U.S. patent application number 10/780110 was filed with the patent office on 2004-11-11 for paired expandable anastomosis devices.
Invention is credited to Barrus, Michael C., Blatter, Duane D., Orr, Troy J..
Application Number | 20040225306 10/780110 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 21880537 |
Filed Date | 2004-11-11 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040225306 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Blatter, Duane D. ; et
al. |
November 11, 2004 |
Paired expandable anastomosis devices
Abstract
A paired, expandable anastomosis device joins two vessels
together and can expand and contract with changes in the size of
the two vessels. The anastomosis device has two expandable rings
with a plurality of holding tabs. The holding tabs of one ring are
shaped to enable a graft vessel tissue to be everted through one of
the rings and to be held on one of the rings. Similarly, the
holding tabs of the other ring are shaped to enable a target vessel
to be everted through the other ring and to be retained by the
holding tabs. Once the graft and target vessels are loaded, the
rings are adapted to be brought together to a position in which the
graft and target vessels are anastomosed together.
Inventors: |
Blatter, Duane D.; (Salt
Lake City, UT) ; Barrus, Michael C.; (Bountiful,
UT) ; Orr, Troy J.; (Sandy, UT) |
Correspondence
Address: |
STOEL RIVES LLP
One Utah Center
Suite 1100
201 South Main Street
Salt Lake City
UT
84111
US
|
Family ID: |
21880537 |
Appl. No.: |
10/780110 |
Filed: |
February 17, 2004 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10780110 |
Feb 17, 2004 |
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10035084 |
Dec 27, 2001 |
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6736825 |
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10035084 |
Dec 27, 2001 |
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09737200 |
Dec 14, 2000 |
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09737200 |
Dec 14, 2000 |
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09460740 |
Dec 14, 1999 |
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6569173 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
606/153 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B 17/0643 20130101;
A61B 2017/1135 20130101; A61B 17/3403 20130101; A61B 2017/0641
20130101; A61B 17/32053 20130101; A61B 17/115 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
606/153 |
International
Class: |
A61B 017/08 |
Claims
1. A paired anastomosis device for holding a first vessel together
with a second vessel comprising: first ring means for providing
support for a first vessel at a first vessel opening, wherein the
first ring means has a first ring opening, second ring means for
providing support for a second vessel at a second vessel opening,
wherein the second ring means has a second ring opening, wherein
each ring means is adapted to expand and contract to enable each
respective vessel opening to change in diameter, and wherein the
ring means are configured to be structurally linked in a manner
such that the first and second ring means expand and contract in
unison and such that the first vessel remains anastomosed to the
second vessel at the first and second vessel openings as the first
and second ring means expand and contract.
2. The anastomosis device of claim 1, further comprising locking
means for locking the first ring means and the second ring means
together such that the first vessel and the second vessel remain
anastomosed together.
3. The anastomosis device of claim 2, wherein the locking means
comprises guide means for guiding the movement of one ring means
relative to the other ring means from a loading position with the
first ring means offset from the second ring means to an
anastomosis position.
4. The anastomosis device of claim 2, wherein the first and second
ring means are adapted to cooperate with attachment actuation means
for approximating one of the ring means to the other ring means
such that the device is moved from a loading position to an
anastomosis position.
5. The anastomosis device of claim 1, wherein the first ring means
further comprises holding means for holding the first vessel at the
first vessel opening, and wherein the second ring means further
comprises holding means for holding the second vessel at the second
vessel opening.
6. The anastomosis device of claim 5, wherein the holding means of
at least one of the rings means has anchor means for more securely
anchoring a vessel on the holding means.
7. A paired anastomosis device for holding a first vessel together
with a second vessel comprising: a first ring having holding
surfaces that define a first ring opening, wherein the holding
surfaces are adapted to hold a portion of a first vessel defining a
first vessel opening such that the first vessel opening is at the
first ring opening, a second ring having a plurality of holding
surfaces that define a second ring opening, wherein the holding
surfaces are adapted to hold a portion of a second vessel defining
a second vessel opening such that the second vessel opening is at
the second ring opening, wherein each ring is adapted to expand and
contract to enable each respective vessel opening to change in
diameter, and wherein the rings are configured to be structurally
linked in a manner such that the first and second rings expand and
contract in unison and such that the first vessel remains
anastomosed to the second vessel at the first and second vessel
openings as the first and second rings expand and contract.
8. The anastomosis device of claim 7, further comprising a
plurality of guideposts extending from one of the rings and a
plurality of guides fixedly connected to the other ring, wherein
the guideposts are positioned to slide into the guides in order to
guide the rings from a loading position to an anastomosis
position.
9. The anastomosis device of claim 8, wherein the guides are sized
to frictionally engage the guideposts such that the rings are
maintained in the anastomosis position after the rings are brought
together.
10. The anastomosis device of claim 7, wherein one of the rings has
a plurality of legs with locking extensions and the opposite ring
has a plurality of legs with slots positioned to receive the
locking extensions, such that the rings are maintained in the
anastomosis position after the rings are brought together.
11. The anastomosis device of claim 7, wherein each vessel has an
intimal layer, and wherein the holding surfaces of each ring are
positioned to capture vessel tissue in an everted configuration so
that when the rings are in an anastomosis position the intimal
layer of the portion of the first vessel defining a first vessel
opening contacts the inimal layer of the portion of the second
vessel defining a second vessel opening.
12. The paired anastomosis device of claim 7, wherein each vessel
has an adventitial layer, wherein the holding surfaces of the first
ring contact the adventital surfaces of the portion of the first
vessel defining a first vessel opening, and wherein the holding
surfaces of the second ring contact the adventital surfaces of the
portion of the second vessel defining a second vessel opening.
13. The anastomosis device of claim 7, wherein each ring comprises
a plurality of flexible segments.
14. The anastomosis device of claim 13, wherein each flexible
segment comprises two adjoining arms in a V-shaped
configuration.
15. The anastomosis device of claim 13, wherein each flexible
segment has a configuration that is selected from the group
consisting of a U-shaped configuration, a quadrilateral shaped
configuration, a circular configuration, an elliptical
configuration, a spiral-shaped configuration, and an oval-shaped
configuration.
16. The anastomosis device of claim 13, wherein the holding
surfaces of each ring are holding tabs.
17. The anastomosis device of claim 16, wherein each flexible
segment of the plurality of flexible segments of each ring is
adjoined to an adjacent flexible segment by a connecting joint,
wherein each flexible segment of each ring has a flexible segment
joint, wherein the holding tabs of the first ring extend from the
connecting joints, wherein the holding tabs of the second ring
extend from the flexible segment joints.
18. A paired anastomosis device for holding a first vessel together
with a second vessel comprising: first ring means for providing
support for a first vessel at a first vessel opening, wherein the
first ring means has a first ring opening, second ring means for
providing support for a second vessel at a second vessel opening,
wherein the second ring means has a second ring opening, wherein
each ring means is adapted to be in a compressed position as the
first vessel and second vessel are anastomosed together such that
each respective ring opening and respective vessel opening have an
initial diameter, and wherein at least one ring means is adapted to
radially expand to a deployed position after the first vessel and
second vessel are anastomosed together such that each ring means
and vessel opening has a greater diameter than the initial diameter
of each respective ring means and vessel opening.
19. A paired anastomosis device for holding a first vessel together
with a second vessel comprising: a first ring having holding
surfaces that define a first ring opening, wherein the holding
surfaces are adapted to hold a portion of a first vessel defining a
first vessel opening such that the first vessel opening is at the
first ring opening, a second ring having a plurality of holding
surfaces that define a second ring opening, wherein the holding
surfaces are adapted to hold a portion of a second vessel defining
a second vessel opening such that the second vessel opening is at
the second ring opening, wherein each ring is adapted to be in a
compressed position as the first vessel and second vessel are
anastomosed together such that each respective ring opening and
respective vessel opening have an initial diameter, and wherein at
least one ring is adapted to radially expand to a deployed position
after the first vessel and second vessel are anastomosed together
such that each ring and vessel opening has a greater diameter than
the initial diameter of each respective ring and vessel
opening.
