U.S. patent application number 13/792019 was filed with the patent office on 2013-08-01 for implantable flow connector.
This patent application is currently assigned to Bioconnect Systems, Inc.. The applicant listed for this patent is Adam Dakin, Peter Hinchiffe, Mahesh Krishnamoorthy, Michael Longo, Michael Paris, Jin Park, Todd Polk. Invention is credited to Adam Dakin, Peter Hinchiffe, Mahesh Krishnamoorthy, Michael Longo, Michael Paris, Jin Park, Todd Polk.
Application Number | 20130197546 13/792019 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 48870885 |
Filed Date | 2013-08-01 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130197546 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Paris; Michael ; et
al. |
August 1, 2013 |
IMPLANTABLE FLOW CONNECTOR
Abstract
A system for coupling a first space within the body of a patient
with a second space within the body of the patient including a flow
connector insertable into the first and second spaces within the
body, the flow connector having a conduit having a lumen having a
first orifice at a first portion of the conduit and a second
orifice at a second portion of the conduit, the conduit providing
communication between the first and second spaces within the body.
A retention device retains the conduit with respect to the first
space within the body and is engageable with the first space within
the body.
Inventors: |
Paris; Michael; (Lansdale,
PA) ; Dakin; Adam; (Fort Washington, PA) ;
Polk; Todd; (Doylestown, PA) ; Krishnamoorthy;
Mahesh; (Lansdale, PA) ; Park; Jin;
(Parsippany, NJ) ; Longo; Michael; (Glenmoore,
PA) ; Hinchiffe; Peter; (Campbell Hall, NY) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Paris; Michael
Dakin; Adam
Polk; Todd
Krishnamoorthy; Mahesh
Park; Jin
Longo; Michael
Hinchiffe; Peter |
Lansdale
Fort Washington
Doylestown
Lansdale
Parsippany
Glenmoore
Campbell Hall |
PA
PA
PA
PA
NJ
PA
NY |
US
US
US
US
US
US
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Bioconnect Systems, Inc.
Ambler
PA
|
Family ID: |
48870885 |
Appl. No.: |
13/792019 |
Filed: |
March 9, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
13716179 |
Dec 16, 2012 |
|
|
|
13792019 |
|
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|
|
12185811 |
Aug 4, 2008 |
8366651 |
|
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13716179 |
|
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|
61624375 |
Apr 15, 2012 |
|
|
|
60953570 |
Aug 2, 2007 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
606/153 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B 17/11 20130101;
A61M 27/002 20130101; A61B 17/0643 20130101; A61B 17/12009
20130101; A61B 17/0644 20130101; A61B 2017/1107 20130101; A61B
2017/1135 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
606/153 |
International
Class: |
A61B 17/11 20060101
A61B017/11 |
Claims
1. A system for coupling a first space within the body of a patient
with a second space within the body of the patient, the system
comprising: a flow connector insertable into the first and second
spaces within the body, the flow connector having a conduit having
a lumen having a first orifice at a first portion of the conduit
and a second orifice at a second portion of the conduit, the
conduit providing communication between the first and second spaces
within the body; and a retention device for retaining the conduit
with respect to the first space within the body and engageable with
the first space within the body.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein the retention device is movable
to a reduced profile position for insertion.
3. The system of claim 1, wherein the retention device includes a
first set of engaging elements extending therefrom configured to
penetrate the first space within the body.
4. The system of claim 1, wherein the retention device includes a
second set of engaging elements extending therefrom configured to
penetrate the second space within the body.
5. The system of claim 1, wherein the flow connector is positioned
within an opening in the retention device and in a placement
position, the retention device is positioned between an outer
surface of the flow connector and an inner surface of the second
space within the body.
6. The system of claim 5, wherein, the flow connector applies an
outwardly directed radial force to the retention device.
7. The system of claim 1, wherein the retention device is
positioned about an outer surface of the second space within the
body and in a placement position the second body space is
positioned between an outer surface of the flow connector and an
inner surface of the retention device.
8. The system of claim 1, wherein the flow connector includes a
flange extending radially outwardly and insertable into the first
body space, wherein the flange includes first and second lateral
sections and first and second longitudinal sections, the first and
second lateral sections are configured to cooperate with walls of
the first space such that the flange sealingly conforms to an inner
surface of a tissue wall adjacent an opening in the first
space.
9. The system of claim 1, wherein the retention device comprises an
inner component and an outer component, at least one of the inner
and outer components being relatively slidable with respect to the
other component.
10. The system of claim 9, wherein the inner component is movable
from a first configuration to a second spread configuration to
provide an axial opening therein for side receipt of the second
body space.
11. The system of claim 1, wherein the retention device includes a
proximal component and a distal component, the proximal component
engageable with the first body space and the distal component
engageable with the second body space, the proximal and distal
components interlocking.
12. An implantable flow connector implantable into a body of a
patient for fluidly coupling a first space within the body of the
patient with a second space within the body of the patient, the
implantable flow connector comprising: a conduit having a lumen
having a first orifice at a first portion of the conduit and a
second orifice at a second portion of the conduit, the conduit
configured to be implanted into the second space within the body to
provide fluid flow between the first and second spaces within the
body; and a retention portion having radially extending wall
engaging portions, the retention device engageable with the first
and second spaces within the body.
