U.S. patent application number 13/540794 was filed with the patent office on 2013-01-03 for sealing clip, delivery systems, and methods.
This patent application is currently assigned to Medtronic, Inc.. Invention is credited to Stephen Ainsworth, Steve Golden, Laurent Schaller.
Application Number | 20130006272 13/540794 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34080585 |
Filed Date | 2013-01-03 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130006272 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Ainsworth; Stephen ; et
al. |
January 3, 2013 |
Sealing Clip, Delivery Systems, and Methods
Abstract
A sealing clip for sealing or holding punctures or openings in
tissue closed is applied from the inner surface of the tissue. A
delivery apparatus is used to releasably hold the clip in one
configuration for introduction of the clip through the puncture or
opening and expand the clip to a more open configuration for
pulling the clip through the tissue as the delivery apparatus is
retracted. Further retraction of the delivery apparatus causes the
edges of the tissue surrounding the opening to move along the clip
and come together after which the clip is released and closed to
hold the tissue edges of the opening together. In the case where
the clip has a memory set closed shape, the clip returns toward
that shape after being released to hold the tissue edges of the
opening together, thereby holding the opening closed.
Inventors: |
Ainsworth; Stephen;
(Wilmington, NC) ; Golden; Steve; (Menlo Park,
CA) ; Schaller; Laurent; (Los Altos, CA) |
Assignee: |
Medtronic, Inc.
Minneapolis
MN
|
Family ID: |
34080585 |
Appl. No.: |
13/540794 |
Filed: |
July 3, 2012 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11702469 |
Feb 5, 2007 |
8211124 |
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13540794 |
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10627168 |
Jul 25, 2003 |
7182769 |
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11702469 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
606/142 ;
606/151 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B 17/068 20130101;
A61B 2017/00663 20130101; A61B 17/0057 20130101; A61B 2017/00668
20130101; A61B 2017/00637 20130101; A61B 17/0644 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
606/142 ;
606/151 |
International
Class: |
A61B 17/10 20060101
A61B017/10; A61B 17/08 20060101 A61B017/08 |
Claims
1.-15. (canceled)
16. Surgical clip delivery apparatus for delivering a surgical
clip, said apparatus comprising: a body member having an opening
adapted to allow said surgical clip to pass therethrough for
release thereof; a clip holder disposed in said body and adapted to
releasably hold said surgical clip; and a controller having
multiple actuator engaging surfaces disposed in said body member,
said multiple surfaces configured to engage said clip actuators to
adjust the force that the biasing member applies to said clip.
17. The apparatus of claim 16 wherein said controller has a slot
formed therein which is adapted to receive said elongated
member.
18. The apparatus of claim 17 wherein said controller slot is
arranged so that said actuators engage at least two of said
engaging surfaces when the elongated member of said surgical clip
is positioned in said slot.
19. The apparatus of claim 18 wherein said body member has a distal
end and a proximal end and said body member opening comprises a
slot, which is formed in said body member and extends from said
distal end, said body slot being aligned with said controller
slot.
20. The apparatus of claim 16 wherein said engaging surfaces
include sloped surfaces.
21. The apparatus of claim 20 wherein said engaging surfaces
further include parallel surfaces.
22. The apparatus of claim 16 further including tissue piercing
member removal mechanisms coupled to said body member, said tissue
piercing removal mechanisms having portions adapted to capture
tissue piercing members when coupled to said clip.
23. A surgical system for closing an opening in tissue comprising:
a self-dosing clip as described in claim 1; a body member having an
opening adapted to allow said surgical clip to pass therethrough
for release thereof; a clip holder disposed in said body member and
adapted to releasably hold said surgical clip; and a controller
having multiple actuator engaging surfaces disposed in said body
member, said multiple surfaces configured to engage said clip
actuators to adjust the force that the biasing member applies to
said clip.
24. The system of claim 23 wherein said controller has a slot
formed therein which is adapted to receive said elongated
member.
25. The system of claim 24 wherein said controller slot is arranged
so that said actuators engage at least two of said engaging
surfaces when the elongated member of, said surgical clip is
positioned in said slot.
26. The system of claim 25 wherein said body member has a distal
end and a proximal end and said body member opening comprises a
slot, which is formed in said body member and extends from said
distal end, said body slot being aligned with said controller
slot.
27. The system of claim 23 wherein said engaging surfaces include
sloped surfaces.
28. The system of claim 27 said engaging surfaces further include
parallel surfaces.
29. The system of claim 27 further including tissue piercing member
removal mechanisms coupled to said body member, said tissue
piercing removal mechanisms having portions adapted to capture
tissue piercing members when coupled to said clip.
30. A surgical system for closing an opening in tissue comprising:
an elongated body member having a proximal end and a distal end
adapted for introduction into a tissue opening, said elongated body
member further having an opening therein; and a surgical clip
having ends, an open configuration and a closed configuration, said
surgical clip being releasable` coupled to said elongated body
member and arranged so that when in said open configuration said
clip ends extend from said elongated body opening at diametrically
opposed portions of said body member and generally point toward the
proximal end of said body member so that when said body member is
introduced into the tissue opening and the surgical clip moved to
said open configuration, the ends of said surgical clip can
penetrate the tissue adjacent the opening-therein when the body
member is retracted.
31.-38. (canceled)
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates generally to the field of
surgical devices and more particularly to surgical devices and
methods for sealing perforations in body organs or vessels.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] An ever increasing number of diagnostic and interventional
surgical procedures are performed using catheters introduced into
the body at one or a few entry sites. By limiting the number and
size of incisions, patients are able to recover more quickly and
with less discomfort. With the wide range of catheters at their
disposal, surgeons can operate or perform diagnostics on a great
number of bodily systems, including but not limited to the
vascular, nervous, and reproductive systems. Following these
procedures the catheters and various accessories are removed,
leaving one or more puncture sites which must be closed. These
sites are often difficult to suture because they are on internal
tissues or organs, are located on arterial walls below the skin, or
are only accessible by a catheter. The present invention relates to
procedures in which physicians do not have direct access to the
tissue surrounding an opening in arterial walls or other biological
tissue walls using suture.
[0003] As an example of the type of puncture closing that is
problematic, consider interluminal procedures performed on the
vascular system, such as an angiogram or angioplasty. The skin is
punctured through to the femoral artery, and an introducer sheath
is placed in the puncture. For interluminal vascular procedures,
the introducer sheath is a tube having a lumen and an outer
diameter in the range of 2 mm (6 F on the french catheter scale) to
15 mm (45 F) or more. Catheters are inserted through the introducer
sheath and threaded towards the heart or other vascular site of
interest. At the conclusion of the procedure, the catheter is
removed, followed by the removal of the introducer sheath. Bleeding
at the puncture site has conventionally been controlled by the use
of manual compress upstream from the puncture site. Achieving
homeostasis with manual compression, however, is time consuming and
can result in complications. Generally, compression must be applied
for one-half hour or more to achieve hemostasis. If anticoagulants
are used, it may take an additional 2 to 4 hours for the effects of
the anticoagulants to wear off and for compression to be effective.
Direct complications from manual compression include occlusion of
underlying blood vessels, which can lead to ischemia and/or
thrombosis. In general, the problems and patient discomfort
increase with introducer sheath size and the use of
anticoagulants.
