free wall according to an aspect of the present
invention;
[0022] FIG. 4 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the heart
showing the insertion of a tension member into the delivery
catheter of FIG. 3 for placement with respect to the left ventricle
according to an aspect of the present invention;
[0023] FIG. 5 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the heart
showing a deployed fixed anchor on the distal end of the tension
member of FIG. 4 after being extended past the distal end of the
delivery catheter according to an aspect of the present
invention;
[0024] FIG. 6 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the heart
showing the removal of the delivery catheter from the tension
member of FIG. 5 according to an aspect of the present
invention;
[0025] FIG. 7 is a vertical cross-section of the heart showing the
delivery of an adjustable anchor to be placed on the tension member
of FIG. 6 adjacent the septal wall according to an aspect of the
present invention;
[0026] FIG. 8 is a vertical cross-section of the heart showing the
securing of the adjustable anchor of FIG. 7 to the tension member
to change the shape of the left ventricle according to an aspect of
the present invention;
[0027] FIG. 9 is a vertical cross-section of the heart showing a
cutting snare inserted into the right ventricle to cut excess
tension member length from the splint assembly of FIG. 8 according
to an aspect of the present invention;
[0028] FIG. 10 is a vertical cross-section of the heart showing a
splint assembly positioned with respect to the left ventricle
according to an aspect of the present invention;
[0029] FIG. 11 is a partial side view of the deployable anchor and
tension member of FIGS. 5 and 6 according to an aspect of the
present invention;
[0030] FIG. 12 is a top view of the anchor of FIG. 11 according to
an aspect of the invention;
[0031] FIG. 13 is a partial perspective view of the deployable
anchor and tension member of FIG. 11 prior to a securing band being
placed to tighten the filament bundles on the elastic ring portion
of the anchor according to an aspect of the invention;
[0032] FIG. 14 is a partial side view of the anchor and tension
member of FIG. 11 showing the placement of the securing/tightening
band according to an aspect of the present invention;
[0033] FIG. 15 is a close-up, partial side view of the guidewire of
FIG. 2 according to an aspect of the present invention;
[0034] FIG. 16 is a detailed, partial side cross-sectional view of
the delivery catheter of FIGS. 1-6 according to an aspect of the
present invention;
[0035] FIG. 17 is a vertical cross-sectional view of a heart
showing a delivery catheter with two curved catheters inserted
endovascularly through the aorta into the left ventricle according
to an aspect of the present invention;
[0036] FIG. 18 is a vertical cross-sectional view of a heart
showing the curved delivery catheters of FIG. 17 with inflated
distal balloons respectively in contact with the free wall and
septal wall of the heart and with sharpened wires respectively
extending through the free wall and septal wall of the heart
according to an aspect of the present invention;
[0037] FIG. 19 is a vertical cross-sectional view of a heart
showing a tension member delivered through the curved delivery
catheter contacting the free wall of FIG. 18 according to an aspect
of the present invention;
[0038] FIG. 20 is a vertical cross-sectional view of a heart
showing the curved catheter contacting the free wall of FIG. 18
removed from the patient and the tension member being fed into a
proximal end of the curved catheter contacting the septal wall of
FIG. 18 according to an aspect of the present invention;
[0039] FIG. 21 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the heart
showing the tension member of FIG. 20 being advanced through the
curved catheter, through the septal wall, into the right ventricle
and out of the heart according to an aspect of the present
invention;
[0040] FIG. 22 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the heart
showing the tension member of FIG. 21 extended across the left
ventricle after the curved delivery catheter of FIG. 21 has been
removed according to an aspect of the present invention;
[0041] FIG. 23 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the heart
showing a delivery catheter with a curved distal tip inserted into
the right ventricle proximate the septal wall for delivering a
splint assembly according to an aspect of the present
invention;
[0042] FIG. 24 is a vertical cross-sectional veiw of the heart with
a guidewire with inflated balloons on a distal end extending from
the delivery catheter of FIG. 23, through the septal wall, and
across the left ventricle according to an aspect of the present
invention;
[0043] FIG. 25 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the heart
showing the guidewire of FIG. 24 with the distal balloon deflated
and about to be advanced through the free wall of the left
ventricle according to an aspect of the present invention;
[0044] FIG. 26 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the heart
showing the guidewire of FIG. 25 advanced through the free wall
until the proximal inflated balloon abuts the inside of the free
wall and with the distal balloon inflated according to an aspect of
the invention;
[0045] FIG. 27 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the heart
showing the guidewire in the position of FIG. 26 with the proximal
balloon deflated according to an aspect of the present
invention;
[0046] FIG. 28 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the heart
showing a splint advancement catheter placed over the guidewire of
FIG. 27 according to an aspect of the present invention;
[0047] FIG. 29 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the heart
showing the splint advancement catheter of FIG. 28 being removed
from a tension member and deployable anchor of the splint according
to the present invention;
[0048] FIG. 30 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the heart
showing the splint advancement catheter of FIG. 28 entirely removed
and the splint assembly deployed across the left ventricle
according to an aspect of the present invention;
[0049] FIG. 31 is a partial, detailed cross-sectional view of the
splint advancement catheter, tension member and distal anchor of
FIG. 28 according to an aspect of the present invention;
[0050] FIG. 32 is a partial side view of a braided tension member
according to an aspect of the present invention;
[0051] FIG. 33 is a partial side view of a braided tension member
having a diametrically expandable portion according to an aspect of
the present invention;
[0052] FIG. 34 is a partial perspective view of the tension member
of FIG. 33 forming a free wall anchor at the diametrically
expandable portion according to an aspect of the present
invention;
[0053] FIG. 34a is a partial perspective view of a spiral-shaped
deployable wire used to diametrically expand the tension member of
FIG. 33 to form the anchor of FIG. 34 according to an aspect of the
present invention;
[0054] FIG. 34b is a partial perspective view of a spiral-shaped
deployable wire used to diametrically expand the tension member to
form the anchor having a spiral formed in an opposite direction to
the spiral of FIG. 34a according to another aspect of the present
invention;
[0055] FIG. 35 is a partial perspective view of a diametrically
expandable tension member forming an anchor portion by using an
inflated balloon within the expandable portion of the tension
member to cause diametric expansion according to an aspect of the
present invention;
[0056] FIG. 36 is a transverse cross-sectional view of the heart
showing a preferred placement of a tension member of a splint
assembly to treat a mitral valve according to an aspect of the
present invention;
[0057] FIG. 37 is a transverse cross-sectional view of the heart
showing a splint assembly placed with respect to the heart to treat
a mitral valve according to an aspect of the present invention;
and
[0058] FIG. 38 is a cross-sectional view of an anchor assembly with
an inner surface permitting movement with respect to a tension
member in only one direction according to an aspect of the present
invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0059] The various aspects of the invention to be discussed herein
generally pertain to devices and methods for treating heart
conditions, including, for example, dilatation, valve
incompetencies, including mitral valve leakage, and other similar
heart failure conditions. Each device of the present invention
preferably operates passively in that, once placed in the heart, it
does not require an active stimulus, either mechanical, electrical,
or otherwise, to function. Implanting one or more of these devices
alters the shape or geometry of the heart, both locally and
globally, and thereby increases the heart's efficiency. That is,
the heart experiences an increased pumping efficiency through an
alteration in its shape or geometry and concomitant reduction in
stress on the heart walls. In addition, the devices of the present
invention may operate to assist in the apposition of heart valve
leaflets to improve valve function.