13. The implantable flow connector of claim 12, wherein the
retention portion is embedded in a wall of the conduit.
14. The implantable flow connector of claim 12, wherein the
retention portion includes a plurality of struts with radially
extending penetrating elements.
15. The implantable flow connector of claim 12, further comprising
a flange extending radially from the conduit;
16. A retention device for retaining a first body space and a
second body space within a patient, the retention device comprising
a first set of engaging members extending from the first component
to engage the first body space and a second set of engaging members
extending from the second component to engage the second body space
to retain the first and second body spaces for coupling of the
first and second body spaces.
17. The retention device of claim 16, wherein the retention device
comprises a first component and a second component, the first
component movable relative to the second component, and the first
set of engaging members extends from the first component to engage
and the second set of engaging members extends from the second
component.
18. The retention device of claim 16, wherein the first and second
engaging members have tissue penetrating tips.
19. The retention device of claim 16, wherein the first and second
components releasably interlock.
20. The retention device of claim 16, further comprising a
non-porous material attached thereto to enable fluid coupling of
the first and second body spaces.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
application No. 61/624,375, filed Apr. 15, 2012 and is a
continuation in part of U.S. application Ser. No. 13/716,179, filed
Dec. 16, 2012 which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.
12/185,811, filed Aug. 4, 2008, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,366,651, which
claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/953,570,
filed Aug. 2, 2007. The entire contents of each of these
applications are hereby incorporated by reference herein.
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates generally to implantable
medical devices and, more particularly, to implantable flow
connectors.
[0004] 2. Related Art
[0005] The mammalian body has numerous tissue-enclosed body spaces.
For example, body conduits such as blood vessels, lymph and tear
ducts, bowels, urethra, etc., have a lumen through which fluid is
carried to facilitate circulation, excretion or other fluid
transfer function. Tissue-enclosed body spaces also include body
reservoirs such as the stomach, bladder, gall bladder, lymph nodes,
etc., which temporarily or permanently retain fluid.
[0006] It is often necessary or desirable to directly or indirectly
connect body spaces to one another, to other areas in the body, or
to an external or implantable medical device such as a sensor,
pump, drug delivery system, or other permanently or temporarily
implanted therapeutic device. For example, when vessels are
damaged, severed or occluded due to physiological conditions,
surgical intervention, or disease, certain sections of those
vessels are typically bypassed to allow for the free and continuous
flow of fluids. For example, an anastomosis is commonly performed
for the purpose of connecting different blood vessels together to
optimize or redirect blood flow around a damaged or occluded
portion of a vessel or to redirect arterial flow into the venous
system for enabling dialysis access.
[0007] In the context of the peripheral vascular and/or the
cardiovascular system, atherosclerosis may cause partial or
complete occlusion of an arterial vessel. This may result in
restricted blood flow which may compromise perfusion to the tissue
served by the blood flow. In the case of an occluded coronary
vessel, for example, an area of the heart's myocardium would be
compromised, which may lead to a myocardial infarction or other
ischemic heart syndrome such as congestive heart failure. In the
case of peripheral vascular atherosclerotic disease, occluded
vessels lead to ischemic syndromes such as threatened limbs, stroke
and other morbidities. Many cases, such a blockage or restriction
in the blood flow leading to the heart or peripheral vessels, may
be treated by a surgical procedure known as an artery bypass graft
procedure.
[0008] A bypass procedure involves establishing an alternate blood
supply path to bypass a diseased section of a diseased or
compromised artery. In the bypass procedure, a surgeon typically
dissects one end of a source or `pedicled` artery (such as the
internal mammary artery in the case of coronary artery bypass), or
a free vessel segment (typically the saphenous vein in the leg), to
use as a graft conduit to bypass the obstruction in the affected
artery to restore normal blood flow. The graft vessel is connected
to the obstructed vessel by means of an anastomosis procedure
wherein an opening in the graft vessel is sutured to the obstructed
vessel at an arteriotomy site made within the obstructed vessel.
There are other indications for vessel anastomoses including
revascularizing diseased arteries by creating a side-to side
anastomosis between the distal end of the artery and an adjacent
vein, thereby allowing the portion of the vein distal the occlusion
to become "arterialized." Another indication includes arterial
revascularization by "arterializing" a vein through creation of a
conduit downstream of the occlusive disease.
[0009] The creation of an arteriovenous (AV) fistula is another
instance where two body conduits are joined together and involves
surgically joining an artery to a vein. AV fistulas are formed for
a variety of reasons, one being to provide vascular access for
hemodialysis patients. In such an application, the most common site
for creation of the AV fistula is the upper extremity, though the
lower extremity may also be used. Various surgical techniques and
methods may be employed to create the AV fistula. Another
indication for creation of an AV fistula is the connection of major
vessels such as the aorta and the vena cava in patients with
chronic obstruction pulmonary disease (COPD).
[0010] The patency of an anastomosis contributes to a successful
bypass or AV fistula, both by acute and long-term evaluation.
