U.S. patent application number 11/280530 was filed with the patent office on 2006-07-27 for pulmonary occlusal stent delivery catheter, loading system and methods of use.
This patent application is currently assigned to PULMONx. Invention is credited to Thomas Crowder, Robert Kotmel, Nadia Matov, Peter P. Soltesz, Anthony Wondka.
Application Number | 20060162731 11/280530 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 36407747 |
Filed Date | 2006-07-27 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060162731 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Wondka; Anthony ; et
al. |
July 27, 2006 |
Pulmonary occlusal stent delivery catheter, loading system and
methods of use
Abstract
Methods, systems and devices are provided for performing lung
volume reduction in patients suffering from chronic obstructive
pulmonary disease or other conditions where isolation of a lung
segment or reduction of lung volume is desired. The methods are
minimally invasive with instruments being introduced through the
mouth (endotracheally) and rely on isolating the target lung tissue
segment from other regions of the lung and occluding various lung
passageways with the use of occlusal stents. The occlusal stents
are delivered with the use of an occlusal stent delivery system
which is loaded with the occlusal stent with the use of an occlusal
stent loading system.
Inventors: |
Wondka; Anthony; (Menlo
Park, CA) ; Soltesz; Peter P.; (Henderson, NV)
; Kotmel; Robert; (Burlingame, CA) ; Matov;
Nadia; (San Jose, CA) ; Crowder; Thomas;
(Santa Rosa, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
TOWNSEND AND TOWNSEND AND CREW, LLP
TWO EMBARCADERO CENTER
EIGHTH FLOOR
SAN FRANCISCO
CA
94111-3834
US
|
Assignee: |
PULMONx
Palo Alto
CA
|
Family ID: |
36407747 |
Appl. No.: |
11/280530 |
Filed: |
November 15, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60628856 |
Nov 16, 2004 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
128/207.14 ;
128/200.26; 128/207.15 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B 17/12022 20130101;
A61B 2017/22069 20130101; A61B 1/012 20130101; A61B 2017/12054
20130101; A61B 17/12104 20130101; A61B 1/2676 20130101; A61B
2017/00867 20130101; A61B 17/12172 20130101; A61B 2017/12086
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
128/207.14 ;
128/207.15; 128/200.26 |
International
Class: |
A62B 9/06 20060101
A62B009/06; A61M 16/00 20060101 A61M016/00 |
Claims
1. A delivery system for delivering an occlusal stent to a target
lung passageway comprising: a placement instrument configured for
endobronchial advancement into a lung passageway leading to the
target lung passageway, the instrument having a proximal end, a
distal end, a working lumen extending therethrough; a delivery
catheter having a proximal end, a distal end and a receptacle
formable within its distal end for loading the occlusal stent
therein, the delivery catheter configured to be advanced through
the working lumen of the placement instrument so that its distal
end extends beyond the distal end of the placement instrument, and
wherein its distal end is retractable so that retraction of its
distal end releases the occlusal stent to the target lung
passageway; and a clamp connector attachable to the working lumen
and having a passageway that allows passage of the delivery
catheter through the passageway and into the working lumen of the
placement instrument.
2. A delivery system as in claim 1, wherein the placement
instrument comprises a visualization element and an occlusive
element near its distal end.
3. A delivery system as in claim 2, wherein the delivery catheter
includes a handle and the clamp connector includes a locking
mechanism which is capable of locking the handle of the delivery
catheter to the clamp connector.
4. A delivery system as in claim 2, wherein the clamp connector
comprises a connector body having a first end, a second end and an
arc-shaped arm connecting the first and second ends, and wherein
the passageway passes through the first and second ends.
5. A delivery system as in claim 1, wherein the delivery catheter
comprises a positioning rod, a tubular shaft extending from its
proximal end to its distal end, and a handle positioned at its
proximal end, wherein the positioning rod is disposed within the
tubular shaft and is fixedly attached to the handle.
6. A delivery system as in claim 5, wherein the tubular shaft is
slidable in relation to the positioning rod.
7. A delivery system as in claim 6, wherein the receptacle has an
axial length and is formable within the tubular shaft distal to the
distal end of the positioning rod.
8. A delivery system as in claim 7, wherein the tubular shaft is
configured so that sliding of the tubular shaft shortens the axial
length of the receptacle exposing the occlusal stent.
9. A delivery system as in claim 8, further comprising the occlusal
stent wherein the occlusal stent is self-expanding so that release
of the occlusal stent deploys the occlusal stent within the lung
passageway.
10. A delivery system as in claim 5, wherein the positioning rod
comprises a main body coil extending along the positioning rod
terminating at a plunger tip.
11. A delivery system as in claim 1, wherein the visualization
instrument comprises a bronchoscope.
12. A delivery system as in claim 11, wherein the visualization
instrument further comprises a sheath having a proximal end, a
distal end, a lumen extending therethrough and the occlusive member
disposed near its distal end, the lumen configured to receive the
bronchoscope so that the occlusive member is disposed near the
distal end of the bronchoscope.
13. A delivery system as in claim 12, wherein the sheath comprises
a flexible tubular body having a length in the range from 40 cm to
70 cm, an inside lumen diameter in the range from 1.5 mm to 10 mm,
and a wall thickness in the range from 0.3 mm to 0.7 mm.
14. A delivery system as in claim 1, wherein the distal end of the
delivery catheter has portions of variable flexibility.
15. A delivery system as in claim 1, further comprising the
occlusal stent, wherein the occlusal stent is self expanding to a
configuration which occludes the target lung passageway.
16. A delivery system as in claim 15, wherein the occlusal stent is
self expanding in free space to a configuration that has an
approximately 11 mm outer diameter.
17. A delivery system as in claim 15, wherein the occlusal stent
comprises a wire structure at least partially encapsulated in a
polymer.
18. A loading system comprising: an occlusal stent that is
transitionable between an expanded configuration and a contracted
configuration; a loading body having a wide-mouthed end and a
narrow-mouthed end, wherein the wide-mouthed end is configured to
receive the occlusal stent in the expanded configuration and the
narrow-mouthed end is configured to hold the occlusal stent in the
contracted configuration; and a loading mandrel having a proximal
end, a distal end, and an attachment device disposed near its
distal end that is removably attachable to the occlusal stent,
wherein the mandrel is configured to load the removably attached
occlusal stent into the wide-mouthed end and move the occlusal
stent to the narrow-mouthed end.
19. A loading system as in claim 18, wherein the loading body
comprises a loading receptacle within the wide-mouthed end, wherein
the loading receptacle is sized to receive the occlusal stent in
the expanded configuration.
20. A loading system as in claim 19, wherein the loading receptacle
has a diameter in the range of approximately 10 to 13 mm.
21. A loading system as in claim 19, wherein the loading body
comprises a holding tube within the narrow-mouthed end, wherein the
holding tube is sized to receive the occlusal stent in the
contracted configuration.
22. A loading system as in claim 21, wherein the holding tube has a
diameter in the range of approximately 2 to 2.5 mm.
23. A loading system as in claim 21, wherein the loading body
comprises a restrictor disposed between the loading receptacle and
the holding tube, wherein the restrictor has a funnel shape to
transition the occlusal stent from the expanded configuration to
the contracted configuration.
24. A loading system as in claim 18, wherein the loading mandrel
includes a first marking near its distal end and the loading body
includes a second marking near its narrow-mouthed end, wherein
alignment of the first marking with the second marking positions
the occlusal stent within the narrow-mouthed end.
25. A loading system as in claim 18, further comprising a delivery
catheter having a proximal end, a distal end and a receptacle
formable within its distal end for loading the occlusal stent
therein.
26. A loading system as in claim 25, wherein the narrow-mouthed end
of the loading body is configured to mate with the distal end of
the delivery catheter.
27. A loading system as in claim 26, wherein the loading mandrel is
configured to move the occlusal stent from the narrow-mouthed end
to the receptacle within the distal end of the delivery
catheter.
28. A system as in claim 18, wherein the attachment device
comprises a hook, fork, clasp, fastener or magnet.
29. A method of delivering an occlusal stent to a lung passageway
within a lung of a patient comprising: providing a visualization
instrument, wherein the instrument has a proximal end, distal end,
a working lumen therethrough, means for visualization near the
distal end, and an occlusive member disposed near its distal end
which is configured to be expandable to occlude the lung
passageway; advancing the visualization instrument through a
trachea of the patient to a first location within the lung
passageway; occluding the lung passageway at the first location
with the occlusive member; evacuating the lung passageway;
providing a delivery catheter having a proximal end, a distal end,
and an occlusal stent loaded within a receptacle in its distal end;
advancing the delivery catheter through the working lumen of the
visualization instrument so that the distal end of the delivery
catheter extends beyond the distal end of the bronchoscope to a
second location within the lung passageway; and retracting the
distal end of the delivery catheter which releases the occlusal
stent from the receptacle at the second location within the
evacuated lung passageway.
30. A method as in claim 29, wherein the lung passageway comprises
a main passageway and at least one branch passageway, wherein the
first location is disposed within the main passageway and the
second location is disposed within one of the at least one branch
passageways.
31. A method as in claim 30, further comprising withdrawing the
delivery catheter from the visualization instrument after releasing
the occlusal stent while the lung passageway remains evacuated.
32. A method as in claim 31, further comprising: providing another
delivery catheter having a proximal end, a distal end, and another
occlusal stent loaded within a receptacle within its distal end;
and advancing the another delivery catheter through the working
lumen of the visualization instrument so that the distal end of the
another delivery catheter extends beyond the distal end of the
instrument to a third location within the evacuated lung
passageway.