[0060] The inventive devices and related methods offer numerous
advantages over the existing treatments for various heart
conditions, including valve incompetencies. The devices are
relatively easy to manufacture and use, and the surgical techniques
and tools for implanting the devices of the present invention do
not require the invasive procedures of current surgical techniques.
For instance, the endovascular techniques which will be described
do not require performing a sternotomy or removing portions of the
heart tissue, nor do they require opening the heart chamber or
stopping the heart during operation. Such percutaneous insertion
permits the splinting procedures to be performed in a wide variety
of laboratories in the hospital. For these reasons, the techniques
for implanting the devices of the present invention also are less
risky to the patient, both during and after the implantation, and
may be performed more quickly than other techniques. For instance,
the procedures of the invention cause less pain to patients and
permit quicker healing. In addition, certain endovascular splinting
techniques to be described may limit bleeding at access sites,
allowing relatively large catheters, cannula, and other similar
implantation tools to be inserted in a percutaneous manner.
[0061] The disclosed inventive devices and related methods involve
geometric reshaping of the heart. In certain aspects of the
inventive devices and related methods, substantially the entire
chamber geometry is altered to return the heart to a more normal
state of stress. Models of this geometric reshaping, which includes
a reduction in radius of curvature of the chamber walls, can be
found in U.S. Pat. No. 5,961,440, issued Oct. 5, 1999, entitled
"Heart Wall Tension Reduction Apparatus and Method," and
incorporated by reference herein. Prior to reshaping the chamber
geometry, the heart walls experience high stress due to a
combination of both the relatively large increased diameter of the
chamber and the thinning of the chamber wall. Filling pressures and
systolic pressures are typically high as well, further increasing
wall stress. Geometric reshaping according to the present invention
reduces the stress in the walls of the heart chamber to increase
the heart's pumping efficiency, as well as to stop further
dilatation of the heart.
[0062] It also is contemplated that the inventive endovascular
splinting devices and methods will be used to support an infarcted
heart wall to prevent further dilatation, or to treat aneurysms in
the heart. U.S. application Ser. No. 09/422,328, filed on Oct. 21,
1999, entitled "Methods and Devices for Improving Cardiac Function
in Hearts," which is assigned to the same assignee as the present
application and is incorporated by reference herein, discusses this
form of heart failure in more detail. Moreover, it is contemplated
that the devices and methods of using and implanting the devices
could be used to treat heart valves, for example to aid in
apposition of the leaflets of a mitral valve or modify the shape of
the mitral valve, as described in U.S. application Ser. No. ______,
to Richard F. Schroeder et al., filed on the same day as this
application, assigned to the same assignee as the present
application, and entiled "Methods and Devices for Improving Mitral
Valve Function," and incorporated by reference herein. One of
ordinary skill in the art would understand that the use of the
devices and methods described herein also could be employed in
other chambers and for other valves associated with those chambers.
For example, the devices and methods of the invention might be used
to reduce stress in the left atrium to treat atrial fibrillation.
The left ventricle has been selected for illustrative purposes
because a large number of the disorders that the present invention
treats occur in the left ventricle.
[0063] Reference will now be made in detail to the present
preferred embodiments of the invention, examples of which are
illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the
same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to
refer to the same or like parts.
[0064] An embodiment of an endovascular splinting technique
according to the present invention is shown in FIGS. 1-10. In this
splinting technique, access to the left ventricle LV and delivery
of the splint occurs from within the right ventricle RV. An
approach from within the right ventricle is preferred for a number
of reasons. First, the right ventricle is highly accessible through
venous structure that leads into the superior vena cava VC, for
example from the right or left jugular veins. Since these veins
typically are at a relatively low pressure, bleeding at the access
sites is limited, and rather large catheters, cannula and the other
like surgical tools can be inserted into the veins in a
percutaneous manner. Furthermore, this technique permits access to
vascular structure without a sternotomy or other open chest
surgical access, thereby minimizing trauma to the patient.
Additionally, patients are less likely to experience embolic
events. Recovery times for the operation also are reduced, due to
the minimally invasive nature of such procedures.
[0065] Second, delivery through the right ventricle allows for
straightforward positioning of the splints on the ventricular
septal wall SW. Such positioning on the septal wall is preferable
because it results in good left ventricle bisection, in a manner
believed to have minimal negative impact on mitral valve function,
and in some instances, a positive impact on mitral valve function
and performance. Moreover, delivery through the right ventricle
does not involve the free wall of the right ventricle and also does
not restrict outflow of the blood from the heart.
[0066] According to the right ventricle delivery technique shown in
FIGS. 1-10, a shaped guide device in the form of a delivery
catheter 100 is advanced into right ventricle RV from an access
site preferably in the left or right jugular vein. Other access
sites, such as, for example, the left or right subclavian vein also
are contemplated. As shown in FIG. 1, the catheter 100 has a tip
portion 101 configured to be adjustably and variably curved through
the use of an adjusting pull-wire 104. The pull-wire 104 attaches
to the distal most end of the catheter, has a portion that extends
exterior the catheter at the distal end of the catheter, and then
extends through the catheter to a proximal end of the catheter
where it is controlled. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, pull wire 104
may be an essentially straight wire that, when pulled (or
tensioned), causes tip portion 101 to curve. In another embodiment,
a pull wire may take the form of a tether, such as described below
with reference to the curved catheter having pull wire 405 in FIG.
23. Also in that embodiment, the proximal end of the pull-wire 405
can be pulled and released to thereby cause the distal tip of the
catheter to curve and to straighten as desired. Thus, the position
of the catheter tip can be curved by adjusting the pull-wire and
also advanced or rotated, or both, by advancing or rotating the
catheter with respect to the right ventricle and septal wall.
