U.S. patent application number 11/472806 was filed with the patent office on 2006-12-28 for methods and apparatus for regulating the flow of matter through body tubing.
This patent application is currently assigned to Torax Medical, Inc.. Invention is credited to James Berg, Todd A. Berg.
Application Number | 20060293759 11/472806 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 27384558 |
Filed Date | 2006-12-28 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060293759 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Berg; Todd A. ; et
al. |
December 28, 2006 |
Methods and apparatus for regulating the flow of matter through
body tubing
Abstract
A self-retracting body, which may have a bore, may be inserted
into a biological passage. A dilating balloon may be used to expand
the body toward an inner wall of the passage. The body may include
an anchor that may engage the wall. The anchor may include a tip
that is within the body before the body expands and extends away
from the body during expansion. The body may include an opening
that may receive a portion of the wall. The portion may be fixed to
the body. The body may retract toward a central portion of the
passage after the anchor engages the wall. The wall may be drawn
toward the central passage and the diameter of the passage may be
reduced. In some embodiments, a liner may be provided for the
passage. In some embodiments, a baffle may be provided for the
passage.
Inventors: |
Berg; Todd A.; (Stillwater,
MN) ; Berg; James; (White Bear Lake, MN) |
Correspondence
Address: |
FISH & NEAVE IP GROUP;ROPES & GRAY LLP
1251 AVENUE OF THE AMERICAS FL C3
NEW YORK
NY
10020-1105
US
|
Assignee: |
Torax Medical, Inc.
|
Family ID: |
27384558 |
Appl. No.: |
11/472806 |
Filed: |
June 21, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
10134306 |
Apr 26, 2002 |
7087088 |
|
|
11472806 |
Jun 21, 2006 |
|
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60350394 |
Jan 22, 2002 |
|
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60293345 |
May 24, 2001 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
623/23.7 ;
623/1.36 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61F 2/91 20130101; A61B
17/064 20130101; A61F 2/2445 20130101; A61B 2017/0647 20130101;
A61F 2002/8483 20130101; A61B 17/072 20130101; A61B 2017/00557
20130101; A61F 2250/0039 20130101; A61B 17/0682 20130101; A61B
17/115 20130101; A61F 2/958 20130101; A61B 2017/00827 20130101;
A61F 2/04 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
623/023.7 ;
623/001.36 |
International
Class: |
A61F 2/04 20060101
A61F002/04 |
Claims
1. An apparatus for reducing the diameter of a portion of a
biological passage, said passage having a wall, said apparatus
comprising: a polymeric body having a bore, said bore defining a
central axis, at least a portion of said body configured to move
from a first position to a second position, said second position at
a greater distance from said axis than said first position, said
portion having an outer peripheral surface; and a metal anchor
coupled to said portion, said anchor having a tip; wherein: said
tip moves away from said outer peripheral surface when said portion
moves from said first to said second position; and said anchor is
configured to pull said wall toward said axis when said portion
moves from said second position toward said first position.
Description
[0001] This is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.
10/134,306, filed Apr. 26, 2002, which claims the benefit of U.S.
Provisional Patent Applications Nos. 60/293,345, filed May 24,
2001, and 60/350,394, filed Jan. 22, 2002, all of which are hereby
incorporated by reference herein in their entireties.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present disclosure concerns apparatus and methods for
improving the function of biological passages. The ability of
biological passages to expand and contract actively or passively to
regulate the flow of solids, liquids, gases, or combinations
thereof, may be compromised by defects or disease. One example of a
condition associated with decreased functionality of a body passage
is Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease (hereinafter, "GERD"), which
effects the esophagus. Other body passages that may be subject to
dysfunction, defect, and disease include, but are not limited to, a
fallopian tube, a urethra (for example, in the case of
incontinence), and a blood vessel (for example, in the case of an
aneurysm). GERD and esophageal dysfunction will be further
described herein for the sake of illustration.
[0003] The normal healthy esophagus is a muscular tube that carries
food from the mouth through the chest cavity and into the upper
part of the stomach. A small-valved opening in the distal
esophagus, called the lower esophageal sphincter (hereinafter,
"LES"), regulates the passage of food into the stomach. When
functioning properly, the LES muscle presents a barrier to the
reflux of acid or food back into the esophagus. The LES also
regulates the stomach intra-gastric pressures, regulating acidic
gases from refluxing from the stomach back into the esophagus. The
LES, when functioning properly, will open to allow gases to be
vented from the stomach. A healthy LES at rest can resist pressure
from stomach gases that are at least 10 mm Hg greater than normal
intragastric pressure. This pressure difference can regulate the
amount of acidic fluid that refluxes from the stomach into the
esophagus. The LES is controlled largely by two components. The
primary component is intrinsic smooth muscle of the distal
esophagus wall. The second component is the skeletal muscle of the
crural diaphragm or esophageal hiatus. The diaphragm is a muscle
separating the stomach from the chest. Studies have shown that the
diaphragm may act as a sphincter around the lower end of the
esophagus. The esophageal hiatus is the opening in the diaphragm
where the esophagus attaches to the stomach.
[0004] If the LES relaxes, atrophies, or degrades for any reason,
the contents of the stomach, which may be acidic, are allowed back
into the esophagus resulting in reflux symptoms. The major
mechanism for esophageal reflux, which may be associated with GERD,
is the relaxation of one or both of the LES or hiatal diaphragm
sphincter mechanisms. Normally occurring mechanisms that diminish
or prevent GERD include peristaltic squeezing by the esophageal
body, gravity (when a person is in an upright position), and
neutralization by saliva.
[0005] Chronic or excessive acid reflux exposure may cause
esophageal damage. Drugs may be required to manage symptoms of the
damage and medical intervention, including surgical or endoscopic
procedures, may be required to repair the damage.
[0006] The lining of the esophagus is called mucosa. Chronic
exposure to stomach gases may cause the mucosa to become inflamed
or ulcerated. Inflamed or ulcerated mucosa may lead to problems
that may require medical intervention.
[0007] Hiatal hernias are often associated with GERD. If the
esophageal hernia becomes enlarged (herniated), the LES function
may be compromised and the risk of GERD increased. (A hiatal hernia
occurs when the upper potion of the stomach moves up through an
opening in the diaphragm.)
[0008] Barrett's Esophagus is a disease of the esophagus that may
compromise esophageal function. This disease may occur when the
tissue that ordinarily lines the esophagus migrates away from the
lower part of the esophagus to avoid exposure to the acidic fluids
against the sensitive mucosa. Barrett's Esophagus is often a
precursor to esophageal cancer.
[0009] The most common symptom of GERD is dyspepsia (commonly known
as "heartburn"). Dyspepsia may be defined as an acute burning
sensation in the chest area typically, behind the sternum. Other
symptoms of GERD may include hemorrhage, pulmonary disorders,
chronic cough, intermittent wheezing, ulcers, Barrett's esophagus,
and esophageal cancer.
[0010] One conventional surgical treatment for GERD is
fundoplication. In this procedure the upper part of the stomach is
wrapped around the lower part of the esophagus. This highly
invasive procedure is often initially successful, but has a high
risk of morbidity (including, e.g., infection and bleeding).
[0011] Another conventional treatment for GERD is surgical suturing
of a pleat of tissue between the LES and stomach to make the lower
esophagus tighter. Suturing may be performed endoscopically using a
suturing device on the end of an endoscope inserted into the
esophagus through the mouth. Endoscopic procedures are less
invasive than open surgery, but still require surgical incisions
and great skill.
[0012] Surgery, whether endoscopic or open (such as fundoplication)
may provide a basic mechanical correction. Surgical procedures may
relocate and affix existing tissue of the stomach, esophagus, or
both to add support and structure to the LES. LES strength is
increased by the added support, thus reducing the incidence of
reflux.
[0013] Yet another conventional treatment for GERD includes the use
of pharmaceutical drugs. The drugs may include acid blockers that
may reduce the production of acid by the stomach. The drugs may be
effective to reduce the symptoms of mild GERD, but do not treat LES
dysfunction. In general, the drugs must be administered
indefinitely to maintain their efficacy.
[0014] Currently, according to the American Gastroenterological
Association, over $12 billion is estimated to be spent on the
treatment of GERD annually in the USA alone. It is estimated that
$8 billion is spent on drugs. According to a Gallup.RTM. poll, 45%
of patients taking heartburn drugs report that current remedies do
not relieve all symptoms and more than half agree that they would
try anything new to relieve their heartburn.
[0015] Therefore, it would be desirable to provide improved
apparatus and methods for the treatment of a dysfunctional body
passage.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] The above and other objects and advantages of the invention
will be more apparent upon considering the following detailed
description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in
which like reference characters refer to like parts throughout, and
in which:
[0017] FIG. 1 is a sectional view of an illustrative healthy
biological passage;
[0018] FIG. 2 is a sectional view of a defective biological
passage;
[0019] FIG. 3 is a partial sectional view of apparatus in
accordance with the principles of the invention disposed in the
biological passage shown in FIG. 2;
[0020] FIG. 4 is an elevational view of apparatus in accordance
with the principles of the invention disposed in the biological
passage shown in FIG. 2;
[0021] FIG. 5 is an elevational view of apparatus in accordance
with the principles of the invention disposed in the biological
passage shown in FIG. 2;
[0022] FIG. 6 is an elevational view of apparatus in accordance
with the principles of the invention disposed in the biological
passage shown in FIG. 2;
[0023] FIG. 7 is an elevational view of apparatus in accordance
with the principles of the invention disposed in the biological
passage shown in FIG. 2;
[0024] FIG. 8 is a partial perspective view of apparatus in
accordance with the principles of the invention in the biological
passage shown in FIG. 2;
[0025] FIG. 9 is a partial perspective view of apparatus in
accordance with the principles of the invention in the biological
passage shown in FIG. 2;
[0026] FIG. 10 is a partial perspective view of apparatus in
accordance with the principles of the invention in the biological
passage shown in FIG. 2;
[0027] FIG. 11 is a partial perspective view of apparatus in
accordance with the principles of the invention in the biological
passage shown in FIG. 2;
[0028] FIG. 11A is a schematic view of apparatus in accordance with
the principles of the invention in the biological passage shown in
FIG. 2;
[0029] FIG. 11B is a schematic view of apparatus in accordance with
the principles of the invention in the biological passage shown in
FIG. 2;
[0030] FIG. 11C is a schematic view of apparatus in accordance with
the principles of the invention in the biological passage shown in
FIG. 2;
[0031] FIG. 11D is a schematic view of apparatus in accordance with
the principles of the invention in the biological passage shown in
FIG. 2;
[0032] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance
with the principles of the invention;
[0033] FIG. 13 is a view taken from line 13-13 in FIG. 12 as it
would appear after the apparatus shown in FIG. 12 is formed into a
closed loop;
[0034] FIG. 13A is a schematic view of apparatus in accordance with
the principles of the invention;
[0035] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance
with the principles of the invention;
[0036] FIG. 14A is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance
with the principles of the invention;
[0037] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance
with the principles of the invention;
[0038] FIG. 15A is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance
with the principles of the invention;
[0039] FIG. 16 is a schematic view of apparatus in accordance with
the principles of the invention;
[0040] FIG. 17 is a schematic view of apparatus in accordance with
the principles of the invention;
[0041] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance
with the principles of the invention;
[0042] FIG. 19 is a schematic view of apparatus in accordance with
the principles of the invention disposed in the passage shown in
FIG. 2;
[0043] FIG. 20 is a schematic view of an apparatus in accordance
with the principles of the invention disposed in a biological
passage;
[0044] FIG. 21 is a schematic view of an apparatus in accordance
with the principles of the invention disposed in the biological
passage shown in FIG. 20;
[0045] FIG. 22 is a sectional view of an apparatus in accordance
with the principles of the invention disposed in the biological
passage shown in FIG. 20;
[0046] FIG. 22A is a sectional view of the apparatus shown in FIG.
