U.S. patent application number 11/442439 was filed with the patent office on 2006-12-28 for endovascular device for entrapment of participate matter and method for use.
Invention is credited to Dov V. Shimon.
Application Number | 20060293706 11/442439 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 23313432 |
Filed Date | 2006-12-28 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060293706 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Shimon; Dov V. |
December 28, 2006 |
Endovascular device for entrapment of participate matter and method
for use
Abstract
A method for filtering particulate matter from a blood vessel in
a patient, including inserting a device into the blood vessel, the
device including at least an outer structure capable of insertion
into the blood vessel; and an inner filter anchored to the outer
structure, the inner filter having a one-way valve though which a
medical instrument may be passed.
Inventors: |
Shimon; Dov V.;
(Herzlyia-Pituach, IL) |
Correspondence
Address: |
PEARL COHEN ZEDEK, LLP;PEARL COHEN ZEDEK LATZER, LLP
1500 BROADWAY 12TH FLOOR
NEW YORK
NY
10036
US
|
Family ID: |
23313432 |
Appl. No.: |
11/442439 |
Filed: |
May 30, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10310149 |
Dec 5, 2002 |
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11442439 |
May 30, 2006 |
|
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60335838 |
Dec 5, 2001 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
606/200 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B 5/283 20210101;
A61B 5/024 20130101; A61F 2230/0067 20130101; A61F 2230/0095
20130101; A61F 2250/0017 20130101; A61F 2/90 20130101; A61F
2230/008 20130101; A61F 2250/0023 20130101; A61F 2/0105 20200501;
A61F 2/011 20200501; A61F 2002/016 20130101; A61F 2230/0006
20130101; A61F 2210/0076 20130101; A61F 2002/018 20130101; A61B
5/0215 20130101; A61B 5/145 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
606/200 |
International
Class: |
A61M 29/00 20060101
A61M029/00 |
Claims
1. A method for filtering particulate matter from a blood vessel in
a patient, the method comprising: inserting a device into the blood
vessel, said device including at least: an outer structure capable
of insertion into the blood vessel; and an inner filter anchored to
said outer structure, said inner filter having a one-way valve
though which a medical instrument may be passed.
2. The method of claim 1 comprising: inserting said device into the
blood vessel during an insertion procedure; and allowing said
device to remain in the blood vessel after said insertion procedure
is complete.
3. The method of claim 1 comprising: inserting an additional filter
into said device during a surgical procedure; and removing said
additional filter after said surgical procedure is complete.
4. The method of claim 1 comprising treating the patient with a
drug for endocarditis.
5. The method of claim 1, the method comprising treating the
patient with a drug for blood clots.
6. The method of claim l, the method comprising dilating a valve of
the patient with a catheter.
7. The method of claim 1, comprising inserting the device to
protect against cardio embolic stroke.
8. A method for filtering particulate matter from a blood vessel,
the method comprising: providing a device for being inserted into
the blood vessel, said device featuring: an outer structure for
conforming to a shape of the blood vessel; and an inner filter
anchored to said outer structure, said inner filter for filtering
the particulate matter, said inner filter having a portion
extending beyond said outer structure, said extended portion being
at least partially flexible, said inner filter having a one-way
valve through which a medical instrument may be passed; and
inserting said device into the blood vessel during an insertion
procedure; and allowing said device to remain in the blood vessel
after said insertion procedure is complete for filtering the
particulate matter.
9. The method of claim 8, further comprising: inserting an
additional filter into said device during a surgical procedure; and
removing said additional filter after said surgical procedure is
complete.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 10/310,149, filed Dec. 5, 2002, entitled
"Endovascular Device For Entrapment Of Particulate And Method For
Use", which claims priority from provisional application No.
60/335,838, filed on Dec. 5, 2001, entitled "Endovascular Device
For Entrapment Of Emboli".
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to an endovascular device and
method for use, and in particular, to a device for trapping
particulate such as emboli.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Emboli form, for example, as a result of the presence of
particulate matter in the bloodstream. Vascular emboli are a major
single causative agent for multiple human pathologies. It is a
leading cause of disability and death. Clots or thrombi that become
dislodged from the point of origin are termed emboli.