[0004] Various attempts to achieve hemostasis without the problems
associated with manual compression have been made. Many of the
attempts involved facilitating vessel closure using tools
compatible with ancillary devices used with catheter procedures.
Complicated remote controlled mechanisms for suturing are inserted
through the introducer sheath following catheter removal, for
example. These attempts have included the use of collagen plugs to
seal the puncture, the use of complicated, remote controlled
mechanisms for suturing, the application of fasteners such as
hooks, clips, or staples applied from the exterior of an artery.
While each of these devices can be used for closing a puncture more
rapidly than manual compression, other problems can result from
their use. For example, suturing devices may require many
cooperating moving parts to pass the suture from one side of the
artery to the other, as well as knot pushers for pushing knotted
sutures or mechanisms for knot tying. Collagen plugs do not avoid
all blood loss, and may increase the risk of thrombosis formation
and the development of an inflammatory autoimmune reaction. Closing
punctures using fasteners often involves the use of excessive force
in the area surrounding their application, which can cut off or
greatly reduce blood flow to the adjacent areas. This can cause
ischemia and impair the healing process.
[0005] In addition many locations where closing is required are not
easily visible, resulting in difficulty in placing the fastener,
collagen plug, or any of the other devices described above.
[0006] Minimally invasive surgery, especially minimally invasive
surgery using robotic techniques, presents further problems for
known fastening techniques. In minimally invasive surgery, the
surgeon has access to the body through small openings and often
must work in restricted spaces or cavities. However, many known
techniques are not compatible with minimally invasive
techniques.
[0007] For procedures where incisions or punctures are internal to
the body or percutaneous, the conventional hemostasis methods of
choice are sutures and fasteners, which are usually staples. It is
important that the puncture closing device work rapidly and
accurately, and that it does not subject the vessels (e.g.,
arteries) to any undue force. The use of any of the available
devices or methods can result in problems and lead to complications
with the surgical procedure, which can delay patient recovery or
jeopardize the patient's health. Therefore, there is a need for
improved devices and methods for closing punctures or other
openings in bodily tissue or organs following surgery.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The present invention involves methods and apparatus for
closing and/or sealing tissue openings that overcome disadvantages
of the prior art. The invention is particularly useful for closing
and/or sealing tissue openings in situations where access to the
opening is limited, such as in minimally invasive surgery.
[0009] According to one embodiment of the invention, a surgical
clip is provided comprising an elongated member and a pair of
biasing mechanisms coupled to the member, the elongated member
comprising shape memory material and having a memory set closed
configuration from which it is moveable to a plurality of open
configurations, the biasing mechanisms being selectively adjustable
to bias the clip toward any of the plurality of open
configurations. With this construction, the clip can be introduced
through an opening in tissue and expanded so that its ends are
directed toward the inner surface of the tissue adjacent the
opening and pulled therethrough. After the clip is pulled through
the tissue surrounding the opening so that the clip bridges the
opening, the tissue and/or clip can be manipulated so that the
tissue slides along the clip to the central region of the clip,
thereby approximating the tissue edges surrounding the opening. The
ability to apply the fastener from the interior area of the tissue
to the exterior area of the tissue without sutures and accompanying
knot tying steps is advantageous. The clip can then be allowed to
return toward its memory set configuration where it can hold the
tissue edges together and seal the opening. Further, the biasing
mechanisms can be symmetrically arranged about the elongated
member. This can enhance the ability to accurately position the
clip ends beneath the tissue adjacent the opening.
[0010] According to another embodiment of the invention, a surgical
clip is provided comprising an elongated member and a pair of
biasing mechanisms coupled to the member, the elongated member
comprising shape memory material and having a memory set closed
configuration from which it is moveable to a plurality of open
configurations, the biasing mechanisms being selectively adjustable
to bias the clip toward any of the plurality of open
configurations, each biasing mechanism comprising a biasing member
and an actuator, each biasing member adapted to apply a biasing
force to the elongated member to urge the elongated member away
from the closed configuration, and each actuator being coupled to
one of the biasing members and adapted to activate the biasing
member to apply the biasing force to the elongated member.
[0011] According to another embodiment of the invention, a surgical
clip is provided comprising an elongated member and a pair of
biasing mechanisms coupled to the member, the elongated member
comprising shape memory material and having a memory set closed
configuration from which it is moveable to a plurality of open
configurations, the biasing mechanisms being selectively adjustable
to bias the clip toward any of the plurality of open
configurations, the elongated member further having two tissue
piercing members secured to and engaging said elongated member and
extending therefrom.
[0012] According to another embodiment of the invention, a surgical
clip is provided comprising an elongated member and a pair of
biasing mechanisms coupled to the member, the elongated member
comprising shape memory material and having a memory set closed
configuration from which it is moveable to a plurality of open
configurations, the biasing mechanisms being selectively adjustable
to bias the clip toward any of the plurality of open
configurations, the elongated member further having two tissue
piercing members integrally formed therewith.
[0013] According to another embodiment of the invention, a delivery
mechanism is provided to deliver the clip through a tissue opening,
open the clip, move the clip through tissue adjacent the opening so
that the clip bridges the opening and the tissue edges surrounding
the opening can be approximated, and release the clip. In addition,
the delivery apparatus may optionally remove piercing members at
the clip ends. In one variation, a surgical clip delivery apparatus
is provided for delivering a surgical clip comprising an elongated
member and a pair of biasing mechanisms coupled to the member, the
elongated member comprising shape memory material and having a
memory set closed configuration from which it is moveable to a
plurality of open configurations, the biasing mechanisms being
selectively adjustable to bias the clip toward any of the plurality
of open configurations, each biasing mechanism comprising a biasing
member and an actuator, each biasing member adapted to apply a
biasing force to the elongated member to urge the elongated member
away from the closed configuration, and each actuator being coupled
to one of the biasing members and adapted to activate the biasing
member to apply the biasing force to the elongated member, the
apparatus comprising a body member having an opening adapted to
allow the surgical clip to pass therethrough for release thereof; a
clip holder disposed in the body member and adapted to releasably
hold the surgical clip; and a controller having multiple actuator
engaging surfaces disposed in the body member, the multiple
surfaces configured to engage the clip actuators to adjust the
force that the biasing member applies to the clip.
[0014] According to another embodiment of the invention, a surgical
system is provided for closing an opening in tissue, the system
comprising a self-closing clip, a body member, a clip holder, and a
controller; the self-closing clip comprising an elongated member
and a pair of biasing mechanisms coupled to the member, the
elongated member comprising shape memory material and having a
memory set closed configuration from which it is moveable to a
plurality of open configurations, the biasing mechanisms being
selectively adjustable to bias the clip toward any of the plurality
of open configurations, each biasing mechanism comprising a biasing
member and an actuator, each biasing member adapted to apply a
biasing force to the elongated member to urge the elongated member
away from the closed configuration, and each actuator being coupled
to one of the biasing members and adapted to activate the biasing
member to apply the biasing force to the elongated member; the body
member having an opening adapted to allow said surgical clip to
pass therethrough for release thereof; the clip holder disposed in
said body member and adapted to releasably hold said surgical clip;
and the controller having multiple actuator engaging surfaces
disposed in said body member, said multiple surfaces configured to
engage said clip actuators to adjust the force that the biasing
member applies to said clip.