20. A paired anastomosis device for holding a first vessel together
with a second vessel comprising: a first ring having a plurality of
holding surfaces that define a first ring opening, wherein the
holding surfaces are adapted to hold a portion of a first vessel
defining a first vessel opening such that the first vessel opening
is at the first ring opening, a second ring having a plurality of
holding surfaces that define a second ring opening, wherein the
holding surfaces are adapted to hold a portion of a second vessel
defining a second vessel opening such that the second vessel
opening is at the second ring opening, wherein each ring has a
plurality of flexible segments from which the respective holding
surfaces extend, and guides positioned to provide guided coaxial
movement of the rings relative to each other so that the rings can
be moved from a loaded position with the first ring offset from the
second ring to an anastomosis position with the first vessel is
anastomosed to the second vessel at the first and second vessel
openings, wherein the plurality of flexible segments of each ring
are adapted to enable each respective ring opening and respective
vessel opening to change in diameter as each ring expands and
contracts in response to changes in fluid pressure.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 10/035,084 titled Paired Expandable
Anastomosis Devices, which was filed on Dec. 27, 2001 on behalf of
Duane D. Blatter, Michael C. Barrus and Troy J. Orr, which is a
continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser No. 09/737,200
titled Compression Plate Anastomosis Apparatus and Related Systems,
which was filed on Dec. 14, 2000 on behalf of Duane D. Blatter,
Kenneth C. Goodrich, Michael C. Barrus, and Bruce M. Burnett, which
is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser No.
09/460,740, which issued as U.S. Pat. No. 6,569,173 on May 27,
2003, titled Compression Plate Anastomosis Device, which was filed
on Dec. 14, 1999 on behalf of Duane D. Blatter, Kenneth C.
Goodrich, Mike Barrus, and Bruce M. Burnett. application Ser. Nos.
10/035,084, 09/737,200, and 09/460,740 are each incorporated herein
by reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present invention is directed generally to an
anastomosis device. More particularly, the present invention is
directed a paired, expandable device that joins one vessel to
another.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] An anastomosis is an operative union of two hollow or
tubular structures. Anastomotic structures can be part of a variety
of systems, such as the vascular system, the digestive system or
the genitourinary system. For example, blood is shunted from an
artery to a vein in an arteriovenous anastomosis, and from the
right pulmonary artery to the superior vena cava in a cavopulmonary
anastomosis. In other examples, afferent and efferent loops of
jejunum are joined in a Braun's anastomosis after
gastroenteroscopy; the ureter and the Fallopian tube are joined in
a ureterotubal anastomosis, and the ureter and a segment of the
sigmoid colon are joined in a ureterosigmoid anastomosis. In
microvascular anastomosis, very small blood vessels are anastomosed
usually under surgical microscope.
[0004] An anastomosis is termed end-to-end when the terminal
portions of tubular structures are anastomosed, and it is termed
end-to-side when the terminal portion of a tubular structure is
anastomosed to a lateral portion of another tubular or hollow
structure. In an end-to-side anastomosis, we often refer to the
structure whose end is anastomosed as the "graft vessel" while the
structure whose side wall is anastomosed is referred to as the
"receiving structure" or "target vessel".
[0005] The operative union of two hollow or tubular structures
requires that the anastomosis be tight with respect to the flow of
matter through such structures and also that the anastomosed
structures remain patent for allowing an uninterrupted flow of
matter therethrough. For example, anastomosed blood vessels should
not leak at the anastomosis site, the anastomotic devices should
not significantly disrupt the flow of blood, and the anastomosis
itself should not cause a biological reaction that could lead to an
obstruction of the anastomosed blood vessels. In particular,
anastomosed blood vessels should remain patent and they should
ideally not develop hyperplasia, thrombosis, spasms or
arteriosclerosis.
[0006] Because anastomosed structures are composed of tissues that
are susceptible to damage, the anastomosis should furthermore not
be significantly detrimental to the integrity of these tissues. For
example, injury to endothelial tissue and exposure of subintimal
connective tissue should be minimized or even eliminated in
vascular anastomosis.
[0007] Because structures to be anastomosed are internal, an
anastomosis requires a degree of invasion. The invasive character
of an anastomosis, however, should be minimized subject to the
reliable performance of a satisfactory anastomosis. Accordingly,
there has been a noticeable trend during the last quarter of this
century towards less invasive surgical intervention, a surgical
style that is termed minimally invasive surgery. This style is
characterized by pursuing a maximal treatment effect with minimal
damage to surrounding and overlying normal structures. In addition,
successful minimally invasive procedures should procure patency and
they should minimize damage to the tissues of the anastomosed
structures themselves.
[0008] Particularly in the field of vascular anastomosis, it is
acknowledged that there is an increasing demand for an easier,
quicker, less damaging, but reliable procedure to create vascular
anastomosis. This demand is further revitalized by the movement of
vascular procedures towards minimally invasive procedures. See Paul
M. N. Werker and Moshe Kon, Review of Facilitated Approaches to
Vascular Anastomosis Surgery, Annals of Thoracic Surgery, Vol. 63
(1997) pp. S122-S127.
[0009] Anastomosis techniques generally intend to provide
leak-proof joints that are not susceptible to mechanical failure,
and they also intend to minimize damage and reduce the undesirable
effects of certain operational features that may lead to
post-anastomosis complications. Damage to be minimized and
operational features whose undesirable effects should be reduced
include endothelial coverage injury, exposure of subintimal
connective tissue, exposure of an intraluminal foreign component,
blood flow interruption, irregularities at the junction,
adventitial tissue stripping, intimal injury, installment of a
foreign rigid body, use of materials that may have toxic effects,
damage to surrounding tissue, extensive vessel eversion, and tissue
plane malalignment. A common feature of most conventional stapling,
coupling and clipping techniques, particularly when applied to
small-diameter vessels, is that they require a temporary
interruption of the blood stream in the recipient vessel. As the
instrumentation that is needed at the anastomosis site becomes
complex and cumbersome, a wider open area is needed for accessing
the anastomosis site, thus leading to an increasingly invasive
procedure.
[0010] Post-anastomosis complications include neointimal
hyperplasia, atherosclerosis, thrombosis, stenosis, tissue
necrosis, vascular wall thinning, and aneurism formation. In
particular, potential for thrombosis and for other complications is
increased when the anastomosis site does not expand and contract
with systole and diastole, causing flow disturbances as blood
crosses the anastomosis. Therefore, a flexible and expandable
anastomosis device that responds to changing blood pressure during
systole and diastole is needed to decrease the potential for
thrombosis and other complication.
[0011] Potential for flow disturbance at the anastomosis site is
also increased when the opening at the anastomosis site has a
relatively small diameter. Of course, it is desirable to minimize
the size of instruments utilized to form the anastomosis. Smaller
instruments minimize the intrusiveness of the procedure. What is
needed, therefore, is an anastomosis device that expands upon
release and stretches the tissue at the anastomosis opening,
enabling the anastomosis to have a larger diameter than the initial
anastomosis opening.
[0012] Also needed is an anastomosis device that acts external to
vessels without penetrating at least one of the vessels and that
creates an anastomosis more quickly than conventional techniques,
with minimal interruption of blood flow.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0013] It is an object of the present invention to provide a device
for joining vessels together that minimizes complications such as
thrombosis through the use of expandable rings that expand and
contract with changes in fluid flow through the vessel after
anastomosis is complete.
[0014] It is a further object of the present invention to provide
an anastomosis device that avoids restriction of the lumen at the
anastomosis by radially expanding upon deployment, thus minimizing
complications such as thrombosis.
[0015] Additionally, another object of the invention is to provide
an anastomosis device that joins vessels together through the use
of expandable rings that are guided to each other by guides.
[0016] A further objection of this invention is to provide devices
for joining vessels together in a secure manner such that the
portions defining the openings of the vessels are not
penetrated.
[0017] A further object of this invention to provide an anastomosis
device that efficiently and reliably joins two vessels together at
an anastomosis site.
[0018] The present invention is a paired, expandable anastomosis
device that joins one vessel opening to another vessel opening. The
anastomosis device has two rings. Referred to herein as first and
second rings. In one embodiment each ring is made of connected
flexible segments. Each flexible segment has two arms that are
hingedly connected to form expandable V-shaped segments.