[0004] Such particulate matter may originate from a blood clot
occurring in the heart. It may be a foreign body, but may also be
derived from body tissues. For example, atherosclerosis, or
hardening of the blood vessels from fatty and calcified deposits,
may cause particulate emboli to form. Moreover, clots can form on
the luminal surface of the atheroma, as platelets, fibrin, red
blood cells and activated clotting factors may adhere to the
surface of blood vessels to form a clot.
[0005] Blood clots or thrombi may also form in the veins of
subjects who are immobilized, particularly in the legs of bedridden
or other immobilized patients. These clots may then travel in the
bloodstream, potentially to the arteries of the lungs, leading to a
common, often-deadly disease called `pulmonary embolus`. Thrombus
formation, and subsequent movement to form an embolus, may occur in
the heart or other parts of the arterial system, causing acute
reduction of blood supply and hence ischemia. The ischernic damage
often leads to tissue necrosis of organs such as the kidneys,
retina, bowel, heart, limbs, brain or other organs, or even
death.
[0006] Since emboli are typically particulate in nature, various
types of filters have been proposed in an attempt to remove or
divert such particles from the bloodstream before they can cause
damage to bodily tissues.
[0007] For example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,258,120 discloses a filter
device intended to be inserted into the artery of a patient.
However, the device has an inherent drawback, which is that the
actual trapping of an embolus, for successful operation of the
device, may result in blockage of blood flow through the device and
hence through the artery. Other disclosed embodiments of the
device, which may not be blocked by clots, are not able to filter
clots, and may in fact funnel such particulate matter to the blood
vessels leading to the brain. None of the disclosed embodiments of
the device is anchored to the artery, but instead rely upon
conformation to the arterial shape and size to maintain the
position of the device, which is not secure. In view of the natural
force of blood pressure and elastic recoil of the arterial wall,
proper placement and control of position of the device are of
paramount importance. If the device moves even slightly, it may
even block the artery which it is intended to protect. Such
movement may be caused by blood flow for example, as the blood
pulse moves through the artery,
[0008] U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,873,978, 5,814,064, 5,800,457, 5,769,816,
and 5,827,324 describe devices that are intended only for temporary
insertion into a blood vessel. Therefore, these devices avoid the
difficult issue of simultaneously successfully filtering emboli
while also maintaining blood flow through the blood vessel. As
such, they do not address the problem of prolonged filtration of
the blood.
[0009] U.S. Pat. No. 5,234,458 appears to disclose a filter device
that is intended to be left in the vessel for a period of time.
However, the disclosed filter device lacks a tapered shape, thus
introduction and positioning may be unsafe and complex. Such a
device does not feature a sufficiently strong anchoring system and
the filter does not include a mesh.
[0010] The lack of a suitable anchoring system is a general problem
with devices disclosed in the background art, as the pulsating
blood flow, aortic elasticity and movement may all cause a device
inserted into a major blood vessel to become dislodged.
Furthermore, those devices which feature rigid structures may
create turbulent blood flow at certain locations such as the aortic
arch, leading to decreased cerebral blood flow and possible
activation of the clotting mechanism.
[0011] Therefore, there is a need for a more effective and safer
device and method for protecting against particulate such as
emboli.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0012] Embodiments of the present invention provide for a device
and method for protecting a blood vessel, and hence bodily tissues,
against damage caused by particulate such as an embolus. The device
is typically a stent, for insertion in a large artery such as the
ascending aorta (as shown below), aortic arch or any artery in
jeopardy, and is structured as a filter and/or with filtering
material. Other configurations can be used. The filtering structure
is typically made of at least one layer of mesh, which may be
attached to the arterial wall. Typically only part of the device is
attached (for example at a reinforcing structure or a ring
structure).
[0013] In one embodiment, the outer structure is a wire frame.