[0067] Additionally, as shown best in FIG. 16, two anchoring
balloons 102, 103 are * disposed near the distal end of catheter
100. Each balloon 102, 103 is in fluid communication with a
corresponding inflation lumen 102', 103' that extends proximally to
an inflating means (not shown). A lumen 101' configured to carry a
piercing needle also extends through the length of catheter 100. In
a preferred embodiment, delivery catheter 100 additionally defines
a lumen 106' for carrying a preformed support wire 106, which
expands upon advancement of support wire 106 relative to catheter
100. The wire 106 takes on a hoop-like shape which gives mechanical
"back up" support to delivery catheter 100. The support wire 106
also helps to position the catheter 100 within the right ventricle
to allow for positioning within the right ventricle RV and with
respect to the septal wall SW. The support wire 106 is preferably
made from an elastic material, such as a nickel-titanium alloy or
the like, and has a preformed shape at or near a distal end of the
wire configured to stabilize and position the catheter 100. The
catheter 100 preferably also includes radiographic and echogenic
markers (not shown), such as metallic or gas-filled structures, or
relatively small balloons filled with a contrast media, to
facilitate positioning of the catheter under fluoroscopic and/or
ultrasonic guidance, such as transesophageal echo (TEE).
[0068] Once catheter 100 is manipulated to a desired position on
the ventricular septum SW, the support wire 106 is advanced to
stabilize the tip position, as shown in FIG. 1. A sharpened needle,
or guidewire, 105 is then advanced through the lumen in catheter
100 and out of tip portion 101, piercing the septal wall SW, and
extending across the left ventricle chamber LV. Preferably, needle
105 is fabricated of a highly elastic material such as, for
example, nickel titanium alloy, which will allow the needle to
traverse the bend at the tip of the delivery catheter, and then to
straighten out for controlled traversing across left ventricle LV.
FIG. 15 shows the distal portion of needle 105 in greater detail.
As can be seen from this figure, needle 105 includes a sharpened
tip which may have threads 107 disposed around the outer surface of
the tip portion.
[0069] These threads 107 preferably are flexible such that they can
lay substantially flat along the length of needle 105 as the needle
traverses through the catheter lumen. Alternatively, the tip may
include barbs or other similar structures that aid in anchoring the
tip in the heart wall.
[0070] Once needle 105 is across the left ventricle chamber, its
position is confirmed by TEE, X-Ray, or other visualization
techniques, to assure good bisection and avoidance of key mitral
valve and other heart structure. Conventional angiography utilizing
a "pigtail" catheter i.e., a dye injection catheter with a loop
shape at the distal end, in the left ventricle LV and angiography
catheters in one or both coronary artery ostia may also be used to
aid in proper positioning of the associated delivery devices in the
LV. It also is important to assure that needle 105 will not
penetrate or damage any significant coronary vasculature. To assure
this, an angiogram may be performed. Preferably, the angiographic
image is aligned to a position that looks down the axis of the
needle in the portion of the needle which traverses the left
ventricle LV. This angle will limit parallax to ensure that if the
tip of the needle is not coincident with a significant vessel it
will not pierce such vessel. Any small variation in the position of
the needle tip can be adjusted by gentle manipulation of the
delivery catheter.
[0071] As mentioned above, preferably needle 105 has soft threads
107 disposed on the surface of a tip portion of the needle, as
shown in FIG. 15. Needle 105 can be advanced into the free wall HW
of the left ventricle LV by rotating the needle, essentially
causing the tip portion of the needle to be pulled or screwed into
the myocardium. Threads 107 also serve to anchor needle 105 and
provide support for the further advancement of delivery catheter
100.
[0072] Next, delivery catheter 100 is straightened and advanced
over needle 105 into left ventricle LV. A tapered tip 101 on
delivery catheter 100 enables catheter 100 to penetrate the septal
and free walls SW, HW. Once distal anchoring balloon 103 traverses
across the free wall HW, both balloons 102 and 103 are inflated, as
shown in FIG. 3, to stabilize catheter 100 with respect to the
heart chamber. Preferably, these balloons 102, 103 are made of an
elastomeric material, such as latex or silicone, for example, to
provide a relatively low profile in the non-inflated state. Thus,
once inflated with, for example, air or other fluid, including a
radiographic contrast agent, balloons 102, 103 preferably have a
flaftened, "pancake" shape. This shape may be particularly
important for distal balloon 103, as it lies in the space between
the outside of the myocardium and the pericardial sac. To further
guard against damage to the pericardium or lungs, it is possible to
insufflate the space between the myocardium and the pericardial sac
with CO.sub.2. Insufflation can occur with the use of a small lumen
provided inside needle 105. Once needle 105 is across the
myocardium, the CO.sub.2 can be infused.
[0073] As delivery catheter 100 is advanced over the distal end of
needle 105, flexible threads 107 become collapsed and needle 105
can be removed from catheter 100. After removing needle 105, an
elongate tension member 200 with a heart-engaging assembly,
preferably in the form of a collapsible fixed anchor mechanism 201
(free wall anchor), on its distal end can be inserted into the
lumen of catheter 100. Tension member 200 is advanced until it
begins to emerge from the tip portion 101 of delivery catheter 100,
as shown in FIG. 4.
[0074] FIG. 11 shows a preferred structure for fixed anchor
mechanism 201 in its fully expanded state after being secured with
respect to the heart wall. As shown, tension member 200 is
comprised of a braided polymer, such as that disclosed in the '049
application incorporated by reference above. A cover of expanded
polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) (not shown) preferably covers the
majority of the length of tension member 200. Each bundle 210 in
the braid structure is attached via suturing, adhesive, or other
suitable attachment mechanism, to a flexible elastic ring 203. Ring
203 preferably is comprised of nickel-titanium, or an elastomeric
polymer such as silicone or urethane, or other suitable like
materials. This attachment of the bundles to the ring is best shown
in FIG. 13. In order to facilitate bundles 210 of the braid to be
attached to ring 203, the braided structure transitions from a
tight woven braid to a region that is primarily unbraided at a
position slightly proximal to the ring.
[0075] In this configuration, flexible elastic ring 203 can be
easily deformed into a flattened hoop, without bundles 210
inhibiting this deformation. This is the configuration that tension
member 200 has as it is advanced through the lumen of delivery
catheter 100. To allow tension member 200 to be pushed through
catheter 100, a stiffening mandrel may be disposed either inside or
adjacent the braided portion of the tension member.
[0076] As shown in FIG. 5, tension member 200 is advanced until
flexible ring 203 fully emerges from the lumen of delivery catheter
100. As such, anchor mechanism 201 has sufficient strength to serve
as an anchor and allows bundles 210 to take on a funnel shape, as
shown in FIG. 13. To tighten fiber bundles 210, a securing band 204
(FIG. 14) is advanced along the outside of braided tension member
200, until the bundles tighten into a generally spoke-like
configuration, as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12. A flexible pushing tube
(not shown), or other suitable mechanism, may be used to advance
securing band 204. Securing band 204 preferably has circumferential
ribs 204' on its inner surface that are oriented proximally, as
shown in FIG. 14. Ribs 204' allow for the band 204 to be advanced
distally, while preventing proximal slipping. Once positioned, the
securing band 204 maintains anchor mechanism 201 in a relatively
flat profile, as shown in FIG. 11.