[0019] One embodiment of the anastomosis device has a ring is
designed so that a portion of a target vessel can be everted
through and held on the ring during the anastomosis procedure. The
other ring of this embodiment is designed so that a portion of a
graft vessel can be everted through and held on the ring during the
anastomosis procedure.
[0020] Each ring has a holding surface, such as a plurality of
holding tabs, to hold the everted vessel tissue. Holding tabs are
preferably configured with rounded tips to avoid penetrating the
vessel walls. The holding tabs of the ring used to anchor the graft
vessel on the ring may have barbs or hooks to more securely hold
the graft vessel.
[0021] The holding tabs in each ring are preferably oriented
relative to the holding tabs of the opposing ring so that when the
rings are brought together, each one of the holding tabs in a rings
is opposite the space between two neighboring holding tabs in the
opposing ring. When the rings are brought together so that the tips
of the holding tabs enter or at least close to entering the
opposing spaces between the holding tabs of the other ring, the
everted tissue will be held together, creating a secure
anastomosis.
[0022] Once the target and graft vessels are loaded onto the
anastomosis device, the rings are guided together. Several
embodiments are discussed that enable the rings to be guided
together. In one embodiment, the anastomosis device includes a
plurality of guides which guide the movement of one ring to the
other ring. The rings may have a plurality of guides adapted to
receive guideposts. The guides are preferably sized to frictionally
engage the guideposts.
[0023] The rings have a loading position in which the vessels can
be loaded onto the rings. In one embodiment, the guideposts of the
second ring are completely inserted into the guides when in the
loading position. The guideposts of the first ring are partially
inserted into the guides so that the rings maintain an offset
configuration. In this loading position, the holding tabs of the
first ring are sufficiently spaced from the holding tabs of the
second ring so that the graft vessel can be everted onto one ring
and the target vessel can be everted onto the other ring. After the
rings are loaded, they are brought together to create a secure
anastomosis. The rings may be brought together manually or by the
use of a device specifically designed for use with the rings, such
as an attachment actuaction device. Once the rings are brought
together, the frictional engagement of the guides and guideposts
prevents the rings from inadvertently sliding on the guides.
[0024] The anastomosis device of the present invention provides an
efficient, reliable anastomosis. Because the rings are expandable,
the inventive anastomosis device minimizes complications caused
with anastomosis devices of the prior art. Once the expandable
rings are deployed to the anastomosis position, the rings permit
the vessel tissue defining the anastomosis to expand and contract
with expansion and contraction of the vessels. Additionally, the
expandable rings radially expand to a deployed position when
released from an external operator or tongs so that the vessel
tissues defining the vessel openings are stretched to a diameter
greater than the diameter of the initial opening in the target
vessel. Also, no foreign material is placed in the interior of the
vessel because the vessel tissue is everted onto the rings and the
anastomosis is formed by bringing the everted interior of the graft
vessel into contact with the everted, interior portion of the
target vessel.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0025] In order that the manner in which the above-recited and
other advantages and objects of the invention are obtained, a more
particular description of the invention briefly described above
will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof which
are illustrated in the appended drawings. Understanding that these
drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are
not therefore to be considered to be limiting of its scope, the
invention will be described and explained with additional
specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings
in which:
[0026] FIG. 1A is an exploded perspective view of a preferred
embodiment of the paired, expandable anastomosis device with
guides.
[0027] FIG. 1B is a perspective view of the anastomosis device
depicted in FIG. 1A assembled and in the loading position.
[0028] FIG. 1C is a cross-sectional view of the anastomosis device
shown in FIG. 1B.
[0029] FIG. 1D is a perspective view of the anastomosis device
shown in FIGS. 1B with a graft vessel loaded onto the holding
surface of the first expandable ring and a cutter positioned to be
loaded into the lumen of the graft vessel.
[0030] FIG. 2A is a cross-sectional view of the anastomosis device
shown in FIG. 1A as anvil apparatus distends a target vessel into
the anastomosis device.
[0031] FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional view of the anastomosis device
shown in FIG. 2A in the next phase as a cutter and an anvil are
engaged to form an opening in the vessel.
[0032] FIG. 2C is a partial cross-sectional view of the anastomosis
device shown in FIG. 2B in the next phase as the graft vessel
everts the portion of the target vessel defining the first vessel
opening.
[0033] FIG. 2D is a cross-sectional view of the anastomosis device
shown in FIG. 2A in the next phase after the second compression
plate has been compressed towards the first compression plate such
that the everted graft vessel contacts the everted target
vessel.
[0034] FIG. 2E is a cross-sectional view of the anastomosis device
shown in FIG. 2A with the anastomosed structure after the anvil
apparatus and the cutter have been removed.
[0035] FIG. 3A depicts an exploded perspective view of an
embodiment of the present invention with locking extensions on one
ring and corresponding slots in the other ring.
[0036] FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment shown in
FIG. 3A in a loading position.
[0037] FIG. 3C is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment shown in
FIG. 3A in an anastomosis position.
[0038] FIGS. 4A-4B are perspective views of an alternative
embodiment of the anastomosis device having guides that are
integral with one of the rings.
[0039] FIGS. 5A-5F depict alternative embodiments of the expandable
rings of the present invention.
[0040] FIG. 6A is a partial cross-sectional view of the embodiment
shown in FIG. 1A used in combination with an attachment actuation
device.
[0041] FIG. 6B is a perspective and partial cross-sectional view of
the anastomosis device shown in FIG. 6A in the loading
position.
[0042] FIG. 6C is a cross-sectional view of the anastomosis device
shown in FIG. 6B in the next phase after the first expandable ring
has been compressed towards the second expandable ring by the
attachment actuation device such that the everted graft vessel
contacts the everted target vessel.
[0043] FIG. 7A is a perspective view of the external anastomosis
operator cooperating with the anvil depicted in phantom lines to
form an anastomosis.
[0044] FIG. 7B is a perspective view of an external anastomosis
operator.
[0045] FIG. 7C is an exploded perspective view of the external
anastomosis operator.
[0046] FIG. 7D is a cross-sectional view of the external
anastomosis operator.
[0047] FIG. 7E is a cross-sectional view of the external
anastomosis operator as the anvil pull advancer knob is rotated to
pull the anvil pull so that the anvil causes distension of the
target vessel into the compression plate apparatus.
[0048] FIG. 7F is a cross-sectional view of the external
anastomosis operator as the attachment actuator device is moved to
compress the second compression plate against the first compression
plate.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0049] The present invention relates to a paired expandable
anastomosis device adapted to join a first vessel opening in a
first vessel to a second vessel opening in a second vessel. The
anastomosis device is capable of expanding and contracting in
response to changes in fluid pressure in the vessels that are
joined together. The anastomosis device is also adapted to radially
expand upon deployment, stretching the vessel tissue to create an
anastomosis larger than the initial openings in the anastomosed
vessels.
[0050] As shown in FIG. 1A, the anastomosis device comprises a
first expandable ring and a second expandable ring. The first
expandable ring is adapted to hold a first vessel, such as a target
vessel, at an opening in the vessel. The second expandable ring is
adapted to hold a second vessel, such as a graft vessel, at an
opening in the vessel. The rings cooperate with guides so that
after the graft and target vessels have been loaded onto the rings,
the second ring may be brought together with the first ring to
create an anastomosis. Once the two rings have been brought
together, the rings are adapted to be linked together so that the
rings expand and contract in unison.
[0051] Anastomosis device 300 with guides and guideposts to link a
pair of expandable rings together is shown at FIGS. 1A-1D. FIGS.
2A-2E depict the creation of an anastomosis opening in a vessel and
the placement of anastomosis device 300 using an external operator
700". FIGS. 3A-3C depict an alternative embodiment of the
anastomosis device having a ring with locking extensions positioned
to slide into slots in the other ring. FIGS. 4A-4B depicts another
embodiment of the anastomosis device in which one of the expandable
rings is integral with a plurality of guides. FIGS. 5A-5F depict
additional embodiments of the expandable rings. The anastomosis
device may be used in combination with an attachment actuation
device as depicted in FIGS. 6A-6C. Alternatively, the anastomosis
device of the present invention may be utilized in combination with
an attachment actuator of an external operator as depicted in FIGS.