[0014] A device according to an embodiment of the present invention
may feature a plurality of layers. The outer layer is typically
made of a dilatable and/or otherwise self-expanding tubular
structure. This tubular structure is typically anchored to the
vascular wall after dilation to the size and shape of the vessel,
or to the diameter of the blood vessel. Anchoring components, such
as fine pins, maybe employed for anchoring the device to the
tissues of the vascular wall. The material of which the device is
constructed may optionally be metallic. Other materials may be
used.
[0015] According to one embodiment, the device includes a first
typically outer cage-like structure (such as a stent) for holding
an inner net. The net is able to filter the particulate matter.
More typically, at least the net is manufactured from a flexible
thread such as surgical monofilament sutures suitable for insertion
into the body and/or for medical use. Other materials may be used.
For example, metallic material, such as titanium, gold, and/or
suitable alloys may be used.
[0016] The stent is typically constructed so that material of the
typically inner and typically more pliable net cannot inadvertently
become inserted into the openings of the important branching
vessels, if the device is inserted into the aortic arch, for
example. The device may feature a plurality of layers, including at
least an inner layer and an outer layer. The inner layer is
typically constructed of a pliable net, with relatively small
openings, so that blood can flow through the net freely, but not
emboli. The size of the mesh is typically such that it permits
passage of blood and micro-emboli, for example according to the
organ system, which is to be protected. The distal part of the net
is typically narrowed, and more typically features two layers of
the same material. The free edges may be reinforced with, for
example, a weave of metallic thread, such as gold. The layers
therefore typically form a basket like structure with overlapping
layers at one end, which are not sealed, but instead may optionally
be opened upon retrograde motion through the distal end of the net
structure. Therefore, emboli can be trapped in the net structure,
as they typically float in the blood flow, but diagnostic and/or
therapeutic catheters may optionally enter the aortic arch (or any
other blood vessel in which the device of the present invention is
installed) through the distal end of the net. In other words, in
such an embodiment, the distal part of the net forms a trap for
emboli, with a one-way valve, allowing passage of medical
instruments.
[0017] A temporary component may be added to the device, for
example for use during heart and aortic surgery, with
extracorporeal circulation after the device has been inserted to
the blood vessel. Such a temporary component may be implemented as,
for example, an inner mesh, which is optionally inserted into the
device in order to trap micro-emboli during surgery. This mesh with
the entrapped contents is then typically removed at the end of the
surgical procedure.
[0018] The device according to one embodiment of the present
invention may be insertable into a blood vessel in a wrapped or
compressed form by, for example, using a catheter, according to,
for example, the Seldinger Technique. The deployment site may be
optionally determined by any number of imaging methods, including
but not limited to X-ray fluoroscopy, intravascular ultrasound, or
echocardiography, MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), angioscopy, CT
(computerized tomography) scan, and/or any other suitable imaging
technology. Another optional mode of deployment is surgical, by
direct insertion of the catheter carrying the device through a
puncture of the targeted vessel in proximity to the deployment
site.
[0019] The device of the present invention may optionally serve as
a platform for carrying physiologic, hematological, biochemical and
so forth micro-sensors. Enabling continued monitoring of one or
more parameters, such as temperature, blood pressure, heart rhythm,
blood flow (`cardiac output`), pH, electrolytes, blood sugar, blood
LDL etc. These microprocessors typically transmit the data (for
example) wirelessly to an outer monitoring device, as needed. The
device can be loaded by coating or small aggregates, to serve as an
internal "docking station" to release drugs, hormones, genes and so
forth either automatically or by sensor-reactor programming,
servomechanism or external control.
[0020] The device and method are particularly useful in preventing
blockages of flow to the brain, but have other uses as well.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0021] The invention is herein described, by way of example only,
with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:
[0022] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a device according to an
embodiment of the present invention, shown inserted into the
ascending aorta;
[0023] FIG. 2a shows the outer mesh layer of the device of FIG. 1
according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0024] FIG. 2b depicts details of the device-of FIG. 1 according to
an embodiment of the present invention;
[0025] FIG. 3a shows the inner mesh layer of the device of FIG. 1
according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0026] FIG. 3b details of the device of FIG. 1 according to an
embodiment of the present invention;
[0027] FIG. 4 depicts an embodiment where an inner filter or net
provides focal coverage for an area to be protected; and
[0028] FIG. 5 is a flowchart depicting a series of steps according
to one embodiment of the present invention.
DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS
[0029] In the following description, various aspects of the present
invention will be described. For purposes of explanation, specific
configurations and details are set forth in order to provide a
thorough understanding of the present invention. However, it will
also be apparent to one skilled in the art that the present
invention may be practiced without the specific details presented
herein. Furthermore, well-known features may be omitted or
simplified in order not to obscure the present invention.
[0030] Embodiments of the present invention provide for a device
for protecting body organs such as the brain and hence bodily
tissues, against damage caused by particulate matter such as an
embolus. The device is typically in a stent configuration, for
insertion in a large artery such as the aorta (as shown below),
structured as a filter and/or with filtering material. Other
configurations are possible. The filtering structure is typically
made of at least one layer of mesh, which is attached to the
arterial wall. Other numbers of mesh layers may be used. Typically
only part of the device is attached (for example at a reinforcing
structure or a ring structure).
[0031] Devices according to embodiments of the present invention
typically includes a plurality of layers. The outer layer is
typically made of a typically dilatable and/or otherwise
self-expanding tubular structure or stent.-The stent is typically
not required to dilate the artery and serves as an outer skeleton,
stabilizer and protector of the inner structure. Other outer
structures may be used. This tubular structure is typically
anchored to the vascular wall after dilation to the size and shape
of the vessel, or at least to the diameter of the blood vessel and
possibly, to ensure good contact and stabilization. More typically,
anchoring components, such as fine pins, are employed for anchoring
the device to the tissues of the vascular wall, although such
anchoring components need not be used. The material of which the
device is constructed may optionally be metallic, but other
suitable materials may be used.
[0032] Typically, the device includes a first cage-like structure
for holding a net, in which the net is able to filter the
particulate matter. The net (and possible other components) is
constructed of a flexible, fine thread which is suitable for
insertion into the body and/or for medical use. Other materials may
be used, such as titanium, gold, and/or suitable alloys.
[0033] The outer stent is typically constructed such that material
of the net cannot inadvertently become inserted into the openings
of the important branching vessels, if the device is inserted into
the aortic arch, for example. More typically, the net features a
plurality of layers, including at least an inner layer and an outer
layer. The inner layer is typically constructed of a pliable net,
with relatively small openings, so that blood can flow through the
net freely, but not certain particulate matter such as emboli. The
size of the mesh is typically in a range which permits emboli that
may pose a danger to organs in the body to be trapped, and is more
typically selected according to the location of the device within
the body.
[0034] The distal part of the net is optionally and typically
narrowed, and more typically features two layers of the same
material. The free edges are typically reinforced with a
reinforcing structure, such as weaving gold thread or thread or
material of, typically, any relatively heavier. More typically,
such reinforcement causes that portion to be somewhat thicker and
heavier, such that the ends of the net remain distal to the
cage-like outer structure and also remain open at the distal part.
The layers therefore typically form a basket-like structure with
overlapping layers at one end, which are not sealed, but instead
may optionally be opened upon retrograde motion through the distal
end of the net structure. Therefore, emboli or other particulate
can be trapped in the net structure, but diagnostic and/or
therapeutic catheters may optionally enter the aortic arch (or any
other blood vessel in which the device of the present invention is
installed) through the distal end of the net. In other words the
distal part of the net forms a trap for emboli or other
particulate, with a one-way valve, allowing passage of medical
instruments.
[0035] This distal structure may be suitable for passage of, for
example, therapeutic endovascular catheters for removal of
entrapped debris and clots by way of mechanical clot extraction,
ultrasonic cavitation, LASER, local delivery of thrombolytic agents
such, as t-PA for example, and other suitable therapies. The distal
structure can also optionally be used for insertion of
cardiovascular angio graphic catheters as well as therapeutic
balloon catheters, drills, stents and so forth.