33. A method as in claim 32, wherein the third location is disposed
within another of the at least one branch passageways.
34. A method as in claim 29, wherein the delivery catheter
comprises a tubular shaft extending from its proximal end to its
distal end, and wherein the occlusal stent is disposed within the
tubular shaft, and wherein releasing comprises withdrawing the
tubular shaft to expose the occlusal stent.
35. A method as in claim 34, wherein the delivery catheter
comprises a handle disposed at its proximal end, and wherein the
tubular shaft is slidably connected with the handle by a handle
button, wherein withdrawing comprises moving the handle button to
withdraw the tubular shaft.
36. A method as in claim 29, wherein the visualization instrument
has a handle near its proximal end, further comprising connecting a
clamp connector to the handle of the instrument.
37. A method as in claim 36, wherein the clamp connector has a
passageway, and wherein advancing the delivery catheter comprises
passing the distal end of the delivery catheter through the
passageway of the clamp connector and into the working lumen of the
instrument.
38. A method as in claim 37, wherein the delivery catheter
comprises a tubular shaft extending from its proximal end to its
distal end and a handle disposed at its proximal end, and wherein
the clamp connector has a locking mechanism, the method further
comprising actuating the locking mechanism to lock the handle of
the delivery catheter to the clamp connector.
39. A method as in claim 38, wherein the tubular shaft is slidably
connected with the handle of the catheter by a handle button,
wherein releasing comprises moving the handle button to withdraw
the tubular shaft and expose the occlusal stent.
40. A method as in claim 29, wherein releasing comprises expanding
the occlusal stent to occlude the lung passageway.
41. A method comprising: providing a loading mandrel having a
proximal end, a distal end and an occlusal stent removably attached
to its distal end, wherein the occlusal stent is transitionable
between an expanded configuration and a contracted configuration;
providing a loading body having a wide-mouthed end and a
narrow-mouthed end, wherein the wide-mouthed end is configured to
receive the occlusal stent in the expanded configuration and the
narrow-mouthed end is configured to hold the occlusal stent in the
contracted configuration; positioning the loading mandrel within
the loading body so that the occlusal stent is near the
wide-mouthed end; and manipulating the loading mandrel to load the
occlusal stent into the wide-mouthed end and move the occlusal
stent to the narrow-mouthed end within the loading body.
42. A method as in claim 41, wherein the loading body comprises a
loading receptacle within the wide-mouthed end, and wherein
manipulating the loading mandrel comprises moving the loading
mandrel relative to the loading body so that the occlusal stent is
positioned within the loading receptacle.
43. A method as in claim 42, wherein the loading body includes a
restrictor adjacent to the loading receptacle, and wherein
manipulating the loading mandrel comprises moving the loading
mandrel relative to the loading body so that the occlusal stent
enters the restrictor.
44. A method as in claim 43, wherein the loading body includes a
holding tube adjacent to the restrictor, and wherein manipulating
the loading mandrel comprises moving the loading mandrel relative
to the loading body so that the occlusal stent is positioned within
the holding tube.
45. A method as in claim 41, wherein the loading mandrel includes a
first marking near its distal end and the loading body includes a
second marking near its narrow-mouthed end, further comprising
aligning the first marking with the second marking indicating that
the occlusal stent is positioned within the narrow-mouthed end.
46. A method as in claim 41, further comprising detaching the
occlusal stent from the loading mandrel.
47. A method as in claim 45, further comprising: providing a
delivery catheter having a proximal end, a distal end and a
receptacle formable within its distal end for loading the occlusal
stent therein; and transferring the occlusal stent from the
narrow-mouthed end of the loading body to the receptacle of the
delivery catheter.
48. A method as in claim 46, further comprising mating the distal
end of the delivery catheter with the narrow-mouthed end of the
loading body prior to the transferring step.
49. A method as in claim 47, wherein transferring comprises
advancing the loading mandrel through the open-mouthed end of the
loading body which pushes the occlusal stent into the distal end of
the delivery catheter.
50. A clamp connector comprising: a connector body having a first
end, a second end and a passageway therethrough, the passageway
configured to receive at least a portion of a catheter; and a
fitting on the first end for attaching the connector body to a
handle of a visualization instrument, the visualization instrument
having a proximal end, a distal end, a working lumen extending
therethrough, means for visualization near the distal end and the
handle disposed near its proximal end so that attachment of the
connector body to the handle joins the passageway with the working
lumen to allow advancement of the catheter from the passageway into
the working lumen.
51. A clamp connector as in claim 50, further comprising a locking
mechanism configured to lock the at least a portion of a catheter
to the connector body which holds the at least a portion of the
catheter relative to the visualization instrument
52. A clamp connector as in claim 50, wherein the connector body
further includes an arm connecting the first end to the second end
to form a C-shape.
53. A clamp connector as in claim 50, wherein the fitting comprises
a quick connector.
54. A clamp connector as in claim 53, wherein the quick connector
comprises a side-action quick connector which allows the connector
to be attached and detached from a side approach.
55. A clamp connector as in claim 50, wherein the locking mechanism
tightens the passageway through the connector body to hold the at
least a portion of the catheter by frictional forces.
56. A clamp connector as in claim 55, wherein the locking mechanism
comprises a screw, knob or tensioning lever.
57. A clamp connector comprising: a connector body having a
passageway therethrough; and means for connecting the connector
body to a visualization instrument having a working lumen so that
insertion of an instrument through the passageway of the connector
body inserts the instrument into the working lumen of the
visualization instrument.
58. A clamp connector as in claim 57, wherein the visualization
instrument comprises a bronchoscope.
59. A clamp connector as in claim 57, wherein the passageway and
the working lumen are non-axially aligned during connection.
60. A clamp connector as in claim 57, wherein the means for
connecting comprises a fitting.
61. A clamp connector as in claim 60, wherein the fitting comprises
a quick connector.
62. A clamp connector as in claim 57, further comprising a locking
mechanism configured to lock the at least a portion of an
instrument to the connector body which holds the at least a portion
of the instrument relative to the visualization instrument.
63. A delivery system for delivering an implant to a target
location within a body comprising: an access instrument configured
for advancement to the target location, the instrument having a
proximal end, a distal end, a working lumen extending therethrough
and an access port communicating with the working lumen; a delivery
catheter comprising a shaft having a proximal end, a distal end and
a receptacle within its distal end for holding the implant, the
delivery catheter configured to be advanced into the working lumen
of the access instrument, the catheter further comprising an inner
core axially movable relative to the shaft; and a positioning
mechanism attachable to the proximal end of the access instrument
and further attachable to the inner core of the catheter.
64. A system as in claim 63, wherein the positioning mechanism is
attachable to the proximal end of the access instrument while the
shaft is movable relative to the inner core and access instrument
so as to release the implant from the receptacle.
65. A system as in claim 63, wherein the positioning mechanism is
attachable to the proximal end of the access instrument while the
inner core is movable relative to the shaft and the access
instrument so as to release the implant from the receptacle.
66. A system as in claim 65, wherein the delivery catheter includes
a handle near its distal end, the handle insertable a distance into
the visualization instrument.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority of U.S.
Provisional Patent Application No. 60/628,856 (Attorney Docket No.
017534-002100US), filed on Nov. 16, 2004, incorporated herein by
reference for all purposes.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates generally to medical devices,
systems and methods. In preferred embodiments, the present
invention relates to methods and apparatuses for effecting lung
volume reduction by aspirating isolated segments of lung
tissue.
[0004] Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a significant
medical problem affecting 16 million people or about 6% of the U.S.
population. Specific diseases in this group include chronic
bronchitis, asthmatic bronchitis, and emphysema. While a number of
therapeutic interventions are used and have been proposed, none are
completely effective, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
remains the fourth most common cause of death in the United States.
Thus, improved and alternative treatments and therapies would be of
significant benefit.
[0005] Lung function in patients suffering from some forms of
chronic obstructive pulmonary disease can be improved by reducing
the effective lung volume, typically by resecting diseased portions
of the lung. Resection of diseased portions of the lungs both
promotes expansion of the non-diseased regions of the lung and
decreases the portion of inhaled air which goes into the lungs but
is unable to transfer oxygen to the blood. Lung reduction is
conventionally performed in open chest or thoracoscopic procedures
where the lung is resected, typically using stapling devices having
integral cutting blades. Although these procedures appear to show
improved patient outcomes and increased quality of life, the
procedure has several major complications, namely air leaks,
respiratory failure, pneumonia and death. Patients typically spend
approximately 5-7 days in post-op recovery with the majority of
this length of stay attributed to managing air leaks created by the
mechanical resection of the lung tissue.
[0006] In an effort to reduce such risks and associated costs,
minimally or non-invasive procedures have been developed.
Endobronchial Volume Reduction (EVR) allows the physician to use a
catheter-based system to reduce lung volumes. With the aid of
fiberoptic visualization and specialty catheters, a physician can
selectively collapse a segment or segments of the diseased lung. An
occlusal device is then positioned within the lung segment to
prevent the segment from reinflating. By creating areas of
selective atelectasis or reducing the total lung volume, the
physician can enhance the patient's breathing mechanics by creating
more space inside the chest wall cavity for the more healthy
segments to breath more efficiently.