Patency may be compromised due to technical, biomechanical or
pathophysiological causes. Among the technical and biomechanical
causes for compromised patency are poorly achieved anastomoses due
to, for example, poor technique, trauma, thrombosis, intimal
hyperplasia or adverse biological responses to the anastomosis.
Improperly anastomosed vessels may lead to leakage, create thrombus
and/or lead to further stenosis at the communication site, possibly
requiring re-operation or further intervention. As such, forming an
anastomosis is a critical procedure in bypass or AV fistula
surgery, requiring precision and accuracy on the part of the
surgeon.
[0011] A common traditional approach for forming an anastomosis is
to suture together natural or artificial openings in the vessels.
To do so, according to one approach, a surgeon delicately sews the
vessels together being careful not to suture too tightly so as to
tear the delicate tissue, nor to suture too loosely so as to permit
leakage of fluid from the anastomosis. In addition to creating a
surgical field in which it is difficult to see, leakage of fluid
from the anastomosis can cause serious acute or chronic
complications, which may be fatal. In addition to the inherent
inconsistencies in suture tightness, incision length, placement of
the suture, stitch size, and reproducibility, suturing an
anastomosis can be very time consuming. This difficulty is
compounded by the relatively small dimensions of the vessels
involved or the diseased state of the vessel when creating an AV
fistula.
SUMMARY
[0012] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, an
implantable flow connector for fluidly coupling a source
tissue-enclosed body space with a destination conduit is provided.
The flow connector includes a conduit having a lumen terminating at
a first orifice at a first end of the conduit implantable in the
source body space through an opening formed in a tissue wall of the
source body space, and a second end of the conduit having a second
orifice implantable in the destination conduit through an opening
at an end of the destination conduit, and a circumferential flange
radially extending from the conduit, proximate the conduit first
end, configured to be implanted in the source body space adjacent
an opening in the tissue wall of the source body space such that
the conduit extends through the opening.
[0013] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention,
a system for coupling a first space within the body of a patient
with a second space within the body of the patient is provided. The
system comprises a retention device and a flow connector. The flow
connector is insertable into the first and second spaces within the
body and has a conduit having a lumen having a first orifice at a
first portion of the conduit and a second orifice at a second
portion of the conduit, the conduit providing communication between
the first and second spaces within the body. The retention device
retains the conduit with respect to the first space within the body
and is engageable with the first space within the body.
[0014] Preferably, the retention device is movable to a reduced
profile position for insertion.
[0015] In some embodiments, the retention device includes a first
set of engaging elements extending therefrom configured to
penetrate a wall of the first space within the body and/or a second
set of engaging elements extending therefrom configured to
penetrate a wall of the second space within the body.
[0016] In some embodiments, the flow connector is positioned within
an opening in the retention device and in a placement position the
retention device is positioned between an outer surface of the flow
connector and an inner surface of the second space within the body.
The flow connector can apply an outwardly directed radial force to
the retention device. In other embodiments, the retention device is
positioned about an outer surface of the second space within the
body and in a placement position the second body space is
positioned between an outer surface of the flow connector and an
inner surface of the retention device.
[0017] The flow connector preferably includes a flange extending
radially outwardly and insertable into the first body space. The
flange can include first and second lateral sections and first and
second longitudinal sections, the first and second lateral sections
configured to cooperate with walls of the first space such that the
flange sealingly conforms to an inner surface of a tissue wall
adjacent an opening in the first space. The first and second
longitudinal sections can extend further radially from the conduit
than the first and second lateral sections.
[0018] In some embodiments, the retention device comprises an inner
component and an outer component wherein at least one of the inner
and outer components is relatively slidable with respect to the
other component. The outer component can include a compression
member to provide a proximal force on the inner body member. The
inner body member can be movable from a first configuration to a
second spread configuration to provide an axial opening therein for
side receipt of the second body space.
[0019] In some embodiments, the retention device includes a
proximal component and a distal component wherein the proximal
component is engageable with the first body space and the distal
component is engageable with the second body space, the proximal
and distal components interlocking.
[0020] The various retention devices disclosed herein can include a
plurality of struts and the plurality of struts can in some
embodiments form closed geometric shapes.
[0021] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention,
a system for coupling a first space within the body of a patient
with a second space within the body of the patient is provided
comprising a flow connector having a conduit having a lumen having
a first orifice at a first portion of the conduit and a second
orifice at a second portion of the conduit, the conduit configured
to be implanted into the second space within the body to provide
communication between the first and second spaces within the body.
The system of this aspect also includes a retention device having
an opening to receive the conduit, the retention device having a
first set of engaging members to engage the first space within the
body and a second set of engaging members to engage the second
space within the body, the retention device maintaining the conduit
in position with respect to at least of the first and second body
spaces. The first set of engaging members can comprise a first set
of penetrating elements with penetrating tips protruding radially
therefrom to penetrate a wall of the first space within the body
and the second set of engaging elements can comprise penetrating
elements configured to pierce a wall of the second space within the
body when the second space is positioned over the retention
device.
[0022] In some embodiments, in a placement position the retention
device is disposed between an outer surface of the conduit and an
inner wall of the second space within the body.