22, disposed in the biological passage shown in FIG. 20, in a
different stage of operation;
[0047] FIG. 23 is a schematic view of apparatus in accordance with
the principles of the invention disposed in the biological passage
shown in FIG. 20;
[0048] FIG. 24 is a schematic view of apparatus in accordance with
the principles of the invention disposed in the biological passage
shown in FIG. 20;
[0049] FIG. 25 is a sectional view of an apparatus in accordance
with the principles of the invention;
[0050] FIG. 26 is a partial sectional view of apparatus in
accordance with the principles of the invention disposed in a
portion of the biological passage shown in FIG. 20;
[0051] FIG. 27 is a partial sectional view of apparatus in
accordance with the principles of the invention disposed in a
portion of the biological passage shown in FIG. 20;
[0052] FIG. 28 is a schematic view of apparatus in accordance with
the principles of the invention disposed in the biological passage
shown in FIG. 20;
[0053] FIG. 29 is a schematic view of apparatus in accordance with
the principles of the invention disposed in the biological passage
shown in FIG. 20;
[0054] FIG. 30 is a schematic view of apparatus in accordance with
the principles of the invention disposed in the biological passage
shown in FIG. 20;
[0055] FIG. 31 is a schematic view of apparatus in accordance with
the principles of the invention disposed in the biological passage
shown in FIG. 20;
[0056] FIG. 32 is a schematic view of apparatus in accordance with
the principles of the invention disposed in the biological passage
shown in FIG. 20;
[0057] FIG. 33 is a schematic view of apparatus in accordance with
the principles of the invention disposed in the biological passage
shown in FIG. 20;
[0058] FIG. 34 is a schematic view of apparatus in accordance with
the principles of the invention disposed in the biological passage
shown in FIG. 20;
[0059] FIG. 35 is a schematic view of apparatus in accordance with
the principles of the invention disposed in the biological passage
shown in FIG. 20;
[0060] FIG. 36 is an elevational view of apparatus in accordance
with the principles of the invention disposed in the biological
passage shown in FIG. 2;
[0061] FIG. 37 is a partial sectional view of apparatus in
accordance with the principles of the invention disposed in the
biological passage shown in FIG. 20;
[0062] FIG. 38 is an elevational view of apparatus in accordance
with the principles of the invention;
[0063] FIG. 39 is a sectional view of apparatus in accordance with
the principles of the invention;
[0064] FIG. 40 is a perspective view of an apparatus in accordance
with the principles of the invention;
[0065] FIG. 41 is a perspective view of an apparatus in accordance
with the principles of the invention;
[0066] FIG. 42 is a perspective view of an apparatus in accordance
with the principles of the invention;
[0067] FIG. 43 is a sectional view of apparatus in accordance with
the principles of the invention;
[0068] FIG. 44 is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance
with the principles of the invention;
[0069] FIG. 45 is a perspective view of an apparatus in accordance
with the principles of the invention;
[0070] FIG. 46 is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance
with the principles of the invention;
[0071] FIG. 47 is a top view of apparatus in accordance with the
principles of the invention;
[0072] FIG. 48 is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance
with the principles of the invention;
[0073] FIG. 49 is an elevational view of apparatus in accordance
with the principles of the invention disposed in the biological
passage shown in FIG. 20;
[0074] FIG. 50 is a partial elevational view of apparatus in
accordance with the principles of the invention disposed in the
biological passage shown in FIG. 20;
[0075] FIG. 51 is a schematic view of apparatus in accordance with
the principles of the invention;
[0076] FIG. 52 is an elevational view taken from line 52-52 of FIG.
51;
[0077] FIG. 53 is a sectional view of apparatus in accordance with
the principles of the invention disposed in the biological passage
shown in FIG. 20;
[0078] FIG. 54 is an elevational view taken from line 54-54 of FIG.
53;
[0079] FIG. 55 is a sectional view of apparatus in accordance with
the principles of the invention disposed in the biological passage
shown in FIG. 20;
[0080] FIG. 56 is a sectional view of apparatus in accordance with
the principles of the invention disposed in the biological passage
shown in FIG. 20;
[0081] FIG. 57 is a schematic view of apparatus in accordance with
the principles of the invention disposed in the biological passage
shown in FIG. 2;
[0082] FIG. 58 is a schematic view of apparatus in accordance with
the principles of the invention disposed in the biological passage
shown in FIG. 2;
[0083] FIG. 59 is a partial sectional view of apparatus in
accordance with the principles of the invention disposed in the
biological passage shown in FIG. 20;
[0084] FIG. 60 is a sectional view taken from line 60-60 in FIG.
59.
[0085] FIG. 61 is a partial sectional view of apparatus in
accordance with the principles of the invention disposed in the
biological passage shown in FIG. 20;
[0086] FIG. 62 is a partial elevational view of apparatus in
accordance with the principles of the invention disposed in the
biological passage shown in FIG. 2;
[0087] FIG. 63 is a schematic view of apparatus in accordance with
the principles of the invention disposed in the biological passage
shown in FIG. 2;
[0088] FIG. 64 is a perspective view of an apparatus in accordance
with the principles of the invention;
[0089] FIG. 65 is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance
with the principles of the invention;
[0090] FIG. 66 is a partial top view of apparatus in accordance
with the principles of the invention disposed in the biological
passage shown in FIG. 20;
[0091] FIG. 67 is a partial elevational view taken from line 67-67
in FIG. 66;
[0092] FIG. 68 is a perspective view of an apparatus in accordance
with the principles of the invention; and
[0093] FIG. 69 is a perspective view of an apparatus in accordance
with the principles of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0094] The invention may provide apparatus and methods for reducing
the diameter or providing inwardly directed radial support to a
portion of a biological passage. The invention may be used in a
wide variety of biological passages including, but not limited to,
passages that may be present in the alimentary canal, the digestive
system, the respiratory system, the circulatory system, the
reproductive system, and the excretory system.
[0095] Some embodiments of the invention may include a body having
a bore that defines a central axis. (The axis may follow an
approximately central path through the body and in some embodiments
may not be a straight line.) The central axis may define an axial,
or longitudinal, direction. A plane perpendicular to or nearly
perpendicular to the central axis may be referred to herein as an
axial plane. The body may be configured to expand away from the
axis. The body may be configured to contract toward the axis.
[0096] At least one anchor may be coupled to the body. The anchor
may be configured to engage a portion of the passage, for example,
a portion of a passage wall. The anchor may be configured to engage
a portion of a passage inner wall. The body may be allowed to
contract to pull the wall toward the axis. In some embodiments, the
body may be a "reverse stent." In some embodiments, the body may be
a band.
[0097] In some embodiments, the body may include an elastic
material. In some embodiments, the body may include a metal. In
some embodiments, the body may include an alloy. In some
embodiments, the body may include an inert material. In some
embodiments, the body may include a moldable material. As used
herein, a material that is biocompatible and resistant to reaction
with biochemical solids, liquids, and gases may be an inert
material. Stainless steel, nickel titanium alloy, tantalum and
other non-reactive metals may be inert. Polymers such as PTFE,
polyurethane, polyamide, and those sold under the trademark PEBAX
by Elf Atochem North America may be inert. Medical grade metals and
polymers may be inert.
[0098] The anchor may extend radially away from the axis. The
anchor may extend in a non-radial direction away from the axis. The
anchor may extend in a curved path away from the axis. The anchor
may be pushed radially outward into the inner wall. The anchor may
be twisted or rotated about the axis to engage the inner wall.
[0099] In some embodiments, the anchor may include an elastic
material. In some embodiments, the anchor may include a metal. In
some embodiments, the anchor may include an alloy. In some
embodiments, the anchor may include a polymer. The anchor may
include inert material. Some embodiments may include one or more
anchors having more than one of the foregoing features. The anchor
may be any suitable type of anchor, including any of the anchors
described herein.
[0100] In some embodiments of the invention, one or more anchors
may be present in or near an axial plane of the body. The axial
plane may remain stationary or nearly stationary in the
longitudinal direction when the body is deformed in the radial
direction. This feature may reduce stress on the passage wall near
an anchor if the body deforms in connection with deployment in the
passage. The feature may reduce stress on the passage wall near the
anchor if the body deforms in response to deformation of the
biological passage. The biological passage may deform in response
to muscular action, physiological processes, or any other
processes. For example, the passage may deform in response to
peristalsis, circulatory pumping, excretory processes, reproductive
processes, or other physiological processes.
[0101] In some embodiments of the invention, the anchor may be
shaped like a dart. In some embodiments, the anchor may be include
a "catch". As used herein, a catch is a feature of an anchor that
may be used to resist the withdrawal of the anchor from tissue. In
some embodiments, a catch may be used to pinch or pin tissue. In
some embodiments, a catch may hook into tissue (for example, as
does a barb). In some embodiments, the anchor may include a staple.
The staple may be C-shaped.
[0102] In some embodiments, the invention may include a sheath that
may be drawn over the body to protect the inner wall from the
anchor, for example, when the body is being inserted into the
biological passage. The sheath may deflect the anchor away from a
direction extending radially away from the body axis. The sheath
may be removed to engage the anchor with the inner wall.
[0103] Some embodiments of the invention may include a lining. The
lining may cover the entire surface of the body. The lining may
cover a portion of the body. The lining may cover the anchor. In
some embodiments, the lining may include an inert material.
[0104] Some embodiments of the invention may include a therapeutic
substance. The substance may be present in or on the body. The
substance may be present in the anchor, on the anchor, or both. The
substance may be present in or on the lining. The substance may be
embedded in a porous portion of the invention. The substance may
elute from a portion of the invention into the tissue of the
biological passage. The substance may include an agent configured
to heal the tissue from a disease, defect, infection, inflammation,
trauma, or any combination thereof. The substance may include an
agent configured to physically protect the tissue from acidic
compounds. The substance may include an agent configured to
chemically protect the tissue from acidic compounds. For example,
the substance may act to neutralize an acidic compound. The
substance may be a drug. The substance may include a steroid. The
substance may include an antibiotic.
[0105] Some embodiments of the invention may include first and
second crimping members. The crimping members may be configured to
apply force to the anchor to crimp the anchor to the inner wall of
the biological passage. In some of these embodiments, the anchor
may have prongs and be shaped like a staple, a "C", a "U", or any
other suitable form. The crimping members may be used to bend the
prongs to engage the biological passage. The crimping members may
be used to secure the prongs to the biological passage.