[0007] Additional improvements to EVR are desired. A delivery
system is desired which can position an occlusal device within a
desired segment of a lung passageway with high accuracy. Such a
delivery system should be easy to use, should allow
interchangeability of a variety of instruments, and should allow
delivery of multiple occlusal devices. It is desired that such
delivery of multiple occlusal devices be achieved while maintaining
evacuation of a diseased region of the lung. It is also desired to
provide a system which utilizes conventional bronchoscopes to
deliver the occlusal devices to the lung passageways. Such
utilization should be easy to operate and should not interfere with
additional therapies which utilize the bronchoscope. At least some
of these objectives are met by the current invention.
[0008] 2. Description of the Background Art
[0009] Patents and applications relating to lung access, diagnosis,
and treatment include U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,709,401; 6,585,639;
6,527,761; 6,398,775; 6,287,290; 5,957,949; 5,840,064; 5,830,222;
5,752,921; 5,707,352; 5,682,880; 5,660,175; 5,653,231; 5,645,519;
5,642,730; 5,598,840; 5,499,625; 5,477,851; 5,361,753; 5,331,947;
5,309,903; 5,285,778; 5,146,916; 5,143,062; 5,056,529; 4,976,710;
4,955,375; 4,961,738; 4,958,932; 4,949,716; 4,896,941; 4,862,874;
4,850,371; 4,846,153; 4,819,664; 4,784,133; 4,742,819; 4,716,896;
4,567,882; 4,453,545; 4,468,216; 4,327,721; 4,327,720; 4,041,936;
3,913,568 3,866,599; 3,776,222; 3,677,262; 3,669,098; 3,542,026;
3,498,286; 3,322,126; WO 98/48706; WO 95/33506, and WO
92/10971.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] The present invention provides methods, systems, and devices
for performing lung volume reduction in patients suffering from
chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or other conditions where
isolation of a lung segment or reduction of lung volume is desired.
These methods, systems, and devices are likewise suitable for the
treatment of bronchopleural fistula. The methods are minimally
invasive with instruments being introduced through the mouth
(endotracheally) and rely on isolating the target lung tissue
segment from other regions of the lung and occluding various lung
passageways with the use of occlusal stents.
[0011] In a first aspect of the present invention, an occlusal
stent delivery system is provided for delivering an occlusal stent
to a target lung passageway. In preferred embodiments, the delivery
system includes a visualization instrument configured for
endobronchial advancement into a lung passageway leading to the
target lung passageway. The instrument having a proximal end, a
distal end, a working lumen extending therethrough, means for
visualization near the distal end, and an occlusive member disposed
near its distal end which is configured to be expandable to occlude
the lung passageway. In addition, the system includes a delivery
catheter having a proximal end, a distal end and a receptacle
formable within its distal end for loading the occlusal stent
therein. The delivery catheter is configured to be advanced through
the working lumen of the visualization instrument so that its
distal end extends beyond the distal end of the visualization
instrument and wherein its distal end is retractable so that
retraction of its distal end releases the occlusal stent to the
target lung passageway. Typically, the distal end of the delivery
catheter has portions of variable flexibility to allow the catheter
to be advanced through a potentially curved working lumen without
applying forces sufficient to redirect the visualization
instrument.
[0012] In preferred embodiments, the system further includes a
clamp connector. In some embodiments, the clamp connector comprises
a connector body having a passageway therethrough, and means for
connecting the connector body to a visualization instrument having
a working lumen so that insertion of an instrument through the
passageway of the connector body inserts the instrument into the
working lumen of the visualization instrument. In preferred
embodiments, the passageway and the working lumen are non-axially
aligned during connection. In some embodiments, the clamp connector
comprises a connector body having a first end, a second end and an
arc-shaped arm connecting the first and second ends, wherein the
passageway passes through the first and second arms. However, it
may be appreciated that the connector body many have a variety of
suitable shapes and forms. Typically, the visualization instrument
has a handle to which the connector body is attachable. The means
for connecting may have a variety of forms including a fitting,
such as a quick connector. In some embodiments, the quick connector
comprises a side-action quick connector which allows the connector
to be attached and detached from a side approach. Typically, the
delivery catheter includes a handle at its distal end and the clamp
connector includes a locking mechanism which is capable of locking
the handle of the delivery catheter to the clamp connector. Such
locking holds the delivery catheter in place in relation to the
visualization instrument. In some embodiments, the locking
mechanism tightens the passageway through the connector body to
hold the at least a portion of the catheter by frictional forces.
The locking mechanism may comprises a screw, knob or tensioning
lever, among other mechanisms. While the delivery catheter is
locked in place, the occlusal stent may be deployed from the
delivery catheter by manipulation of the handle of the delivery
catheter.
[0013] In preferred embodiments, the delivery catheter comprises
positioning rod, a tubular shaft extending from its proximal end to
its distal end, and a handle positioned at its proximal end. The
positioning rod is disposed within the tubular shaft and is fixedly
attached to the handle. A receptacle formable within the distal end
of the delivery catheter is disposed within the tubular shaft
distal of the distal end of the positioning rod. The distance
between the distal end of the positioning rod and the distal end of
the tubular shaft is the axial length of the receptacle. The
tubular shaft is slidable in relation to the positioning rod so
that sliding of the tubular shaft shortens the axial length of the
receptacle exposing the occlusal stent. When the occlusal stent has
a self-expanding design, exposure of the occlusal stent deploys the
occlusal stent within the lung passageway. In some embodiments, the
occlusal stent is self-expanding in free space to a configuration
that has an approximately 11 mm outer diameter. Alternatively, the
occlusal stent may be expanded by alternative mechanisms after it
has been released into the lung passageway. In either case, the
occlusal stent may be comprised of a wire structure or any other
type of framework at least partially encapsulated in a polymer. The
wire structure is used as an example in the following descriptions
but it can be appreciated that the framework can be of a variety of
types.
[0014] Typically, the positioning rod comprises a main body coil
extending along the positioning rod terminating at a plunger tip.
In some embodiments, the main body coil has an axial length in the
range of approximately 80 to 100 cm and the main body coil is
comprised of stainless steel wire.
[0015] In some embodiments, the visualization instrument comprises
a bronchoscope. It may be appreciated that any suitable
bronchoscope may be used, including conventional bronchoscopes. A
principal advantage of the present invention is that it allows a
user to modify a conventional bronchoscope for use in delivery of
occlusal stents in a convenient and economical manner. However, it
may also be appreciated that other instruments or catheters may be
used which provide viewing or visualization capabilities. Thus, the
visualization instrument may further comprise a sheath having a
proximal end, a distal end, a lumen extending therethrough and the
occlusive member disposed near its distal end, the lumen configured
to receive the bronchoscope so that the occlusive member is
disposed near the distal end of the bronchoscope. The sheath
typically comprises a flexible tubular body having a length in the
range from 40 cm to 70 cm, an inside lumen diameter in the range
from 1.5 mm to 10 mm, and a wall thickness in the range from 0.2 mm
to 0.7 mm.
[0016] In a second aspect of the present invention, a loading
system is provided. In preferred embodiments, the loading system
includes an occlusal stent, a loading body, and a loading mandrel.
Again, the occlusal stent is transitionable between an expanded
configuration and a contracted configuration. The loading body has
a wide-mouthed end and a narrow-mouthed end, wherein the
wide-mouthed end is configured to receive the occlusal stent in the
expanded configuration and the narrow-mouthed end is configured to
hold the occlusal stent in the contracted configuration. The
loading mandrel has a proximal end, a distal end, and an attachment
device disposed near its distal end that is removably attachable to
the occlusal stent. The attachment device may be comprised of a
hook, clasp, fastener or magnet, to name a few. The mandrel is
configured to load the removably attached occlusal stent into the
wide-mouthed end and move the occlusal stent to the narrow-mouthed
end.
[0017] In preferred embodiments, the loading body comprises a
loading receptacle within the wide-mouthed end, wherein the loading
receptacle is sized to receive the occlusal stent in the expanded
configuration. The loading receptacle may have any suitable size or
shape. Typically, the loading receptacle is cylindrical in shape
and has a diameter in the range of approximately 10 to 13 mm. In
addition, loading body comprises a holding tube within the
narrow-mouthed end, wherein the holding tube is sized to receive
the occlusal stent in the contracted configuration. Similarly, the
holding tube may have any suitable size or shape, typically having
a cylindrical shape with a diameter in the range of approximately 2
to 2.5 mm. Further, in preferred embodiments, the loading body
comprises a restrictor disposed between the loading receptacle and
the holding tube, wherein the restrictor has a funnel shape to
transition the occlusal stent from the expanded configuration to
the contracted configuration. In some embodiments, loading mandrel
includes a first marking near its distal end and the loading body
includes a second marking near its narrow-mouthed end, wherein
alignment of the first marking with the second marking positions
the occlusal stent within the narrow-mouthed end.
[0018] In some embodiments, the loading system further comprises a
delivery catheter having a proximal end, a distal end and a
receptacle formable within its distal end for loading the occlusal
stent therein. The narrow-mouthed end of the loading body is
typically configured to mate with the distal end of the delivery
catheter. The occlusal stent may then be moved from the
narrow-mouthed end to the receptacle within the distal end of the
delivery catheter with the use of the loading mandrel. Further, in
some embodiments the catheter is provided pre-positioned to the
narrow-mouthed end of the loading body and the occlusal stent is
provided pre-positioned and or pre-attached to the wide-mouthed end
and or pre-connected to the positioning rod of the catheter.