[0023] The retention device is preferably movable to a reduced
profile configuration for insertion.
[0024] In some embodiments, the retention device comprises first
and second components movable from a spaced position to an engaged
position, the first set of engaging members extending from the
first component and the second set of engaging elements extending
from the second component.
[0025] In some embodiments, the first set of engaging members
extends toward a proximal end of the retention device.
[0026] In some embodiments, the flow connector includes a flange
extending radially from the first portion of the conduit and is
configured to be implanted in the first space within the body
[0027] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention,
a system is provided for coupling a first space within the body of
a patient with a second space within the body of the patient
comprising a flow connector insertable into the first and second
spaces within the body, the flow connector having a conduit having
a lumen having a first orifice at a first portion of the conduit
and a second orifice at a second portion of the conduit, the
conduit providing communication between the first and second spaces
within the body. The system of this aspect includes a retention
device for retaining the conduit within the second space within the
body, the retention device including a plurality of struts and
having an axial opening to receive and engage the flow
connector
[0028] Preferably, the retention device is movable to a reduced
profile position for insertion.
[0029] In some embodiments, the retention device is movable to an
expanded open position to receive the flow connector therein.
[0030] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention,
a system for fluidly coupling a first space within the body of a
patient with a second space within the body of the patient is
provided comprising a first device, a second device engageable with
the first device, and a flow connector having a conduit having a
lumen having a first orifice at a first portion of the conduit and
a second orifice at a second portion of the conduit, the conduit
configured to be implanted into the second space within the body to
provide communication between the first and second spaces within
the body. The first device engages with at least one of the flow
connector and the first space within the body and the second device
engages with at least one of the flow connector and second space
within the body.
[0031] In some embodiments, a first plurality of engaging elements
extend from the first device to engage a wall of the first body
space and a second plurality of engaging elements extend from the
second device to engage a wall of the second body space.
[0032] In some embodiments, the second device is positioned over
the first device and internal of the second body space. In some
embodiments, at least one of the first and second devices can be
slidable relative to the other device and the second device can be
positioned external of the second body space. The first device can
extend distally of the first device when the first and second
devices are interlocked.
[0033] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention,
an implantable flow connector implantable into a body of a patient
for fluidly coupling a first space within the body of the patient
with a second space within the body of the patient is provided. The
implantable flow connector comprises a conduit having a lumen
having a first orifice at a first portion of the conduit and a
second orifice at a second portion of the conduit, the conduit
configured to be implanted into the second space within the body to
provide fluid flow between the first and second spaces within the
body, and a retention portion having radially extending wall
engaging portions, the retention device engageable with the first
and second spaces within the body.
[0034] In some embodiments, the retention portion is embedded in a
wall of the conduit.
[0035] The retention portion can include a plurality of struts with
radially extending penetrating elements. The flow connector can
include a flange extending radially from the conduit.
[0036] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention,
a system for coupling a first space within the body of a patient
with a second space within the body of the patient is provided, the
system comprising a flow connector having a conduit and a flange,
the conduit having a lumen having a first orifice at a first
portion of the conduit and a second orifice at a second portion of
the conduit, the conduit configured to be implanted into the second
space within the body to provide communication between the first
and second spaces within the body, the conduit dimensioned to
receive the second space within the body thereover, the flange
extending radially from the first portion of the conduit and
configured to be implanted in the first space within the body, and
a retention device having an opening to receive the first body
space such that in a placement position the first space within the
body is positioned between an external wall of the flow connector
and an internal wall of the retention device, the retention device
having a plurality of anchoring tabs at a distal portion
positionable external of the first space within the body.
Preferably, the anchoring tabs provide an anchor for suture passed
through the first space within the body.
[0037] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention,
a retention device for retaining a first body space and a second
body space is provided, the retention device comprising a first set
of engaging members extending from the first component to engage
the first body space and a second set of engaging members extending
from the second component to engage the second body space to retain
the first and second body spaces to couple the first and second
body spaces. In some embodiments, the retention device enables
fluid coupling of the first and second body spaces. A non-porous
material can be attached internal and/or external of the retention
device to enable fluid coupling of the first and second body
spaces.
[0038] In some embodiments, the retention device comprises a first
component and a second component, the first component movable
relative to the second component, and a first set of engaging
members can extend from the first component and the second set of
engaging members can extend from the second component. Preferably,
the first and second engaging members have tissue penetrating tips.
In some embodiments, the first and second components releasably
interlock. The first and second components can interlock by a
protrusion on one of the components engaging an opening in the
other component.
[0039] In some embodiments, the retention device is formed of a
plurality of struts and has an axial opening.
[0040] The present invention also includes method of implanting the
flow connector. In accordance with one method of the present
invention a method of implanting and securing an implantable flow
connector in a body of a patient for providing communication of a
first space within the body of the patient with a second space
within the body of the patient is provided comprising the steps of
a) providing a flow connector having a lumen having a first orifice
at a first portion of the conduit and a second orifice at a second
portion. b) providing a retention device having a proximal portion
and a distal portion, c) inserting the retention device into the
first space within the body, d) subsequently inserting the flow
connector through an opening in the retention device so the second
portion of the flow connector extends into the first space within
the body; and e) placing the second space within the body over the
retention device.