[0036] In one embodiment, a temporary component may be added to the
device, for example for use during heart and aortic surgery, after
the device has been inserted to the blood vessel. Such a temporary
component is typically implemented as an inner mesh, which is
optionally inserted into the device in order to trap, for example,
micro emboli during surgery. This mesh with the entrapped contents
is then typically re-wrapped, and removed at the end of the
surgical procedure.
[0037] A device according to an embodiment of the present invention
is typically insertable into a blood vessel in a folded or
compressed form by using a catheter, according to the `Seldinger
Technique`. The deployment site is optionally determined by any
number of visualization methods, including but not limited to X-ray
fluoroscopy, ultrasound (or echocardiography), MRI (magnetic
resonance imaging), direct angioscopy, near infrared angiology,
intra-vascular ultrasound, CT (computerized tomography) scan,
and/or any other suitable imaging technology. Another optional mode
of deployment is surgical, by direct insertion of the catheter
carrying the device through a puncture of the targeted vessel in
proximity to the deployment site.
[0038] A device according to an embodiment of the present invention
may optionally serve as a platform for carrying, for example,
physiologic micro-sensors, such as temperature, blood pressure,
heart rhythm, blood flow (e.g., `cardiac output`), pH,
electrolytes, blood sugar, blood LDL etc. These microprocessors
typically transmit the data, typically wirelessly, to an outer
monitoring device, as needed.
[0039] In one embodiment, due to the relatively large diameter of
the device as a whole, a very large embolus is typically required
to impede blood flow across the entire device. Smaller emboli,
which would be caught in the filter of the device, might dissolve
spontaneously or, for example, could be treated with drugs.
Typically, minute micro-emboli are allowed to pass through the
device, as they should not cause major damage to organs. The size
of the mesh can be adjusted as suitable.
[0040] Embodiments of the present invention may have various
medical applications, including but not limited to, prevention or
treatment of blockage of any blood vessel or any other bodily
passage, such as the carotid artery, aorta, veins and so forth;
prevention or treatment of blockage of any blood vessel or any
other bodily passage which is secondary to medical treatment, such
as catheterization; and use of the device to overcome medical
conditions which may cause or exacerbate the formation of blood
clots in the patient. Embodiments may also optionally be used as an
adjunct during surgery, for example with the addition of a
temporary filter in the device with mesh having relatively small
holes; this temporary filter maybe removed after surgery.
[0041] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a device according to an
embodiment of the present invention, shown inserted into the
ascending aorta. As shown, a device 7 is inserted into ascending
aorta 1 for the purposes of illustration only and without any
intention of being limiting. Other methods of insertion and
positions of insertion and use may be used. Device 7 also may be
suitable for, for example, insertion into a number of major blood
vessels in the body. As shown in FIG. 1, when inserted into
ascending aorta 1, device 7 is typically placed beneath, and
physically adjacent to, brachiocephalic artery 3, left carotid
artery 4 and left subdlavian artery 5. Device 7 may optionally
attenuate movement of ascending aorta 1 slightly with each blood
pulse, but without significantly impeding the action of aorta
1.
[0042] In one embodiment, device 7, or at least a portion thereof,
also extends into the descending thoracic aorta 6. This placement
provides high protection for different organs in the body. Briefly,
this placement prevents particulate matter (of at least a size to
be trapped by device 7) from entering the brain. In addition, by
preventing entry of particulate matter to the brain, transmission
of such particulate matter to more distal organs, such as the
kidneys and liver for example, is also prevented. Also, this
location enables trapped material to be more easily and more safely
removed.
[0043] In the embodiment shown, device 7 typically features an
outer or external structure 2, which is more typically in the
structure, construction, configuration or shape of a stent. Such a
shape is typically tubular or cylindrical, and fits closely to
the-surface of the blood vessel into which device 7 has been
inserted, which is ascending aorta 1 in this example. External
structure 2 is typically capable of insertion into a blood vessel.