[0015] According to another embodiment of the invention, a surgical
system is provided for closing an opening in tissue comprising and
elongated body member and a surgical clip; the elongated body
member having a proximal end and a distal end adapted for
introduction into a tissue opening, the elongated body member
further having an opening therein; and the surgical clip having
ends, an open configuration and a closed configuration, the
surgical clip being releasably coupled to the elongated body member
and arranged so that when in said open configuration the clip ends
extend from the body member opening at diametrically opposed
portions of the body member and generally point toward the proximal
end of the body member so that when the body member is introduced
into the tissue opening and the surgical clip moved to the open
configuration, the ends of the surgical clip can penetrate the
tissue adjacent the opening therein when the body member is
retracted.
[0016] According to another embodiment of the invention, a method
is provided for closing an opening in tissue having an outer
surface and an inner surface comprising introducing a self-closing
clip, which has ends, an open configuration and a memory set closed
configuration, through the opening; positioning the self-closing
clip in an open configuration with the ends directed toward the
inner surface of the tissue; passing the ends through the tissue
adjacent to the opening; closing the opening; and allowing the
self-closing clip to return toward its closed configuration.
[0017] The above is a brief description of some deficiencies in the
prior art and advantages of the present invention. Other features,
advantages, and embodiments of the invention will be apparent to
those skilled in the art from the following description and
accompanying drawings, wherein, for purposes of illustration only,
specific forms of the invention are set forth in detail.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0018] FIGS. 1A to 1E diagrammatically illustrate a clip sealing a
vessel opening according to the present invention, where FIG. 1A
shows the vessel opening, FIG. 1B shows a clip placed within the
vessel, in accordance with the present invention, prior to
insertion through the vessel wall, FIG. 1C shows the clip in an
open position placed about the vessel opening, FIG. 1D shows an
optional step of removing piercing members at the ends of the clip
prior to closing the clip, and FIG. 1E shows the clip in a closed
configuration holding the vessel opening closed and sealing the
vessel;
[0019] FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, and 2E present several cross-sectional
views through the vessel corresponding to those indicated in FIG.
1A to 1E;
[0020] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view, including cut-away
sections, of one embodiment of a clip delivery apparatus of the
present invention;
[0021] FIGS. 4A to 4E illustrate one embodiment of a clip of the
present invention, where FIG. 4A shows a top plan view of the clip
in an open configuration, FIG. 4B shows the clip of FIG. 4A in an
intermediate configuration, and FIG. 4C shows the clip of FIG. 4B
in a closed configuration, and where FIGS. 4D and FIG. 4E are
partial cross-sectional views of the clip;
[0022] FIGS. 5A to 5C illustrate further clip embodiments having
piercing members at the clip ends for insertion into tissue, where
FIG. 5A is a top plan view of the clip in an open configuration,
FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional view of removable piercing member, and
FIG. 5C is a cross-sectional view of a piercing member
configuration where the piercing member is fixedly secured to a
portion of the clip;
[0023] FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of a clip release
mechanism of the present invention usable with the clip delivery
apparatus of FIG. 3A;
[0024] FIG. 7 is an assembled perspective view of the clip release
mechanism of FIG. 6 with the clip of FIG. 6 releasably coupled
thereto;
[0025] FIGS. 7A and 7B are further views of the clip release
mechanism of FIG. 7, where FIG. 7A illustrates the release
mechanism lockingly engaging or holding the clip and FIG. 7B
illustrates the release mechanism releasing the clip;
[0026] FIGS. 8A to 8E are sequential diagrammatic views of the clip
delivery apparatus and clip release mechanism of FIGS. 3, 6 and 7
being used to seal a wound, where FIG. 8A shows the clip in a
partially open configuration within the delivery apparatus for
introduction into a vessel opening, FIG. 8B shows the clip being
retracted in the delivery apparatus into a more open configuration,
FIG. 8C shows the clip fully opened and partially extending from
the delivery apparatus, FIG. 8D shows the fully opened clip seated
in the tissue, and FIG. 8E shows the clip released from the
delivery apparatus, fully deployed and in a closed
configuration;
[0027] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a clip
delivery apparatus of the present invention, including a piercing
member removal mechanism;
[0028] FIGS. 10A and 10B are retracted and extended views,
respectively, of the distal end of the apparatus of FIG. 9, showing
a clip removal mechanism in a retracted and deployed position;
[0029] FIG. 10C is a front view of the apparatus of FIG. 10B;
[0030] FIGS. 11A to 11E diagrammatically illustrate the clip
delivery apparatus of FIG. 9 sealing a tissue opening with a clip
having removable piercing members, where FIG. 11A shows the clip
coupled to the clip delivery apparatus and placed through a vessel
opening and within the vessel prior to piercing the vessel wall,
FIG. 11B shows the deployed piercing member removal mechanism, FIG.
11C shows the clip after it has pierced the tissue and with the
piercing members inserted into the deployed piercing member removal
mechanism, FIG. 11D shows the clip with the piercing members
removed, and FIG. 11E shows the clip detached from the clip
delivery apparatus and in a closed configuration in the vessel
tissue;
[0031] FIGS. 12A to 12C show a mesh embodiment of the piercing
member removal mechanism intercepting portion in use, where FIG.
12A shows the clip with piercing member approaching the mesh, FIG.
12B shows the piercing member being forced through the mesh, and
FIG. 12C shows the piercing member passed through the mesh and
removed from the clip; and
[0032] FIGS. 13A to 13C show another embodiment of the piercing
member removal mechanism intercepting portion in use, where FIG.
13A shows the clip with the piercing member approaching the
intercepting portion, FIG. 13B shows the piercing member being
forced through the intercepting portion, and FIG. 13C shows the
piercing member retained by the intercepting portion, which impedes
or precludes withdrawal of the piercing member.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0033] Before the present invention is described, it is to be
understood that this invention is not limited to the particular
embodiments or examples described, as such may, of course, vary.
Further, when referring to the drawings, like numerals indicate
like elements.
[0034] The present invention provides an apparatus and method for
sealing punctures or other openings in bodily tissues and is both
effective and compatible with many of the tools and techniques
employed in minimally invasive surgery. Although the invention will
be described in connection with sealing percutaneous punctures to
the femoral artery or to the aorta following bypass surgery as an
aid in achieving hemostasis, it should be understood that it has
other applications. It may be used or adapted to be used on other
bodily tissues or organs to facilitate hemostasis of other types of
wounds, openings or punctures as would be apparent to those skilled
in the art.
[0035] According to one aspect of the invention, a surgical
fastener or clip, such as a self-closing clip, is introduced
through a tissue opening, which can be made percutaneaously or by
other known means such as minimally invasive means, positioned
below the opening, and manipulated to pass through the tissue edges
surrounding the opening where the tissue edges are then brought
together along the clip. The clip is then closed to hold the tissue
edges of the opening together.
[0036] Referring to FIGS. 1A-E and 2A-E, an exemplary diagrammatic
illustration of one embodiment of the invention is shown. FIGS.
1A-E show perspective views and FIGS. 2A-E show corresponding
cross-sectional views of a vessel opening closure method using a
fastener or clip generally designated with reference numeral 10. As
shown, clip 10 is used to facilitate closing the opening by
piercing the vessel wall from the inside of the vessel as will be
described in more detail below.