[0077] FIG. 6 shows tension member 200 and fixed anchor 201 in a
fully deployed configuration with respect to the heart. After fixed
anchor 201 of tension member 200 is deployed, anchor balloons 102,
103 on delivery catheter 100 are deflated, and the delivery
catheter is removed from tension member 200 and out of the
heart.
[0078] After removing delivery catheter 100, a second
heart-engaging assembly, preferably in the form of an adjustable
anchor pad 205 (septal wall anchor) is advanced over tension member
200 using a deployment tool 209, as shown in FIG. 7. Adjustable
anchor pad 205 is similar in many ways to the adjustable pad
assembly and deployment mechanism disclosed in the '049 application
incorporated above, as will be explained. Thus, there preferably is
an actuatable staple mechanism within the pad structure for
securing pad 205 to braided tension member 200. In accordance with
the present invention, however, pad 205 preferably has an oval, as
opposed to circular, configuration. Such an oval configuration
facilitates introduction of the pad into the access site in the
vasculature. Moreover, a through hole 205' extending through this
pad is angled relative to the pad surface, to allow pad 205 to be
oriented in a more parallel fashion to the tension member 200 as it
is advanced along the tension member 200, as shown in FIG. 7.
[0079] Adjustable pad 205 is advanced using deployment tool 209
over tension member 200 in essentially a "monorail" fashion,
allowing anchor pad 205 to be oriented substantially adjacent and
parallel to tension member 200 as tension member 200 slides through
throughhole 205'. Once located at the septal wall SW, a tightening
device 206, preferably in the form of a tube, is advanced over the
outside of the tension member until the distal end of the
tightening device 206 engages the adjustable pad 205. Manipulation
of the tightening device 206 relative to tension member 200
positions adjustable pad 205 and tension member 200 into a position
so as to alter the shape of the left ventricle LV.
[0080] Once a desired amount of shape change is achieved,
adjustable pad 205 is deployed by manipulation of the deployment
tool 209, in a manner similar to the technique disclosed in the
'049 application. That is, the deployment tool 209 includes an
actuator wire that is pre-engaged with an engagement collar (not
shown) in adjustable pad assembly 205 such that when the actuator
wire is pulled, the engagement collar travels through various
channels disposed within the adjustable anchor pad 205. The
engagement collar causes securement members, preferably in the form
of pins or staples, such as staple 218 shown in FIG. 10, to move
within the pad to engage with the braided tension member structure
running through the the pad. A more detailed description of the
tightening of the splint assembly and the securing of the
adjustable pad on the tension member can be found in the '049
application incorporated herein by reference.
[0081] FIG. 9 shows adjustable pad 205 secured onto tension member
200 adjacent septal wall SW within right ventricle RV after the
tightening device 206 and the deployment tool 209 have been
removed. A trimming catheter 207 containing a wire in a snare-like
loop 208 is advanced along the excess length of tension member 200
to a position proximate the secured adjustable pad 205. Preferably,
the wire forming snare-like loop 208 can be heated such that upon
retraction of snare loop 208 within the lumen of catheter 207, the
excess length of tension member 200 is thermally severed and can be
removed. The wire loop may also have a sharpened edge along its
inside periphery to cut tension member 200 as loop 208 is retracted
into catheter 207. Other suitable cutting mechanisms may be used
and are contemplated as within the scope of the invention.
[0082] FIGS. 10 and 37 show fully deployed splints 220, 1000 in
position with respect to the left ventricle LV of the heart.
Following the steps discussed above, additional splints may be
positioned as needed or desired in the left ventricle LV or other
chambers of the heart, including near the mitral valve to help
improve valve function, as disclosed in the "Methods and Devices
for Improving Valve Function" application filed on the same day as
this application and incorporated by reference above. In a
preferred method, three splints are positioned in a spaced,
approximately parallel relationship from positions on the
ventricular septum SW to positions on the ventricular free wall HW.
Preferably, the splints are oriented perpendicular to the long axis
of the left ventricle, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 37. Once all the
desired splints are positioned, the access site in the vasculature
is closed by conventional means, such as sutures and the like.
[0083] In another embodiment of the invention, splints can be
positioned across the left ventricle via an endovascular route
leading directly into the left ventricle rather than through the
right ventricle. Using this approach, preferably the access site is
located in one of the femoral arteries, in a manner similar to many
cardiology procedures, for example. Although this route requires
advancing delivery tools retrograde across the aortic valve, this
delivery route permits the delivery catheter to be placed in
approximately the middle of, rather than outside, the left
ventricle, thus yielding a more symmetrical approach. The ability
to position the splint to achieve a good bisection of the left
ventricle therefore may be enhanced since the bisection may be
easier to visualize prior to implanting the splints. Furthermore,
it may be possible to stabilize the delivery system using walls on
both sides of the left ventricle, thus requiring fewer additional
support mechanisms.
[0084] The direct left ventricle delivery approach uses a guide
device, preferably in the form of a delivery catheter, of a
different structure than that used in the right ventricle delivery
approach. As shown in FIG. 17, a delivery catheter 300 for the left
ventricle delivery approach is positioned in the left ventricle LV
from the aorta A, with access through the femoral artery. Delivery
catheter 300 includes a main catheter 301 and two curved catheters
302, 303 extending from main catheter 301 and configured to curve
in substantially opposite directions to one another. Main catheter
301 defines two side-by-side lumens (not shown) extending along the
length of the catheter. Each curved catheter 302, 303 is disposed
inside a respective lumen of catheter 300 and is capable of moving
relative to main catheter 300 within the lumen. Curved catheters
302, 303 each have two anchoring balloons disposed near their
distal ends and lumens in fluid communication with each balloon to
facilitate inflation, in a manner similar to that described with
respect to the right ventricle delivery catheter shown in FIG. 16.
Curved catheters 302, 303 are independently manipulable, both in
axial translation and in rotation relative to the main catheter.
Moreover, it is contemplated that curved catheters 302, 303 can
have the form of the adjustably curvable catheters discussed with
reference to FIGS. 1 and 23. That is, it is contemplated that a
pull-wire could be used to independently and adjustably curve the
end portions of each catheter, thereby allowing for more control
over the curve of the tip portion of each catheter.