[0019] In a third aspect of the present invention, methods of
delivering an occlusal stent to a lung passageway within a lung of
a patient are provided. In preferred embodiments, such methods
include providing a visualization instrument, wherein the
instrument has a proximal end, distal end, a working lumen
therethrough, means for visualization near the distal end, and an
occlusive member disposed near its distal end which is configured
to be expandable to occlude the lung passageway. The visualization
device is advanced through a trachea of the patient to a first
location with the lung passageway. The lung passageway is then
occluded at the first location with the occlusive member and the
lung passageway evacuated. The method further includes providing a
delivery catheter having a proximal end, a distal end, and an
occlusal stent loaded within a receptacle within its distal end.
The delivery catheter is advanced through the working lumen of the
visualization instrument so that the distal end of the delivery
catheter extends beyond the distal end of the visualization
instrument to a second location within the lung passageway. The
distal end of the delivery catheter is then retracted which
releases the occlusal stent from the receptacle at the second
location within the evacuated lung passageway.
[0020] Such methods may be performed within lung passageways of
various dimensions, shapes and branching patterns. For example,
lung passageway may be comprised of a main passageway and at least
one branch passageway. The first location may be disposed within
the main passageway and the second location disposed within one of
the at least one branch passageways. Thus, the distal end of the
delivery catheter may be steered or guided in various directions as
it is advanced beyond the visualization instrument to reach a
desired branch passageway.
[0021] Typically, the methods further comprise withdrawing the
delivery catheter from the visualization instrument after releasing
the occlusal stent while the lung passageway remains evacuated.
Another delivery catheter having a proximal end, a distal end, and
another occlusal stent loaded within a receptacle within its distal
end may then be provided. This may be the delivery catheter that
was removed with a new occlusal stent loaded therein, or a
different delivery catheter that has been preloaded with an
occlusal stent. The another delivery catheter is then advanced
through the working lumen of the visualization instrument so that
the distal end of the another delivery catheter extends beyond the
distal end of the visualization instrument to a third location
within the evacuated lung passageway. The third location may be
disposed within another of the at least one branch passageways.
[0022] Again, the delivery catheter typically comprises a tubular
shaft extending from its proximal end to its distal end wherein the
occlusal stent is disposed within the tubular shaft within the
distal end of the catheter. Thus, releasing comprises withdrawing
the tubular shaft to expose the occlusal stent. In preferred
embodiments, the delivery catheter comprises a handle disposed at
its proximal end and the tubular shaft is slidably connected with
the handle by a handle button or any other hand-operated feature
such as a loop or trigger, henceforth referred to as button. In
these embodiments, withdrawing comprises moving the handle button
to withdraw the tubular shaft.
[0023] In some embodiments, the visualization instrument has a
handle section near its proximal end, and the method further
comprises connecting a clamp connector to the handle section of the
visualization instrument. Typically, the clamp connector has a
passageway therethrough so that advancing the delivery catheter
comprises passing the distal end of the delivery catheter through
the passageway of the clamp connector and into the working lumen of
the visualization instrument. The working lumen is typically
accessible via an access port, which extends through the proximal
end and typically the handle section of the visualization
instrument. The clamp connector can attach directly to the working
lumen access port or elsewhere on the visualization instrument
handle section as described in the following detailed descriptions.
Again, the delivery catheter typically comprises a tubular shaft
extending from its proximal end to its distal end and a handle
disposed at its proximal end. The clamp connector may further
include a locking mechanism wherein the method would further
comprise actuating the locking mechanism to lock the handle of the
delivery catheter to the clamp connector. The handle of the
delivery catheter can be provided in a variety of configurations,
such as a configuration that does not enter the working channel of
the bronchoscope as well as a configuration that can enter the
working channel of the bronchoscope, and combinations thereof. The
clamp connector can also be provided in many configurations,
wherein the clamp connector physically attaches to a portion of the
bronchoscope, typically in the handle section and sometimes
directly to the access port, and allows access of the catheter to
the bronchoscope working channel. The clamp connector can be an
item provided separately, or can be provided as an integral piece
of the delivery catheter, and can be reusable or disposable.
[0024] When the tubular shaft is slidably connected with the handle
of the catheter by a handle button, releasing may comprise moving
the handle button to withdraw the tubular shaft and expose the
occlusal stent. Releasing may also comprise expanding the occlusal
stent to occlude the lung passageway.
[0025] In a fourth aspect of the present invention, methods are
provided for using the loading system. Such methods include
providing a loading mandrel having a proximal end, a distal end and
an occlusal stent removably attached to its distal end, wherein the
occlusal stent is transitionable between an expanded configuration
and a contracted configuration. These methods also include
providing a loading body having a wide-mouthed end and a
narrow-mouthed end, wherein the wide-mouthed end is configured to
receive the occlusal stent in the expanded configuration and the
narrow-mouthed end is configured to hold the occlusal stent in the
contracted configuration. The loading mandrel is positioned within
the loading body so that the occlusal stent is near the
wide-mouthed end. The loading mandrel is then manipulated to load
the occlusal stent into the wide-mouthed end and move the occlusal
stent to the narrow-mouthed end within the loading body.
[0026] When the loading body comprises a loading receptacle within
the wide-mouthed end, manipulating the loading mandrel may comprise
moving the loading mandrel relative to the loading body so that the
occlusal stent is positioned within the loading receptacle. When
the loading body includes a restrictor adjacent to the loading
receptacle, manipulating the loading mandrel may comprise moving
the loading mandrel relative to the loading body so that the
occlusal stent enters the restrictor. And when the loading body
includes a holding tube adjacent to the restrictor, manipulating
the loading mandrel may comprise moving the loading mandrel
relative to the loading body so that the occlusal stent is
positioned within the holding tube. In some embodiments, the
loading mandrel includes a first marking near its distal end and
the loading body includes a second marking near its narrow-mouthed
end. In these embodiments, the method may further comprise aligning
the first marking with the second marking indicating that the
occlusal stent is positioned within the narrow-mouthed end. The
methods may further comprise detaching the occlusal stent from the
loading mandrel.
[0027] A delivery catheter having a proximal end, a distal end and
a receptacle formable within its distal end for loading the
occlusal stent therein may also be provided. Such methods may then
further include transferring the occlusal stent from the
narrow-mouthed end of the loading body to the receptacle of the
delivery catheter. To accomplish this, the method may further
comprise mating the distal end of the delivery catheter with the
narrow-mouthed end of the loading body prior to the transferring
step. Transferring may also comprise advancing a loading mandrel
through the open-mouthed end of the loading body which pushes the
occlusal stent into the distal end of the delivery catheter. The
delivery catheter loading system and occlusal stent can be provided
separately in which case the user may mate the elements for
transferring, or the pieces can be provided pre-positioned together
or in a mated configuration so that the user only has to transfer
the stent into the catheter through the pre-positioned loading
system.
[0028] It may be appreciated that the delivery system and/or
loading system may be used for a variety of applications. For
example, components of the delivery system may be used to deliver
non-occlusal tracheobronchial stents, bronchopulmonary fistula
plugs or stents, or occlusal stents for the treatment of
tuberculosis. Further, components of the delivery system may be
modified for to deliver vascular stents, vascular grafts or
vascular occlusal devices to the vascular system to treat a variety
of vascular ailments. Likewise, the loading system may be used to
load a variety of stent-like devices within instruments and
catheters having a receptacle for receiving the devices. Further,
the clamp connector of the present invention may be used for the
passage of any suitable instrument therethrough, such as
instruments for implant removal, endoluminal injection (such as of
a therapeutic agent, a hemostatic agent, etc.), specimen collection
(such as for a biopsy), inspection, or other treatment, such a
radiation therapy, etc.
[0029] Other objects and advantages of the present invention will
become apparent from the detailed description to follow, together
with the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0030] FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of a delivery system of the
present invention.
[0031] FIG. 2 provides a cross-sectional side view of an embodiment
of an occlusal stent delivery catheter.
[0032] FIG. 3 provides a cross-sectional side view of a tubular
shaft of the delivery catheter of FIG. 2.
[0033] FIG. 4 provides a cross-sectional side view of the
positioning rod of FIG. 2.
[0034] FIGS. 5, 6-6A, 7 illustrates various views of an embodiment
of a clamp connector.
[0035] FIGS. 8A-8B illustrate an embodiment of a clamp connector
having the form of a bracket.
[0036] FIGS. 8C-8E illustrate an embodiment of a clamp connector
having the form of an elongate holder.
[0037] FIGS. 9-9A illustrate an embodiment of an occlusal
stent.
[0038] FIG. 10A illustrates an exploded view of an embodiment of a
loading system of the present invention.
[0039] FIG. 10B provides a top view of a loading body having a
mandrel positioned therein.
[0040] FIGS. 11A-11D illustrate loading of an occlusal stent into
the loading system.
[0041] FIG. 11E-11G illustrate transferring of an occlusal stent to
a delivery catheter.
[0042] FIGS. 12A-12C illustrate an alternative method of loading a
delivery catheter with an occlusal stent.
[0043] FIGS. 13A-13C illustrate an similar method of loading a
delivery catheter to that of FIGS. 12A-12C.
[0044] FIGS. 14A-14C illustrates methods of using the occlusal
stent delivery system of the present invention within lung
passageways.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0045] Lung volume reduction is performed by collapsing a target
lung tissue segment, usually within lobar or sub-lobular regions of
the lung which receive air through a single lung passage, i.e.,
segment of the branching bronchus which deliver to and receive air
from the alveolar regions of the lung. Such lung tissue segments
are first isolated and then collapsed by aspiration of the air (or
other gases or liquids which may be present) from the target lung
tissue segment. Lung tissue has a very high percentage of void
volume, so removal of internal gases can reduce the lung tissue to
a small percentage of the volume which it has when fully inflated,
i.e. inflated at normal inspiratory pressures.