[0037] The illustrative diagrammatic example shows artery A having
an arterial lumen or interior I and an arterial wall W with a
perforation or opening O to be closed. The opening O may be a
percutaneous opening formed in an artery A, where the opening has
been made through the skin and tissue (not shown) surrounding the
artery. Alternatively, the surgeon can incise the artery to form
the opening as part of a minimally invasive surgical procedure or
other procedure where access to the opening is limited. Returning
to the figures, Clip 10 is shown with two ends and piercing members
12 removably attached thereto. Further, clip 10 can be arranged in
at least two configurations: an open configuration 20 (FIGS. 2B-D)
and a closed configuration 30 (FIG. 2E). Open configuration 20 is
used to allow piercing members 12 to pierce wall W as shown in
FIGS. 1B-C and 2B-C. After the tissue is moved along the clip to
close the opening as shown in FIGS. 1E and 2E, the clip is allowed
to return to its closed configuration 30, where it holds the tissue
edges together. Clip 10 is delivered to the interior of artery A
and then placed in open configuration 20 with piercing members 12
pointed toward wall W. Clip 10 can be held or restrained in open
configuration 20, by components integral to or removable from the
clip and/or components coupled to the clip as will be discussed in
more detail below. With clip 10 in open configuration 20, piercing
members 12 are pushed through wall W on opposite sides of opening
O, as shown in FIGS. 1C and 2C. After insertion through wall W,
piercing members 12 can be removed from clip 10 if desired, as
shown in FIGS. 1D and 2D. Under some conditions the removal of
piercing members 12 is not required or possible, and they may be
left attached to clip 10. The surgeon brings the tissue edges
together along the clip with the surgeon's fingers or an instrument
such as a clip delivery apparatus described below. Clip 10 is then
closed or allowed to self-close, when a self-closing clip is used,
and return to or assume closed configuration 30, which can be a
loop configuration, thereby securing or holding together the
opposing sides or tissue edges of opening 0.
[0038] According to another aspect of the invention, clip delivery
apparatus can be provided to facilitate the placement and/or
closure of the clip. For example, such a delivery apparatus can be
provided to hold clip 10 to introduce it to the site of opening O
either through the interior I along artery A, or through the
opening O. The delivery apparatus can, for example, deliver the
clip through the opening when closing a puncture following
minimally invasive procedures. In such a procedure, access to the
body interior is achieved by maintaining a tissue opening through
the placement of a cannula or sheath through a tissue puncture.
During the procedure, various catheters and other instruments are
placed through the cannula or sheath. At the conclusion of the
procedure, the instruments and cannula or sheath are withdrawn, and
the puncture is then closed. In many instances, the puncture is
percutaneous or has otherwise restricted access. Thus, use of a
clip delivery apparatus that can be inserted into the puncture
prior to cannula removal and that can seal the opening after
cannula removal is compatible with minimally invasive
procedures.
[0039] Referring to FIG. 3, one embodiment of a clip delivery
apparatus is shown in accordance with the invention. As noted
above, the apparatus can be delivered through a cannula in a
minimally invasive procedure. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of clip
delivery apparatus 300 for delivering a clip to a desired site.
Delivery apparatus 300 extends from a proximal end 309 to a distal
end 305, and includes a sheath or tubular outer body member 301
having an outer knob 304 near the proximal end, and an inner member
303 (which can be a solid or tubular rod) extending substantially
along the length of the delivery apparatus and having an inner knob
306 secured thereto or formed therewith at the proximal end of the
apparatus.
[0040] A slot 307 bisects a distal portion of sheath 301 in a
longitudinal direction and extends along diametrically opposed
portions or sides of the distal end portion of the sheath. Delivery
apparatus 300 provides for the delivery of a clip through slot 307
through actuation of inner knob 306 and/or outer knob 304. Outer
knob 304 is connected to sheath 301 near proximal end 309 by, for
example, welding or gluing, or it is formed therewith so that outer
knob 304 can be used to axially translate or rotate sheath 301
along or about inner member 303. Inner knob 306 is connected to
inner member 303 such as by welding or gluing, or it can be formed
therewith. In turn, the distal end of inner member 303 is coupled
to a clip holding and release mechanism or it can form part of such
a mechanism. The clip holding and release mechanism facilitates
delivering a clip to a target site and deploying it. One clip
holding and release mechanism is shown in FIGS. 6-8 in accordance
with one aspect of the invention. With knob 306 secured to inner
member 303, knob 306 can be used by an operator or surgeon to
axially translate or rotate inner member 303 relative to sheath 301
to actuate the clip holding and release mechanism and load a clip
in or deploy a clip from apparatus 300.
[0041] Delivery apparatus 300 has a generally cylindrical shape
that terminates in a curved or blunt distal end portion. This shape
facilitates the use of the device to remotely place clips through
surgical openings in a body and release the clips from distal end
305. Although slot 307 is shown bisecting sheath 301, other
configuration that allow the clip to pass therethrough with the
open ends of the clip sufficiently spaced to bridge the opening can
be used.
[0042] One embodiment of a clip constructed in accordance with the
present invention and suitable for use with clip delivery apparatus
300 (or clip delivery apparatus 900 described below) is illustrated
in FIGS. 4A-4F and designated with reference numeral 410. Clip 410
includes an elongated member 401, having an outer surface 423, and
multiple biasing mechanisms 405, which include coils or biasing
members 407 and rings or disks 409. Disks 409 also may be referred
to as actuators as they activate biasing members or coils 407 when
forced thereagainst. Clip 410 is symmetric in that clip member 401,
clip ends or restraint members 403 and biasing mechanisms 405 are
symmetrically positioned about axis A, which bisects the U-shaped
clip as shown, for example, in FIG. 4A. The symmetric aspect
enhances one's ability to symmetrically open the clip and/or
accurately position the clip ends through the desired portions of
the target tissue so that the clip bridges the opening. For
example, the clip can be positioned to bridge diametrically opposed
portions of the opening.
[0043] In general, clip 410 comprises a shape memory member 401,
which can have a closed memory set configuration as shown for
example in FIG. 4F, and coils or biasing members 407 positioned
therearound to urge or bias the clip member toward an open
configuration when the coils are compressed. Clips comprising shape
memory members surrounded by coils that move toward an open
configuration when the coils are compressed are described in the
following U. S. Patent, Patent Applications, and Patent
Publications all of which are incorporated herein in their
entirety: U.S. Pat. No. 6,514,265, application Ser. Nos. 09/090,305
and 09/089,884, both entitled Tissue Connector Apparatus and
Methods and filed Jun. 3, 1998, and Ser. No. 09/260,623, entitled
Tissue Connector Apparatus and Methods, and Ser. No. 09/259,705,
entitled Tissue Connector Apparatus With Cable Release, both filed
Mar. 1, 1999, and U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos.
2002-0010490, entitled Tissue Connector Apparatus and Methods, and
2001-0018592, entitled Bridge Clip Tissue Connector Apparatus and
Methods. Also incorporated herein are PCT publications WO 99/62409,
which and corresponds to International Application No.
PCT/US99/12563, which claims priority to the above mentioned Ser.