[0085] Once the distal tip of main catheter 301 resides in the left
ventricle LV, curved catheters 302, 303 are advanced with their
respective distal anchoring balloons 304, 305 inflated. Distal
balloons 304, 305 serve to act as protective bumpers on the curved
catheters so as to avoid damaging various heart structures as the
catheters traverse the ventricle. The curvature of catheters 302,
303 causes the tips of the catheters to deflect laterally until the
distal balloons 304, 305 of each catheter 302, 303 contact the
inside surface of the left ventricle LV, at the septal wall SW and
free wall HW, respectively. Once positioned, the curved catheters
press against each other to form a self-supporting structure which
remains in place during the beating of the heart. Once distal
balloons 304, 305 contact the walls, sharpened wires 306, 307,
similar to the one described above in the right ventricle delivery
method and shown in detail in FIG. 15, are advanced into the
myocardium, as shown in FIG. 18. As with the right ventricle
delivery method, catheters 302, 303 are manipulated under
ultrasonic and/or fluoroscopic guidance until the tips of the
curved catheters are in a desired position on the free wall and
septal wall for splint attachment. This permits a good bisection of
the left ventricle LV and the avoidance of significant coronary
structure. As discussed above, a "pigtail" catheter may also be
used to help visualization and positioning of the devices,
preferably with a diagnostic catheter in the coronary ostia. As
with the wire used for the right ventricle approach, sharpened
wires 306, 307 also have soft, preferably polymeric, threads 306',
307' disposed on their surfaces around their distal ends, to allow
for screwing into the myocardium.
[0086] Curved catheters 302, 303 then are advanced with both anchor
balloons deflated over wires 306, 307, similar to the step
described above in the right ventricle approach. After catheters
302, 303 have been advanced across the ventricular walls SW, HW at
the appropriate positions, both balloons on each of curved
catheters 302, 303 are inflated to keep the catheters securely
positioned and stabilized with respect to the chamber walls, as
shown in FIG. 19.
[0087] A tension member 200, with a first heart-engaging assembly,
preferably in the form of a deployable fixed anchor pad mechanism
201 (free wall anchor), on its distal end, similar to the tension
member and deployable fixed pad mechanism discussed with respect to
the right ventricle delivery method, is inserted into curved
catheter 303 engaging the free wall HW, as shown in FIGS. 19 and
20. Fixed pad 201 deploys in a manner similar to that of the right
ventricle delivery approach. After fixed pad 201 is deployed,
curved catheter 303 is removed, as shown in FIG. 20. The free end
of tension member 200 opposite to the end on which fixed pad 201 is
secured is inserted into the proximal end of curved catheter 302
that is engaged with septal wall SW. Tension member 200 is then
advanced through the lumen of catheter 302 until it extends out of
the distal end of the catheter and into right ventricle RV. A
conventional snare 315, for example with a wire loop on its distal
end, may be positioned in the right ventricle through an access
site, preferably in a jugular vein, for example. As the free end of
tension member 200 emerges from curved catheter 302 and into right
ventricle RV, snare 315 captures tension member 200 and pulls
tension member 200 out of right ventricle RV and out of the
patient's body.
[0088] FIG. 21 shows tension member 200 after the free end has been
snared and pulled out of the jugular vein access site. Tension
member 200 preferably is long enough to allow for the withdrawal of
catheter 303 that engages the free wall HW, the re-advancement of
tension member 200 into catheter 302 that engages the septal wall
SW, and the withdrawal of tension member 200 out of the right
ventricle RV and the access site. Additionally, the proximal loop
extending out the femoral access site (shown in FIG. 20) must still
have enough length for the second catheter to be withdrawn. As
second catheter 302 is withdrawn out of the femoral access site and
over tension member 200 secured to the free heart wall, it
preferably is removed from the tension member by skiving the length
of the catheter down the lumen containing the tension member. FIG.
22 shows tension member 200 after curved catheter 302 has been
fully removed.
[0089] At this point, tension member 200 is in a configuration
similar to that shown in FIG. 7, and the technique described with
reference to the right ventricle approach above to deliver and
secure a second heart-engaging assembly, preferably in the form of
an adjustable anchor pad (septal wall anchor), onto tension member
200 adjacent the septal wall SW to finish the splint deployment
across the left ventricle LV can be used. Thus, the left ventricle
delivery method and right ventricle delivery, method differ only up
to the point of delivery of the adjustable pad, and after that the
steps may be the same.
[0090] FIGS. 23-30 illustrate yet another embodiment of a method
for delivering and implanting a splint across the left ventricle
from a free wall HW to a septal wall SW. The method shown in these
figures is similar in many respects to the right ventricle delivery
technique described above. However, the method to be described
differs from the previously discussed right ventricle approach in
that the splint is advanced across the left ventricle LV over a
small hollow guidewire or needle of the type shown in FIGS. 24-27.
Additionally, an alternative free wall deployable anchor structure
is described.
[0091] In FIG. 23, a guide device, again preferably in the form of
a delivery catheter 400, is positioned in the right ventricle RV
from an access point, such as, preferably the right jugular vein,
for example. Delivery catheter 400 has a similar structure as
delivery catheter 100 used in the right ventricle delivery
technique described above. However, delivery catheter 400 does not
advance into and across the left ventricle LV, as did delivery
catheter 100. Catheter 400 has a curved distal tip portion 400'. A
tether, or pull-wire, 405 connected to distal tip portion 400' is
configured to adjust the angle or curvature of the tip portion
400'. Tether 405 runs inside a lumen 420 disposed adjacent *
catheter 400, or, alternatively, within catheter 400. Pulling
proximally on tether 405 causes tip portion 400' to deflect
laterally. Delivery catheter 400 also includes a pre-formed support
wire 410 configured to extend via advancement of the support wire
from another lumen 421 disposed adjacent catheter 400 on a side
substantially opposite to the side lumen 420 is. Support wire 410
not only assists to maintain the placement of tip portion 400' of
delivery catheter 400 within right ventricle RV in the appropriate
position, but also assists in positioning the tip portion 400' near
the center of right ventricle RV relative to the anterior and
posterior ends of the right ventricle, as a result of the shape and
size of the support wire. Alternative shapes of the preformed
support wire also are contemplated which would facilitate tip
positioning and support in other desired positions within right
ventricle RV.
[0092] After tip portion 400' of delivery catheter 300 is
positioned and oriented in the desired location with respect to
septal wall SW, a hollow sharpened metallic guidewire, or needle,
402 is advanced through a central lumen 422 of delivery catheter
400, across the ventricular septum SW, and across the left
ventricular chamber LV to free wall HW, as shown in FIG. 24. As
with the methods described above, a combination of fluoroscopic and
ultrasonic imaging are performed to assist in the guidance and
confirmation of positioning for this delivery technique.
Appropriate radiographic or other suitable visible markers are
positioned on the devices to facilitate this imaging, as described
above.
[0093] Hollow guidewire 402 has a sharpened tip 402' and defines a
central lumen plugged near tip 402'. The material used to make
guidewire 402 preferably includes a superelastic nickel titanium
alloy, or other similar like material. Two elastomeric balloons, a
distal balloon 403 and a proximal balloon 404, are secured near the
distal end of guidewire 402 slightly proximal to sharpened tip
402'. Distal balloon 403 is in flow communication with central
lumen 422 of guidewire 402. Proximal balloon 404 is in fluid
communication with an additional tube (not shown) positioned inside
hollow guidewire 402. In this manner, each balloon 403, 404 can be
independently inflated and deflated as required.