Outer or external structure 2 is typically a cage-like structure,
featuring typically a stent which acts as both an external support
skeleton and also as secondary physical protection. Furthermore the
stent may prevent the net from entering a branch and potentially
occluding the blood flow. The stent typically features relatively
large apertures, as shown with regard to FIG. 2. Typically, the
stent or outer structure includes holes or openings of a first
size, and the inner mesh or filter or structure includes holes or
openings of a second size, the first size being typically larger
than the second size. Typically the size of the apertures of the
net may be smaller in the part facing the arterial branch to be
protected. The size of the holes in the net are typically small
enough to filter almost all emboli causing significant disease, but
allowing free flow of blood. The pressure gradient across the
device in the blood stream typically causes only minor
pressure-drop (less than 10%); other pressure drops are possible.
Other configurations and shapes, and other mesh sizes, may be used.
For example, the external structure may be wire frame, such as the
one depicted in FIG. 4 below. Such a structure may include a number
of bends.
[0044] In one embodiment, outer or external structure 2 includes
"void" areas or spaces facing certain vessel openings, such as on
the `top` side facing the aortic arch vessels, namely the right
innominate artery (also called the brachiocephalic artery), the
left carotid artery, and the left subelavian artery). Other
positions for such voids may be used, and voids need not be
used.
[0045] In one embodiment, outer or external structure 2 is a `bent`
tubular stent with, typically, a few parallel bars which are
interposed by, typically, a few lateral thin wires to maintain
physical form and strength. In one embodiment, the total length of
outer or external structure 2 complies with the distance in the
body, and its width vien dilated is 20-30 mm according to the
individual aortic width. Other dimensions may be used.
[0046] In one embodiment, the geometry of the external structure 2
enables easy folding. The external structure 2 typically includes
an outer diameter of less than 9 French or 3 mm, but other
dimensions may be used.
[0047] Device 7 also typically includes an internal structure such
as a filter or net 16 for trapping particulate such as emboli,
which is typically located within, and anchored to, external
structure 2. Other trapping or filtering structures may be used.
Internal filter or net 16 typically features a relatively fine net
which functions as a filter, and more typically extends beyond
external structure 2. Such extension need not be used. Internal
filter or net 16 is typically flexible.
[0048] Typically, the internal structure is kept a certain, lateral
distance from the walls of the surrounding artery. This may help in
preventing flow into branch vessels from being impeded.
[0049] When used in the position shown, such an extension of the
material of internal net 16 may prevent any trapped particulate
matter from blocking blood flow to those previously described major
blood vessels, as well as supporting the continued flow of blood
through the entirety of device 7. Internal net 16 also most
typically features a tapered shape, particularly for the portion
which extends beyond external structure 2, again for the purpose of
preventing particulate matter from blocking the flow of blood
through device 7 and/or the blood vessel itself. In alternate
embodiments, other internal structures may be used, such as other
filters or nets. The internal structure may have a different shape
or configuration.
[0050] In one embodiment, an electric charge may be placed on the
device, so that, for example, blood components such as proteins do
not collect on or adhere to the external structure 2. For example,
an electric charge can be achieved by the addition of metals and/or
polymers that are naturally charged, or, alternately, by
incorporating piezo-electric materials or piezo-electric cells
which may generate charges (for example, up to 100-200 milivolts).
Such piezo-electric materials or piezo-electric cells may generate
electricity or electric charges by even minor physical changes in
position, caused by, for example, the changes in blood pressure
during the cardiac cycle (systolic/diastolic pressure).
[0051] FIG. 2 shows one embodiment of the outer mesh layer of the
device of FIG. 1, showing the components separately from the
remainder of the device. External structure 2 typically features a
mesh 12 having relatively large apertures or holes, for trapping
relatively large emboli and/or other particulate matter. Other
sizes and shapes may be used.
[0052] External structure 2 is optionally and typically anchored to
the wall of the aorta 1. Such anchoring structure may include, for
example, at least one pin 13. Other mounting methods and devices
may be used.
[0053] Typically, external structure 2 includes at least one, and
more typically a plurality of, support interconnection components,
shown as a proximal support interconnection component 9 and a
distal support interconnection component 11. Interconnection
components 9 and 11 may be, for example, rings, or sutures but may
be other types of structures. Other types and numbers of support
interconnection 5 components may be used. A plurality of pins 13
(shown in detail FIG. 2A) are more typically used to anchor
external structure 2 to the wall of ascending aorta 1. Pin(s) 13
typically attach each of proximal support interconnection component
9 and distal support interconnection component 11 to the wall of
ascending aorta 1.