[0106] In embodiments of the body that include a moldable material,
the anchor may be insert molded into a portion of the body. In some
of these embodiments, the anchor may be wholly or partially
embedded in the polymer. The anchor may be made from a material
that is less elastic than the polymer. When the body is expanded
away from the axis, the body portion housing the anchor may become
thinner in the radial dimension. As the body portion thins, the
anchor may protrude through and extend radially beyond the portion.
This feature may permit the device to be inserted into the passage
with the anchor in a retracted position. The feature may permit the
anchor to be exposed or "activated" automatically as the body is
expanded. In embodiments having an anchor with a catch, this
feature may permit the anchor to pinch a portion of the biological
passage inner wall against the body when the body contracts.
[0107] In some embodiments, the body may include portions having
different relative flexibilities. Some portions may have high
flexibility. Some portions may have low flexibility. One or more
anchors may be coupled to a low flexibility portion. One or more
anchors may be coupled to a high flexibility portion. When the body
expands, contracts, or otherwise deforms (for example, in response
to peristalsis or other motion), the deformation may be
concentrated in the portions having high relative flexibility. An
anchor or anchors coupled to a low flexibility portion may be
subject to less stress, less displacement, or both than if coupled
to a relatively high flexibility portion.
[0108] High flexibility portions may be, for example, thin, long,
elastic, extensible, rotatable, or otherwise compliant. Low
flexibility portions may be, for example, thick, short, inelastic,
fixed against rotation or shorter, or otherwise noncompliant.
[0109] Portions having low flexibility may be referred to as
"nodal" portions. Nodal portions may be coupled to high flexibility
portions that may be referred to as "transitional" portions. In
some embodiments, the body may include a series of alternating
nodal and transitional portions arranged in a loop around the
central axis. The longitudinal extension of a portion (i.e., the
extension in a direction parallel or approximately parallel to the
axis) may be referred to as an "axial spread." In some of these
embodiments, transitional portions may undergo rotation to reduce
the displacement of nodal portions when the body is deformed.
[0110] In some embodiments, a node may be a portion of a relatively
inflexible band. The node may be joined to another node by a
transition member that bridges a gap between the nodes. The bridge
member may include or be configured as a spring.
[0111] In some embodiments, the body may have the shape of a lobed
strip. The strip may have a sinusoidal or wave-like form. The strip
may form a closed ring or band. In some embodiments, the strip may
form a ring or band that is not completely closed. In some
embodiments having lobes, a lobe may be sutured to the biological
passage.
[0112] In some embodiments, the body may include an opening that
may receive a portion of the inner wall when the body contracts. As
the body draws the passage toward the axis, inner wall material may
be forced into an increasingly small volume and portion may intrude
into the opening. Both open and closed cell bands (described below)
and any other suitable type of band, may have an opening through
which inner wall tissue may intrude. Some of these embodiments may
include a fastener, a suture, or both fasteners and sutures that
may be used to secure the portion of the body passage that intrudes
through the opening. A clip may be attached to intruded tissue
within the lumen of the band to prevent the tissue from receding
back through the opening. In some embodiments, the portion received
by the openings may be permanently secured.
[0113] In some embodiments, the invention may include a catheter
for inserting the body into the biological passage.
[0114] In some embodiments, the body may be installed in the
biological passage by placing the body in a portion of the passage,
expanding the body, engaging the anchor or anchors with the passage
inner wall, and allowing the body to contract. In some embodiments,
the body may be expanded and the anchor or anchors secured in the
inner wall using a balloon. In some embodiments, the body may be
expanded sufficiently to partially engage the anchor or anchors
with the wall. In some of these embodiments, a crimping device may
be used to complete the engagement of the anchor or anchors with
the wall. In some embodiments, the crimping device may be used to
secure the anchor or anchors in the wall without previous partial
engagement of the anchor or anchors.
[0115] In some embodiments, the body may be expanded without a
balloon. For example, an expansion wedge may be passed through the
bore. The wedge may have an outside diameter greater than the
inside diameter of the bore in a contracted state. The wedge may be
tapered to facilitate entry into the bore. The diameter of the
wedge may be selected or adjusted to provide a selected expansion
of the body. In some of these embodiments, the minimum outward
radial displacement of an anchor or anchors may be selected.
[0116] In some embodiments, the invention may include a liner for a
portion of the biological passage. Some of those embodiments may
include one or more anchors to secure the liner to the biological
passage. The liner may include a first plurality of anchors, a
second plurality of anchors, and a sleeve. The sleeve may extend
from the first plurality of anchors to the second plurality of
anchors. The sleeve may be configured to conform to the inner wall
of the biological passage. The liner may include a polymer such as
PTFE, polyurethane, polyamide, and PEBAX.RTM.. The liner may
include any suitable medical polymer. The liner may include any
suitable material that does not readily react with biological
fluids such as stomach acid, biological waste, or other materials
that may be present in a biological passage.
[0117] In some embodiments, the invention may include a baffle for
a portion of a biological passage. The baffle may include a body
that has an inner wall that defines a bore. The baffle may include
at least one projection or finger that extends from the inner wall
into the bore. The bore may be configured to be secured in the
passage, for example, using an anchor or anchors. The finger may
obstruct the flow of matter through the passage. The finger may
provide surface area that may promote biological or biochemical
processes that neutralize or otherwise transform compounds that may
be undesirable or harmful to the passage or other biological
entities. The baffle may include an inert material.
[0118] FIGS. 1 and 2 show esophageal anatomy. FIG. 1 shows healthy
esophagus 2, including distal esophagus 3 connected to stomach 4.
LES 6 is located at the junction of esophagus 2 and stomach 4 where
esophagus 2 passes through hiatus 8 in hiatal diaphragm 10. Sling
fibers 12 in LES 6 are smooth muscle tissue that may regulate
distal esophagus 3. Hiatus 8 may externally support and regulate
LES 6. LES 6 is normally open at rest.
[0119] FIG. 2 shows esophagus 22, which may be diseased, defective,
or otherwise dysfunctional, including lumen 27 and distal esophagus
23 connected to stomach 24. LES 26 is located at the junction of
esophagus 22 and stomach 24 where esophagus 22 passes through
hiatus 28 in hiatal diaphragm 30, which may be diseased or
defective. Sling fibers 32 in LES 26 may be unable to regulate
distal esophagus 23 and LES 26 may be unable to be closed or may be
too easily opened. Hiatal diaphragm 30 may not externally support
esophagus 22 adjacent LES 26.
[0120] Illustrative examples of embodiments in accordance with the
principles of the present invention are shown in FIGS. 3-69.
[0121] FIG. 3 shows band 100, which may include one or more members
such as member 101, positioned in distal esophagus 23 above LES 26.
Band 100 may be installed in distal esophagus 23 to make it easier
for LES 26 to close. Band 100 may be supported by balloon 102,
which may be at least partially inflated. Sheath 104 may be present
around band 100 to deflect anchors (not shown) that may be coupled
to the outside of band 100. Catheter 106 may be used to deliver or
guide band 100, balloon 102, and shield 104 to distal esophagus 23.
Balloon 102 may be positioned using catheter shaft 108.
[0122] FIG. 4 shows band 100 positioned in distal esophagus 23
above LES 26. Sheath 104 and catheter 106 (shown in FIG. 3) have
been removed in preparation for deployment of band 100. Band 100
may be supported by balloon 102, which may be inflated minimally to
retain band 100. Balloon 102 may be inflated to a more advanced
degree to begin installing band 100.
[0123] FIG. 5 shows band 100 in an advanced stage of deployment in
distal esophagus 23. Balloon 102 is shown in an advanced stage of
inflation to expand band 100 into proximity with wall 25 of
esophagus 22. An anchor or anchors (not shown), which may be
coupled to band 100, may be pushed into and engaged with wall 25 by
the expansion of band 100. The anchor or anchors may be secured to
wall 25 by crimping.
[0124] FIG. 6 shows band 100 in a state of contraction or partial
contraction in distal esophagus 23 after balloon 102 has been
removed. Balloon 102 may be deflated or partially deflated before
withdrawal from band 100 or esophagus 22. An anchor or anchors (not
shown) that may secure band 100 to wall 25 may reduce the diameter
of distal esophagus 23 as band 100 contracts. FIG. 6 shows that by
reducing the diameter of distal esophagus 23, LES 26 may close.
[0125] FIG. 7 shows band 100 deployed in distal esophagus 23. LES
26 is in an open state and may allow the passage of matter such as
food F between esophagus 22 and stomach 24. The force with which
band 100 contracts may be selected (by selecting band flexibility,
material properties, or both, for example) to provide a selected
degree of support to LES 26. The force may be selected to
compensate for a particular degree of deficiency in LES 26 or
hiatus 28. The force may be selected to allow LES 26 to open in
response to a particular degree of muscular forcing, peristalsis,
passage of matter along esophagus 22, reflux of matter from stomach
24, or any combination thereof. The anchor or anchors may be
axially stationary or nearly axially stationary with respect to
distal esophagus 23 when band 100 radially expands or radially
contracts.
[0126] FIG. 8 shows band 200 which may support anchor 206. Anchor
206 may engage distal esophagus 23. Band 200 may support more than
one anchor having the features of anchor 206. Band 200 may include
one or more lobes such as lobe 290. Lobe 290 may include one or
more curved portions such as curved portion 280. Curved portion 280
may support one or more anchors. Anchor 206, which may include one
or more barbs such as barb 208, may be maintained in a retracted
state by delivery sheath 204. Balloon 202 may be at least partially
inflated to retain and/or position band 200. The position of
balloon 202 may be controlled by catheter shaft 295.
[0127] FIG. 9 shows band 200 positioned in distal esophagus 23.
Balloon 202 is in an at least partially expanded state. Anchor 206
is in contact with wall 25 of distal esophagus 23. Delivery sheath
204 is withdrawn in a proximal direction from band 200 allowing
anchor 206 to relax to a direction facing wall 25. (As used herein,
the proximal direction is toward the point of entry of the
apparatus into the biological passage. The distal direction is
opposite the proximal direction. In this example, the point of
entry may be the mouth.)
[0128] FIG. 10 shows that balloon 202 may be further expanded to
drive anchor 206 into the tissue of distal esophagus 23. Barb 208
may engage anchor 206 with distal esophagus 23. Head 214 of anchor
206 may be positioned throughout the thickness of distal esophagus
23. In some embodiments, head 214 may emerge through outer wall 236
of distal esophagus 23.
[0129] FIG. 11 shows balloon 202 in a deflated or partially
deflated state. Balloon 202 may be withdrawn from band 200 to allow
band 200 to retract toward central region 34 of distal esophagus
23. Anchors such as anchor 206 secured to distal esophagus 23 may
draw wall 25 toward central region 34. When wall 25 is drawn toward
central region 34, LES 26 may be sufficiently supported to achieve
the closed state shown in FIG. 11.
[0130] FIGS. 11A-11D show an illustrative embodiment of the
invention in stages of deployment in distal esophagus 23 that
correspond to the stages shown in FIGS. 8-11 in connection with
band 200 and apparatus associated therewith. FIG. 11A shows band
1100 which may include an anchor or anchors such as anchors 1106
and 1107 for engagement with distal esophagus 23. Band 1100 may
include one or more lobes such as lobe 1190. In some embodiments,
lobe 1190 may not have a curved portion such as curved portion 280
(shown in FIG. 8). Lobe 1190 may support one or more anchors.