[0041] In some embodiments, the step of inserting the retention
device into the first space within the body comprises compressing
the retention device to reduce its outer diameter.
[0042] In some embodiments, the step of inserting the retention
device includes placing the retention device in a delivery cannula
wherein it is compressed and then releasing the retention device
from the cannula so it returns to a non-compressed position.
[0043] In some embodiments, the retention device includes a first
set of engaging elements with penetrating tips penetrating the
first space within the body when the distal portion of the
retention device is in a placement position within the first space
within the body and/or a second set of engaging elements with
penetrating tips penetrating a wall of the second space within the
body when the second space within the body is in a placement
position over the retention device.
[0044] The second portion of the flow connector can include a
flange extending radially from the connector and engaging an inner
wall of the first space within the body.
[0045] In some embodiments, the retention device includes a first
component and a second component, and the method further includes
the step of interlocking the first and second components. In some
embodiments, the first component is distal of the second component
and the second component engages the first space within the body
and the first component engages the second space within the
body.
[0046] In some embodiments, one of the first and second components
has at least one locking tab and the other component has at least
one slot, and the step of interlocking the components includes the
step of causing the at least one locking tab to locking engage the
at least one slot, and preferably the components can be released
after locking if desired.
[0047] In some embodiments, the step of inserting the flow
connector through an opening in the retention device includes the
step of placing the flow connector in a reduced profile position
within a delivery member and inserting the delivery member through
the opening in the retention device.
[0048] In some embodiments, the first space within the body is a
source body space and a proximal portion of the flow connector is
inserted through an opening formed in a tissue wall of the source
body space, and the second space within the body is a destination
element and a distal portion of the flow connector is insertable
into the destination element through an opening in a surface of the
destination element.
[0049] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention,
a method for forming a sutureless anastomosis between a first space
within a body of a patient and a second space within the body of
the patient is provided, the method comprising the steps of a)
providing a flow connector having a lumen having a first orifice at
a first portion of the conduit and a second orifice at a second
portion, b) providing a retention device having a plurality of
penetrating members engageable with the wall of at least one of the
spaces within the body; and c) positioning the flow connector
internally of the retention device.
[0050] In some embodiments, the flow connector includes a flange
extending radially outwardly from the second portion, and the
flange of the flow connector can be positioned in the first space
within the body and the first orifice can be positioned within the
second space within the body.
[0051] The method can further comprise the step of inserting the
retention device into the first space within the body wherein the
step of positioning the flow connector internally of the retention
device occurs subsequent to the step of inserting the retention
device into the first space within the body. The step of
positioning the flow connector internally of the retention device
can further comprise the step of opening the retention device to
provide a side entry to receive the flow connector therein.
[0052] The method may further comprise the step of placing the
second space within the body over an external wall of the retention
device, and this step can occur in some embodiments subsequent to
the step of positioning the flow connector internally of the
retention device.
[0053] In some embodiments, the retention device includes first and
second components, and the method further comprises the step of
interlocking the first and second components to secure the
components together and to maintain a fluid connection between the
first space within the body and the second space within the body.
The step of interlocking the components can include the step of
sliding the first component over the second component.
[0054] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention,
a method of implanting and securing an implantable flow connector
in a body of a patient for providing communication of a first space
within the body of the patient with a second space within the body
of the patient is provided, the method comprising a) providing a
flow connector having a lumen having a first orifice at a first
portion of the conduit, a second orifice at a second portion and a
retention portion, the retention portion having a first plurality
of penetrating members to engage the first body space, b) inserting
the flow connector into the first space within the body, and c)
placing the second space within the body over the flow
connector.
[0055] A second plurality of penetrating members can be positioned
proximal of the first plurality of penetrating members to penetrate
the second body space when positioned over the flow connector.
[0056] In some embodiments, the step of placing the second space
within the body over the retention device occurs subsequent to the
step of inserting the flow connector into the first space within
the body.
[0057] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention,
a method of implanting and securing an implantable flow connector
in a body of a patient for providing communication of a first space
within the body of the patient with a second space within the body
of the patient is provided, the method comprising the steps of a)
providing a flow connector having a lumen having a first orifice at
a first portion of the conduit and a second orifice at a second
portion, b) providing a retention device having a proximal portion
and a distal portion, c) inserting a proximal portion of the flow
connector into the first body space, d) placing the second space
within the body over the flow connector and e) subsequently placing
the retention device over the second space within the body.
[0058] The step of placing the retention device over the second
space within the body can comprise the step of opening the
retention device to provide a side entry for the second space
within the body.
[0059] In some embodiments, the retention device has an outer
component and an inner component, wherein the outer component
engages the first space within the body, and the method may further
comprise the step of moving one of the first and second components
relative to the other component to interlock the first and second
components.