[0054] External structure 2 also typically features one or a
plurality of connections between the outer stent and the inner net
for connecting mesh 12 to the internal net (FIG. 3), to prevent the
latter from being dislodged from the blood vessel, and/or from
being moved within the blood vessel. Such movement might
inadvertently block blood flow to one of the other arteries shown
in FIG. 1, for example. Other suitable connection methods may be
used.
[0055] In one embodiment, external structure 2 features a plurality
of devices such as micro sensors 14 and 15 for sensing
physiological functions or parameters, such as, for example, blood
pressure, ECG, heart rate, pH values, temperature, velocity, oxygen
saturation and content, as well as for any biochemical, endocrine,
or hematological status including, for example, clotting mechanism
and factors, or any drug concentration (see also FIG. 2A).
Micro-sensors 14 and 15 may be, for example, attached to a support
platform 10. Support platform 10 may be thicker and stiffer, to
conform to the natural shape of the aortic arch. Other methods of
attaching additional devices may be used, having other
configurations. Micro sensors could be coupled, for example, with
adjusted release mechanisms for, for example, glucose, insulin, or
other substances.
[0056] FIG. 3 shows one embodiment of the inner mesh layer of the
device of FIG. 1, featuring the internal filter or net 16.
Optionally and more typically, the distal end of internal net 16 is
constructed as a one-way valve 18, made of, for example, two
layers, flaps or leaflets of the net material. The overlap enables
retrograde insertion of catheters. The two layers or leaflets of
the net or filter material typically feature weights 17, for
prevention of movement of the distal end of internal net 16
backward (see also detail FIG. 3A). One leaf or layer may be extend
further than the other, curving around the tip of the net 16. Other
configurations for the inner mesh layer may be used. For example,
such one-way valve need not be used, and weights need not be used.
Furthermore, if a valve is included, the valve may include other
configurations.
[0057] In one embodiment, internal net 16 is made of two or more
leaves or flat portions, typically connected along the sides,
tapered towards their outlet ends, with one slightly longer than
the other, and not connected at the distal end. One leaf may be
longer than the other, curving around the tip. The two leaves may
be interconnected at multiple sites (points), but spaced at the
distal end, to form, for example, a valve allowing easy passage
from the distal end but not from the lumen. An `active valve` may
thus be formed. Particles can not pass distally but a catheter can
be passed from the distal end proximally. Other shapes for the
leaves may be used, and a leaf structure need not be used.
[0058] This distal structure may be suitable for passage of, for
example, therapeutic endovascular catheters for, for example,
removal of entrapped debris and clots by way of mechanical clot
extraction, ultra-sonic cavitation, LASER, local delivery of
thrombolytic agents such as t-PA for example, and other suitable
therapies. The distal structure can also optionally be used for
insertion of cardiovascular angiographic catheters as well as
therapeutic balloon catheters for Valvuloplasty, drills, stents
Electrophysiology catheters, clot removal device and so forth.
[0059] In a further embodiment, an inner filter or structure may be
shaped and sized to protect only a portion of the area within the
outer structure. Such a "focal" filter may enable free passage
through a portion of the outer structure of devices such as
catheters, for example to aid in procedures of angioplasty,
percutanous valvuloplasty, or other procedures. FIG. 4 depicts an
embodiment where an inner filter or net provides focal coverage for
an area to be protected. Referring to FIG. 4, outer structure 5.0
includes an inner net or filter 52, which covers only a portion of
the area of the outer structure. For example, inner filter 52 may
protect or filter blood flow to the brain when properly inserted.
Outer structure 50 is a wire frame as opposed to a stent like
structure, but may also be a stent like structure.