[0046] The methods of the present invention rely on accessing the
target lung tissue segment using an occlusal stent delivery system
10 adapted to be introduced endotracheally into the bronchus of the
lung. An exemplary delivery system 10 is illustrated in FIG. 1. As
shown, the system 10 comprises a bronchoscope 12 having a proximal
end 14, a distal end 16 and at least a working lumen 18 and a scope
lumen 20 extending from the proximal end 14 to the distal end 16.
Additional lumens, such as an aspiration lumen 22, may also extend
therethrough. The bronchoscope 12 also includes a handle 24
disposed near the proximal end 14. The handle 24 is formed to
include a sidearm 24a which provides access to the working lumen
18. The handle 24 also includes a connector 28 which permits
attachment to an external viewing scope.
[0047] It may be appreciated that the bronchoscope 12 included in
this embodiment of the system 10 of the present invention may be
comprised of any suitable bronchoscope, including conventional
bronchoscopes. Conventional bronchoscopes are available from a
number of commercial suppliers. Particular bronchoscopes which may
be used in the methods and assemblies of the present invention are
commercially available from Olympus and Pentax. A principal
advantage of the present invention is that it allows a user to
modify a conventional bronchoscope for use in delivery of occlusal
stents in a convenient and economical manner. However, it may also
be appreciated that other instruments or catheters may be used
which provide viewing or visualization capabilities.
[0048] In this embodiment, the system 10 also includes a sheath 30
having an occlusive member 32 disposed near its distal end, a full
description of which is provided in U.S. Pat. No. 6,585,639
[Attorney Docket No. 017534-001300US], assigned to the assignee of
the present invention and incorporated by reference for all
purposes. The sheath 30 includes a flexible tubular body having a
distal end and an occlusive member 32 disposed at or near the
distal end of the tubular body. Typically, the occlusive member
will be formed from an inflatable elastomeric material which, when
uninflated, lies closely over an exterior surface of the distal end
of the flexible tubular body. Upon inflation, the material of the
occlusive member will simply stretch and permit radial expansion.
The elastic nature of the member will permit the member to conform
to irregular geometries of a target lung passageway to provide for
effective sealing.
[0049] The system 10 of FIG. 1 also includes an occlusal stent
delivery catheter 40 which is positionable within the working lumen
18 of the bronchoscope 12. The catheter 40 comprises a tubular
shaft 41 having a distal end 42, wherein the distal end 42 is
extendable beyond the distal end 16 of the scope 12. This may be
achieved by slidably advancing the catheter 40 within the working
lumen 18. The catheter 40 also includes a positioning rod 44 that
is disposed within the tubular shaft 41. The positioning rod 44 is
used to expel an occlusal stent 46 from the distal end 42 of the
catheter 40, as will be described and illustrated in later
sections. The catheter 40 is positionable within the working lumen
18 of the scope 12 by advancement through the sidearm 24a of the
handle 24.
[0050] The catheter 40 also includes a handle 48 which typically
remains outside of the sidearm 24a, though inn some optional
configurations an extension of the handle 48 can enter the 24a
sidearm or the working lumen 18 of the bronchoscope. Both the
tubular shaft 41 and the positioning rod 44 are attached to the
handle 48 so that gross movement of the handle 48 toward or away
from the sidearm 24a advances or retracts the catheter 40 within
the working lumen 18. To assist in positioning the catheter 40
within the working lumen 18 and to lock portions of the catheter 40
in relation to the scope 12, a clamp connector 60 may be used. The
clamp connector 60 may be joined with the sidearm 24a by a quick
connector 62, however any connecting mechanism may be used. The
catheter 40 is advanceable through the clamp connector 60 and the
handle 48 is lockable to the clamp connector 60 by a locking
mechanism 64. As shown in later figures, the clamp connector can
assume other shapes and configurations and can attach to other
portions of the bronchoscope in the bronchoscope handle area with a
variety of connection mechanisms.
[0051] As will be described in later sections, the positioning rod
44 is fixedly attached to the handle 48 and the tubular shaft 41 is
slidably attached to the handle 48. Thus, locking of the handle 48
to the clamp connector 60 using locking mechanism 64 in turn locks
the positioning rod 44 in relation to the scope 12. The tubular
shaft 41 may then be slidably advanced or retracted in relation to
the scope 12 and the positioning rod 44 by movement of a handle
button 50 on the handle 48. The handle button 50 is fixedly
attached to the tubular shaft 41. In this manner, the tubular shaft
41 may be retracted to deploy the occlusal stent 46. It may be
appreciated that such a handle button 50 is an example mechanism
for achieving such movement of the tubular shaft 41 and that other
suitable mechanisms may be used.
Occlusal Stent Delivery Catheter
[0052] FIG. 2 provides a cross-sectional side view of an embodiment
of an occlusal stent delivery catheter 40. As shown, the catheter
40 includes a positioning rod 44 having a distal end 45, a tubular
shaft 41 and a handle 48. The positioning rod 44 is disposed within
the tubular shaft 41 and is fixedly attached to the handle 48, in
this embodiment by a set screw 72 however any mechanism can be
used. The tubular shaft 41 is fixedly attached to a catheter
adapter 70 which is sized to fit at least partially within the
handle 48. The adapter 70 is slidably attached to the handle 48
with the use of a handle button 50. The handle button 50 is
attached to the catheter adapter 70 and shaped to extend through a
slot (not shown) in the handle 48 so that the button 50 is able to
slide along the slot thereby moving the tubular shaft 41 in
relation to the handle 48.
[0053] The handle button 50 is positionable so that a receptacle 80
is formed within the tubular shaft 41 between the distal end 45 of
the positioning rod 44 and the distal end 42 of the tubular shaft
41. The receptacle 80 is sized to hold an occlusal stent 46 in a
contracted form. In preferred embodiments, the maximum axial length
of the receptacle 80 is in the range of approximately 20 to 30 mm.
Movement of the button 50 along the slot retracts the tubular shaft
41, shortening the axial length of the receptacle 80 until the
distal end 45 of the positioning rod 44 meets the distal end 42 of
the tubular shaft 41. At this point the receptacle 80 is completely
diminished and the occlusal stent 46 is fully exposed and
released.
[0054] FIG. 3 provides a cross-sectional side view of the tubular
shaft 41 of FIG. 2. As shown, the tubular shaft 41 is connected
with a catheter adapter 70. In this embodiment, the connection is
achieved with adhesive and heat shrink tubing 74, however any
connection methods and materials may be used. In addition, the
tubular shaft 41 has a end portion 52 that terminates at the distal
end 42 of the shaft 41. In preferred embodiments, the end portion
has an axial length in the range of approximately 20 to 120 mm. The
end portion 52 is typically comprised of a more flexible material
than the remainder of the tubular shaft 41. Such differences in
flexibility provide sufficient rigidity throughout the shaft 41
while maintaining maneuverability and kink resistance near the
distal end 42. In addition, the end portion 52 typically has a
slightly larger diameter than the remainder of the shaft 41 to
accommodate the cross-sectional diameter of the collapsed stent 46
while minimizing the diameter of the remainder of the shaft 41
which minimizes friction within the visualization instrument. In
preferred embodiments, the overall length of the tubular shaft 41
and adapter 70 is in the range of approximately 30 to 34
inches.
[0055] The tubular shaft 41 may include markings 82, as shown. The
markings 82 may be comprised of ink or any suitable marking
material. Any number of markings 82 may be present, such as a
stripe approximately 20 mm from the distal end 41 and another
approximately stripe 22.5 mm from the distal end 41. Such markings
82 may be used to assist in positioning the distal end 41 in a
passageway. The markings 82 may be observed through the scope 12 as
the distal end 41 is manipulated within a lung passageway.
Particular markings may be aligned with particular anatomical
features to assist in proper placement of the stent 46. For
example, when a stent 46 is to be positioned within a relatively
large lung passageway, a particular marking such as a distal-most
marking may be aligned with the ostium associated with the target
lung passageway. Whereas, when a stent 46 is to be positioned
within a smaller lung passageway, a different marking, such as a
proximal-most marking may be aligned with the ostium associated
with the target lung passageway.
[0056] FIG. 4 provides a cross-sectional side view of the
positioning rod 44 of FIG. 2. In this embodiment, the positioning
rod 44 is comprised of a main body coil 92 which extends along the
length of the rod 44 terminating at a plunger tip 94. Thus, the
axial length of the main body coil 92 is in the range of 34 to 40
inches. Typically, the main body coil 92 has an inner diameter in
the range of 0.030 to 0.040 inches. The main body coil 92 is
comprised of 304 stainless steel wire, however any suitable
material may be used. In this embodiment, the plunger tip 94 is
comprised of 303 stainless steel and has a maximum outer diameter
in the range of 0.075 to 0.085 inches. The positioning rod 44 also
includes a push end hypotube 90 disposed within the main body coil
92 opposite to the plunger tip 94. In this embodiment, the hypotube
90 is comprised of 304 stainless steel, however any suitable
material may be used. The hypotube 90 has an inner diameter of
approximately 0.023 inches and an outer diameter of approximately
0.0355 inches. In addition, the hypotube 90 has an axial length of
in the range of 14 to 18 inches. Adjacent to the hyptotube 90,
within the main body coil 92, is a strain relief coil 96. In this
embodiment, the strain relief coil 96 has an axial length in the
range of 1 to 2 inches. The strain relief coil 96 is comprised of
304 stainless steel wire, however any suitable material may be
used.