7A-7F.
[0052] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1A, first ring 310a is
adapted to support a first vessel, such as a target vessel 20.
First ring 310a has a generally annular shape and a plurality of
holding surfaces or tabs 514a that define an opening, first ring
opening 320a, which has a generally circumferential contour. The
internal diameter of first ring opening 320a is such that the
corresponding portion of the vessel to be anastomosed can fit
therein. First ring opening 320a is generally round, however, the
opening may also be ellipsoidal or ovoid.
[0053] First ring 310a comprises a plurality of connected flexible
segments 324a each with two arms 326a joined by a flexible segment
joint 328a. Arms 326a and flexible segment joints 328a form
V-shaped flexible segments 324a. Each flexible segment 324a is
attached to an adjoining flexible segment by a connecting joint
322a. First ring 310a further includes guideposts 330a adapted to
slide into and frictionally engage with guides 334. The operation
of the guides and guideposts is discussed in more detail below.
First ring 310a has a first end 370a and a second end 372a and
defines a first ring opening 320a. First ring 310a is an example of
a first ring means for providing support for a first vessel at a
first vessel opening.
[0054] As shown in FIG. 1A, holding tabs 314a extend integrally
from first end 370a at connecting joints 322a. Holding surfaces or
tabs are intended to hold the everted contours of the structures
being anastomosed. More particularly, a portion of the target
vessel defining a vessel opening is everted through ring 310a and
held by holding tabs 314a. Each holding tab 314a extends radially
inward and has a base 315a that extends from the ring. Bases 315a
preferably curve radially inward with an U-shape. Holding tabs 314a
are preferably wider at bases 315a than at the tips 316a opposite
the bases 315a. Tips 316a-b are preferably rounded as shown to
minimize the potential for penetration. Since, as discussed below,
the anastomosis is generally completed immediately after the target
vessel is loaded onto one of the rings, the holding tabs hold the
target vessel long enough without additional anchors such as barbs
or hooks. Holding tabs 314a are an example of holding means for
holding the first vessel at the first vessel opening.
[0055] Still referring to FIG. 1A, second ring 310b is adapted to
support a second vessel, such as graft vessel 50. The graft vessel
may be synthetic or autologous. Second ring 310b has a plurality of
holding surfaces or tabs 314b that define a second ring opening
320b with a round shape that corresponds to the shape of first ring
opening 320a. Like first ring opening 320a, second ring opening
320b is such that the corresponding portion of the graft vessel can
fit therein, as shown in FIG. 1D. Note that while the configuration
of the first and second rings are designed to specifically interact
respectively with the target and graft vessel, all or part of their
configurations can be reversed so that the first and second rings
respectively interact with the graft vessel and target vessel.
[0056] Second ring 310b comprises a plurality of connected flexible
segments 324b, each with two arms 326b joined by a flexible segment
joint 328b. Arms 326b and flexible segment joints 328b form
V-shaped flexible segments 324b. Each flexible segment 324b is
attached to an adjoining flexible segment by a connecting joint
322b. Second ring 310b has a first end 370b and a second end 372b.
Second ring 310b is an example of a second ring means for providing
support for a second vessel at a second vessel opening.
[0057] Holding tabs 314b extend integrally from first end 370b at
flexible segment joints 328b. Holding tabs 314b are adapted to
securely hold a portion of the graft vessel that defines an opening
after the portion has been everted through ring 310b. In the
embodiment shown in FIGS. 1A-1D, each holding tab 314b has a length
that is about equal to the width of second ring 310b. Each holding
tab 314b extends radially inward and has a base 315b that extends
from the ring so that each holding tab 314b is opposite from arms
326b and guideposts 330b. Bases 315b are preferably U-shaped and
curve radially inward toward the center of the expandable ring. The
holding surfaces or tabs 314b are preferably wider at bases 315b,
but narrower than bases 315a of first ring 310a. As with the
holding tabs of the first ring, holding tabs 314b preferably
terminate at rounded tips 316b that are rounded to minimize the
potential for penetration. Holding tabs 314b are an example of
holding means for holding the second vessel at the second vessel
opening.
[0058] Each holding tab 314b of second ring 310b has a hook or barb
318 to prevent graft vessel 50 from slipping off holding surfaces
314b after graft vessel 50 has been loaded onto holding tabs 314b.
Hooks 318 are an example of anchor means for more securely
anchoring a vessel on the holding means.
[0059] Anastomosis device 300 is shown in FIGS. 1B-1C in a loading
position before graft vessel 50 has been loaded onto holding tabs
314b of second ring 310b. As shown in FIG. 1D, a graft vessel 50 is
loaded onto second ring 310b. The graft vessel may be synthetic or
auotologous.
[0060] The holding surfaces such as holding tabs 314a-b are
preferably configured in a way such that they are not exposed to
blood flowing through the anastomosed structures. Blood vessels
have an internal layer, called the intimal layer and an external
layer called the adventitial layer. The holding surfaces are
positioned to capture everted tissue defining an opening in a blood
vessel so that the holding surfaces and rings contact the
adventitial layer of the blood vessel. When the rings are moved
together, to an anastomosis position, the intimal layer of the
portion of the first vessel defining a first vessel opening
contacts the intimal layer of the portion of the second vessel
defining a second vessel opening. Stated otherwise, the holding
tabs contact only the exterior of the everted vessel tissue and no
portion of the device is exposed in the vessel lumens.
[0061] As shown in FIG. 1C, holding tabs 314a-b are positioned such
that as the rings are brought towards each other, each holding tab
314b is positioned opposite from the spaces between holding tabs
314a in a mated configuration. When referring to the relative
configuration of the holding tabs in opposing rings, the terms
"mated or interdigitated configuration" describe a configuration in
which each one of the holding tabs in a ring can generally fit in
or at least be opposite the space between two neighboring holding
tabs in the opposing ring when such rings are close enough. While
other configurations are possible, the holding tabs in each ring
are preferably oriented relative to the holding tabs in the other
ring in such a mating configuration. Examples of interdigitated
configurations are provided below.
[0062] As shown in FIG. 1A, anastomosis device 300 further
comprises guides 334 with guide apertures 336. Guideposts 330a-b of
first and second rings 310a-b are sized to slide into guide
apertures 336. Guideposts 330a of first ring 310a extend from
connecting joints 322a, opposite holding tabs 314a. Guideposts 330b
of second ring 310b extend from flexible segment joints 328b. As
shown in FIGS. 1B and IC, the rings are held in an initial loading
position with the rings offset from each other by the use of the
guides and guideposts.
[0063] As shown in FIGS. 1B-1C, guides 334 position rings 310a-b in
an initial loading position. In the initial loading position, the
full length of each guidepost 330b of second ring 310b has been
inserted into guides 334. Guideposts 330a of first ring 310a are
partially inserted into guides 334 so that the rings are offset
from each other. As shown in FIG. 1C, in the loading position,
holding tabs 314a are sufficiently spaced apart from holding tabs
314b to permit graft vessel 50 to be everted through ring 310b and
loaded onto holding tabs 314b. Additionally, in the loading
position, holding tabs 314a-b are sufficiently spaced apart so that
the tissue defining an opening in the target vessel may be everted
onto holding tabs 314a and brought into contact with graft vessel
50.
[0064] Guides 334 are positioned to provide guided coaxial movement
of the rings relative to each other so that the target vessel may
be brought into contact with the graft vessel. Guides 334 permit
the relative approach of the two rings as guideposts 330a are moved
into guides 334, bringing ring 310b towards ring 310a. More
particularly, guides 334 enable rings 310a-b to be brought together
in a manner such that second ring 310b is moved in a fixed parallel
orientation relative to first ring 310a. In the anastomosis
position, rings 310a-b are compressed together and the graft vessel
is anastomosed to the target vessel. Guides 334 in combination with
guideposts 330a-b are an example of guide means for guiding the
movement of one ring relative to the other ring.