[0094] Balloons 403, 404 preferably are in a deflated condition as
they are advanced across septal wall SW and then are inflated
during advancement across the left ventricle LV. Inflating the
balloons during advancement across the left ventricle LV may assist
in visualizing the advancement path of the guidewire. To assist in
such visualization, preferably the balloons are inflated with a
radiographic contrast agent. The ability to visualize the
advancement path of guidewire 402 may prevent damage to various
cardiac structure as well as assist in ensuring proper positioning
of the guidewire on the free wall HW.
[0095] As guidewire tip 402' approaches free wall HW, distal
balloon 403 is deflated, as shown in FIG. 25, and the wire is
further advanced into the free wall. Proximal balloon 404 acts as a
stop to limit advancement of guidewire 402 through free wall HW.
This may eliminate or minimize any damage to tissue outside free
wall HW of left ventricle LV. Once fully advanced, distal balloon
403 is re-inflated to secure the position of guidewire 402 across
the left ventricular chamber, as shown in FIG. 26. It is preferred
that the distance between balloons 403, 404 approximates the
thickness of the heart wall.
[0096] Proximal balloon 404 is then deflated, as shown in FIG. 27,
and a splint advancement catheter 406 carrying the tension member
500 and fixed deployable anchor 502 is advanced over guidewire 402,
as shown in FIG. 28. The structure of splint advancement catheter
406 with respect to the delivery of the tension member 500 and
deployable anchor 502 will now be described in more detail with
reference to FIG. 31. As shown, catheter 406 defines a lumen 406'
through which braided tension member 500 is configured to extend.
Tension member 500 is secured within a distal adhesive portion 502'
of a deployable anchor 502. This adhesive portion preferably is
made of a high strength adhesive such as epoxy, or the like and is
also configured to slide through lumen 406'. A lumen 509 extends
through fixed deployable anchor 502 adjacent to tension member
braid 500. This lumen also is formed simultaneously within adhesive
portion 502' of anchor 502. Lumen 509 and lumen 406' both pass over
the outside of guidewire 402 (not shown) as advancement catheter
406 carrying tension member 500 with deployable fixed anchor 502 on
one end is advanced across the left ventricle LV and through the
free wall HW. Anchor 502 preferably is in the form of an elastic or
super-elastic metallic tube including a plurality of pre-formed
tabs 508 extending proximally from adhesive tube portion 502'. The
tabs 508 may be formed by several longitudinally-oriented cuts
along a portion of the length of the tube. During advancement of
tension member 500, tabs 508 are prevented from flaring outward by
the sheath defining lumen 406' of splint advancement catheter 406,
as shown in FIG. 31. Upon retraction of the sheath of splint
advancement catheter 406, tabs 508 are able to expand radially
outwardly to their pre-formed shape, thus defining distal anchor
502. A separate push tube 520 for pushing on anchor 502 as the
catheter 406 is retracted from the tension member and fixed anchor
assembly also is shown in FIG. 31. Push tube 520 is configured to
pass over the outside of guidewire 402 within lumen 406' adjacent
tension member 500 to engage with the adhesive portion 502' of
anchor 502.
[0097] Aside from the configurations described above with reference
to FIG. 31, the deployable fixed anchor may have a structure
similar to that described above with reference to the right
ventricle and left ventricle delivery techniques. Similarly, the
deployable anchor configurations described in connection with FIGS.
29-31 may be used in conjunction with other delivery techniques
described above. Also, the deployable anchor structures described
in connection with the previous splint embodiments can be utilized
in conjunction with this embodiment.
[0098] Elongate tension member 500 preferably is similar to that
described above in connection with the right ventricle delivery
method and comprises a braid of high strength polymer fibers,
preferably Spectra or other suitable like ultra-high molecular
weight polyethylene. Tension member 500 may also include a covering
along its full length made of a thin expanded
polytetrafluoroethylene. Alternatively, only the region of tension
member 500 which is disposed inside the ventricular chamber could
include a covering.
[0099] Tension member 500 is thus advanced into position by sliding
splint advancement catheter 406 carrying tension member 500 and
anchor 502 over guidewire 402. That is, guidewire 402 will be
placed within lumen 509 of anchor 502 and then within lumen 406' of
the catheter 406. The lumen 406' and the lumen 509 will move
relative to guidewire 402 to advance catheter 406, tension member
500, and anchor 502 in the configuration shown in FIG. 31 until
deployable anchor 502 protrudes beyond the myocardium of free wall
HW. Once tension member 500 and anchor 502 are positioned
appropriately with respect to the left ventricle and free wall HW,
that is, when anchor 502 retained within the catheter 406 protrudes
beyond the free wall HW as shown in FIG. 28, catheter 406 is
retracted off tabs 508. This retraction of catheter 406 enables
tabs 508 to expand radially outward from the remainder of
deployable anchor 502. Push tube 520 is used to maintain the
position of the tension member 500 during the catheter's retraction
to overcome any friction between catheter 406 and tabs 508. After
anchor 502 is deployed, both catheter 406 and push tube 520 are
removed from guidewire 402 and then guidewire 402 also is
removed.
[0100] At this point in the splint delivery technique of FIGS.
23-30, that is, after the deployable fixed distal anchor has been
positioned on free wall HW, similar steps as described in
connection with both the right ventricle and left ventricle methods
above may be followed for the deployment of a second, adjustable
anchor pad and for tightening and securing of tension member with
respect to the left ventricle. An alternative embodiment of an
adjustable anchor to tighten and secure the tension member also may
be used in connection with this splint delivery technique, as well
as with the other techniques described above. In this alternative
embodiment, the proximal anchor may have a similar structure as the
distal fixed deployable anchor or may be separately slidable and
adjustable on the tension member (such as the adjustable anchor
shown in FIGS. 7-10). The proximal anchor also may be pre-attached
at an appropriate position on the tension member to provide the
desired amount of ventricular shape change.
[0101] In the case where the proximal anchor is slidable on the
tension member, a one way "ratchet" or friction surface may be
disposed on the inner surface of the tubular portion of the anchor
to prevent its displacement in one direction. For example, as shown
in FIG. 38, the inner surface of the tubular portion of the anchor
can be in the form of rings or flared protrusions 380 that are
angled with respect to the longitudinal axis of a tension member
385 as it is inserted into an anchor 388. The angled rings or
protrusions 380 are configured so as to permit movement of the
anchor with respect to the tension member in one direction but
prevent movement in the opposite direction. As illustrated in FIG.
38, the rings or protrusions would permit movement in the direction
of the solid arrow, but prevent movement in the direction of the
dotted arrow by essentially digging into the tension member
surface.
[0102] A tightening device such as that described and shown in FIG.