Nos. 09/090,305 and 09/259,705, and WO 99/62406, which corresponds
to International Application No. PCT/US99/12566, which claims
priority to above mentioned Ser. Nos. 09/089,884 and 09/260,623.
Both WO 99/62409 and WO 99/62406 published on Dec. 9, 1999.
[0044] According to one embodiment, clip member 401 comprises a
deformable wire 401 made of shape memory alloy or superelastic
material. A nickel titanium (nitinol) based alloy may be used, for
example. The nitinol may include additional elements which affect
the yield strength of the material or the temperature at which
particular pseudoelastic or shape transformation characteristics
occur. The transformation temperature may be defined as the
temperature at which a shape memory alloy finishes transforming
from martensite to austenite upon heating (i.e., A.sub.f
temperature). The shape memory alloy preferably exhibits
pseudoelastic (superelastic) behavior when deformed at a
temperature slightly above its transformation temperature. At least
a portion of the shape memory alloy is converted from its
austenitic phase to its martensitic phase when the wire is in its
deformed configuration. As the stress is removed, the material
undergoes a martensitic to austenitic conversion and springs back
to its original undeformed configuration.
[0045] When clip 410 is positioned in tissue and allowed to return
toward its closed state, a residual stress is present in member 401
to maintain the tissue tightly together. In order for the
pseudoelastic member or wire 401 to retain sufficient compression
force in this configuration, it should not be stressed past its
yield point in its deformed delivery or open configuration to allow
full tendency toward its undeformed configuration. The shape memory
alloy can be selected so as to be suitable with the application.
For example, it can be selected with a transformation temperature
suitable for use with a stopped heart condition where cold
cardioplegia has been injected for temporary paralysis of the heart
tissue (e.g., temperatures as low as 8-10 degrees Celsius).
[0046] It is to be understood that the shape memory alloy may also
be heat activated, or a combination of heat activation and
pseudoelastic properties may be used, as is well known by those
skilled in the art.
[0047] The cross-sectional diameter of the member or wire 401 and
the length of member 401 will vary depending on the specific
application. The diameter of member or wire 401 may be, for
example, between about 0.001 and 0.015 inch. For percutaneous
vascular applications, the diameter is preferably between about
0.001 and 0.008 inch with a diameter "D" of the loop of member 401
with coils 407 thereon is between about 0.0125 and 0.0875 inch
(FIG. 4C). The diameter "D" of the loop formed by member 401 in its
closed position is preferably sized to prevent movement between
adjacent tissues. Although member 401 is shown with a circular
cross-sectional shape (see e.g., FIG. 4E), it is to be understood
that member 401 may have other cross-sectional shapes such as
rectangular or elliptical, or it may be formed from multiple
strands.
[0048] The wire (e.g., wire 401) may be formed in the shape
illustrated in FIG. 4F by first wrapping the wire onto a mandrel
and heat treating the wire at approximately 400-500 degrees Celsius
for approximately 5 to 30 minutes. The wire is then air quenched at
room temperature. The coil can be formed from any suitable material
such as platinum alloy, nitinol, or stainless steel wire with a
diameter of about 0.0005-0.005 inch.
[0049] Returning to FIG. 4A, each biasing mechanism 405 includes a
helical compression spring or coil 407, having an inner surface 419
and an outer surface 417, and a ring or disk 409. Each compression
spring extends from one of a respective restraint 403 to one of the
pair of rings or disks 409. Each restraint 403 can form an end of
member 401. Further, the materials for rings or disks 409 and clip
member ends 403 are chosen primarily to be biocompatible and rigid.
Suitable materials include platinum alloy, nitinol, or stainless
steel. The restraints can be integrally formed with clip member 401
or formed from clip member 401 by, for example, physically working
the ends of member 401 to form an enlarged portion or thermally or
chemically treating the ends of clip member 401 to form an enlarged
portion. Alternatively, the restraints can be separately formed and
secured to an end of member 401 such as by welding, gluing or
swaging. Each restraint is configured to prevent a respective
spring 407 from sliding thereover and off member 401. In the
illustrative embodiment, each end or restraint member 403 is in the
form of a spherical ball that is sized with a diameter greater than
that of the respective end portions of spring or coil 407 adjacent
thereto. It should be understood that restraints 403 can have other
shapes that present a restraining face to the ends of springs 407
as well, including, but not limited to cylindrical shapes having a
diameter greater than that of the ends of springs 407, elliptical
or conical shapes having such a diameter, button shapes and T
shapes.
[0050] Referring to FIGS. 4A & B, the length of the visible
portion of member 401 is designated with reference character S This
visible portion is located between the pair of rings 409, while the
balance of the length of member 401 is obscured by either springs
407 or rings 409, and is hidden from view.
[0051] Coils 407 and rings or disks 409 are adapted and/or arranged
to slide along clip member 401 while transmitting a biasing force
to clip member ends 403. This can be seen in the cross-sectional
details shown in FIGS. 4D & E. Each spring 407 has a first end
411 that seats against one of the clip member ends 403 and a second
end 413 that seats against one of rings 409, specifically against a
spring seating surface 415. The inner diameter of each spring is
greater than the outer diameter of clip member 401 so that the
spring can slide along member 401. Similarly each of rings 409 has
a hole 425 with a diameter larger than the diameter of clip member
401 so that the rings can slide along member 401. FIG. 4C shows
each spring 407 in contact with a corresponding one of restraints
403 and a corresponding one of rings 409. The inner surface of the
springs or rings may touch various portions of clip member 401
depending on the size of member 401, coils 407 and rings 409 and
the configuration of the clip. Although clip 410 has been shown and
described as being symmetrical, it need not necessarily be
symmetrical. Examples of variations that can be used include
providing a clip member that is not symmetrical between clip ends
403, providing clip ends 403 that differ from each other in size
and/or shape, and providing biasing members 405 that include
springs 407 of differing size and/or length. Still other variations
include providing clip ends or restraints that differ in
composition or method of attachment and/or springs 407 having
different spring constants or any combination of the variations
described above. It also should be understood that these variations
are provided for purposes of example and that other variations also
can be made without departing from the scope of the invention.
[0052] Returning to FIGS. 4A and 4B, biasing members 405
individually impart forces on clip member 401 to open clip member
401. As more force is applied to clip 401, it tends to move toward
a more open configuration. In the illustrative embodiment, rings or
disks 409 are slidably mounted over clip member 401 and present
inner and outer surfaces 415, 417 for transferring forces to their
respective springs 407. As one applies force to outer surfaces 417
of rings 409, the inner surfaces 415 of rings 409, which are in
contact with the spring, move spring ends 413 toward clip ends or
restraints 403, which interface with spring ends 411. As rings 409
move toward clip ends or restraints 403, coils or springs 407 are
compressed between rings 409 and restraints 403. Thus, for example,
one can increase the bias force F to increase the clip length
between rings 409 and increase spring compression. Alternatively, a
forcing mechanism, such as the apparatus shown in FIG. 7, can be
used to move rings 409 away from one another to compress springs
407 and open clip 410.