Clamp Connector
[0057] FIG. 5 provides a perspective view of an embodiment of a
clamp connector 60. The clamp connector 60 comprises a connector
body 100, a quick connector 62, and a locking mechanism 64. The
connector body 100 may be comprised of any suitable material, such
as a rigid thermoplastic, acetyl butyl styrene (ABS), Delrin.RTM.
acetal resin, nylon, polycarbonate, metal, or various polymers, to
name a few. The connector body 100 may also have any suitable form.
In preferred embodiments, the body 100 has a C-shaped form, as
shown, having a first end 102, a second end 104 and an arc-shaped
arm 106 therebetween. The body 100 has a passageway 108 that
extends through the first and second ends 102, 104. Therefore, an
instrument, such as the delivery catheter 40 may be passed through
the passageway 108 so that the handle 48 of the catheter 40 is
positioned at least partially within at least the second end 104,
typically so that the handle button 50 remains outside of the
connector body 100. By positioning the handle 48 at least partially
within the second end 104, the handle 48 can be locked in relation
to the connector 60 with the use of the locking mechanism 64. In
some embodiments, the passageway 108 extending through the second
end 104 has a split 110. Such a split 110 may be seen in FIG. 5 and
FIG. 7. The split 110 allows the passageway 108 through the second
end 104 to expand. At least a portion of the handle 48 may then be
advanced into the expanded passageway 108. A locking mechanism 64,
such as a screw, knob or quick release tensioning lever, may then
be tightened, turned or actuated to close the split 110. This in
turn applies compressive forces to the handle 48 so that it is held
by friction. It may be appreciated, however, that any suitable
locking mechanism may be used. The button 50 may then be
manipulated to move the tubular shaft 41 of the delivery catheter
40 while the handle 48 is locked to the connector 60.
[0058] FIG. 6 provides a top perspective view of an embodiment of a
clamp connector 60. Again the clamp connector 60 is shown to have a
first end 102, a second end 104 and an arc-shaped arm 106
therebetween. A quick connector 62 is shown joined with the first
end 102, and a locking mechanism 64 is shown joined with the second
end 104. FIG. 6A illustrates a cross-sectional view along line A-A
of FIG. 6. This view illustrates the passageway 108 extending
through the quick connector 62, the first end 102, and the second
end 104. In addition, this view illustrates the locking mechanism
64. FIG. 7 provides another perspective view of the clamp connector
60 of FIG. 5.
[0059] The clamp connector 60 provides a number of advantages. As
mentioned, the clamp connector 60 provides a stable platform for
introduction of the stent delivery catheter 40 and various other
instruments into the working lumen 18 of the bronchoscope 12. As
described in this embodiment, the clamp connector fixes the
position of the catheter or instrument to the bronchoscope, or
optionally fixes a component of the catheter or instrument to the
bronchoscope while another component of the catheter or instrument
is free to advance or retract within the bronchoscope working lumen
while the fixed catheter component remains stationary. In addition,
the connector 60 provides for locking of these instruments in a
fixed position relative to the bronchoscope. Further, various
embodiments of the connector 60 include a quick connector 62 which
allows the connector 60 to be quickly and easily attached and
detached from the bronchoscope 12. Some embodiments include a
side-action quick connector 62 which allows the connector to be
attached and detached from a side approach rather than an axial
approach. In addition to being more ergonomic, this approach
reduces any axial pushing or pulling on the bronchoscope 12 which
could inadvertently move the bronchoscope from its desired
position. Some embodiments of the connector 60 also include a seal
or are attachable with a seal. Commercially available seals include
Biopsy Valve (MAJ-210) provided by Olympus America, Inc. (Melville,
N.Y.). Such seals may be mounted on the connector 60 for mating
with the bronchoscope 12 rather than mounted directly on the
bronchoscope 12.
[0060] Although the clamp connector 60 may have various forms, the
C-shaped form provides particular advantages. The C-shape provides
direct access to the passageway 108 through the first end 102 while
it is connected to the bronchoscope 12. When the stent delivery
catheter or other instrument is passed through the passageway 108,
the physician or user can easily grasp the catheter near the first
end 102 to assist in advancing the catheter through the
bronchoscope 12. This may reduce any risk of kinking the catheter
and may assist is passing the catheter through seals within the
bronchoscope and/or clamp connector. In addition, such direct
access to the passageway 108 through the first end 102 allows the
insertion of various instruments without passing the instruments
through the second end 104. For example, a syringe may be inserted
through the first end 102 to directly inject drugs, etc., into the
working lumen 18 of the bronchoscope 12. Likewise suction can be
drawn through the working lumen 18 and the first end 102 without
drawing suction through the entire connector 60.
[0061] FIGS. 8A-8B illustrate another embodiment of a clamp
connector 60. In this embodiment, the clamp connector 60 has the
form of a bracket which attaches to the handle 24 of a bronchoscope
12, as shown in FIG. 8A. An occlusal stent delivery catheter 40 may
be advanced through the side arm 24a of the bronchoscope handle 24
so that its distal end 42 passes through the bronchoscope 12. The
positioning rod 44, which passes through the catheter 40 and
extends from the its proximal end, may then be coupled with the
clamp connector 60 to lock the positioning rod 44 in a fixed
position in relation to the bronchoscope 12. FIG. 8B illustrates
the occlusal stent delivery catheter 40 of this embodiment showing
the positioning rod 44 extending through the tubular shaft 41. The
occlusal stent 46 is shown disposed within the tubular shaft 41
near the distal end 42. Thus, when the positioning rod 44 is locked
to the connector 60, the rod 44 is fixed in place. The tubular
shaft 41 may then be retracted to expose and deploy the stent 46.
By fixing the positioning rod 44 in relation to the bronchoscope
12, there is reduced variability in positioning the stent 46
thereby improving placement accuracy.
[0062] FIGS. 8C-8E illustrate another embodiment of a clamp
connector 60. In this embodiment, the clamp connector 60 includes
an elongate holder 170, a base 172 and a support 174, as
illustrated in FIG. 8C. The elongate holder 170 is comprised of a
shaft 176 having a plate 178 (with an aperture 180) attached near
one end, and its other end is configured to receive the support
174. Referring to FIG. 8D, the elongate holder 170 is coupleable
with a bronchoscope 12. The plate 178 may be positioned against the
bronchoscope 12 so that the side arm 24a of the bronchoscope 12
passes through the aperture 180. The base 172 is positioned against
the bronchoscope 12 on a side opposite to the side arm 24a so that
the base 172 wraps around the bronchoscope 12 as shown. The plate
178 may then be attached to the base 172 with the use of screws 182
or any suitable device. This fixes the clamp connector 60 to the
bronchoscope 12. The embodiments described in FIGS. 8A-8D are
exemplary and any bracket configuration which attaches to the
bronchoscope can be used.
[0063] An occlusal stent delivery catheter 40 may then be advanced
through the side arm 24a and coupled with the clamp connector 60 to
lock the positioning rod 44 in a fixed position in relation to the
bronchoscope 12. FIG. 8E provides a side view of the occlusal stent
delivery catheter 40 positioned on the clamp connector 60. The
plate 178 may be connected with the shaft 176 at any suitable angle
so that the shaft 176 holds the catheter 40 in a desired position
while allowing manipulation of the bronchoscope 12. The positioning
rod 44 passing within the catheter 40 is locked in place by
coupling the rod 44 with the support 174. Thus, the rod 44, clamp
connector 60 and bronchoscope 12 are in fixed relation to each
other. The tubular shaft 41 of the delivery catheter 40 may then be
retracted to expose and deploy the stent 46. Again, by fixing the
positioning rod 44 in relation to the bronchoscope 12, there is
reduced variability in positioning the stent 46 thereby improving
placement accuracy.
Occlusal Stent
[0064] The occlusal stent delivery system 10 may be used to deliver
a variety of occlusal stents 46. Occlusal stents 46 may also be
referred to, for example, as occlusal devices, occlusive stents,
obstructive devices or plugs. Exemplary occlusal stents 46 are
provided in U.S. Pat. No. 6,527,761 [Attorney Docket No.
017534-001200US], and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.
60/628649 [Attorney Docket No. 017534-002000US], both assigned to
the assignee of the present invention and incorporated by reference
for all purposes. A number of embodiments of occlusal stents 46 are
comprised of structural supports which expand to anchor the
occlusal stent 46 in a lung passageway.
[0065] Referring now to FIG. 9 and FIG. 9A, an embodiment of an
occlusal stent 46 is shown. Here, the occlusal stent 46 comprises a
braid 400. The braid 400 may be comprised of any type of wire,
particularly superelastic and/or shape-memory wire, polymer or
suitable material. In this embodiment, the braid 400 is comprised
of 0.006'' Nitinol wire (30-45% CW, oxide/etched surface). The wire
braid 400 can be woven from wires having the same diameter, e.g. 24
wires each having a 0.006'' diameter, or wires having varied
diameters, e.g. 12 wires each having a 0.008'' diameter and 12
wires each having a 0.003'' diameter. Other numbers of wires and
combinations of wire diameters can also be used.