Anchors 1106 and 1107, which may include one or more barbs such as
barb 1108, may be maintained in a retracted state by delivery
sheath 1104.
[0131] In some embodiments, a retracted anchor may extend in the
distal direction as does anchor 1106. In some embodiments, a
retracted anchor may extend in the proximal direction as does
anchor 1107. In some embodiments, a retracted anchor may extend in
the radial direction (not shown). Balloon 1102 may be partially
inflated to retain and position band 1100. The position of balloon
1102 may be controlled by catheter shaft 1108.
[0132] FIG. 11B shows band 1100 positioned in distal esophagus 23.
Balloon 1102 may be at least partially expanded. Delivery sheath
1104 may be withdrawn in a proximal direction from band 1100
allowing anchors 1106 and 1107 to relax to a direction facing wall
25. One or both of anchors 1106 and 1107 may contact wall 25 of
distal esophagus 23.
[0133] FIG. 11C shows that balloon 1102 may be further expanded to
drive one or both of anchors 1106 and 1107 into distal esophagus
23. Barbs 1108 may engage one or both of anchors 1106 and 1107 with
the tissue of distal esophagus 23. Heads 1114 and 1115 of anchors
1106 and 1107, respectively, may be positioned throughout the
thickness of distal esophagus 23. In some embodiments, one or both
of heads 1114 and 1115 may extend through the outer wall of distal
esophagus 23.
[0134] FIG. 11D shows balloon 1102 in a deflated or partially
deflated state. Balloon 1102 may be withdrawn from band 1100 to
allow band 1100 to retract toward central region 34 of distal
esophagus 23. Anchors such as anchors 1106 and 1107 secured to
distal esophagus 23 may draw wall 25 toward central region 34.
Anchors 1106 and 1107 may pull in a portion of wall 25 that extends
at least along region 1140. When wall 25 is drawn toward central
region 34, LES 26 may be sufficiently supported to achieve the
closed state shown in FIG. 11.
[0135] FIGS. 12-17 show illustrative examples of bands. FIG. 12
shows illustrative apparatus 1200 in unrolled form for the sake of
illustration. In use, ends A and B may be joined to form a
continuous band 1200 into a continuous undulating loop. Apparatus
1200 may include band 1202. In some embodiments, band 1202 may be
formed from a tube, in which case ends A and B may be part of a
continuous piece of material. Apparatus 1200 may include one or
more anchors such as 1210. Anchor 1210 may include one or more
barbs such as barb 1212. Band 1200 may include one or more upper
lobes such as upper lobe 1208. Band 1202 may include one or more
lower lobes such as lower lobe 1218.
[0136] In some embodiments, anchor 1210 may be present on or near
medial axial plane MAP. Plane MAP may be on or near the
longitudinal center of apparatus 1200. In some embodiments, one or
more anchors may be present on band 1202 not on or near plane MAP.
In some of those embodiments, one or more anchors may be present on
the lobes. (Although plane MAP is shown in connection with
apparatus 1200, plane MAP may be shown in connection with other
embodiments of the invention to illustrate aspects of those
embodiments that may correspond to aspects of apparatus 1200.)
[0137] Lower lobe 1218 and upper lobe 1208 may be open in
directions Y and X, respectively. The presence of open lobes is a
feature that may be referred to as "open cell" design. The number
of upper and lower lobes present between ends A and B may be less
than or greater than the number shown. Lower lobe 1218 may be
coupled to upper lobe 1208 by a connecting portion such as
connecting portion 1228. In some embodiments, one or more anchors
may be present on one or more connecting portions.
[0138] FIG. 13 schematically shows illustrative band apparatus 1200
viewed from line 13-13 in FIG. 12, but with ends A and B joined
together. Longitudinal or nearly longitudinal directions X and Y
are shown in FIG. 12 in connection with apparatus 1200. Axis C and
directions R, I, P, and Q are shown in FIG. 13 in connection with
apparatus 1200. For the sake of simplicity, the axis and the
directions will be used to illustrate aspects of other embodiments
of the invention that may correspond to aspects of apparatus 1200.
Direction R is a direction that extends radially outward from axis
C. Direction I is a direction that extends radially inward toward
axis C. In some embodiments, axis C may not be in the exact center
of a band. In some embodiments, direction R may be an approximately
radially outward direction. In some embodiments, I may be an
approximately radially inward direction. For the sake of clarity,
direction I may be shown separate from direction R.
[0139] Similarly, ends A and B will be used to illustrate aspects
of other embodiments of the invention that may correspond to
aspects of apparatus 1200.
[0140] Central axis C passes through bore 1230 of band 1202. In
some embodiments, anchor 1210 may extend in a direction that has
components parallel to axis C and radial direction R. In some
embodiments, anchor 1210 may extend in a direction that is extends
in (or nearly in) radial direction R.
[0141] Band 1202 may be expanded in direction R to engage anchors
1210 and 1220 with biological tissue of a biological passage. When
band 1202 expands in direction R, it may also expand in directions
P. When band 1202 expands in directions P, upper lobes such as lobe
1208 may move farther apart from each other, lower lobes such as
lobe 1218 may move farther apart from each other, and connecting
portions such as portion 1228 may move farther apart from each
other. During the expansion of band 1200, upper lobe 1208 and lower
lobe 1218 may move in directions X and Y (shown in FIG. 12),
respectively. During expansion of band 1202, plane MAP, and any
anchor or anchors positioned in or near plane MAP, may be
stationary or nearly stationary with respect to the biological
passage in which apparatus 1200 is deployed.
[0142] One or more of anchors 1210 and 1220 may engage biological
tissue. Band 1202 may be allowed to contract in direction I to draw
the tissue toward axis C. (Direction I is the opposite of radial
direction R, but is shown separately from direction R for the sake
of clarity.) During contraction, upper lobes such as lobe 1208 may
move closer to each other, lower lobes such as lobe 1218 may move
closer to each other, and connecting portions such as portion 1228
may move closer to each other. During contraction of band 1202,
plane MAP, and any anchor or anchors positioned in or near plane
MAP, may be stationary or nearly stationary with respect to the
biological passage in which apparatus 1200 is deployed. Barb 1212
may secure tissue to anchor 1210 during contraction. Barb 1212 may
continue to secure tissue to anchors 1210 after contraction is
complete.
[0143] FIG. 13A shows illustrative apparatus 1300 in unrolled form
for the sake of illustration. Apparatus 1300 may include band 1302.
In use, ends A and B may be joined to form band 1302 into a
continuous undulating loop. Band 1302 may include one or more upper
lobes such as lobe 1308. Band 1302 may include one or more lower
lobes such as lobe 1318. One or more upper anchors such as anchor
1390 may be present on upper lobe 1308. One or more lower anchors
such as anchor 1392 may be present on lower lobe 1318. In some
embodiments, during expansion, upper anchor 1390 and lower anchor
1392 may move in directions X and Y, respectively. In embodiments
in which anchors 1390 and 1392 extend in a direction having
components parallel to both C and R, the opposing movement of the
anchors 1390 and 1392 may help anchors 1390 and 1392 engage
biological tissue disposed between them.
[0144] FIG. 14 shows illustrative open cell apparatus 1400 unrolled
for the purpose of illustration. Apparatus 1400 may include band
1402. Band 1402 may include one or more upper lobes such as upper
lobe 1408. Band 1402 may include one or more lower lobes such as
lower lobe 1418. One or more anchors such as anchor 1410 may be
present on band 1402. Anchor 1410 may be present on or near medial
axial plane MAP. In some embodiments, band 1402 may have more lobes
than are shown in FIG. 14. In some embodiments, band 1402 may have
fewer lobes than are shown in FIG. 14. Double barbs 1412 may be
present on anchor 1410. Some embodiments may include one or more
anchors that include more than or less than two barbs.
[0145] FIG. 14A shows illustrative open cell apparatus 1400'
unrolled for the purpose of illustration. Apparatus 1400' may
include band 1402'. Band 1402' may include one or more upper lobes
such as upper lobe 1408'. Band 1402' may include one or more lower
lobes such as lower lobe 1418'. One or more upper anchors such as
upper anchor 1450 may be present on upper lobe 1408'. One or more
lower anchors such as lower anchor 1460 may be present on lower
lobe 1418'. In some embodiments, one or both of anchors 1450 and
1460 may not be present on medial axial plane MAP. In some
embodiments, band 1402' may have more lobes than are shown in FIG.
14. In some embodiments, band 1402' may have fewer lobes than are
shown in FIG. 14. Double barbs 1412' may be present on one or both
of anchors 1450 and 1460. Some embodiments may include one or more
anchors that include more than or less than two barbs.
[0146] FIG. 15 shows illustrative open cell apparatus that may
include band 1502. Band 1502 is shown unrolled between ends A and
B. Lobes such as upper lobe 1508 may include a rigid portion such
as portion 1550. Lobes such as lower lobe 1518 may include a rigid
portion such as portion 1560. One or more anchors such as anchors
1510 may be present on rigid portion 1550. One or more anchors such
as anchors 1520 may be present on rigid portion 1560.
[0147] During expansion, flexible portions 1554 and 1556 may deform
to allow connecting member 1528 to rotate in direction J. The
deformation of portions 1554 and 1556 may allow lobes 1508 and 1518
to move away from each other along directions P and Q,
respectively, without causing rigid portions 1550 and 1560 to
migrate toward each other in directions X and Y (shown also in FIG.
12), respectively. The deformation of portions 1554 and 1556 may
allow lobes 1508 and 1518 to move away from each other along
directions P and Q, respectively, without causing anchors 1510 and
1520 to migrate toward each other in directions X and Y (shown also
in FIG. 12), respectively.
[0148] During contraction, flexible portions 1554 and 1556 may
deform to allow connecting member 1528 to rotate in direction K.
The deformation of portions 1554 and 1556 may allow lobes 1508 and
1518 to move toward each other along directions Q and P,
respectively, without causing rigid portions 1550 and 1560 to
migrate away from each other in directions Y and X (shown also in
FIG. 12), respectively. The deformation of portions 1554 and 1556
may allow lobes 1508 and 1518 to move toward each other along
directions Q and P, respectively, without causing anchors 1510 and
1520 to migrate toward each other in directions Y and X (shown also
in FIG. 12), respectively.
[0149] FIG. 15 shows rigid portions 1550 and 1560 shaped and sized
to make them more rigid than flexible portions 1554 and 1556. Some
embodiments of the invention may include rigid portions that are
made of less pliant material than flexible portions 1554 and 1556.
In some of those embodiments, rigid portions 1550 and 1560 and
flexible portions 1554 and 1556 may have equivalent shapes or
dimensions. For example, if a rigid portion includes material that
is less elastic than a flexible portion, dimensions such as cross
sections M and N shown in FIG. 15 for rigid portion 1550 and
flexible portion 1554, respectively, may be made approximately the
same. In some embodiments, rigid portions 1550 may be referred to
as "nodes."