[0053] Three clip configurations and a schematic representation of
the bias forces are shown in FIGS. 4A-4C for decreasing amounts of
bias force. The most open configuration 410A (FIG. 4A) has a bias
force F equal to F.sub.1, creating a visible clip length S between
rings 409 equal to S.sub.1 and causing clip ends 403 to have a
spacing X therebetween equal to X.sub.1. An intermediate
configuration 410B (FIG. 4B) has a smaller bias force F equal to
F.sub.2 (where F.sub.2<F.sub.1), a visible clip length S equal
to S.sub.2 (where S.sub.2<S.sub.1), and clip member ends 403
with a spacing therebetween X equal X.sub.2 (where
X.sub.2<X.sub.1). A closed configuration 410C (FIG. 4C) has an
even smaller bias force F equal to F.sub.3 (where
F.sub.3<F.sub.2) and the visible clip length S equal to S.sub.3
(where S.sub.3<S.sub.2). In closed configuration 410C (FIG. 4C)
ends 403 cross, forming a loop 427 in the central portion of clip
410. In this configuration, S.sub.3 is zero and the spring force
(F.sub.3) is greater or equal to zero. FIG. 4F illustrates clip
member 401 in its memory shape and without biasing members 405.
Although particular visible lengths S of clip member 401 or
spacings between rings 409, clip member end spacings X, and biasing
forces F, as well as various clip configurations are shown, it
should be understood that variations may be had without departing
from the scope of the invention.
[0054] Referring to FIGS. 5A-5C, another clip embodiment is shown
and generally indicated with reference numeral 510. Clip 510 has an
open configuration 410A, intermediate configuration 410B and closed
configuration 410C, and is the same as clip 410 with the exception
that clip 510 further includes a pair of piercing members 501,
which as illustrated can be conical. Further clip 510 may or may
not include enlarged ends 403. Each piercing member 501 includes a
tip 503 constructed for piercing tissue and can be formed from,
fixedly secured to, or releasably coupled to clip member 401. FIGS.
5B and 5C show two different versions of clip 510 where FIG. 5B
illustrates a piercing member that is releasably coupled to clip
member 401 and FIG. 5C illustrates a piercing member that is
fixedly attached to clip member 401.
[0055] Referring to FIG. 5B, a clip 510' is shown according to one
embodiment of the invention with a removable piercing member 501'
that is releasably coupled to clip end or restraint 403. Piercing
member 501', which can be conical, has a flexible receiving end 505
for receiving an end 403 of member 401. Receiving end 505 has a
chamber or cavity formed therein for receiving a respective clip
end 403. The diameter of the chamber opening in the receiving end
505 of each piercing member 501' is smaller than a diameter of the
enlarged clip end such that the clip end may be readily snapped
into and out of the piercing member. Each removable piercing member
also can have a thinned cross-section adjacent to the opening
formed therein to enhance the ability to releasably snap the clip
end into and out of the tissue piercing member. When the clip end
is spherical, the opening in receiving end 505 can be circular with
a diameter that is slightly smaller than the diameter of the
spherical clip end. When other clip end shapes are used, the
opening is suitably configured to mate therewith and facilitate a
similar snap fit so that the clip end can be releasably locked in
the tissue piercing member.
[0056] Referring to FIG. 5C, a clip 510'' is shown according to
another embodiment of the invention with a piercing member 501''
fixedly attached to the end of clip member 401. When a clip member
having a circular cross-section is used, the end of clip member 401
can terminate or be positioned in a cylindrical hole or bore 506
formed in piercing member 501''. Piercing member 501'' can be press
fit, soldered, glued or otherwise attached to clip member 401.
Further, piercing members 501' and 501'' can form the clip end or
spring restraint member to so that each spring is compressed
between a respective piercing member and disk 409. It also should
be understood that piercing members 501'' can be integrally formed
with clip member 401 as described above.
[0057] According to another aspect of the invention, a clip holding
and release mechanism is provided. The holding and release
mechanism enables one to hold the clip and introduce the clip
through a tissue opening, pass the clip through tissue adjacent the
opening from the inner surface the tissue to the outer surface of
the tissue, and to release the clip so as to allow the clip to
return toward its closed configuration. The holding and release
mechanism can be constructed to provide an infinite number of clip
positions between the aforementioned open and closed
configurations.
[0058] Referring to FIGS. 6, 7, 7A and 7B, one embodiment of a clip
holding and release mechanism for use with clip delivery apparatus
300 is shown and generally designated with reference numeral 600.
Clip release mechanism 600 is shown in an exploded view in FIG. 6,
an assembled perspective view of in FIG. 7, and in diagrammatic
sectional views in FIGS. 7A and B.
[0059] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, clip holding and release
mechanism 600 is placed in sheath 301 of clip delivery apparatus
300 (FIG. 3) and can be used in conjunction with clip 410, 510,
510', or 510''. Clip release mechanism 600 generally comprises a
body member or clip actuator controller 620, having a hole or bore
621 formed therein, and a clip holder 611 slidably mounted in bore
621. A distal end of inner member 303 of clip delivery apparatus
300 is secured to the proximal end of clip holder 611, such as by
welding or gluing, for proximally or distally translating the clip
holder in bore 621. The distal end portion of body member 620 has a
longitudinal slot 623 formed therein, which is aligned with slot
307 in sheath 301 before body 620 is secured in sheath 301. Slots
307 and 623 are sized to allow the clip to pass therethrough. With
the slots aligned, body member 620 is secured in position in sheath
301. Body 620 can be constructed to form a friction fit with sheath
301 or it can be attached to the sheath through other known means
such as gluing, soldering or welding.
[0060] Body member or controller 620 also has distally arranged or
located sloped surfaces 625, which generally form a tapered section
in the distal direction and through which slot 623 extends, and
proximally arranged or located parallel surfaces 627 into which
slot 623 also extends. Surfaces 625 and 627 provide a mechanism to
apply force against the biasing mechanisms of the clip or control
the movement of biasing member actuators 409 and move the clip
toward an open or closed configuration as will be described in more
detail below with reference to FIGS. 8A-E. Although slot 623 is
shown as bisecting surfaces 625 and 627 to provide an indication of
the clip location and facilitate accurate placement or centering of
the clips beneath a tissue opening, it should be understood that
the slots need not necessarily be so located and can be otherwise
arranged to facilitate bridging the opening with the clip.
[0061] Clip holder 611 comprises a spring clamp having arms which
curve toward one another at the clip holder distal end 602. When
the clip holder distal end is closed, it holds the clip as shown in
FIG. 7A and when it is open, it releases the clip as shown in FIG.
7B. More specifically, as clip holder 611 is moved distally in bore
621, the inner wall surfaces 650 of body member 620 bias the clamp
to a closed or near closed position where there is no gap or an
insufficient gap between the clamp arms at distal end 602 to allow
the clip (e.g., clip 510) to pass therethrough (FIG. 7A). As clip
holder 611 is retracted or moved proximally within bore 623 the
inwardly curved portions of the clamp arms move outwardly toward
their relaxed state to engage opposed walls 650, which are spaced
from one another by a fixed distance generally indicated with
reference numeral 652 (FIG. 7B). This allows the gap between the
arms at the distal end 602 of holder 611 to increase and the clip
to pass therethrough. Although a fixed or constant distance between
the working walls 650 is shown and described, other configurations
can be used. For example, walls 650 can be stepped at their
proximal end so as to increase distance 652 in one step and allow
the clamp arms to expand or walls 650 can be sloped outwardly in a
distal direction. In either of these examples, the clip holder arm
configuration can remain as shown or other configurations can be
used such as one with a 90.degree. angle formed near the distal
ends of the arms. Other variations also can be made without
departing from the scope of the invention.