8 may be utilized to advance the deployed anchor into position. In
this case, the anchor may be initially positioned such that when
the sheath of the splint advancement catheter is further withdrawn,
the proximal anchor also would deploy within the right ventricle RV
adjacent to the septal wall SW. The tightening device could then be
used to advance the position of the proximal anchor to a desired
position against the septal wall SW, as shown in FIG. 30.
Alternatively, the delivery catheter itself could be used to
advance the deployed proximal anchor to the desired position. Once
the proximal anchor is positioned to its appropriate location, any
excess tension member length extending beyond the proximal anchor
may be severed in a manner similar to that described above in
connection with FIG. 9.
[0103] In the alternative case where proximal anchor is
pre-attached at a specified distance from the distal anchor, the
left ventricle should be deformed prior to the pad deployment. The
delivery catheter can act as a temporary proximal anchor, while the
tension member and distal anchor are pulled proximally. Once the
proper shape change of the left ventricle is attained, the proximal
anchor may be deployed upon further retraction of the sheath of the
splint advancement catheter. In this embodiment, preferably the
distance between the distal and proximal anchors will be selected
prior to delivery such that a desired shape change of the heart
chamber may be obtained, since the adjustability of the shape
change will be limited by the fixed position of the proximal anchor
on the tension member. The delivery catheter may then be removed
and excess tension member severed, again as described with
reference to FIG. 9.
[0104] While the splint delivery methods and devices just described
in connection with FIGS. 23-30 were in the context of a right
ventricle approach, it is also contemplated to utilize the delivery
devices and methods in a direct left ventricle approach as well. In
a direct left ventricle approach, two delivery catheters
simultaneously could be utilized to position a splint from within
the left ventricle in manners similar to those described with
reference to FIGS. 17-22.
[0105] Other embodiments of a deployable, fixed heart-engaging
assembly, or anchor, also are contemplated as within the scope of
the present invention and are shown in FIGS. 32-35. A preferred
tension member used in the various embodiments of the present
invention is described in the '049 application, incorporated by
reference above, and is formed of several multifilament bundles of
a high strength polymer. These bundles are braided together in a
relatively tight configuration. Certain combinations of bundle
size, number of bundles, and pick count, described in more detail
in the '049 application, result in a braid with several preferred
properties as also described in the '049 application, incorporated
by reference above. One property that may result from such a braid
construction includes a relatively stable braid diameter that does
not deform to a great extent if subjected to axial compression or
internal radially-outward directed forces. However, a braid formed
with a lower pick count has a greater diametric expandability when
subjected to such forces. For example, a braid woven of the same
material and having approximately 16 to approximately 64 bundles
and approximately 2 to approximately 15 picks per inch may more
readily expand in diameter, upon the application of a radial force
directed outwardly from within the braid. This expandable property
of a braid can be utilized in the formation of yet another
alternative deployable anchor structure.
[0106] For example, FIG. 32 is a relatively simplified schematic
illustrating a tension member 50 formed of a braid of relatively
low pick count in its natural (i.e., non-stressed) as-braided
condition. The braid is uniformly relatively small in outer
diameter D.sub.1. When the braid is under tension, and absent any
other deforming forces, the diameter D.sub.1 of the braid remains
relatively small. FIG. 33 illustrates the same braided tension
member 50 as in FIG. 32, but shows the braid with a local
application of an outward radially directed force from within the
braid. Since the braid pick count is relatively low, the braid has
the capacity to expand at the point of application of the radial
force to a diameter D.sub.2, which is several times its original
diameter D.sub.1.
[0107] FIG. 34 shows a tension member 340 having a braid
configuration such as that shown in FIGS. 32 and 33 utilized for an
integral expandable distal anchor 342 of tension member 340. At
least a portion of the tension member 340 is woven at a relatively
low pick count to allow for that portion to form into the
expandable distal anchor 342. Alternatively, the entire tension
member 340 can be uniformly woven at the relatively low pick count.
Several methods for creating an outward radial force from within
the braid to form anchor 342 are contemplated. These methods
include using an elastic or shape memory wire disposed inside the
braid of tension member 340 during placement across the ventricular
wall HW. A preferred wire 345 is shown in FIG. 34a. Note that it is
contemplated that the direction of spiral of the wire can be
opposite to that shown in FIG. 34a, as shown in FIG. 34b. Wire 345
preferably has a natural shape in the form of a disc-shaped spiral.
When tension member 340 is delivered using a splint advancement
catheter of the types described above, the spiral will have a
straightened configuration. Upon removal of the of the splint
advancement catheter from the portion of the tension member 340
which will form the distal anchor 342, however, the spiral shape of
wire 34 may be re-established, thereby forcing the braided portion
surrounding it to expand in diameter into a disc-like shape, as
shown in FIG. 34. The wire may either be pre-loaded into the
tension member or may be advanced into the tension member once the
tension member has been positioned with respect to the heart wall
and the catheter has been retracted enough to expose a portion of
the tension member that is outside the heart wall HW. The force of
the catheter on the wire keeps the wire in its straightened
configuration. The smaller diameter portion of the spiral forms
first, and as more of the wire is advanced through the tension
member beyond the catheter, the spiral grows in diameter until the
full spiral is re-established. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 34b,
the large diameter portion of the spiral may form first, as the
wire 345' is advanced. To help prevent wire 345 from penetrating
through the interstices of the braid of tension member 340, a thin
membrane, preferably made of an elastic material for example, is
disposed along the inside of the braid in the area where the spiral
portion of wire 345 is positioned.
[0108] In this embodiment, wire 345, particularly in the spiral
region, preferably will remain together with the braid of tension
member 340 even after diametric expansion in order provide the
anchoring rigidity needed to secure the splint in place on the
heart. Initially, the spiral portion of wire 345 may carry a
significant portion of the load of anchor 342. However, it is
anticipated that over time, the expanded braid forming anchor 342
would become ingrown with scar tissue, and therefore a relatively
large portion of the chronic mechanical loading may be carried by
the filaments of the braid. Using filaments of ultra-high molecular
weight polyethylene has been shown to produce a tension member and
anchor having high strength and high fatigue resistance. A portion
of the wire that does not form the spiral may be removed, for
example by torquing the wire and breaking it at a location slightly
proximal to the spiral.
[0109] To prevent any of the braided portion distal of the expanded
region from "creeping" back over the spiral region, the distal most
region of the braid preferably is either fused or banded. This will
prevent expansibility in those regions. Alternatively, those
regions of the braided tension member could be woven with a higher
pick count.
[0110] An alternative device for causing expansion of an expandable
braid portion of a tension member 540 includes an inflatable
balloon disposed inside braided tension member at the expandable
portion forming the anchor, as shown in FIG. 35. Inflatable balloon
545 can be positioned in the desired location within tension member
540 either before advancement of the tension member across the
ventricular wall, or after, as shown in FIG. 35. Preferably,
balloon 545 is formed of an elastomeric material such as silicone
or urethane, or the like, and has a disc-like shape upon expansion.