[0060] Typically, inner filter 52 faces one branch for which
protection is desired, such as (given one possible configuration
and placement) one of the right innominate artery, the left carotid
artery, and/or the left subclavian artery. More than one such
filter may be included, covering more than one branch, or one
filter may cover more than one branch. Such an embodiment may, for
example, protect the brain (vessels leading to the brain) but not
other branches or areas, such as the distal branches (e.g., the
renal arteries, femoral arteries, etc). In alternate embodiments,
configurations may differ, and if placement differs, different
areas may be protected. Outer structure 50 may alternately include
a filter as described in FIGS. 1-3.
[0061] The wire 51 forming outer structure 50 typically contacts
the surrounding blood vessel at every or almost every point along
the wire 51, but need not. In the embodiment shown, the outer
structure 50 is a "tripod" structure with three main sections or
lobes, but may have four or other numbers of sections. Such an
outer structure 50 may be particularly suited for easy folding and
positioning, by, for example, being wrapped or folded to a
relatively small size of, for example, 9-10 F, such that it is
passable through the femoral artery. Other insertion methods may be
used.
[0062] In one embodiment, a device according to an embodiment of
the present invention can be inserted as, for example, protection
from brain emboli prior to an invasive intracardiac procedure, such
as balloon aortic valvuloplasty, balloon mitral valvuloplsty,
electrophysiological studies, with or without ablation of ectopic
rhythmic sites, insertion of automatic defibrilators, percutaneous
valve repair or replacement, or other procedures. Embodiments of
the device can be used, for example, in patients with severe aortic
atheroma for brain protection during routine heart catheterization,
or for endovascular "cleaning" of atheromatous or thrombotic
material. Such an embodiment could be used in patients with high
risk or propensity to form intracardiac clots, for example patients
with hematological disease, arrhythmia of the heart, artificial
heart patients, assist-device patients, mechanical valve
replacement patients, patients following intracardiac repair of a
pathology, or patients with congenital heart disease such as patent
foramen ovale, and so forth.
[0063] FIG. 5 is a flowchart depicting a series of steps according
to one embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 5, in
step 100, a device, such as an embodiment of the device described
above, is inserted into a patient's blood vessel. In one
embodiment, the insertion may be performed during an insertion
procedure, and the device may remain in the blood vessel after the
insertion procedure is complete.
[0064] In one embodiment, the device is inserted in a "wrapped"
form. The outer diameter of the wrapped device enables introduction
via a peripheral artery, such as the common femoral artery, using
the OTW technique or Seldinger technique. An alternate mode of
insertion may be, for example, surgical. The surgeon can insert the
device OTW through a direct needle puncture of the artery. Other
insertion methods may be used.
[0065] In step 110, optionally, an additional filter may be
inserted into or otherwise connected to the device, for example
during the duration of a surgical procedure. The additional filter
is typically removed after the surgical procedure is complete.
[0066] In step 120, optionally, the patient may be treated with a
drug, for example, a drug for endocarditis or blood clots.
[0067] Other steps or series of steps may be-performed. For
example, the method may additionally include dilating a valve of
the patient with a catheter. In addition, the inner filter may be
removed or replaced without removing the outer structure.
[0068] A device according to an embodiment of the present invention
can be used, for example, temporarily for acute conditions. For
example, the device can be inserted for the duration, or the known
duration, of the condition. For example, the device may be inserted
temporarily to protect against cardio embolic stroke or embolic
stroke. Currently, patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI)
show an incidence of 35% of clots in the heart (Left Ventricle),
and 2% will have major stroke or death from this cardio embolic
stroke or embolic stroke.
[0069] In alternate embodiments, the device can be coated by a
structure or substance for better tissue adaption and
biocompatibility. The device can include pharmacologic or genetic
agents, thus serving as a platform for controlled release of any
substance, where it is needed.
[0070] Other conditions may warrant insertion. In other
embodiments, the device maybe inserted for a long-term period, or
permanently. In further embodiments, the device maybe inserted for
the duration of a procedure or treatment.
[0071] In further embodiments, portions of the device, such as the
inner filter, may be wholly or partially biodegradeable.
[0072] It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that
the present invention is not limited to what has been particularly
shown and described hereinabove. Rather the scope of the present
invention is defined only by the claims which follow:
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