[0065] The guides also operate to structurally link the two rings
together so that while the rings expand and contract, the
anastomosis remains intact. Guide apertures 336 are sized to
frictionally engage guideposts 330a-b so that first ring 310a and
second ring 310bremain in the anastomosis position, even as the
rings expand and contract. More particularly, guide apertures 334
are sized such that, after the rings are compressed together,
significant force is required to move one ring away from the other
ring. The frictional engagement of guides 334 with guideposts
330a-b also enables rings 310a-b and the anastomosis to contract
and expand in unison in response to change in fluid pressure
through the target and graft vessels. Guides 334 in combination
with guideposts 330a-b are examples of locking means for locking
the first ring and second ring together such that the first vessel
and the second vessel remain anastomosed together.
[0066] To ensure sufficient compression of rings 310a-b, guides 334
and guideposts 330 are preferably sized so that when rings 310a-b
are approximated to an anastomosis position, the holding tabs of
one ring are sufficiently close to the holding tabs of the second
ring to create a blood-tight anastomosis of the graft and target
vessels. An example of a suitable compression is provided by an
anastomosis device with holding tabs of a length such that the tips
slightly extend into the space between the holding tabs of the
opposite ring in an interdigitated configuration. The rings may
also be designed for further compression such that holdings
surfaces or tabs 314b further enter the space between adjacent
holding surfaces or tabs 314a. Of course, the rings are preferably
designed such that the rings are brought together without
penetrating target vessel 20 or graft vessel 50.
[0067] Other interdigitated configurations are also possible. The
rings may be designed so that when the rings are compressed
together, the tips of the holding tabs of one of the rings
terminate in approximately the same plane as the tips of the
holding tabs of the other ring. Alternatively, the rings may be
adapted such that, in the anastomosis position, the holding tabs of
one ring are slightly offset from the holding tabs of the other
ring. The rings are accordingly sized to have an anastomosis
position that compresses down to the ideal spacing between the
anastomosis sides while providing holding surfaces that have
sufficient surface area to capture the tissue in an everted
configuration.
[0068] As can be seen from FIG. 1D, a graft vessel 50 is loaded
onto holding tabs 314bof ring 314 while a cutter 400 is positioned
to be loaded into the lumen 58 of graft vessel 50. Cutter 400
includes a cutting tube 410 that terminates at a cutting knife 412
with a cutting edge 414. Once cutter 400 is positioned within graft
vessel 50 then the combination of anastomosis device 300, graft
vessel 50 and cutter 400 are ready for use with anvil apparatus 200
to form an anastomosis. This combination is referred to herein as
ring and cutter assembly.
[0069] FIGS. 2A-2E depict the use, in sequential order, of an
anastomosis device 300 in combination with a cutter 400, anvil 210
and an attachment actuator 600" of an external operator 700". The
operation of the external operator 700" is described in more detail
below with reference to FIGS. 7A-7F. To optimally present this
sequence, FIGS. 2A-2E are cross-sectional views.
[0070] FIG. 2A depicts a graft vessel 50, loaded onto ring 310b.
FIG. 2A also depicts anvil 210 being pulled against the intima or
interior of the vessel wall such that target vessel 20 is
sufficiently distended to permit target vessel 20 at anastomosis
site 10 to be pulled into anastomosis device 300 through first ring
opening 320a. Cutter 400 also is shown in FIG. 2A extending through
second ring opening 320b about half way through anastomosis device
300 as cutter 400 is approximated with the portion of the target
vessel 20 distended by anvil 210.
[0071] FIG. 2B depicts the formation of a first vessel opening 24
in the wall of the first vessel. First vessel opening 24 is formed
by pulling anvil pull 230 through cutter 400 with sufficient force
to enable anvil 210 to advance target vessel 20 against cutting
edge 414. After the cut has been made then a cut portion 25 of the
wall of target vessel 20 remains on spherical engaging end 212 of
anvil 210 while the portion 26 of the target vessel that now define
first vessel opening 24 rests on anvil landing 214.
[0072] FIG. 2C depicts anastomosis device 300 as it is being
compressed and as portion 26 defining vessel opening 24 is being
everted. FIGS. 2C-2D depict the rings being brought together by an
attachment actuator 600" of an external operator 700". Attachment
actuator has a first ring engager 600a" and a second ring engager
600b" adapted to hold first and second rings 310a-b in a fixed
orientation relative to each other and to bring rings together in
this fixed orientation. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 2A-2E,
attachment actuactor 600" has actuating guides 640" that guide one
ring engager toward the other ring engager to bring the expandable
rings together. Each ring engager 600a"-b" has a latch (not shown)
that enables the ring engagers to be released once the anastomosis
is complete. The rings may, alternatively, be brought together by
an attachment actuation device, which is described in more detail
below with reference to FIGS. 6A-6C.
[0073] Note that the everted portion 56 of graft vessel 50, more
particularly the portion 57 opposite runded tips 316 of holding
tabs 314b, is urged against portion 26 that defines first target
vessel opening 24 in a manner such that portion 26 is being
everted. This eversion process is augmented by landing 214 of anvil
210 which allows portion 26 to rest on landing 214 and be plowed
upward by everted portion 56. The length of portion 26 is
sufficient for this eversion process since vessel 20 was distended
and pulled into the snap-fit anastomosis device by the action of
anvil 210.
[0074] FIG. 2D depicts anastomosis device 300 after compression.
More particularly, ring 310b has been moved toward ring 310a by
sliding guideposts 330b on guides 334. Note that the everted
portion 56 of graft vessel 50, more particularly the portion 57
opposite from the rounded tip 316b, is urged against portion 26
that defines first target vessel opening 24 in a manner such that
portion 26 has been everted. The end result is that the portion 27
opposite from rounded tip 316a is held in contact with the portion
57 of vessel 50 opposite from distal rounded tip 316b.
[0075] During anastomosis, the rings are preferably held in an
initial, radially compressed position by attachment actuator 600"
of external operator 700" or attachment actuation device 600'. In
this radially compressed position, each ring opening has an initial
diameter. Once the vessels are anastomosed together, the rings are
released by the attachment actuator and spring radially to a
deployed position. In the deployed position, the rings have a
greater diameter, stretching the vessel openings at the anastomosis
site.
[0076] This radial expansion is best seen in FIGS. 2D-2E. The rings
preferably spring open sufficiently so that, at the anastomosis
site, the vessel openings have a diameter equal to or greater than
the diameter of the graft vessel, thus minimizing restriction at
the anastomosis. For example, for a graft vessel having a diameter
of about 5 mm the initial diameter of the ring openings may be
about 4 mm and the diameter of the ring openings after deployment
may be about 6 mm. As shown in FIG. 2D, external operator 700 holds
rings 310a-b in an initial state with a diameter D1. When
anastomosis is complete and external operator 700 releases
anastomosis device 300, rings 310a-b radially expand to a greater
diameter, D2, as shown in FIG. 2E.
[0077] After rings 310a-b have been brought together to join
portion 26 of target vessel 20 that defines first vessel opening 24
to portion 56 of second vessel 50 that defines graft vessel opening
54, then first vessel 20 and second vessel 50 are anastomosed
together and are in fluid communication. Note that holding tabs
314a-b hold the vessels in place without penetration and without
contacting the interior of the vessels. Anvil apparatus 200 and
cutter 400 have been removed upon the completion of the procedure
through lumen 58 of graft vessel 50. Once the anastomosis is
complete, guideposts 330a-b remain stationary in guides 334 after
being compressed due to frictional engagement.
[0078] There are significant advantages to combining vessels in
accordance with the device described above, especially in a manner
such that there is at least partial eversion and contact between
the everted surfaces of the vessels. Another advantage is that
there is no penetration of the portions of the vessels defining the
vessel openings or at least no penetration of the target vessel. Of
course, the anastomosis is fluid tight to normal systolic pressure
and remains intact under stress. Since the everted portions 26 and
56 respectively cover the holding tabs 314a-b, exposure of
subintimal connective tissue is minimized. The rings create an
anastomosis that is morphologically satisfactory, including
complete eversion of the receiving target vessel intima with
apposition to the graft vessel. Further, everted portions 26 and 56
are in intima-intima contact and no cut portion is significantly
exposed to the blood flow that is to circulate through the
anastomosed structures.