A lumen 543 connecting the interior of balloon 545 to an inflation
device (not shown) may extend along the inside of braided tension
member 540. In a preferred embodiment, the material used to expand
balloon 545, and thus the region of the braided tension member 540
forming distal, deployable anchor 542, includes a curable material
such as RTV silicone, epoxy, urethane, or the like. Similar to the
spiral anchor embodiment discussed above, the cured material
forming the balloon may carry a significant load initially, but
upon ingrowth of the expanded braided region of the tension member,
the filaments of the braid would be the primary chronic load
carrying members.
[0111] One of ordinary skill in the art would recognize that the
alternative distal anchors described above could be utilized in
conjunction with any of the delivery techniques of the present
invention and could be used as either the free wall anchor or
septal wall anchor with modifications as necessary.
[0112] Another alternative embodiment for an expandable anchor
would utilize an anchor similar to the expandable tab anchor
described above with reference to Figs. 29-31. However, in this
embodiment, that anchor would be merely temporary, and could be
designed to be relatively small and low profile, for easy delivery,
but may not have the adequate strength and durability to be a
permanent chronic anchor. In this case, a permanent anchor, similar
to the adjustable pad anchor assembly described in the '049
application incorporated above could be delivered as a replacement
to that temporary anchor. Once the temporary anchor is positioned,
as shown in FIG. 29, a small surgical incision may be made between
the ribs adjacent the free wall HW of the left ventricle LV, thus
creating an access port to deliver the permanent anchor.
Alternatively, a trocar may be positioned in that same location. A
snare device positioned within the port or trocar can be used to
grab the temporary anchor and tension member and pull the anchor
off of the tension member and outside of the patient. An adjustable
anchor pad as described in the '049 application and similar to the
description of FIGS. 7 and 8 above then may be attached to the
braid outside of the patient, using the staple methodology
described previously with reference to FIG. 8 and the '049
application. The anchor can then be pulled back into position by
retracting the other end of the tension member via the length of
the tension member that remains outside the jugular vein. The
septal wall anchor in this case preferably would be in the form of
the solid anchor and delivered in the manner described above in
conjunction with FIGS. 7-10. Overall, this procedure would be a
combination endovascular and "minimally invasive" surgical
operation. In this embodiment, preferably both anchor pads would be
of a solid type construction.
[0113] An alternative proximal anchor also may utilize the
expandable capability of a relatively low pick count braid, in a
manner similar to'that described above for the distal, or free
wall, anchor. In this embodiment, the entire braid of the tension
member preferably includes the relatively low pick count permitting
diametric expansion. The tension member and distal anchor could be
delivered using any of the approaches described herein, but
preferably one of the right ventricle approach methods. After the
distal, or free wall, anchor is delivered, the proper ventricle
shape change can be induced using a tightening device in the form
of a simple tube, such as the one described above, but without the
anchor shown in FIG. 8. A balloon or spiral wire type of expander
device as described in connection with the distal anchors shown in
FIGS. 34, 34a, and 35, may be positioned in the proper location and
caused to expand a portion of the braid external to the septal
wall. If a balloon type expansion device is used, it may also
include a detachable inflation tube, such that when the balloon is
inflated with a curable material, the inflation tube can be removed
prior to the excess tension member length being severed. It is also
contemplated that such an expandable proximal anchor can be secured
to the end of the tension member at a location adjacent to an
exterior surface of a heart wall other than the septal wall, such
as a wall surrounding the right ventricle, for example.
[0114] The methods described above to place the splint assemblies
with respect to the heart can be repeated for any desired number of
splint assemblies to achieve a particular configuration. The length
of the tension members extending between the free wall and septal
wall anchors also can be optimally determined based upon the size
and condition of the patient's heart. It should also be noted that
although the left ventricle has been referred to here for
illustrative purposes, the apparatus and methods of this invention
can be used to splint multiple chambers of a patient's heart,
including the right ventricle or either atrium, or can be used to
aid the function of valves, such as the mitral valve. An example of
a preferred position of a splint assembly 1000 improves mitral
valve function, as well as reducing stress in the left ventricular
walls. The valve function is improved by aiding in the apposition
of valve leaftlets when positioned as shown in FIG. 37. Preferably,
three splints are placed in a coplanar fashion, bisecting the left
ventricle LV of the heart. The superior-most splint 1000 is placed
at approximately the level of the heads of the papillary muscles
PM, and the additional two splints (not shown in FIG. 37) are
placed inferiorly toward the apex. The preferred orientation shown
in FIG. 37 both bisects the left ventricle LV and avoids key
structures such as coronary vessels and the like. The splints
according to this orientation also extend through the septum SW and
enter a portion of the right ventricle RV. In the preferred
placement, as with those described above, heart-engaging assemblies
1002, 1003 will be positioned adjacent an exterior surface of a
free wall HW surrounding the left ventricle LV and adjacent an
exterior surface of the septal wall SW within the right ventricle
RV. Further details regarding splinting devices and methods for
treating heart valves can be found in the application entitled
"Methods and Devices for Improving Mitral Valve Function," to
Richard F. Schroeder et al., filed on a date even herewith and
incorporated by reference above. Although any of the delivery
methods described above could be used to implant the splint device
in this manner, FIG. 36 shows a short axis cross-section of a heart
and a preferred endovascular technique wherein the elongate tension
member 1001 having a deployable fixed anchor 1002 on its distal end
is delivered through the right ventricle RV and then into the left
ventricle LV.
[0115] Furthermore, the alignments of the splints with respect to
the heart that are described above are illustrative only and may be
shifted or rotated about a vertical axis generally disposed through
the left ventricle and still avoid the major coronay vessels and
papillary muscles. In addition, the inventive devices and methods
can be implanted to treat a heart having aneurysms or infarcted
regions similar to those described in prior U.S. application Ser.
No. 09/422,328 discussed earlier herein and incorported above.
[0116] The various components of the splint assembly to be
implanted in the heart should be made of biocompatible material
that can remain in the human body indefinitely. Any surface
engaging portions of the heart should be atraumatic in order to
avoid tissue damage and preferably formed of a material promoting
tissue ingrowth to stabilize the anchor pad with respect to the
surfaces of the heart.
[0117] It will be understood that this disclosure, in many
respects, is only illustrative. Changes may be made in details,
particularly in matters of shape, size, material, number and
arrangement of parts without exceeding the scope of the invention.
Accordingly, the scope of the invention is as defined in the
language of the appended claims.
[0118] Other embodiments of the invention will be apparent to those
skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and
practice of the invention disclosed herein. It is intended that the
specification and examples be considered as exemplary only, with a
true scope and spirit of the invention being indicated by the
following claims.
* * * * *