[0150] Any suitable mechanism for allowing a connecting member such
as 1528 to reduce movement in directions X and Y when band 1502
expands or contracts may be used. For example, a connecting member
may be a flexible coil coupled to rigid members 1550 and 1560. When
band 1502 expands, the coil may expand. When band 1502 contracts,
the coil may contract. Some embodiments of the invention may
include a connecting member that has reciprocating elements that
may cause the connecting member to lengthen or shorten in response
to band expansion and contraction, respectively. In some
embodiments, connecting members 1528 may be referred to as
"transition" members.
[0151] FIG. 15A shows apparatus 1500' that, in some embodiments,
may be similar to apparatus 1500 (shown in FIG. 15) with the
exception of the arrangement of anchors. Some or all of upper
anchors 1510' may be present on band 1502' in or near axial plane
AP1. Some or all of lower anchors 1520' may be present on band
1502' in or near axial plane AP2. Axial planes AP1 and AP2 may be
positioned at any suitable axial positions.
[0152] FIG. 16 shows illustrative band 1600 unrolled between ends A
and B. Band 1600 may include one or more upper lobes such as upper
lobe 1608. Band 1600 may include one or more lower lobes such as
lower lobe 1618. One or more anchors such as anchor 1610 may be
present on upper lobe 1608. One or more anchors such as anchor 1620
may be present on lower lobe 1618. Upper lobe 1608 may be directly
opposite lower lobe 1618 to form a closed "cell" such as closed
cell 1650. Closed cell 1650 may include opening 1660. The presence
of closed cells is a feature that may be referred to as "closed
cell" design. Any suitable number of closed cells may be present in
band 1600.
[0153] FIG. 17 shows band 1600 in an expanded state. Band 1600 has
been radially expanded (in direction R as shown in FIG. 12). Axial
spread L.sub.E of band 1600 in the expanded state is less than
axial spread L.sub.N (shown in FIG. 16) of band 16 in the normal
state.
[0154] FIG. 18 shows one of closed cells 1650 as viewed from line
18-18 in FIG. 17. Closed cell 1650 may include upper lobe 1608 and
lower lobe 1618. One or more anchors such as anchor 1610 may be
present on upper lobe 1608. One or more anchors such as anchor 1620
may be present on lower lobe 1618. One or more anchors on closed
cell 1650 may extend away from axis C in a direction that has a
component parallel to the direction R (also shown in FIG. 12). One
or more anchors on closed cell 1650 may extend away from axis C in
a direction that has a component parallel to axis C.
[0155] FIG. 19 shows (schematically) illustrative open cell device
1900 deployed in distal esophagus 23 above LES 26. Anchors 1910,
which may include barbs 1912, are engaged with distal esophagus 23.
Any suitable number of anchors 1910 may be present on device 1900.
Any suitable type or types of anchors may be present on band 1900.
Anchors may be located on any suitable portion of device 1900.
[0156] FIGS. 20-23 show illustrative examples of the placement of
anchors accordance with the principles of the invention. FIG. 20
shows anchor 2010 present in biological tubing 2020 passing through
body cavity 2030. Anchor 2010 may be referred to as a "dart."
Anchor 2010 may include stem 2011 in lumen 2022 and head 2014
embedded in wall 2028. Base 2006 may be attached to apparatus for
reducing the diameter of tubing 2020. One or more barbs such as
2012 may secure head 2014 in the tissue of wall 2028. Head 2014 may
be embedded anywhere along thickness T of wall 2028.
[0157] In some embodiments, head 2014 may be positioned in wall
2028 near inner face 2032 to avoid applying stress to the portion
of wall 2028 near outer surface 2036 when anchor 2110 is drawn
toward lumen 2022. In some embodiments, head 2014 may be positioned
in wall 2028 near outer surface 2036 to enable head 2014 to be
supported by a large portion of the tissue of wall 2028 when anchor
2110 is drawn toward lumen 2022.
[0158] FIG. 21 shows anchor 2110 partially present in tubing 2020
that may be present in body cavity 2030. Anchor 2110 may include
stem 2111 passing through wall 2028 and head 2114 that may be
present in cavity 2030. Head 2114 may have been pushed through wall
2028 into cavity 2030. One or more barbs such as 2112 may engage
outer wall 2036 of tubing 2020 to prevent anchor 2110 from
withdrawing from wall 2028 and passing back toward lumen 2022. Base
2106 may be coupled to apparatus for reducing the diameter of
tubing 2020. Base 2106 may be coupled to apparatus for reducing the
diameter of lumen 2022.
[0159] FIG. 22 shows anchor 2210 present in tubing 2020 passing
through body cavity 2030. Anchor 2210, which may at least partially
pass through wall 2028, may include stem 2211 and head 2214. Head
2214 may include flexible portion 2216. Flexible portion 2216,
which may be a skived portion, may rest against anchor surface 2218
when head 2214 is present in wall 2028. In some embodiments,
surface 2220 of flexible portion 2216 may align flush or nearly
flush with surface 2222 of stem 2211. Interior portion 2224 may be
coupled to apparatus for reducing the diameter of lumen 2022.
[0160] FIG. 22A shows anchor 2210 at a later stage of insertion in
wall 2028 than that shown in FIG. 22. Head 2214 may have advanced
through outer face 2036 of wall 2028 and be at least partially
disposed in body cavity 2030. Flexible portion 2216, which may be
biased away from surface 2218, may move away from surface 2218 of
stem 2211. Tip 2226 may move away from stem 2211. Tip 2226 may
engage surface 2036 to prevent anchor 2210 from moving toward lumen
2022. Surface 2228 may separate from surface 2218. Surface 2228 may
engage or partially engage surface 2036 to prevent anchor 2210 from
moving toward lumen 2022.
[0161] FIGS. 23-34 show features of some embodiments of the
invention that may involve attaching a band to biological tubing
using crimping technology. FIG. 23 shows open cell device 2300
present in lumen 2022 of biological tubing 2020. Device 2300 may be
expanded outwardly away from axis C in radial direction R. Device
2300 may be contracted toward axis C in radial direction I. Device
2300 may include on or more crimpable anchors such as anchor 2310,
which may have prongs 2330. In some embodiments of the invention, a
crimpable anchor may be a staple. Anchor 2310 may be C-shaped.
Anchor 2310 may be U-shaped. Anchor 2310 may be used in conjunction
with one or more dart anchors. Anchor 2310 may include one or more
barbs such as barb 2320 for engaging tissue. FIG. 23 shows anchors
2310 positioned near (or in contact with) inner face 2032 of wall
2028.
[0162] FIG. 24 shows device 2300 expanded in direction R relative
to the state shown in FIG. 23. Prongs 2330 have at least partially
penetrated through inner face 2032 into the tissue of wall 2028.
One of prongs 2330 is shown to have penetrated wall 2028 to depth
H. In some embodiments, the maximum value of H may be limited by
the shape of anchor 2310. In some embodiments, the maximum value of
H may be limited by the length of prongs 2330. Barbs 2320 may
prevent prongs 2330 from pulling out of wall 2028 when band 2300 is
allowed to contract along inner radial direction I toward axis
C.
[0163] FIG. 25 shows open anchor 2310 which may have maximum
penetration depth Z. Anchor 2310 may have one or more sharpened
points such as 2340. Anchor 2310 may have one or more sharpened
edges such as 2350. Anchor 2310 may have one or more barbs such as
2320.
[0164] FIG. 26 shows illustrative crimping tool 2600 which may be
used to crimp anchor 2310. Tool 2600 may be inserted into lumen
2022. Elongated portion 2620 may be extended distally past a
portion of device 2300 to support crimping member 2680. Crimping
member 2670 may be positioned proximally of a portion of device
2300. Crimping members 2670 and 2680 may be drawn together in
directions D against prongs 2330 of anchor 2310. Crimping members
2670 and 2680 may force sharp points 2340 into tissue of wall 2028.
Sharp edges 2350 may cut tissue of wall 2028 as prongs 2330
penetrate.
[0165] FIG. 27 shows anchor 2310 secured in the tissue of wall 2028
after crimping by tool 2600. Prongs 2330 are at least partially
inserted in wall 2028. Prongs 2330 may be held in place by barbs
2320. Prongs 2330 may be held in place by the closure of anchor
2310 by tool 2600. Sharp points 2340 may be drawn toward each other
as anchor 2310 is closed. Device 2300 in lumen 2022 may be used to
pull wall 2028 toward the central portion of lumen 2022.
[0166] FIGS. 28 and 29 show illustrative embodiments of crimpable
anchors. FIG. 28 shows device 2800 in lumen 2022. Device 2800 may
include band 2802. Band 2802 may include crimpable anchor 2810.
Anchor 2810 may have one or more prongs such as 2830. Prong 2830
may have one or more elongated members such as 2812 and 2814.
Elongated members 2812 and 2814 may be coupled at angled junction
2816. One or more barbs such as barb 2820 may be present on prong
2830 to engage tissue of wall 2028. Barbs 2820 extend away from
interior region 2840 of anchor 2810. In some embodiments, one or
more barbs may extend toward the central portion of lumen 2022. In
some embodiments, both internally directed and externally directed
(i.e., away from region 2840) barbs may be present.
[0167] FIG. 29 shows device 2900 in lumen 2022. Device 2900 may
include band 2902. Device 2900 may include crimpable anchor 2910.
Anchor 2910 may have one or more curved prongs such as 2930. One or
more barbs such as barb 2920 may be present on prong 2930 to engage
tissue of wall 2028. Barbs 2820 extend away from interior region
2940 of anchor 2910. In some embodiments, one or more barbs may
extend toward interior region 2940. In some embodiments, both
internally directed and externally directed barbs may be
present.
[0168] FIG. 30 shows band 2802 in lumen 2022 expanded away from
axis C in direction R. Band 2800 may be expanded by dilation of a
balloon (not shown). Anchors 2810 may be crimped, for example using
tool 2600, into portions of wall 2028. FIG. 31 shows wall 2028
drawn in direction I toward axis C by band 2800 after band 2802 is
allowed to contract. Barbs 2820 may prevent anchors 2810 from
pulling out of wall 2028. FIG. 32 shows band 2802 deployed below
and supporting LES 26 in esophagus 22 above stomach 24.
[0169] FIGS. 33-35 illustrate embodiments of the invention that may
include balloon-actuated anchor crimping. Although illustrated in
relation to open cell device 3300 and anchor 3310, any suitable
type of band and any suitable type of anchor or anchors, including
band types and anchor types described and illustrated herein, may
be used for balloon-actuated crimping. FIG. 33 shows device 3300 in
lumen 2022. Device 3300 may include band 3302. Device 3300 may
include one or more crimpable anchors such as anchor 3310. For
clarity, only two anchors are shown in FIG. 33, but other anchors
may be present in device 3300. Anchor 3310 may include sharp points
3340 for penetrating wall 2028. Balloon 3302 may be neutrally
inflated within device 3300, for example, with sufficient pressure
to retain device 3300 and position band 3302 at a selected location
in lumen 2202.
[0170] FIG. 34 shows that in some embodiments of the invention,
balloon 3390 may be dilated within band 3302 to drive anchors 3310
into wall 2028. In some of those embodiments, balloon 3390 may
drive anchor 3310 into wall 2028 when the pressure inside balloon
3390 is about 10 atmospheres above the ambient pressure in lumen
2202. In some embodiments, dilation sufficient to cause sharp
points 3340 to penetrate wall 2028 may be a first stage of dilation
of balloon 3390.