[0079] Furthermore, the rings create an anastomosis without any
placing any foreign material into the anastomosed vessels and the
interior of the vessels are not exposed to any foreign material. As
a result, the thrombogenic potential is minimized.
[0080] Also, as discussed above, the rings radially expand upon
initial deployment. The radial expansion of the rings enables the
anastomosis to have a diameter that is larger than the initial
opening in the vessel. It may expand enough to be equivalent to the
diameter of the anastomosed vessels. Thus, a smaller incision in
the target vessel is required. Because a smaller incision is
required, smaller instruments may be used to create the opening in
the target vessel and to place the anastomosis device. For example,
the anvil and the cutter may be smaller than would otherwise be
required. As a result the invasiveness of the procedure is
minimized. By radially expanding upon release to create an opening
at least equal in diameter to the graft vessel, the present
invention also minimizes the restriction at the anastomosis and
potential resulting complications such as thrombosis and neointimal
hyperplasia.
[0081] The rings are also capable of expanding and contracting with
changes in the fluid pressure in the anastomosed vessels. For
example an anastomosis device which joins two blood vessels will
expand and contract with systole and diastole. The rings can expand
and contract while the holding tabs maintain the anastomosis. By
expanding and contracting with changes in fluid pressure, the
anastomosis device of the present invention minimizes flow
disturbances as the blood flow approaches the anastomosis site.
This feature also serves to minimize thrombosis and neointimal
hyperplasia.
[0082] In addition to the results achieved, there are also
significant procedural advantages. The method does not require
temporary occlusion of blood flow to the target vessel. The second
ring may be pre-loaded with the graft vessel so that the steps
disclosed above in connection with FIGS. 2A-2E may be accomplished
simultaneously or in quick succession. By pre-loading the graft
vessel and simultaneously cutting a target vessel opening and
loading the target vessel, the rings may be brought together to
create the anastomosis without blocking blood flow through the
target vessel. Also, the anastomosis can be reliably created. The
anastomosis utilizing the paired rings of the present invention is
rapidly achieved and eliminates the need for highly skilled
suturing. For example, once the anvil pull extends through the wall
of the vessel, the anastomosis procedure can be accomplished in as
little as 30 seconds when rings 310a-b are used to join the
vessels.
[0083] Manual manipulation may be utilized to achieve the steps
shown in FIGS. 2A-2E, however, mechanization is preferred. More
particularly, anvil pull 230 may be manually pulled as cutter 400
is held or manually advanced. Additionally, the anastomosis device
may be manually compressed in some embodiments. However, the paired
rings of the present invention are preferably used in combination
with an intraluminally directed anvil apparatus such as the
apparatus disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,248,117, which is hereby
incorporated by reference. Other intraluminally directed anvil
apparatus are disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser No.
09/737,200 and Serial No. 09/460,740 which were previously
incorporated by reference. The paired rings may also be used in
combination with an externally directed apparatus, such as those
disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/736,781, filed
Dec. 14, 2000 and entitled Externally Directed Methods for Forming
an Anastomosis Opening in a Vessel, U.S. patent application Ser.
No.______ filed on Oct. 31, 2001 and entitled Soft Anvil Apparatus
for cutting Anastomosis Fenestra, and U.S. patent application Ser.
No.______ filed on Oct. 31, 2001 and entitled Externally Positioned
Anvil Apparatus for Cutting Anastomosis Fenestra, which are hereby
incorporated by reference. Alternatively, the anastomosis device
may be used in combination with any suitable mechanical anastomosis
techniques.
[0084] FIGS. 3A-3C depict an alternative embodiment of the
anastomosis device, referred to herein as anastomosis device 300'.
The two rings of anastomosis device 300' are structurally linked by
locking extensions 340 in combination with slots 346. As shown in
FIGS. 3A-3B, each locking leg 330a' of first ring 310a' has a
locking extension 340. As shown in FIG. 3C, each locking extension
340 is positioned to lock into a corresponding slot 346 in a
locking leg 330b' when rings 310a'-b' are brought together to the
anastomosis position. Legs 330b' having slots 346 in combination
with legs 330a' having locking extensions 340 are additional
examples of locking means for locking the first ring and second
ring together such that the first vessel and the second vessel
remain anastomosed together. Alternatively, the expandable rings
may be linked by any suitable device, such as clips, clamps or
interlocking tabs. Sutures or adhesive may also be used to
structurally link two rings together. Clips, clamps, interlocking
tabs, sutures and adhesives are all further examples of locking
means for locking the first ring and second ring together such that
the first vessel and the second vessel remain anastomosed
together.
[0085] As shown in FIGS. 3A-3C, anastomosis device 300' functions
without guides such as the guides of the embodiment shown in FIG.
1A. Instead, rings 310a'-b' of anastomosis device 300' are adapted
to be coupled by an attachment actuation device 600' as shown in
FIGS. 6A-6C or attachment actuator 600 of external operator 700 as
shown in FIGS. 7A-7E, both of which are discussed in more detail
below. Attachment actuator 600 and attachment actuation device 600'
have a first ring engager 600a, 600a' and a second ring engager
600, 600b' that are adapted to guide rings 310a-b from a loading
position to an anastomosis position.
[0086] FIGS. 4A-4B depict an additional embodiment of the
anastomosis device, referred to herein as anastomosis device 300".
Guides 334" of anastomosis device 300" are integral with second
ring 310b" and have holding surfaces 314b. Second ring 310b" is
preferably made of plastic and integrally molded with guides 334.
Ring 310b" enables graft vessel tissue to be everted through ring
310b" and over holding surfaces 314b".
[0087] Ring 310a" has guideposts 330" positioned to slide into
guides 334". Guides 334" have apertures 336" that are sized to
frictionally engage guideposts 330". FIG. 4B depicts a partial
cross-section of a graft vessel 50 in phantom lines. Guideposts
330" in combination with guides 334" are an additional example of
locking means for locking the first ring and second ring together
such that the first vessel and the second vessel remain anastomosed
together.
[0088] The graft vessel is everted through ring 310b" and over
holding surfaces 314b". In the embodiment shown in FIG. 4B, ring
310b is designed such that the graft tissue is everted through ring
310b over holding surfaces 314b and onto the outer surface of
guides 334". In this embodiment, guideposts 330a" are adapted to
penetrate graft vessel tissue that has been everted through second
ring 310b' and past guide apertures 336". After the graft vessel is
loaded onto second ring 310b, guideposts 330a" penetrate the graft
vessel and slide partially into guides apertures 336". Guideposts
330" in combination with guides 334" are an additional example of
anchor means for more securely anchoring a vessel on the holding
means.
[0089] As shown in FIGS. 4A-4B, holding surfaces 314b" are at the
top of guides 334". As shown in FIG. 3A, each holding surface 314b"
is a flat surface. Holding surfaces 314a"-b" of rings 310a"-b" of
anastomosis device 300" are arranged so that when rings 310a"-b"
are brought together to an anastomosis position, holding tab tips
316a" of first ring 310a" directly oppose holding surface 314b" of
second ring 310b". Therefore, the graft and target vessels are
pinched between tips 316a" and holding surfaces 314b"when rings
310a"-b" are in the anastomosis position.
[0090] Holding surfaces, such as holding tabs 314a-b depicted in
FIG. 1A and holding surfaces 314b" depicted in FIG. 4A, can have a
variety of shapes and arrays. A generally regular distribution on
the anastomosis sides of rings 310a-b is preferred. Holding
surfaces may also form a contiguous surface around a ring. For
example, a suitable elastic band may be utilized as a ring having a
contiguous surface.
[0091] In an alternative embodiment, the holding tabs are inclined
towards the ring so that each holding tab clamps vessel tissue
against the ring. In another embodiment, holding tabs of one of the
rings are spike shaped or have pointed tips to better retain the
graft vessel. The holding tabs are typically rather rigid, however,
they may also be designed to elastically bend in such a way that
the distal tips of such holding surfaces slightly swing about their
respective bases.
[0092] The number of holding surfaces and their spacing may be
varied as needed as long as the portions of the vessels defining
the vessel openings can be maintained in an everted orientation.