[0062] When loading clip delivery apparatus 300 with a clip, clip
holder 611 is moved proximally until the clamp arms of clip holder
611 are sufficiently spaced to allow a clip, such as clip 510, to
pass therethrough (see e.g., FIG. 7). The clip is then introduced
through slots 307 and 623 with rings or disks 409 positioned
outside sloped or tapered surfaces 625 (FIG. 7) and then moved
proximally through the opening between the clamp arms ends of clip
holder 611 (FIG. 7B). Clip holder 611 is then moved distally to the
distal end portion of body 620 where the clip assumes an
intermediate configuration. In this configuration, the clip
delivery apparatus is ready for use. As will be described in more
detail below, the sloped surfaces of body member 620 progressively
increase or decrease the space between rings 409 and the parallel
surfaces maintain a constant space between rings 409. Specifically,
the portion of clip member 401 located between rings 409 passes
through slot 623 and rings 409 seat on opposite surfaces 625. By
translating the clip, such as clip 510, proximally along sloped
surface 625 towards parallel surfaces 627, the separation between
rings 409 increases, causing the clip to open further as shown in
the progression from FIGS. 8A to 8C.
[0063] An exemplary description of the operation of apparatus 300
will be made with reference to FIGS. 8A-8E, clip 510 and clip
release mechanism 600 in connection with closing an opening in a
femoral artery. It should be understood, however, that this example
is provided for purposes of example and is not intended to limit
the scope of the invention. For example, the apparatus can be used
to close openings other than those in a femoral artery as set forth
above.
[0064] Referring to FIG. 8A, clip delivery apparatus 300, having
clip 510 loaded therein and biased away from a closed
configuration, is introduced through an opening in tissue T and
through opening O in wall W of femoral artery A. Opening O may or
may not have a cannula or sheath (not shown) placed therethrough
for maintaining the opening. Specifically, the clip delivery
apparatus may be placed through a tissue opening to the site of
opening O, or may be placed through a cannula or sheath. It is
usually the case in surgical procedures, and in particular in
minimally invasive procedures that the opening O is a percutaneous
opening having a trocar through which various surgical devices are
provided access to artery A. In the example of FIG. 8A, the clip
delivery apparatus 300 has been inserted into the trocar (not
shown), which is removed prior to sealing opening O and more
specifically before the clip is opened and positioned for
penetrating the tissue as shown in FIG. 8C.
[0065] FIG. 8A shows a portion of clip 510 positioned in slot 623
with clip 510 at the distal end portion of body member 620 and in a
partially open or intermediate configuration. Clip delivery
apparatus 300 and clip 510 is then distally translated to a
predetermined penetration depth "P" into the artery as shown in
FIG. 8B. The penetration depth P is sufficient to position tips 503
of clip 510 beneath artery wall W without touching the wall. As
noted above, the depth P may be determined by markings or indicia
on delivery apparatus 300. With the delivery apparatus positioned
as shown in FIG. 8B, sheath 301 is held in place with body member
620 secured thereto, while inner member 303 with clip holder 611
attached thereto is retracted or proximally translated from artery
A, for example, by pulling on inner knob 306 (FIG. 3A). Since
holder 611, which is attached to inner member 303, is releasably
attached to clip 510, the clip moves proximally along sloped
surfaces 625 as clip holder 611 is retracted. This forces rings or
disks 409 against the clip coils 407 and toward the piercing ends
of clip 510 to further open the clip (FIG. 8B). Clip holder 611 is
further retracted so that disks 409 engage parallel surfaces 627 as
shown in (FIG. 8C), where the bias forces cause the clip to assume
an open configuration with the piercing ends ready to engage the
inner surface of a portion of the tissue adjacent the opening.
[0066] With clip 510 in the open configuration as shown in FIG. 8C,
clip delivery apparatus with inner member 303 and clip holder 611
is retracted or proximally translated causing clip 510 to pierce
wall W and bridge the opening, e.g., on diametrically opposed sides
of opening O (FIG. 8D). With the open clip penetrated through wall
W, clip holder 611 is further retracted to release clip 510
therefrom. Sheath 301 and inner member 303 with holder 611 are
further proximally retracted together, for example, by pulling on
inner knob 306 and outer knob 304 causing tissue edges surrounding
the opening to slide along the clip and come together. The
apparatus is further retracted causing body member 620 to release
the clip, thereby allowing the clip to move toward its closed
configuration 410C as shown in FIG. 8E and hold or secure the
tissue edges together. In this manner, the opening can be
sealed.
[0067] For some types of tissue, the clip piercing members 501 may
be left in place. Examples of tissue which may not be sensitive to
retaining a piercing member include stomach, bowel or colon tissue.
For other types of tissue, such as coronary, aorta or other
blood-carrying tissue, it may be preferable, though not necessary,
to remove the piercing members for various reasons including to
promote healing of the puncture site, to prevent further piercing
of the tissue, or to reduce the likelihood of irritation of the
tissue. In the foregoing example, which involves closure of an
opening in a femoral artery, the piercing members 501 can be
removed from the clip by cutting, or they can be removed by pulling
the piercing members 501 off the clip when a releasably mounted
piecing member configuration is used such as that shown in FIG. 5B.
Various piercing member removal apparatus are described in detail
below in accordance with further aspects of the invention.
[0068] Referring to FIG. 9, clip delivery apparatus 900, which
includes a piercing member removal mechanism in accordance with
another embodiment of the invention, is shown. More specifically,
clip delivery apparatus 900 is the same as clip delivery apparatus
300 with the exception of having a piercing member removal
apparatus incorporated therein.
[0069] Delivery apparatus 900 extends from a proximal end 909 to a
distal end 905, and includes a sheath or tubular outer member 901
having an outer knob 904 near the proximal end, and an inner member
903 (which can be a solid or tubular rod) extending substantially
along the length of the delivery apparatus and having an inner knob
906 secured thereto or formed therewith at the proximal end of the
apparatus.
[0070] A slot 907, which is the same as slot 307, bisects a distal
portion of sheath 901 in a longitudinal direction and extends along
diametrically opposed portions or sides of the distal end portion
of the sheath. Delivery apparatus 900 provides for the delivery of
a clip through slot 907 through actuation of inner knob 906 and/or
outer knob 904 as discussed above in connection with delivery
apparatus 300. Specifically, outer knob 904 is connected to sheath
901 near proximal end 909 by, for example, welding or gluing or it
is formed therewith so that outer knob 904 can be used to axially
translate or rotate sheath 901 along or about inner member 903.
Inner knob 906 is connected to inner member 903 such as by welding
or gluing. In turn, the distal end of inner member 903 is coupled
to a clip holding and release mechanism or it can form part of such
a mechanism such as the clip holding and release mechanism
described above with reference to FIGS. 6-8. With knob 906 secured
to inner member 903, knob 906 can be used by an operator or surgeon
to axially translate or rotate inner member 903 relative to sheath
901 to actuate the clip holding and release mechanism and load a
clip in or deploy a clip from apparatus 900.