[0171] FIG. 35 shows that balloon 3390 may be dilated to a state
greater than that shown in FIG. 34. This stage may be a second
dilation stage. In the second dilation stage, anchor 3310 may be
crimped by balloon 3390 to secure anchors 3310 in wall 2028. In the
second dilation stage, balloon 3390 may have an internal pressure
about 20 atmospheres greater than the pressure external to balloon
3390 in lumen 2022.
[0172] Balloon 3390 may include regions of variable compliance. For
example, central region 3304 of balloon 3390 may have a first
compliance, proximal region 3306 may have a second compliance, and
distal region 3308 may have a third compliance. In some
embodiments, regions 3306 and 3308 may have approximately the same
compliance. In some of those embodiments, region 3304 may have a
compliance that is less than the compliance of regions 3306 and
3308.
[0173] In some embodiments, balloon 3390 may include central region
3304 having a compliance greater than the compliance of regions
3306 and 3308. In those embodiments, as balloon 3390 is dilated in
the second dilation stage, regions 3306 and 3308 may expand more
than central region 3304. Some embodiments may include balloon
portions 3380, which may be near the transitions between regions of
different compliances. Portions 3380 may apply force to anchor 3310
to crimp anchor 3310 into a secure configuration. Anchor 3310 may
be permanently secured, or locked, into wall 2028.
[0174] In some embodiments, the force applied by portions 3380 may
have a component that is parallel to the axial direction of lumen
2022. The axial force component may cause anchor 3310 to close.
FIG. 35 shows sharp points 3340 of anchor 3310 in close proximity
to each other.
[0175] In some embodiments, balloon 3390 may have a uniform
compliance. In some of those embodiments, anchor 3310 may be
crimped by balloon dilation. For example, the size of band 3302 may
be chosen so that when band 3302 is maximally expanded, anchor 3310
is partially engaged in wall 2028. As balloon 3390 continues to
dilate, regions 3380 may expand "around" and apply an axial
crimping force to anchor 3310 as described above.
[0176] In some embodiments of the invention, band 3302 may have
compound compliance. A first compliance may dominate when band 3302
is expanded toward wall 2028 and when anchor 3310 is partially
engaged in wall 2028. A second compliance may dominate when anchor
3310 are crimped. The second compliance may be less than the first
compliance to "bind" balloon 3390 to cause portions 3380 to
generate axial forces on anchors 3310.
[0177] In some embodiments, anchor 3310 may be self-crimping. For
example, balloon 3390, which in self-crimping embodiments may have
compound or uniform compliance, may push anchor 3310 radially away
from the center of lumen 2022 into wall 2028. The curvature of
prongs 3330 (or, in the case of angled prongs like 2830, the angle
of the prongs) may be selected to cause anchor 3310 to close in
response to being radially driven into wall 2028.
[0178] FIGS. 36-38 show features of embodiments of the invention
that may involve clipping, pinning, suturing, or otherwise
fastening a band to an inner wall of a portion of biological
tubing. FIG. 36 shows band 3600 positioned in lower esophagus 23
above LES 26 and stomach 24. Tissue 3602 from wall 25 of esophagus
22 may be present in or emerging from openings 3620 in band 3600.
(In FIG. 36, wall 25 is shown spanning esophagus 22 from left to
right behind band 3600. Only the portion of band 3600 adjacent that
portion of the wall is shown in FIG. 36.) Clips 3650 may be
attached to portions of tissue 3602 to prevent the portions from
receding back through the holes. Clips 3650 are shown having
vertices 3660 positioned distally with respect to open ends 3670,
but any suitable orientation of clips 3650 may be used. In some
embodiments, tissue 3620 may be pinned or sutured to band 3600, or
may be made secure by any combination of methods, which may include
clipping.
[0179] In some embodiments of the invention, tissue 3602 may
intrude through openings 3620 after band 3600 is attached to wall
25 using anchors (not shown). Band 3600 may be allowed to contract
toward the central region of esophagus 22 and tissue 3602 may be
forced through openings 3620 when the diameter of wall 25 is
reduced by the pulling-in action of band 3600. Band 3600 is a type
of closed cell band. Although a closed cell band is used to
illustrate the clipping feature of some embodiments of the
invention, the clipping feature may be present in embodiments of
the invention involving any suitable type of band.
[0180] FIG. 37 shows tissue 3620 from wall 25 of esophagus 22
compressed through an opening in band 3600. Tissue 3620 may be held
in place in the lumen of esophagus 22 (in the interior of band
3600) by clip 3650 which may include vertex 3660 and open end 3670.
Clip 3650 may be made from spring metal, ductile metal, polymer, or
any other suitable material. Clip 3650 may include one or more
barbs to secure clip 3650 to tissue 3620. Although clip 3650 is a
"V"-clip, any suitable form of clip may be used.
[0181] FIG. 38 shows clip 3650 seated in clip fastening device
3800. Stem 3830 may be inserted in biological tubing in which a
band is to be secured. Clip 3650 seated between arms 3820 may be
positioned around a portion of tissue to be secured (such as tissue
3620 shown in FIG. 37). Arms 3820 may be rotated about pins 3840.
Arms 3820 may be actuated by one or more actuating members (not
shown) present in or near stem 3830. In some embodiments, one arm
may be fixed and the other arm may be actuated. Arms 3820 may be
drawn together to compress clip 3650 into tissue 3620 (shown in
FIG. 37). Device 3800 may be withdrawn from esophagus 22 to leave
clip 3650 secured to tissue 3620.
[0182] FIG. 39 shows illustrative apparatus 3900 that may be used
to reduce the diameter of a portion of biological tubing. In some
embodiments of the invention, one or more apparatus such as
apparatus 3900 may be deployed in a biological passage. In those
embodiments, apparatus of different sizes or elastic properties may
be used to provide different amounts of support to different parts
of the passage. Apparatus 3900 may have a neutral state having a
neutral diameter. Apparatus 3900 may be compressed to a state in
which the diameter is less than that in the neutral state to
facilitate the insertion of apparatus 3900 in a portion of body
tubing. Apparatus 3900 may by expandable radially away from axis C
to an expanded state. From the expanded state, apparatus 3900 may
automatically retract toward the neutral state. In some
embodiments, apparatus 3900 may include an elastic material. In
some of those embodiments, apparatus 3900 may include a
polymer.
[0183] Apparatus 3900 may be inserted in a portion of tubing and
expanded in direction R away from central axis C to engage one or
more anchors such as anchor 3910 in the tubing wall. Anchor head
3914 may penetrate the wall. Apparatus 3900 may then be allowed to
contract in direction I toward axis C. The contraction of apparatus
3900 may pull the tubing wall toward axis C and reduce the diameter
of the tubing. Edge (or "catch") 3912 may engage wall tissue and
prevent anchor 3914 from withdrawing from the wall during the
contraction. Edge 3912 may prevent anchor 3914 from withdrawing
from the wall after contraction.
[0184] Anchor 3910 may have one or more anchor heads such as head
3914. Anchor head 3914 may be coupled to stem 3920. In some
embodiments, stem 3920 may extend radially away from axis C. In
some embodiments, stem 3920 may extend away from axis C in a
direction that has a non-radial component. In some of those
embodiments, numerous stems curving away from band 3902 may be
present to permit apparatus 3900 to be installed in the wall by
rotating apparatus 3900 about axis C. For example, stem 3920 may
curve away from band 3902 in an axial plane. In some embodiments,
stem 3920 may extend away from band 3902 in a direction that is
oblique with respect to both axis C and radial direction R. In some
embodiments, stem 3920 may curve away from band 3902 in directions
that are oblique with respect to both axis C and radial direction
R.
[0185] Stem 3920 may be coupled to base 3930. Base 3930 may be
embedded in band 3902 of apparatus 3900. In some embodiments, band
3902 may be formed from a moldable material such as a flexible
polymer. In some of those embodiments, anchor 3910 may be at least
partially insert molded into band 3902. Base 3930 may be inserted
in band 3902 before band 3902 is solidified. Stem 3920 may be
allowed to protrude out of band 3920 to expose head 3914. In some
embodiments, one or more anchors may be attached to band 3902 after
band 3902 is solidified.
[0186] In some embodiments, band 3902 may be of uniform material
properties. In some embodiments, band 3902 may include regions of
different material properties. For example, band 3902 may include
sections such as 3940 and 3950. Section 3940 may be less flexible
than section 3950. Section 3940 may be less elastic than section
3950. Anchor 3910 may be embedded in or otherwise supported by a
section or sections such as 3940. A section or sections such as
3950 may be free from anchors. In embodiments in which anchor 3910
is embedded in or otherwise supported by a section such as 3940,
stress concentration near anchor 3910 may be less than in
embodiments in which anchor 3910 is embedded or otherwise supported
by a section such as 3950. In some embodiments, sections 3940 and
3950 may be formed in different molding stages and bonded together,
for example at bond 3960, after at least one has already at least
partially solidified.
[0187] FIG. 40 shows a preliminary formation stage of illustrative
anchor 4000 that may be used in conjunction with some embodiments
of the invention. Anchor 4000 may be cut or punched from a sheet of
material. The sheet may include metal, rigid polymer, or any other
suitable material. Anchor 4000 may include one or more stems such
as 4020. Stem 4020 may support anchor head 4014, which may include
edge 4012. Holes such as hole 4040 may be provided to receive
molding material during the formation of a band such as 3902 shown
in FIG. 39. In some embodiments of the invention, hole 4040 may not
be present.
[0188] FIG. 41 shows a stage of formation of anchor 4000 that is
later than that shown in FIG. 40. FIG. 41 shows stems such as stem
4020 bent to angle .alpha. with respect to edge 4032 of base 4030.
Angle .alpha. may be 90.degree. or any other suitable angle. Stem
4020 may be positioned at angle .beta. with respect to edge 4034 of
base 4030. Angle .beta. may be 90.degree. or any other suitable
angle. Stem 4020 may curve away from base 4034 in any suitable
manner. Anchor 4000 may include different stems that are positioned
at different angles with respect to base 4030. In some embodiments,
stem 4020 may extend in a curved manner away from base 4030.
[0189] FIG. 42 shows a preliminary formation stage of illustrative
anchor 4200 that may be used in conjunction with some embodiments
of the invention. Anchor 4200 may include one or more stems such as
stem 4022 coupled to base 4230 between edges 4232 and 4234 of base
4230. In some embodiments, stem 4022 may be tapered to narrow
toward head 4016. Some embodiments may include stem 4020 extending
from edge 4232 of base 4230. Stem 4020 may become more narrow
toward head 4014. Edge 4012 may be present on head 4014 to prevent
anchor 4200 from withdrawing from tissue. In some embodiments, edge
4012 may be continuous around the perimeter of stem 4020. At a
later stage of formation, one or more of stems 4020 and 4022 may be
repositioned at an angle with respect to face 4236 of base 4230.
Holes such as 4240 may be used to receive material during an insert
molding process.
[0190] FIG. 43 shows anchor 4300 embedded in material 4302 that may
be part of a band such as band 3902 shown in FIG. 39. Base 4330 may
be molded into material 4302. Material 4302 may be present in holes
such as 4340 in base 4330. One or more stems such as stem 4320 may
protrude through material 4302 and support anchor head 4314 that
may be used to engage biological tissue.