[0060] In some embodiments, the step of placing the retention
device over the second body space places a plurality of suture tabs
on an external surface of the first body space.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0061] Embodiments of the present invention are described herein in
conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:
[0062] FIG. 1A is a side view of one embodiment of a flow connector
of the present invention;
[0063] FIG. 1B is a modified top view of the embodiment of the
present invention illustrated in FIG. 1A taken along cross-section
line 1B-1B in FIG. 1A;
[0064] FIG. 1C is an isometric view of another embodiment of the
flow connector of the present invention;
[0065] FIG. 1D is another isometric view of the embodiment of the
flow connector illustrated in FIG. 1C;
[0066] FIG. 1E is yet another isometric view of the embodiment of
the flow connector illustrated in FIG. 1C;
[0067] FIG. 1F is a further isometric view of the embodiment of the
flow connector illustrated in FIG. 1C;
[0068] FIG. 2A is a cross-sectional view of a first tissue-enclosed
body space in a recipient having one embodiment of the present
invention implanted therein;
[0069] FIG. 2B is another cross-sectional view of a first
tissue-enclosed body space in a recipient having one embodiment of
the present invention implanted therein;
[0070] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the
flow connector of the present invention illustrated with respect to
a tissue-enclosed body space into which the flow connector of the
present invention is to be implanted;
[0071] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the
present invention with an imaginary plane having an imaginary
midline;
[0072] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the
present invention with an imaginary plane having an imaginary
midline;
[0073] FIG. 6 illustrates a bottom view of another embodiment of
the flow connector of the present invention;
[0074] FIG. 7A illustrates a perspective view of an alternate
embodiment of the flow connector of the present invention having
shorter longitudinal sections than the embodiment illustrated in
FIG. 1A;
[0075] FIG. 7B illustrates a perspective top view of the embodiment
of the flow connector illustrated in FIG. 7A;
[0076] FIG. 8A is a simplified side of another embodiment of the
present invention,
[0077] FIG. 8B is a simplified bottom view of another embodiment of
the present invention,
[0078] FIG. 9A is a high level flowchart of a method for implanting
a flow connector according to one embodiment of the present
invention;
[0079] FIG. 9B is a detailed flowchart of one method for implanting
the flow connector of the present invention, in accordance with one
embodiment of the present invention;
[0080] FIG. 10A illustrates tying off all branches from the second
tissue-enclosed body space, according to one embodiment of the
present invention;
[0081] FIG. 10B illustrates occluding flow of liquids within the
second tissue-enclosed body space;
[0082] FIG. 10C illustrates marking an orientation line along the
second tissue-enclosed body space and also forming an artificial
opening on the second tissue-enclosed body space;
[0083] FIG. 10D illustrates inserting a flow connector according to
one embodiment of the present invention in the second
tissue-enclosed body space;
[0084] FIG. 10E illustrates a flow connector according to one
embodiment of the present invention inserted and secured in a
second tissue-enclosed body space with a portion of the second
tissue-enclosed body space removed;
[0085] FIG. 10F illustrates marking a position on the first
tissue-enclosed body space where an opening will be formed;
[0086] FIG. 10G illustrates a first tissue-enclosed body space
after an artificial opening is manually formed;
[0087] FIG. 10H illustrates a first tissue-enclosed body space
connected to a second tissue-enclosed body space via one embodiment
of the present invention;
[0088] FIG. 11A illustrates a simplified schematic view of a
portion of the second interface according to one embodiment of the
present invention;
[0089] FIG. 11B illustrates a perspective view of a portion of the
second interface according to a further embodiment of the present
invention;
[0090] FIG. 11C illustrates a cross-sectional view of a portion of
the second interface according to another embodiment of the present
invention;
[0091] FIG. 11D illustrates a cross-sectional view of a portion of
the second interface according to a yet further embodiment of the
present invention;
[0092] FIG. 11E illustrates a cross-sectional view of a portion of
the second interface according to another embodiment of the present
invention;
[0093] FIG. 11F illustrates a cross-sectional view of a portion of
the second interface according to yet another embodiment of the
present invention;
[0094] FIG. 11G illustrates a cross-sectional view of a portion of
the second interface according to a further embodiment of the
present invention;
[0095] FIG. 11H illustrates a cross-sectional view of a portion of
the second interface according to a yet further embodiment of the
present invention;
[0096] FIG. 11I illustrates a cross-sectional view of a portion of
the second interface according to another embodiment of the present
invention;
[0097] FIG. 11J illustrates a cross-sectional view of a portion of
the second interface according to yet another embodiment of the
present invention;
[0098] FIG. 11K illustrates a perspective view of a portion of the
second interface according to one embodiment of the present
invention;
[0099] FIG. 11L illustrates a perspective view of a portion of the
second interface according to another embodiment of the present
invention;
[0100] FIG. 11M illustrates a perspective view of a portion of the
second interface according to yet another embodiment of the present
invention;
[0101] FIG. 11N illustrates a perspective view of a portion of the
second interface according to a yet further embodiment of the
present invention;
[0102] FIG. 11O illustrates a perspective view of a portion of the
second interface according to another embodiment of the present
invention;
[0103] FIG. 11P illustrates a perspective view of a portion of the
second interface according to yet another embodiment of the present
invention;
[0104] FIG. 11Q illustrates a perspective view of a portion of the
second interface according to a further embodiment of the present
invention;
[0105] FIG. 12A illustrates another embodiment of the present
invention in which the second interface further comprises
barbs;
[0106] FIG. 12B illustrates yet another embodiment of the present
invention in which the second interface comprises an elbow as well
as a retention collar;
[0107] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of a second interface
according to one embodiment of the present invention in which the
outer diameter increases while the wall thickness of the second
interface remains substantially constant;
[0108] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of a second interface
according to yet another embodiment of the present invention in
which the outer diameter remains substantially constant while the
wall thickness decreases;
[0109] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of a second interface
according to yet another embodiment of the present invention in
which the distal end of the second interface is uneven;
[0110] FIG. 16 illustrates an embodiment according to the present
invention in which the first interface and second interface are
formed separately and then joined together before implantation;
[0111] FIG. 17A is a perspective view of the second interface of a
flow connector according to one embodiment of the present invention
in its naturally collapsed state prior to implantation;
[0112] FIG. 17B is a perspective view of the second interface of a
flow connector according to one embodiment of the present invention
in its expanded state after implantation and forced expansion;
[0113] FIG. 18A is a perspective view of the second interface of a
flow connector according to yet another embodiment of the present
invention in its naturally expanded state prior to
implantation;
[0114] FIG. 18B is a perspective view of the second interface of a
flow connector according to yet another embodiment of the present
invention in its forced collapsed state, ready for implantation in
the recipient;
[0115] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the
present invention in which an artificial conduit and two flow
connectors are provided for implantation in a recipient;
[0116] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a
retention device for use with the flow connector;
[0117] FIG. 21 is a top view of the retention device of FIG.