[0066] The braid 400 is fabricated on a mandrel having a diameter
close in size to the desired diameter of the occlusal stent 46 when
unrestrained or in free space. The unrestrained diameter of the
stent 46 is typically desired to slightly exceed the internal
diameter of the bronchial tube within which it will be placed.
Thus, the diameter of the braid 400 may vary depending on the
intended usage of the stent 46. Once the braid has been fabricated,
the braid is then cut to an appropriate length and shape-set to a
desired configuration by heat treatment. The desired configuration
generally comprises the ends of the cut length of braid collapsed
to form ends or tails, which will be secured and covered by
bushings 401, and a portion therebetween having an overall shape
conducive to occluding a lung passageway. When other materials,
such as Elgiloy.RTM. and stainless steel, are used, the wire is
formed into the desired configuration using methods different from
shape setting methods used for shape memory alloys. After
shape-setting, the braid may then be etched to remove oxidation and
to form a new passivation layer.
[0067] The desired configuration may include a variety of overall
shapes, each allowing the occlusal device 46 to perform differently
or occlude lung passageways of differing shapes, sizes and
configurations. FIG. 9 is a side view of one embodiment of the
stent 46 having shoulders 402 which are at an angle which is
approximately 90 degrees to a longitudinal axis 404 of the stent
46. Shoulders 402 at such an angle allow maximum contact surface
area in relation to length of the stent 46. This is useful when
placing the stent 46 into short bronchial segments or take-offs.
FIG. 9A is an end view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 9.
[0068] Typically, the braid 400 is connected to, encapsulated in,
coated or impregnated with a material to prevent flow of gases or
liquids through the occlusal device 46, thereby providing an
obstruction. In addition, the material may optionally include an
antibiotic agent for release into the lung passageway. Examples of
obstructive materials include a thin polymer film 120 at least
partially encapsulating the occlusal device 46, which may be used
to seal against the surface of the lung passageway. Such a design
is depicted in FIG. 9. As shown, the film 120 does not completely
encapsulate the device 46, leaving a portion of the shoulders 402
exposed. This allows for air to escape from the device 46 when the
device is collapsed or contracted. In some embodiments, a bushing
401 located near the exposed area is color coded to signify the
area so that the device 46 is loaded in the desired orientation
within the delivery catheter 40.
Occlusal Stent Loading
[0069] One or more occlusal stents 46 may be loaded within the
delivery system 10 for delivery within a lung passageway. In
preferred embodiments, the occlusal stent(s) are loaded into the
delivery system 10 with the use of an occlusal stent loading system
130. An embodiment of a loading system 130 of the present invention
is illustrated in FIG. 10A. As shown, the system 130 includes a
loading body 134, a loading mandrel 136, and a lubricious liner
132. The loading body 134 has a wide-mouthed end 138 and
narrow-mouthed end 140, wherein the occlusal stent 46 is loadable
into the wide-mouthed end 138 in an expanded configuration and
removed from the narrow-mouthed end 140 in a contracted
configuration. Thus, the loading body 134 contracts the occlusal
stent 46 for loading into the delivery catheter 40. The loading
body 134 is also used to load the contracted stent 46 into the
delivery catheter 40.
[0070] The occlusal stent 46 can be loaded into the loading body
134 with the use of the loading mandrel 136. The mandrel 136
includes a proximal end 141, a distal end 142 and a shaft 143
therebetween. An attachment device 144 is disposed near the distal
end 142 which is used to removably attach to the occlusal stent 46.
The attachment device 144 may be integral with the mandrel 136 or
mounted on, attached to, coupled with the mandrel 136, for example.
The attachment device 144 may have any suitable form, including a
hook, fork, clasp, fastener, or magnet, to name a few. The mandrel
136 may also include a mandrel grip 146 which has an inner lumen
148 sized for passage of the mandrel 136 therethrough so that the
grip 146 may be positioned at any location along the length of the
shaft 142. In some embodiments, the grip 146 also serves as a depth
stop when loading the stent 46 within the loading body 134. In
these embodiments, the grip 146 is preferably positioned in the
range of approximately 34 to 38 mm from the proximal end 141 of the
shaft 143. The use of the grip 146 as a depth stop will be further
described in later sections. In addition, the mandrel 136 may also
include one or more mandrel end covers 149.
[0071] The shaft 143 is sized to be passed through loading body
134. FIG. 10B provides a top view of the loading body 134 having
the mandrel 136 positioned therein. As shown, the body 134 includes
a loading receptacle 150, a restrictor 152 and a holding tube 154.
The lubricious liner 132 is shown inserted into the wide-mouthed
end 138 and positioned so that the liner 132 extends through the
restrictor 152 and holding tube 154. FIGS. 11A-11D illustrate how
an occlusal stent 46 may be prepared for loading into the catheter
40 with the use of these elements of the loading body 134.
[0072] FIG. 11A illustrates a portion of the loading body 134
wherein the distal end 142 of the loading mandrel 136 is shown
passed through the narrow-mouthed end 140 to and beyond the
wide-mouthed end 138. The attachment device 144 is shown attached
to the occlusal stent 46. In this embodiment, the attachment device
144 comprises a fork which releasably joins with the occlusal stent
46. The mandrel 136 is then retracted, drawing the occlusal stent
46 into the loading receptacle 150 at the wide-mouthed end 138, as
shown in FIG. 1B. Further retraction of the mandrel 136 pulls the
occlusal stent 46 into the restrictor 152 which gradually collapses
the stent 46, as shown in FIG. 11C. As the stent 46 collapses, air
within the stent 46 is forced out toward the narrow-mouthed end
140. Still further retraction of the mandrel 136 pulls the
contracted stent 46 into the holding tube 154, as shown in FIG.
11D. The liner 132 serves to reduce any friction between the stent
46 and the loading body 134 as the stent 46 is collapsed and passed
through the loading body 134. Thus, the liner 132 may be comprised
of any suitable material which reduces friction, such as
Teflon.RTM.. It may be appreciated that the liner 132 may
alternatively be integral with the loading body 134 or may have the
form of a coating on surfaces of the loading body 134. The occlusal
stent 46 is now ready for loading into the delivery catheter
40.
[0073] It may be appreciated that the loading system 130 may be
constructed from any suitable materials. Preferably, the loading
body 134 is constructed from a material which allows visibility of
the stent 46 throughout the loading process. This may ensure that
the stent 46 is properly loaded within the loading body 134.
Alternatively or in addition, a variety of markings 82, 82' may be
used to ensure proper loading. For example, as shown in FIG. 10A,
the mandrel 136 may include a marking 82, such as a line of ink, on
the shaft 143 a desired distance from the distal end 142. In
preferred embodiments, the marking 82 is disposed approximately 0.3
inches from the distal end 142. The loading body 134 then includes
a corresponding marking 82' near the narrow-mouthed end 140,
approximately 0.35 inches from the holding tube 154. When the
mandrel 136 is retracted so that the marking 82 on the shaft 143 is
aligned with the marking 82' on the loading body 134, the occlusal
stent 46 is properly positioned within the holding tube 154.
[0074] The occlusal stent 46 may then be transferred to the
delivery catheter 40, as illustrated in FIGS. 11E-11G. FIG. 11E
illustrates the delivery catheter 40 positioned against the holding
tube 154 of the loading body 134. The loading mandrel 136 or any
other suitable instrument is used to transfer the occlusal stent 46
to the distal end 42 of the delivery catheter 40. As shown, the
proximal end 141 of the loading mandrel 136 is advanced through the
loading receptacle 150 and the restrictor 152 until it contacts the
occlusal stent 46. Continued advancement of the loading mandrel 136
pushes the occlusal stent 46 from the holding tube 154 and into the
catheter 40. FIG. 11F illustrates the loading mandrel 136 fully
advanced so that the occlusal stent 46 is fully loaded within the
catheter 40. In some embodiments, the mandrel grip 146 assists in
proper placement of the stent 46 within the holding tube 154 by
serving as a depth stop for the loading mandrel 136. The grip 146
is sized so that it may be advanced into the loading receptacle 150
but cannot be advanced into the restrictor 152, thus serving as a
depth stop. The grip is positioned along the length of the mandrel
136 so that when the grip 146 is positioned against the restrictor
152, as shown in FIG. 11F, the stent 46 is properly positioned
within the holding tube 154. FIG. 11G illustrates the distal end 42
of the catheter 40 removed from the loading body 134 and having the
occlusal stent 46 loaded inside.
[0075] It may be appreciated that the loading system 130 may be
adapted to load more than one occlusal stent 46. For example, the
holding tube 154 may be lengthened to hold two, three, four, five
or more stents 46 at one time. The stents 46 may be individually
loaded into separate delivery catheters, simultaneously loaded into
a single delivery catheter or loaded in groups into a few
catheters.