[0191] FIG. 44 shows illustrative anchor 4410 that may be used in
conjunction with some embodiments of the invention. Anchor 4410 may
be insert molded into a portion of band 4402 (shown in part).
Anchor 4410 may include anchor head 4414 joined to stem 4420. Stem
4420 may extend away from central axis C of band 4402 in any
suitable direction. In some embodiments, stem 4420 may be curved.
Stem 4420 may be joined to base 4430 which may have one or more
holes such as 4440 to receive material during a molding process.
Stem 4420 may be joined to face 4434 of base 4430.
[0192] FIG. 45 shows illustrative anchor 4510 that may be used in
conjunction with some embodiments of the invention. Anchor 4510 may
include stem 4520, which may extend from edge 4532 of base 4530.
Stem 4520 may be positioned at angle .gamma. with respect to face
4533 of base 4530. Angle .gamma. may be any suitable angle. Stem
4520 may be positioned at angle .delta. with respect to edge 4536
of base 4530. Angle .delta. may be any suitable angle.
[0193] Base 4530 may have one or more holes such as hole 4540 for
receiving material during a molding process. FIG. 46 shows anchor
4510 at least partially embedded in band 4602 (shown in part). Base
4530 may be encased in band 4602. Stem 4520 may extend from edge
4532 of base 4530 to anchor head 4514 outside band 4602. FIG. 47
shows a larger portion of band 4602 than that shown in FIG. 46.
Band 4602 may house numerous anchors such as anchor 4510, each
including one or more anchor heads such as 4514 joined to a stem
such as stem 4520 extending away from central axis C in radial
direction R. Band 4602 may expand away from axis C in direction R.
Band 4602 may contract toward axis C in direction I.
[0194] FIG. 48 shows illustrative anchor 4810 that may be used in
conjunction with some embodiments of the invention. Anchor 4810 may
include one or more stems such as stem 4820. Stem 4820 may be
joined to anchor head 4814. Stem 4820 may be coupled to base 4830.
Stem 4820 may extend radially away from central axis C. Stem 4820
may extend away from base 4830 in any suitable direction. Stem 4820
may curve away from base 4830 in any suitable direction or
directions. Base 4830 may be coupled to radially outer face 4804 of
band 4802 (shown in part). Holes such as hole 4840 may receive a
boss or stud such as boss 4860 extending away from face 4804. Boss
4860 may be terminated in a knob to secure base 4830 to face 4804.
Any suitable fastener may be used to fasten boss 4860 to base
4830.
[0195] FIG. 49 shows apparatus 3900 (shown also in FIG. 39 ff)
positioned in lumen 2022 of a biological passageway having walls
2028 using balloon 4902. Numerous anchors such as anchor 3910 may
be present for engaging wall 2028. For the sake of clarity, only
two anchors are shown.
[0196] FIG. 50 shows apparatus 5000, which may be similar to
apparatus 3900, in a stage of deployment later than that shown in
FIG. 50 in connection with apparatus 3900. Apparatus 5000 may
include one or more anchors such as anchor 5010. Anchor 5010 may
include stem 5020 that may pass through wall 2028 into body cavity
2030. Anchor 5010 may include anchor head 5014. Anchor 5010 may
include one or more barbs such as barb 5015. In some embodiments,
barb 5015 may springingly rotate about an end joined to anchor head
5014. In some of those embodiments, barb 5015 may retract toward
stem 5020 as head 5014 penetrates wall 2028. Barb 5015 may spring
away from stem 5020 after a free end of barb 5015 clears outer
surface 2029 of wall 2028. In some embodiments, apparatus 5000 may
include any suitable anchor, including any of the anchors described
herein.
[0197] FIG. 51 shows apparatus 5100 that may be used to reduce the
diameter of a portion of a biological passage. Band 5102 may be
expandable away from central axis C in radial direction R to engage
anchors such as anchor 5110 in the inner wall of the passage.
Anchor 5110 may extend away from band 5102 in a direction generally
the same as direction D.
[0198] Anchor 5510 may include one or more primary barbs such as
primary barb 5112 extending from tip 5114 of anchor 5510. Anchor
5510 may include one or more secondary barbs such as secondary barb
5113 joined to anchor 5110 at a position away from tip 5114. A barb
may extend from anchor 5110 in any direction. A barb may extend
from a portion of anchor 5110 that faces generally toward band 5102
(as does barb 5112). A barb may extend from a portion of anchor
5110 that faces generally away from band 5102 (as does barb 5113).
An anchor may include barbs facing in more than one direction.
Anchor 5120 is an illustrative example of an anchor that includes
two primary barbs, 5115 and 5117, joined to barb tip 5116.
[0199] Apparatus 5100 may be rotated in direction D to cause anchor
5110 to penetrate into the wall. Apparatus 5100 may be rotated in
the direction opposite D to engage a barb in the wall tissue. A
barb or barbs may help secure apparatus 5100 to the inner wall of
the biological passage. After band 5102 is expanded to engage
anchors in the inner wall, band 5102 may automatically contract
toward axis C and may draw the inner wall inward in direction I.
The diameter of the biological passage may be reduced.
[0200] FIG. 52 shows anchors 5110 and 5120 extending away from band
5102. (Some of the anchors shown in FIG. 51 are not shown in FIG.
52 for the sake of clarity.) FIG. 52 shows that in some
embodiments, one or more of barbs 5112, 5113, 5115, and 5117 may
extend away from a plane defined by band 5102. In some embodiments,
one or more barbs may be contained in an axial plane of apparatus
5100.
[0201] FIGS. 53-56 illustrate a feature of some embodiments of the
invention in which at least a portion of an anchor may be projected
through an aperture in a band to engage tissue of a biological
passage wall. The anchor portion may then be retracted back toward
the band to secure the tissue. FIG. 53 shows a portion of band 5302
in a neutral state positioned in lumen 2022 near biological passage
wall 2028. Radially inner edge of band 5302 may be at a distance R1
from central axis C. Band 5302 may have neutral state radial
thickness L.sub.1. Anchor 5310 may be coupled to band 5302. Anchor
5310 may be insert molded into band 5302. Anchor 5310 may have one
or more holes such as hole 5340 in base 5330 to receive material
during a molding process. Stem 5320 may extend away from base 5330
in radial direction R. Recess 5380, which may include aperture 5382
may be present in band 5302 near anchor head 5314. In some
embodiments, in the neutral state a portion of head 5314, which may
include tip 5316, may be present in recess 5380. In some
embodiments, in the neutral state recess 5380 may extend in
circumferential directions P and Q no farther than does trailing
edge 5312 of head 5314. In an expanded state, recess 5380 may
expand in directions P and Q to allow head 5314 to project out of
band 5302 as the thickness of band 5302 is reduced.
[0202] FIG. 54 shows recess 5380 in band 5302. Head 5314, including
tip 5316, is partially exposed through aperture 5382. Portions of
head 5314 that are not exposed through aperture 5382 are shown
using broken lines. When band 5302 is expanded radially away from
axis C, edges 5384 and 5386 of aperture 5382 may be pulled away
from tip 5316 in directions P and Q, respectfully, to allow head
5314 to emerge from band 5302.
[0203] Although anchor 5310 is illustrated as a "flat" anchor such
as anchor 4410 shown in FIG. 44, some embodiments of the invention
in which an anchor may project through a band aperture may include
one or more anchors of different types, including one or more the
anchors described herein. The shapes and sizes of recess 5380 and
aperture 5382 may be chosen to allow an anchor to emerge from band
5302. The shapes and sizes of recess 5380 and aperture 5382 may be
chosen to allow an anchor stem to at least partially retract back
into band 5302.
[0204] FIG. 55 shows band 5302 in an expanded state. Inner radial
edge 5304 is positioned at distance R.sub.2, which may be greater
than distance R.sub.1 (shown in FIG. 53), from central axis C. The
radial thickness of band 5302 in the expanded state is L.sub.2,
which may be less than thickness L.sub.1 (shown in FIG. 53). Recess
5380 in the expanded state may have increased (relative to the
neutral state) in circumferential directions P and Q (edge 5384 in
direction P and edge 5386 in direction Q, e.g.) and may have
decreased in radial thickness. Anchor 5310, which may include
material that is more rigid than band 5302 may not be deformed as
much as band 5302 during the expansion of band 5302. Stem 5320 may
project out of recess 5380 through aperture 5382. Head 5314 may
engage tissue of wall 2028.
[0205] FIG. 56 shows band 5302 in a retracted state. In the
retracted state, band 5302 may not be fully retracted to the
neutral state shown in FIG. 53 because outward radial forces from
wall 2028 may act on band 5302 after anchor 5310 engages tissue of
wall 2028. In the retracted state, inner radial edge 5304 of band
5302 may be positioned at distance R.sub.3 from central axis C.
R.sub.3 may be greater than R.sub.1 (shown in FIG. 53). R.sub.3 may
be less than R.sub.2 (shown in FIG. 55). In the retracted state,
band 5302 may have radial thickness L.sub.3. L.sub.3 may be less
than L.sub.1 (shown in FIG. 35). L.sub.3 may be greater than
L.sub.2 (shown in FIG. 55). Stem 5320 may have partially retracted
behind outer radial edge 5306 of band 5302 drawing edge 5312 of
head 5314 toward outer radial edge 5306 and trapping or pinching
tissue of wall 2028 in area 5308. Aperture 5382 may have contracted
toward stem 5320. (Edges 5384 and 5386 of recess 5380 may have
migrated in directions Q and P, respectively, during retraction of
band 5302.) Wall 2028 may be closer to central axis C when band
5302 is secured to wall 2028 and is retracted than before anchor
5310 engaged wall 2028 (as shown in FIG. 53, for example).
[0206] FIGS. 57-58 show apparatus 5700 positioned in distal
esophagus 23 above LES 26. Apparatus 5700, which may include band
5702 and one or more anchors such as anchor 5710, may have any
suitable features for engaging distal esophagus 23 and reducing the
diameter of distal esophagus 23, LES 26, or both. Apparatus 5700
may include one or more of the bands, anchors, and other apparatus
described herein.
[0207] FIG. 57 shows band 5702 in an expanded state. Anchor heads
such as head 5714 may extend away from central region 5722 of
apparatus 5700. Head 5714 may extend all the way through the wall
of distal esophagus 23. Opening 5780 of relaxed LES 26 has
approximate diameter D.sub.1.
[0208] FIG. 58 shows band 5702 in a retracted state. Portions of
distal esophagus 23, such as portion 5850, may be drawn toward
central region 5722 of apparatus 5700. Some portions of distal
esophagus 23, such as portion 5860, may not be drawn toward central
region 5722. Some portions of distal esophagus 23, such as portion
5860, may be drawn toward central region 5722, but not to the
extent that portions such as 5850 are drawn toward region 5722.
When band 5702 is in the retracted state, opening 5780 of relaxed
LES 26 may be reduced. When band 5702 is retracted, opening 5780
may have approximate diameter D.sub.2, which may be less than
approximate diameter D.sub.1 (shown in FIG. 57). Broken line 5870
shows the approximate size of opening 5780 when band 5702 is in the
expanded state (as shown in FIG. 57).