For example, the plurality of holding surfaces may include ten
holding surfaces or tabs as shown in FIG. 1A. However, smaller or
greater amounts may also be utilized, for example there may be from
three to sixteen holding surfaces.
[0093] The guides may also be distributed in varying numbers and
arrays. The guides may be movably connected to the rings.
Alternatively, the guides may be integral with one of the rings.
The anastomosis devices depicted in FIGS. 1A and 4A have ten
guides. Alternative embodiments may include only two or more
guides. The guides may extend from one or both of the rings at any
appropriate location. The guides are preferably regularly
distributed around the ring. Furthermore, the guides are preferably
situated such that the portion defining the target vessel opening
and the portion defining the graft vessel opening are joined
without being penetrated as the first vessel and the second vessel
are anastomosed together.
[0094] As depicted in FIGS. 5A-5E, the rings of the present
invention may have flexible segments with a variety of shapes. The
expandable rings may be formed of any shape of flexible segment
that provides the rings with the capability to expand and contract
with changes in fluid pressure. FIGS. 5A-5C depict alternative
embodiments of the second ring. FIG. 5A is a partial view of
V-shaped flexible segments 324 of the second ring 310a depicted in
FIG. 1A. FIG. 5B depicts an expandable ring that comprises a series
of U-shaped flexible segments. FIG. 5C depicts an expandable ring
comprising a series of flexible segments which are made of plastic
and have hinged portions of decreased thickness relative to
adjacent portions.
[0095] FIGS. 5D-5F depict embodiments of the first ring with varied
flexible segments. FIGS. 5D depicts an expandable ring with
U-shaped flexible segments. FIG. 5E shows a ring comprising
flexible segments which have a configuration that is diamond
shaped. The diamond shaped configuration is an example of a
quadrilaterial configuration. FIG. 5F depicts an expandable ring
with circular flexible segments. Alternatively, the rings may
include spiral-shaped flexible segments, oval-shaped flexible
segments, elliptical flexible segments and other flexible segments
that have appropriate configurations.
[0096] The positioning of the anastomosis device and the operations
of pulling or holding anvil pull 230, making an opening, and
compressing the rings together, as described in connection with
FIGS. 2A-2E, can be accomplished manually or with the aid of
devices such as external anastomosis operator 700. The attachment
actuation means need not be part of the same apparatus with the
anvil pull engager and the cutter. This reduces the size of the
instruments utilized.
[0097] FIGS. 6A-6C show an attachment actuation device or tongs
600' used to approximate rings 310a-b. Actuation device 600' has
opposing ring engagers, a first ring engager 600a' and a second
ring engager 600b', that respectively extend from attached handles
604a-b. Handles 604a-b are connected together at a hinge. Each ring
engager 600a'-b' has a latch 608a-b that enables the ring engagers
to lock onto expandable rings 310a-b so that anvil 210 can be
pulled through second ring opening 320b and distend the wall of
vessel 20 into expandable anastomosis device 300. While the tissue
of vessel 20 is cut and everted onto holding surfaces 314b, tongs
600' are closed. Once the anastomosis is complete, latch 608a'-b'
is released to open ring engagers 600a'-b' and deploy expandable
rings 310a-b. Attachment actuation device 600' is an example of
attachment actuation means for approximating one ring to the other
ring. Latches 608a'-b' are examples of means for locking the ring
engagers against the rings.
[0098] FIG. 7A shows external anastomosis operator 700 with an
attachment actuator 600 engaging an anvil in preparation for
cutting an opening in the target vessel. As shown in FIGS. 7A-7B,
external anastomosis operator 700 has a body 710 with an optional
handle 720. Attached to body 710 are the main components of
operator 700. These main components are cutter 400, spring biasing
device 450, an anvil pull engager 500 which includes an anvil pull
holder 530 and an anvil pull advancer 560, and an attachment
actuator 600. Attachment actuator 600 is an additional example of
attachment actuation means for approximating one of the rings to
the other ring.
[0099] The attachment actuation devices and the attachment actuator
600 of external operator 700 may be adapted to enable the
orientation of the rings relative to each other to remain
essentially the same as the rings are brought together to an
anastomosis position. This ability may be necessary for embodiments
of the anastomosis device such as device 300' that has no guides.
Note that once the opposing ring engagers of the attachment
actuation devices or the attachment actuator 600 of external
operator 700 have have engaged the rings of an anstomosis device,
preferably in a locked configuration, then the rings are easily
brought together while maintaining their relative orientation. Note
that the opposing ring engagers may be guided together in different
ways as shown by the various embodiments. For example, attachment
actuation device 600" relies on guides 640" to bring first ring
engager 600a" and second ring engager 600b" together. The hinge of
attachment actuation device 600' guides the opposing ring engagers
600a'-b' together. As discussed below in reference to attachment
actuator 600, rail 640 guides the movement of ring engager to the
other. Mechanims adapted to lock the ring engagers against the
rings are also discussed below in reference to attachment actuator
600 that function much like latches 608a'-b' discussed above in
reference to attachment actuation device 600'.
[0100] FIG. 7B provides a perspective view of an external
anastomosis operator 700 with its main components identified
including: cutter 400, spring biasing device 450, an anvil pull
engager 500 which includes an anvil pull holder 530 and an anvil
pull advancer 560, and an attachment actuation device 600. Spring
biasing device 450 is used to apply pressure against the distal end
418 of cutter 400. One advantage derived form the use of a device
such as external anastomosis operator 700 is that such devices have
a series of actuators, and by manipulating these actuators the
operator can effectuate the different operations at the anastomosis
site without actually having to manually and directly operate each
element itself.
[0101] FIG. 7C provides an exploded perspective view of all of the
components of external anastomosis operator 700 so it is with
reference primarily to this view that the details of operator 700
are understood. FIGS. 7D-7E provide cross-sectional views of
operator 700 depicting the steps for using operator 700.
[0102] Cutter 400 is shown in FIG. 7C as including a tip portion
401 and an extension portion 402. A spring biasing device 450
applies pressure against the distal end 418 of cutter 400. Spring
biasing device 450 has a spring mount 452 that is mounted to body
710 via spring mount pins 454. A rotatable spring housing 456 is
threadably engaged by spring mount 452. Loaded into rotatable
spring housing 456 is a cutter cup 458 that is configured to hold
distal end 418 of cutter. Cutter cup 458 has a flange that is
pushed against a flange at the proximal end of rotatable spring
housing 456 such that cutter cup 458 is held in the proximal end of
spring housing 456. A spring 460 is positioned within a spring
sleeve 462. Spring 460 and spring sleeve 462 have ends that abut
cutter cup 458 and opposite ends that abut threaded jam screw 464.
Threaded jam screw 464 is accessible via the distal end of spring
mount 452 so that it may be rotated to increase or decrease the
tension of spring 460 against cutter cup 458.
[0103] Cutter cup 458 moves within rotatable spring housing 456
against spring 460. The pressure of spring 460 against cutter cup
458 enables cutter 400 to apply pressure against anvil 210 as anvil
210 is pulled against cutter 400. This makes it easier to cut the
vessels as force is being applied in both directions. It also
enables cutter 400 to be pushed back by anvil 210 to allow anvil
210 to further distend the wall of vessel 20 as shown in FIGS.
5A-5B until sufficient pressure is applied by spring 460 to bias
cutter 400 forward and by the advancement of anvil 210 by anvil
pull 230 to cut the vessel. The gradual increase in pressure also
serves to assist a spherical engaging end 212 of anvil 210 to self
center on cutter 400. More particularly, anvil 210 may be initially
misaligned such that the center of engaging end from which anvil
pull extends is positioned on the cutting edge of the cutter. A
rapid application of pressure would lock such a misalignment while
a gradual increase enables the curvature of spherical engaging end
to guide the anvil into a centered orientation.
[0104] Another function of spring biasing device is to set the
position of cutter 400. Rotatable spring housing 456 has a notch
457 at its distal end that enables a screw driver to rotate
rotatable spring housing 456 within spring mount 452 to advance or
retract rotatable spring housing 456 within spring mount 452.