[0076] FIGS. 12A-12C illustrate an alternative method of loading a
delivery catheter 40 with an occlusal stent 46. In this embodiment,
one or more stents are loaded directly into the distal end 42 of
the delivery catheter 40. As shown in FIG. 12A, the delivery
catheter 40 includes a positioning rod 44 having a grasping device
160 disposed at its tip. In this example, the grasping device 160
has the shape of a ring, loop, hoop or circle. The device 160 may
be comprised of any suitable material, such as wire, polymer,
thread, fiber, or suture, to name a few. A restricting insert 162
is positioned at least partially within the distal end 42, such as
shown. Optionally it can be appreciated that the restricting insert
162 can be of the type that engages with an outer surface or edge
of the distal end 42 so that the insert 162 is not at least
partially within the distal end 42. The restricting insert 162 is
used to assist in collapsing and loading the stent 46 within the
distal end 42 of the catheter 40. This is achieved by retracting
the tubular shaft 41 so that the grasping device 160 can be
removably attached to a bushing 401 on an occlusal stent 46. As
shown in FIG. 12A, at least one of the bushings 401 includes a
notch 164 which is mateable with the grasping device 160. As shown
in FIG. 12B, the grasping device 160 attaches to the bushing 401
and draws the occlusal stent 46 through the restricting insert 162
and into the tubular shaft 41 of the catheter 40. FIG. 12C shows
the distal end 42 of the catheter 40 having the occlusal stent 46
loaded inside and the restricting insert 162 removed.
[0077] FIGS. 13A-13C illustrate an similar method of loading a
delivery catheter 40 with an occlusal stent 46. As shown in FIG.
13A, the delivery catheter 40 includes a positioning rod 44 having
a grasping device 160 disposed at its tip. In this example, the
grasping device 160 has the shape of a pincher or claw. The tubular
shaft 41 is retracted so that the grasping device 160 pinch onto a
bushing 401 on an occlusal stent 46. As shown in FIG. 13A, at least
one of the bushings 401 includes one or more protrusions 166 which
the grasping device 160 is able to utilize in grasping. As shown in
FIG. 13B, the grasping device 160 grasps the bushing 401 and draws
the occlusal stent 46 through the restricting insert 162 and into
the tubular shaft 41 of the catheter 40. A restricting insert 162
is positioned at least partially within the distal end 42, as
shown. The restricting insert 162 is used to assist in collapsing
the stent 46 and loading the stent 46 within the distal end 42 of
the catheter 40. The grasping device 160 may also be used to
retrieve or adjust an occlusal stent 46 which has been deployed in
a lung passageway LP, as illustrated in FIG. 13C. As shown, the
distal end 42 of the catheter 40 may be retracted to expose the
grasping device 160 which can be used to grasp onto the bushing 401
of the occlusal stent 46. The stent 46 may then be manipulated by
the grasping device 160. In some methods, the occlusal stent 46 may
be deployed in a more distal position within the lung passageway LP
than desired so that the stent 46 may then be pulled proximally to
a desired position with the use of the grasping device 160.
[0078] It may further be appreciated that delivery catheters 40 of
the present invention may alternatively be provided to a physician
or user in a preloaded state wherein one or more occlusal stents 46
are provided within the catheters 40, ready for delivery. Further,
it may be appreciated that automatic loading systems may be
provided, or systems in which the stent is pre-connected to the
catheter rod but not yet loaded into the catheter receptacle.
Methods of Use
[0079] The occlusal stent delivery system 10 of the present
invention may be used for a variety of therapeutic procedures,
preferably for performing "endobronchial volume reduction" (EVR).
EVR is a non-surgical technique for isolating and occluding
diseased lobar and sub-lobar regions of a patient's lung. An
isolated region will be a portion (usually not the whole) of the
right or left lung, and volume reduction will be accomplished by
evacuating the region and occluding a bronchial passage within or
leading to the region with an occlusal stent 46. One or more
bronchial passageways within or leading to the region may be
occluded while the region is evacuated, as will be described.
[0080] Initially, the bronchoscope 12 is separate from the sheath
30 and the distal end 16 of the scope 12 is then introduced through
a luer or other proximal connector 34 of the sheath 30. Referring
back to FIG. 1, the distal end 16 is advanced until the occlusive
member 32 is disposed at a desired position along the length of the
scope 12. At that point, the luer or other connector 34 is then
tightened on to the scope 12. A suitable monitor may then be
connected to the bronchoscope 12 in a conventional manner.
Inflation of member 32 may be effected through an inflation tube
36, typically using a pressurized air or other gas source.
[0081] Referring now to FIG. 14A, the assembly of the sheath 30 and
bronchoscope 12 may be introduced through the trachea T to a target
location in a patient's lung LNG. The sheath-bronchoscope assembly
30/12 is introduced so that the occlusive member 32 reaches a
desired location, in this example a major takeoff in the left lung.
At that point, the member 32 may be inflated. During the
advancement and after inflation of the member 32, viewing through
the bronchoscope 12 may be accomplished through the monitor
connected to the scope 12.
[0082] While the member 32 is inflated, lung segments beyond the
member 32 may be evacuated by applying vacuum suction through an
aspiration lumen 22 in the bronchoscope 12. The occlusal stent
delivery catheter 40 (having an occlusal stent 46 pre-loaded within
its distal end 42) is then advanced through the working lumen 18 of
the bronchoscope 12. Forward imaging by the bronchoscope 12 is
effected by illuminating through light fibers within the scope
lumen 20 and detecting an image through a lens at the distal end 16
of the bronchoscope 12. The resulting image can be displayed on
conventional cathode-ray or other types of imaging screens. In
particular, forward imaging permits a user to selectively place the
catheter 40 through a desired route through the branching bronchus.
It may be appreciated, however, that as an alternative positioning
could be done solely by fluoroscopy.
[0083] In any case, referring again to FIG. 14A, the delivery
catheter 40 is then advanced until its distal end 42 reaches a
region in the bronchus or lung passageway which leads directly into
a diseased region DR. The delivery catheter 40 is advanced through
the working lumen 18 of the bronchoscope 12 via the passageway 108
of the clamp connector 60 attached to the side arm 24a, as
previously described. Once the distal end 42 of the catheter 40 is
positioned in a desired location within the lung passageway, the
catheter 40 is locked in place with the use of the locking
mechanism 64 on the clamp connector 60. The occlusal stent 46 may
then be deployed in the passageway. Recall, the occlusal stent 46
is pre-loaded in a compressed or collapsed state within an interior
lumen of the delivery catheter 40. The occlusal stent 46 is
deployed by retracting the tubular shaft 41 of the delivery
catheter 40. This is achieved by sliding the handle button 50 on
the handle 48 of the catheter 40, as previously described. As the
tubular shaft 41 retracts, the positioning rod 44 holds the
occlusal stent 46 in place. Thus, the occlusal stent 46 is
gradually exposed. If the stent 46 is self-expanding, for example
by tension or shape-memory, the stent 46 will expand and anchor
itself in the passageway as the occlusal stent 46 is exposed, as
shown in FIG. 14A. If the occlusal stent 46 is not self-expanding,
it may be expanded with the use of a balloon or other mechanism
provided by the delivery catheter 40, a catheter or device
delivered through the catheter 40, or another device.
[0084] While the sheath 30 and occlusive member 32 are in place,
additional occlusal stents may be positioned within the evacuated
lung passageways beyond the member 32. The delivery catheter 40 may
be removed and loaded with a second occlusal stent 46' for
reintroduction, or the delivery catheter 40 may be removed and
replaced with another delivery catheter 40 that has already been
preloaded with a second occlusal stent 46'. Referring now to FIG.
14B, the delivery catheter 40 is then advanced until its distal end
42 reaches a region in the bronchus or lung passageway which leads
directly into a second diseased region DR'. Again, the delivery
catheter 40 is advanced through the working lumen 18 of the
bronchoscope 12 with the use of the clamp connector 60 attached to
the side arm 24a, as previously described. Once the distal end 42
of the catheter 40 is positioned in a desired location within the
lung passageway, the catheter 40 is locked in place with the use of
the locking mechanism 64 on the clamp connector 60. The second
occlusal stent 46' may then be deployed in the passageway. The
second occlusal stent 46' is deployed by retracting the tubular
shaft 41 of the delivery catheter 40. As the tubular shaft 41
retracts, the positioning rod 44 holds the second occlusal stent
46' in place. If the stent 46' is self-expanding, the stent 46'
will expand and anchor itself in the passageway as the second
occlusal stent 46' is exposed, as shown in FIG. 14B.
[0085] Further, while the sheath 30 and occlusive member 32 are in
place, any number of additional occlusal stents may also be
positioned within the evacuated lung passageways beyond the member
32. Again, the delivery catheter 40 may be removed and loaded with
a third occlusal stent 46'' for reintroduction, or the delivery
catheter 40 may be removed and replaced with another delivery
catheter 40 that has already been preloaded with a third occlusal
stent 46'' (thus, it may be efficient to utilize two delivery
catheters 40 so that one catheter 40 may be preloaded with an
occlusal stent while the other is in use). The delivery catheter 40
is then advanced until its distal end 42 reaches a region in the
bronchus or lung passageway which leads directly into a third
diseased region DR''. Again, the delivery catheter 40 is advanced
through the working lumen 18 of the bronchoscope 12 with the use of
the clamp connector 60 attached to the side arm 24a, as previously
described. Once the distal end 42 of the catheter 40 is positioned
in a desired location within the lung passageway, the catheter 40
is locked in place with the use of the locking mechanism 64 on the
clamp connector 60. The third occlusal stent 46'' may then be
deployed in the passageway, as shown in FIG. 14C.
[0086] The occlusive member 32 may then be deflated and the
delivery system 10 removed, leaving the occlusal devices 46, 46',
46'' behind wherein each occlusal device isolates and occludes a
diseased region DR, DR', DR'', respectively.
[0087] Although the foregoing invention has been described in some
detail by way of illustration and example, for purposes of clarity
of understanding, it will be obvious that various alternatives,
modifications and equivalents may be used and the above description
should not be taken as limiting in scope of the invention which is
defined by the appended claims.
* * * * *