[0071] Delivery apparatus 900 has a generally cylindrical shape
that terminates in a curved or blunt distal end portion like
delivery apparatus 300. This shape facilitates the use of the
device to remotely place clips through surgical openings in a body
and release the clips from distal end 905.
[0072] In addition, clip delivery apparatus 900 includes a pair of
piercing member removal mechanisms and actuators for actuating the
removal mechanisms, which are generally indicated with reference
numeral 910. Each piercing member removal mechanism 910 includes a
pair of support members 917 and piercing member intercepting or
restraining portions 919, which in the illustrative embodiment are
provided at or secured to the distal end of the support members.
Support members 917 can have any suitable shape for providing a
support or base for intercepting portions 919. For example, each
support member 917 can be a flat elongated member or it can have a
semi-circular, crescent, rectangular, square, or other transverse
cross-sectional shape. The proximal ends of support members 917 are
connected to arms or rods 913, which extend proximally beside
member 303 and connect to plunger arms 911. Alternatively, arms 913
and plunger arms 911 can be integrally formed. Plunger arms
911extend through diametrically opposed slots, which are formed in
sheath 901 and extend in a longitudinal direction sufficiently to
allow plunger arms 911 to move between two positions. In the
proximal most position, plunger arms are in a fully retracted,
proximal position as shown in dashed line and the removal
mechanisms 910 are retracted through openings in sheath 901. In the
distal most position, plunger arms are in the position shown in
FIG. 9 and removal mechanisms 910 are extended from the opening for
engaging piercing members. In this manner, plunger arms 911 and
rods 913 actuate deployment of removal mechanisms 910.
[0073] Referring to FIGS. 10A-C, one removal mechanism arrangement
will be described where FIGS. 10A and 10B illustrate retracted and
extended side views of the distal end portion of clip delivery
apparatus 900 and FIG. 10C is a front view of FIG. 10B. Removal
mechanism 910 are shown in a retracted position in FIG. 10A and in
a deployed position in FIG. 10B. As shown in FIG. 10C, sheath 901
has a pair of diametrically opposed sloping portions 1003, which
slope outwardly in a distal direction, and openings 1001 at the
proximal end of sloping portions 1003. When plunger arms 911 are
moved distally, rods 913 and removal mechanisms 910 are moved
therewith. Piercing member removal mechanisms 910, each having an
end portion lodged between a respective opening 1001 and portion
1003 to position or guide rods 913, slide distally and outwardly
along sloping portions 1003 of sheath 901, thereby positioning
intercepting portions 919 to engage piercing members such as
piercing members 501'. Openings 1001 and sloping surfaces 1003 can
be made by forming diametrically opposed transverse cuts in tubular
sheath 901 and radially compressing the sheath distally of the
cuts.
[0074] Referring to FIGS. 11A to 11E, delivery apparatus 900 is
diagrammatically shown sealing a tissue opening with a clip having
removable piercing members 501'. FIG. 11A shows clip 510' coupled
to clip delivery apparatus 900 and beneath opening O in vessel wall
W. If a cannula or sheath had been used to surround clip delivery
apparatus 900 for insertion into opening O, it has, at this point,
been retracted to allow for unimpeded operation of piercing member
removal mechanisms 910. Clip 510' is shown in an open position with
removable piercing members 501' adjacent wall W. Plunger arms 911
are moved distally to deploy removal mechanisms 910 from sheath 901
as shown in FIG. 11B. The removal mechanisms are configured and
arranged so that when they are fully deployed, intercepting
portions 919 oppose removable piercing members 501' as shown in
FIG. 11B.
[0075] Referring to FIG. 11C, inner member 903 is proximally
translated to pull or force clip 510' proximally and pierce wall W
in a manner similar to that shown in FIG. 8D. In addition to
piercing wall W, removable piercing members 501' enter or engage
intercepting portions 919. Intercepting portions 919 are configured
to hold or capture removable piercing members 501' or to allow only
one-way travel therethrough. As plunger arms 911 (not shown) are
retracted to retract removal mechanisms 917 within sheath 901,
piercing members 501' are removed from clip 510' (FIG. 11D). Clip
delivery apparatus 900 is further retracted to approximate the
tissue edges of the opening along the clip and then fully retracted
from the wound site, removing piercing members 501' for disposal,
ejecting clip 510' and allowing clip 510' to move toward a closed
loop configuration to hold the tissue edges together (FIG. 11E).
Although this example has been made with reference to a vessel wall
and clip 510', the apparatus can be used to seal other openings and
other clips can be used.
[0076] Intercepting portions 919 can have various configurations.
Referring to FIGS. 12A to 12C, one embodiment for intercepting
portion 919 is shown and generally designated with reference
numeral 919'. Intercepting portion 919' comprises a thin sheet of
mesh 1201, which is secured to the distal edge of support member
917. Intercepting portion 919' can be etched stainless steel and
welded or brazed to the end of support member 917. Mesh 1201
includes a plurality of holes 1203 that are slightly smaller than
the diameter of piercing members 501'. FIG. 12A diagrammatically
illustrates clip 510' with piercing member 501' approaching a mesh
hole 1203 and FIG. 12B shows the piercing member being forced
through the mesh hole. Once piercing member 501' has fully passed
through the mesh hole, it is not retractable due to its base having
a larger diameter than that of the hole. As the removal mechanism
is retracted, piercing member 501' is caught in mesh 1201 and
removed from the clip.
[0077] FIGS. 13A to 13C illustrate another embodiment of
intercepting portion 919, which is generally designated with
reference numeral 919''. Intercepting portion 919'' comprises a
flap 1301 having a plurality of slits 1302 formed therein and
having a width less than the base of the piercing members for
trapping a piercing member. Slits 1302 can be parallel as shown in
the drawings or they can be otherwise arranged. For example, they
can be arranged in parallel on a diagonal. Alternatively, they need
not be arranged in parallel. Intercepting portion 919'' can be
etched stainless steel and welded or brazed to the end of support
member 917. Intercepting portion 919'' can be formed from a single
sheet of material and folded to form peak or edge 1307.
Alternatively, intercepting portion 919'' can comprises two
connected portions 1303 and 1305 that are folded to form a peak or
common edge 1307. In either case the peak is formed to extend in
the same direction as approaching piercing member 501'. This
configuration assists in guiding the piercing member toward the
region where edge 1307 is formed, which can be at the center of
intercepting portion 919''. Accordingly, peak 1307 can be arranged
to guide the piercing member to the center of intercepting portion
919''.
[0078] FIG. 13A shows clip 510' with piercing member 501'
approaching intercepting portion 919''. FIG. 13B shows the piercing
member being forced through peak or edge 1307 of the flap. FIG. 13C
shows the flap portions closing about the clip below the piercing
member, thus resisting or precluding the piecing member from
passing through the flap in the reverse or opposite direction. As
the removal mechanism is retracted, intercepting portion 1301
separates piercing member 501' from the clip and the piercing
member is removed with the removal mechanism.
[0079] Variations and modifications of the devices and methods
disclosed herein will be readily apparent to persons skilled in the
art. As such, it should be understood that the foregoing detailed
description and the accompanying illustrations are made for
purposes of clarity and understanding, and are not intended to
limit the scope of the invention, which is defined by the claims
appended hereto. Further, all publications, patents, and patent
applications cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference in
their entirety for all purposes.
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