20;
[0118] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of the retention device of
FIG. 20;
[0119] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the retention device of
FIG. 20 shown prior to insertion through the opening in the first
body space, e.g. artery, and shown in a reduced profile position
within an insertion cannula;
[0120] FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the retention device of
FIG. 20 shown inserted through the opening in the artery;
[0121] FIG. 25 is a view similar to FIG. 24 showing expansion of
the retention device when removed from the insertion cannula;
[0122] FIG. 26 is a perspective view illustrating a flow connector
being inserted in a reduced profile configuration within a delivery
sheath (cannula) through the axial opening of the retention device
and into the artery;
[0123] FIG. 27 illustrates the flow connector released from the
delivery sheath to expand within the axial opening in the retention
device;
[0124] FIG. 28 is a view similar to FIG. 27 showing proximal
movement of the flow connector and retention device so the hooks of
the retention device penetrate the wall of the artery adjacent the
opening in the artery;
[0125] FIG. 29 is a view similar to FIG. 28 showing the second body
space, e.g. a vein, prior to placement over the retention device of
FIG. 20;
[0126] FIG. 30 illustrates the vein of FIG. 29 being placed over
the retention device, with the tines of the retention device
penetrating through the wall of the vein;
[0127] FIG. 31 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of
the retention device of the present invention;
[0128] FIG. 32 is a perspective view of another alternate
embodiment of the retention device of the present invention showing
both the inner and outer member;
[0129] FIG. 33 is a perspective view of the retention device of
FIG. 32 with the outer member shown separated from the inner
member;
[0130] FIG. 34 is a front view of the inner member of the retention
device of FIG. 32;
[0131] FIG. 35 is a side view of the inner member of the retention
device of FIG. 32;
[0132] FIG. 36 is a rear view of the inner member of the retention
device of FIG. 32;
[0133] FIG. 37 is a top view of the retention device of FIG. 32 in
the normal placement configuration;
[0134] FIG. 38 is a top view of the retention device of FIG. 32
shown starting to be spread to an open position for receiving the
second body space, e.g. a vein;
[0135] FIG. 39 is a top view of the retention device of FIG. 32
shown in the open (spread) position for receiving the vein;
[0136] FIG. 40 illustrates a flow connector positioned within the
first body space, e.g. an artery, a vein positioned over the flow
connector, and the retention device of FIG. 32 being moved toward
the vein for positioning thereover;
[0137] FIG. 41 illustrates the retention device of FIG. 32
positioned over the vein and flow connector and further showing the
distal portion of the outer body member secured to the artery and
the outer and inner members interlocked;
[0138] FIG. 42 is a perspective view of another alternate
embodiment of the retention device of the present invention, the
retention device embedded in a flow connector;
[0139] FIG. 43 is a top view of the retention device of FIG.
42;
[0140] FIG. 44 is front view of the retention device of FIG.
42;
[0141] FIG. 45 illustrates the distal portion of the retention
device of FIG. 42 placed within a first body space, e.g., an
artery, and further showing a vein placed over the retention device
with the tines of the retention device penetrating the wall of the
vein;
[0142] FIG. 46 is a view similar to FIG. 45 illustrating the
retention device of FIG. 42 pulled proximally so the hooks of the
retention device penetrate the wall of the artery around the
opening;
[0143] FIG. 47 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of
the retention device of the present invention illustrating the
proximal and distal connectors separated;
[0144] FIG. 48 is a top view of the distal connector of FIG.