Movement of rotatable spring housing 456 also moves cutter cup 458,
thereby determining the location of distal end 418 of cutter 400
within operator 700. Of course advancement of cutter cup 458
towards the proximal end of operator 700 causes cutting knife 400
to engage anvil 210 closer to first ring 310a while retraction of
cutter cup 458 towards the distal end of operator 700 causes
cutting knife and anvil to engage each other closer to second ring
310b. The position of cutter 400 is preferably set to enable vessel
20 to be distended in a manner that is optimal for then
subsequently everting the portion defining the newly formed opening
onto holding surfaces 314a. To carefully identify the length that
rotatable spring housing 456 is advanced or retracted, a detent 470
is threaded into spring mount such that it can contact rotatable
spring housing and engage the grooves 471 of rotatable spring
housing in a manner that enables detent 470 to click as each groove
is rotated past detent 470.
[0105] Obviously spring biasing device 450 has many variables that
impact the manner in which cutter 400 is used in combination with
external anastomosis operator 700. Some of these variables include
the inherent tension of spring 460, the tension of spring 460 as
caused by the position of threaded jam screw 464 in spring mount
452 against spring 460, and the position of the surface which
distal end 418 of cutter 400 abuts, namely cutter cup 660 as
determined by the position of rotatable spring housing 456 within
spring mount 452.
[0106] Spring biasing device 450 is an example of spring biasing
means for providing tension against the cutting means as the
cutting means engages the anvil means of the intraluminally
directed anvil apparatus. The spring biasing means provides an
amount of tension that enables the cutting means to form the first
vessel opening after the wall of the first vessel has been
distended by the action of the anvil means being pulled into the
openings of the ring assembly such that forming the first vessel
opening results in at least partial eversion of the portion of the
first vessel defining the first vessel opening.
[0107] As indicated above, anvil pull engager 500 has two primary
components including an anvil pull holder 530 and anvil pull
advancer. Anvil pull holder 530 receives anvil pull 230 via spring
biasing device 450. More particularly, anvil pull 230 extends
through cutter cup 458, rotatable spring housing 456, spring 460
and sleeve 462 around spring 460, and out of threaded jam screw
464.
[0108] Anvil pull holder 530 includes a holder mount 532 positioned
in track 730 of body 710. In this embodiment, holder mount is
moveable so that the anvil pull can be advanced after it is held.
However, in other embodiments, the anvil pull holder may just lock
the anvil pull into position such that the cutter is moved against
a stationary anvil. Similarly, the spring biasing device 450 may be
eliminated so that the vessel is cut only by pressure exerted by
the anvil pull against the cutter. As discussed above, while the
cutter and the anvil may engage each other in these arrangements,
it is preferable for the cutter to apply some pressure as the anvil
pull is advanced against the cutter.
[0109] Holder mount 532 may be utilized in different ways to hold
anvil pull 230. Holder 530 has a split cone 534 inserted into a
tapered chamber 536 against a spring 538. Anvil pull 230 extends
through apertures in holder mount 532, spring 538, split cone 534
and out of an aperture centered in holder knob 540. Holder knob 540
is threadably engaged by holder mount 532 such that rotation of
holder knob 540 advances split cone 534 in tapered chamber 536
causing split cone to lock onto anvil pull 230. Holder mount is
slotted at its distal end as is holder knob. By aligning slot 542
of holder knob 540 with the insert slot 544 of holder mount, anvil
pull 230 can be bent so that it extends through both holder knob
slot 542 and insert slot 544. Then holder knob 540 can then be
rotated so that the bent portion of anvil pull 230 is rotated into
one of the locking slots 546a-b that extend perpendicularly from
insert slot 544. This securely locks anvil pull into position.
Anvil pull 230 can be locked through the use of slots instead of or
in addition to the use of split cone 534 in tapered chamber
536.
[0110] Since anvil pull holder 530 is moveable it threadably
engages rotatable lead screw 562 of anvil pull advancer. More
particularly, lead screw 562 is threadably engaged by anti-backlash
nut 550 which is fixedly attached to holder mount 532.
Anti-backlash nut 550 has an attachment face 552 through which a
plurality of attachment face screws 554 extend to hold holder mount
532 and anti-backlash nut 550 together.
[0111] Lead screw 562 has a proximal pivot end 564 that rotates
within a bushing 566 positioned within a recess in spring mount
452. Lead screw also has a distal pivot end 568 that is attached to
advancer knob 570 to rotate lead screw 562. Advancer knob 570
rotates within an advancer knob mount 572 which is attached to body
710 in groove 730 via advancer knob mount bolts 574. As shown in
FIG. 7D, distal pivot end 568 rotates in a bushing 576 positioned
within an aperture of advancer knob mount 572.
[0112] Advancer knob 570 has a stem with a plurality of grooves 578
that engage a detent 580 to click so that the incremental rotation
of advancer knob 570 can be carefully counted to determine the
length that the anvil is moved in the anastomosis device as the
anvil pull is advanced. As shown in FIG. 7C, detent 580 is threaded
into advancer knob mount 572 such that it can contact grooves 578
in the stem of advancer knob 570 to click as each groove is rotated
past detent 580.
[0113] FIG. 7E depicts advancer knob 570 being rotated to move
anvil pull advancer 560 so that it can urge anvil pull 230 in a
manner such that anvil 210 is advanced within anastomosis device
300. As advancer knob 570 is rotated, lead screw 562 is thereby
rotated. Since anvil pull holder 530 is threadably engaged on
rotatable lead screw 562 and is locked in track 730, anvil pull
holder 530 can only move forward and backward as lead screw 562 is
rotated.
[0114] FIG. 7F depicts attachment actuation device 600 being
engaged. Attachment actuation device 600 has a first ring engager
600a and a second ring engager 600b. First ring engager 600a and a
second ring engager 600b each respectively utilize an optional
adaptor 610a-b to engage first and second rings 310a-b. First ring
engager 600a and second ring engager 600b each have a cutter
aperture 620a and 620b. Cutter 400 extends through these aligned
apertures 620a-b. First ring engager 600a is positioned on rail 640
such that it extends slightly beyond cutting edge 414 of cutter
400. This difference in length enables first ring 300a to be held
slightly beyond cutter in a manner that permits the wall of vessel
20 to be pulled into anastomosis device as shown in FIG. 7D-7F and
distended as needed.
[0115] Rail 640 is attached to body 710 via rail pin 642. A groove
pin 644 extends through rail 640. A first ring holder 646 holds
first ring engager 600a on the proximal end of rail 640.
[0116] First ring engager 600a is fixedly mounted on rail 640 via
pin 646 while second ring engager 600b is movably mounted on rail
640. Second ring engager 600b has a groove 634 through which groove
pin 644 extends. The configuration of groove pin 644 in groove 634
enables second ring engager 600b to be held in a fixed orientation
such that it can be moved back and forth as needed with respect to
first ring engager 600a.
[0117] Second ring engager is moved on rail 640 by rotating
threaded compressor sleeve 650 which engages a threaded rail sleeve
648. Threaded rail sleeve 648 may be adhered onto rail 640 or be an
integral component. Rail 640 and its threaded rail sleeve 648 or
threaded rail portion combined with compressor sleeve 650 are means
for advancing one ring engager towards the other ring engager.
[0118] Set screws 615 lock first ring engager 600a on first ring
310a. Second ring engager 600b has a latch (not shown) that enables
engager 600b to lock onto second ring 310b. Once the anastomosis is
complete, set screws 615 and the latch are released to release the
first and second ring engagers from the expandable rings. Note that
there are many other ways for locking the rings with first and
second ring engager 600a-b such as the use of conventional quick
release configurations. Quick release configurations, latches and
set screws are all examples of means for locking the ring engagers
against the rings.
[0119] The paired expandable anastomosis device of the present
invention is preferably used for vascular anastomosis, however, the
present invention is not limited to such use. Nor is the
anastomosis device limited to use with any particularly sized
vessel. For example, vessels may be joined with diameters ranging
from about 2 mm to about 20 mm, but there is no fundamental
limitation for using embodiments of this invention with graft
vessels with diameters less than 2 mm.
[0120] It will be obvious to those having skill in the art that
many changes may be made to the details of the above-described
embodiments of this invention without departing from the underlying
principles thereof. The scope of the present invention should,
therefore, be determined only by the following claims.
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