[0209] FIGS. 59-61 show features of some embodiments of the
invention that may include a deposit of substance on an apparatus
that may be used to reduce the diameter of a biological passage.
The substance may have a therapeutic effect on the biological
passage. The substance may help seal the apparatus to the passage.
In some embodiments, the substance may be a foam. In some
embodiments, the substance may be a gel. In some embodiments, the
substance may include a drug. In some embodiments, the substance
may include an adhesive.
[0210] FIG. 59 shows apparatus 5900 positioned in biological
passage having wall 2028. Apparatus 5900 may include band 5902 and
one or more anchors such as 5910. Apparatus 5900 may have any
suitable features for engaging wall 2028. Apparatus 5900 may have
any suitable features for reducing the diameter of the biological
passage. Apparatus 5900 may include one or more of the bands,
anchors, and other apparatus described herein.
[0211] FIG. 59 shows band 5902 in an expanded state. Anchors such
as anchor 5910 may extend through wall 2028. Substance 5950 may be
present on band 5902. In some embodiments, substance 5950 may be
disposed on inner surface 5904 of band 5902. In some embodiments,
substance 5950 may be present in pores that may be present in band
5902. In some embodiments, substance 5950 may be present in pores
that may be present in one or more anchors such as anchor 5910.
Substance 5950 present in pores or on the surface of apparatus 5900
may elute from the apparatus. In some embodiments, substance 5950
may be soluble. In some embodiments, substance 5950 may gradually
migrate to portions of the passage including wall 2028.
[0212] FIG. 60 shows substance 5950 disposed on inner surface 5904
of band 5902 near anchor 5910 protruding through wall 2028.
[0213] FIG. 61 shows band 5902 in a retracted state. Portions of
wall 2028 such as portion 6030 may be drawn toward the central
region of lumen 2022 of the biological passage. Portions of wall
2028 such as portion 6040 may be drawn toward the central region of
lumen 2022, but may not be drawn as far as portions such as portion
6030. Some portions of wall 2028 may not be drawn toward the
central region of lumen 2022. Substance 5950 may be squeezed toward
central region of lumen 2022. Substance 5950 may be deposited on
portions of wall 2028 by apparatus 5900.
[0214] FIGS. 62-65 show illustrative examples of features that may
be present in some embodiments of the invention that may be used to
line a portion of a biological passage. FIG. 62 shows liner 6200
that may be disposed in lumen 27 of esophagus 22 adjacent LES 26.
(In some embodiments of the invention, liner 6200 may be
prophylactically disposed in a healthy esophagus.) Liner 6200 may
include inert material for protecting tissue of LES 26 from
irritation, degradation, or any other effects of chemicals or
biological materials that may be present in esophagus 22. Liner
6200 may include flexible material. Liner 6200 may include elastic
material. In some embodiments of the invention, liner 6200 may be
secured to wall 25 of esophagus 22 by anchors such as anchor
6210.
[0215] In some embodiments, liner 6200 may be held in place by one
or more balloon-expandable frames. In some of those embodiments,
the frame or frames may be plastically deformed. The frame or
frames may retain a shape established by the balloon when the
balloon is dilated.
[0216] In some embodiments, liner 6200 may be held in place by a
self-expanding frame (not shown). In some of those embodiments, the
frame may include elastic material. The frame may be compressed for
insertion in esophagus 22 and may expand in lumen 27 sufficiently
to conform to wall 25. In some embodiments, liner 6200 may not
include an anchor. In some embodiments, liner 6200 may be held in
place using any suitable structure or structures, including any
band or bands, anchor or anchors, or any combination thereof
described herein. In some embodiments, liner 6200 may be deployed
using any suitable device or devices, including any suitable device
or device described herein.
[0217] FIG. 63 shows liner 6300 positioned adjacent LES 26. Liner
6300 may include end portion 6310. Liner 6300 may include end
portion 6320. Liner 6300 may include medial portion 6330. Medial
portion 6330 may be positioned at the narrowest constriction of
lumen 27.
[0218] Frame 6340 may be present near end portion 6310 to conform
end portion 6310 to wall 25. Frame 6350 may be present near end
portion 6320 to conform end portion 6320 to wall 25. Medial portion
6330 may not have a corresponding frame to allow medial portion
6330 to closely contour wall 25. In some embodiments, a frame may
be present near medial portion 6330 to secure medial portion 6330
to wall 25. Frames may be positioned internal to liner 6300 or
external to liner 6300. In some embodiments numerous frames may be
present to conform liner 6300 to wall 25. In some embodiments,
liner 6300 may be held in place using any suitable structure or
structures, including any band or bands, anchor or anchors, or any
combination thereof described herein. In some embodiments, liner
6300 may be deployed using any suitable device or devices,
including any suitable device or device described herein.
[0219] FIG. 64 shows illustrative pre-shaped liner 6400. Pre-shaped
liner 6400 may be shaped outside of a biological passage and
inserted into the passage. In some embodiments, liner 6400 may be
shaped in accordance with a known profile of the biological passage
in which line 6400 will be deployed. Liner 6400 may be shaped in
accordance with passage profile data that may be collected from the
passage (for example, by direct measurement or by medical imaging).
Liner 6400 may include any suitable inert material that is
formable. In some embodiments, liner 6400 may include a
thermoplastic material. In some embodiments, line 6400 may be
molded. In some embodiments, liner 6400 may be held in place using
any suitable structure or structures, including any band or bands,
anchor or anchors, or any combination thereof described herein.
[0220] FIG. 65 shows apparatus 6500 that may include liner 6520,
which may include inert material. Apparatus 6500 may include inner
liner 6540, which may include inert material. Apparatus 6500 may be
positioned in the lumen of a biological passage to protect a
portion of the passage from harmful materials. In some embodiments,
apparatus 6500 may include frame 6502. Frame 6502 may be positioned
between inner liner 6540 and outer liner 6520. Anchors such as
anchor 6510, which may include barb 6512, may be present on frame
6502 to attach apparatus 6500 to the biological passage wall.
Anchor 6510 may include inert material. Some embodiments may not
include an anchor.
[0221] Frame 6502 may include inert material. In some embodiments,
frame 6502 may be self-expanding. In those embodiments, frame 6502
may include elastic material that can be compressed to insert frame
6502 in a biological passage. After positioning frame 6502 in the
passage, frame 6502 may expand to cause liner 6520 to contact the
passage wall. In some embodiments, frame 6502 may include ductile
or plastically deforming material. In those embodiments, frame 6502
may be inserted in a state in which frame 6502 is of smaller
diameter than the passage. Frame 6502 may then be expanded by
dilating a balloon in bore 6550. After expansion, frame 6502 may
remain in an expanded state.
[0222] In some embodiments, apparatus 6500 may be held in place
using any suitable structure or structures, including any band or
bands, anchor or anchors, or any combination thereof described
herein. In some embodiments, apparatus 6500 may be deployed using
any suitable device or devices, including any suitable device or
device described herein.
[0223] FIGS. 66-69 show illustrative examples of features that may
be present in some embodiments of the invention and that may
regulate the flow of matter through a biological passage. In some
embodiments, these features may promote chemical or biochemical
reactions. FIG. 66 shows apparatus 6600 that may be deployed in a
biological passage having lumen 2022 and wall 2028. Wall 2028 and
lumen 2022 are shown in sectional view.
[0224] Apparatus 6600 may include band 6602 that may be secured
against wall 2028. One or more fingers such as finger 6620 may
extend from band 6602 into lumen 2022. Finger 6620 may be flexible.
In some embodiments, finger 6620 may include one or more fibers. In
some embodiments, finger 6620 may include one or more surface area
enhancing features such as feature 6622.
[0225] Feature 6622 may be a fold, a pleat, a groove, a bend, a
projection, a protuberance, or any other suitable type of surface
area feature. In some embodiments, finger 6620 may include more
than one type of surface area enhancing feature. In some
embodiments, apparatus 6600 may include more than one type of
finger. In some embodiments, fingers may be closely spaced with
respect to each other. In some embodiments, space may be present
between fingers.
[0226] In some embodiments, one or more fingers may extend to
central region 6624 of apparatus 6600. In some embodiments, one or
more fingers may extend only into marginal region 6626 of apparatus
6600. In some embodiments, apparatus 6600 may include short fingers
and long fingers. In some embodiments, apparatus 6600 may include
fingers that are curved. In some of those embodiments, the fingers
may curve in the distal direction, in the proximal direction, or in
a direction that is non-radial (with respect to axis C).
[0227] In some embodiments, apparatus 6600 may be held in place
using any suitable structure or structures, including any band or
bands, anchor or anchors, or any combination thereof described
herein. In some embodiments, apparatus 6600 may be deployed using
any suitable device or devices, including any suitable device or
device described herein.
[0228] FIG. 67 shows finger 6620 and a finger opposite finger 6620
on band 6602. In some embodiments, finger 6620 may bend from the
rest position shown (approximately perpendicular to wall 2028) in
direction B.sub.1. In some embodiments, finger 6620 may bend in
direction B.sub.2. Broken lines show different positions that may
be occupied by finger 6620 and the opposite finger as the fingers
flex. The flexibility of finger 6620 may be preselected to regulate
the amount of flex that will occur in response to a given force. In
some embodiments, finger 6620 may have a rest position that is at
an angle to wall 2028. In some of those embodiments, numerous
fingers may have a rest position that is at an angle to wall 2028
to provide a directional bias to material that may flow through
lumen 2022.
[0229] FIG. 68 shows finger 6800 that may be included in an
apparatus such as 6600. Finger 6800 may have tip 6820 which may
project into lumen 2022. In some embodiments, finger 6800 may taper
to a narrow terminus or cone that may project into lumen 2022.
Finger 6800 may include one or more secondary members such as
member 6830. In some embodiments member 6830 may extend away from
finger 6800 to a greater extent than that shown in FIG. 68. Member
6830 may include one or more surfaces such as surface 6840.
[0230] FIG. 69 shows finger 6900 that may be included in an
apparatus such as 6600. Finger 6900 may have tip 6920 which may
project toward lumen 2022. In some embodiments, finger 6900 may
taper to a narrow terminus or cone that may project into lumen
2022. Finger 6900 may include one or more secondary members such as
member 6930. In some embodiments, member 6930 may extend away from
finger 6900 to a greater extent than that shown in FIG. 69. Member
6930 may include one or more surfaces such as surface 6940.
[0231] It will be appreciated by one skilled in the art that any
feature illustrated with or without a reference numeral in any of
the FIGS. herein, including, but not limited to, any anchor,
portion of an anchor, band, portion of a band, liner, portion of a
liner, finger, and/or portion of a finger, if present in an
embodiment of the invention, may include any suitable attribute or
suitable combination of attributes shown (with or without a
reference numeral) or described in connection with any of the
embodiments herein.
[0232] Thus it is seen that improved apparatus and methods for
reducing the diameter of a portion of a biological passage have
been provided. Apparatus and methods for lining a portion of a
biological passage have been provided. Apparatus and methods
deploying a baffle in a portion of a biological passage have been
provided. One skilled in the art will appreciate that the present
invention can be practiced by other than the described embodiments,
which are presented for purposes of illustration and not of
limitation, and the present invention is limited only by the claims
which follow.
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