47;
[0145] FIG. 49 illustrates the distal connector of FIG. 47
positioned within the artery and the proximal connector of FIG. 47
being moved toward the distal connector and having a second body
space, e.g. a vein (shown in cross-section) positioned
thereover;
[0146] FIG. 50 is a view similar to FIG. 49 showing the proximal
connector interlocked with the distal connector;
[0147] FIG. 51 is a view similar to FIG. 50 showing the retention
device and flow connector pulled proximally so the hooks of the
distal connector penetrate the wall of the artery around the
opening;
[0148] FIG. 52 is a perspective view of another alternate
embodiment of the retention device of the present invention;
[0149] FIG. 53 is a top view of the retention device of FIG.
52;
[0150] FIG. 54 is a top view of the retention device shown in the
open (spread) position to receive a second body space, e.g. a vein,
within the opening; and
[0151] FIG. 55 illustrates the retention device of FIG. 52
positioned around a vein having a flow connector therein and
abutting an outer surface of the wall of the artery.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0152] Aspects of the present invention are generally directed to
an implantable flow connector. Other aspects of the present
invention are also directed to an implantable flow connector and a
retention device for securing the flow connector. The flow
connector of the present invention is configured to be implanted in
a tissue-enclosed body space such as a body conduit or body
reservoir to provide a flow path for fluid from the source body
space to another body space, a man-made or body conduit, an
external or implanted medical device, or other destination
element.
[0153] Embodiments of the flow connector comprise a conduit having
a lumen that terminates at an orifice on opposing ends of the
conduit, and a flange radially extending from one of the two ends
of the conduit. The flow connector is configured to be implanted
into the source body space via a natural or artificial opening
(e.g., a man-made opening) in a region of the tissue wall that
defines the body space. The flange surrounds the conduit orifice
through which the conduit lumen is fluidically coupled to the
interior of the body space, and is configured to be self-retained
in the body space.
[0154] The conduit is also configured to be retained in the noted
destination device or body space or body region (collectively and
generally referred to herein as the destination element). For
example, when the destination element is a tissue-enclosed body
space, the conduit is configured to be implanted into the
destination body space via a natural or artificial opening in the
tissue wall defining that body space. Once implanted, fluid exiting
the conduit orifice at the distal end of the flow connector flows
into the destination element. As such, the flow connector of the
present invention fluidically couples the source body space and
destination device or body space.
[0155] As noted, embodiments of the flow connector of the present
invention may be used to fluidically couple any tissue-enclosed
body space or implanted medical device to any type of destination
including any other tissue-enclosed body space, other areas in the
body, or an external or implanted medical device. Embodiments of
the flow connector may be configured to be implanted in any
tissue-enclosed body space including, but not limited to, body
conduits such as blood vessels, lymph ducts, tear ducts, bowels,
urethra, etc., which have a lumen through which fluid is carried to
facilitate circulation, excretion or other fluid transfer, as well
as body reservoirs such as the stomach, bladder, gall bladder,
lymph nodes, etc., which temporarily or permanently retain fluid.
For ease of description, embodiments of the flow connector
described below are specifically configured for implantation to
create an arteriovenous (AV) fistula and, more specifically, an AV
fistula in the upper or lower extremity to provide vascular access
for hemodialysis patients.
[0156] FIG. 1A is a side view of one embodiment of a flow connector
of the present invention. In FIG. 1A, flange 102 is a
circumferential flange and is configured to radially extend from
conduit 104 proximate to its first or proximal end 131 of conduit
104. Conduit 104 terminates at proximal end 131 of conduit 104 at
an orifice. A second orifice is disposed on the opposite side of
conduit 104 at its distal end 132. Flange 102 comprises a contact
surface 126, which is configured to contact an inner surface of the
tissue wall defining the source body space of a recipient when it
is implanted therein. On the opposite side of flange 102 from
contact surface 126 is an exposed surface 128 which is exposed to
fluids passing through the source body space (not shown).
[0157] In one embodiment of the present invention, flange 102
comprises a plurality of circumferentially adjacent sections. For
example, a pair of opposing flange sections 112A and 112B can be
provided. In those embodiments designed for implantation in a body
conduit, flange sections 112 are referred to as longitudinal
flanges, and flange section 112A is referred to as heel section
112A while flange section 112B is referred to as toe section 112B.
In addition to longitudinal sections 112, there is a pair of
substantially similar lateral sections 114A, 114B extending from
opposing sides of conduit 104 approximately equidistant from
flanges 112A, 112B. Circumferentially opposed sections 114A, 114B,
also referred to herein as lateral sections 114 due to their
substantially orthogonal positioning relative to longitudinal
sections 112, are configured to extend from flange 102 as
illustrated in FIGS. 1C-1E, on opposing sides of conduit 104, and
are further configured to extend circumferentially around a
longitudinal axis 110 of the source body space in which flange 102
is to be implanted. The circumferential radius of lateral sections
114A, 114B is selected based on the radius of curvature of the
region of the source body space in which flow connector 100 is to
be implanted. In one embodiment, the radius 297 defined from
longitudinal axis 110 to contact surface 126 of lateral sections
114A, 114B is substantially equal to the radius 298 defined from
longitudinal axis 110 to the inner surface of the source body
space. In other embodiments, radius 297 defined from longitudinal
axis 110 to contact surface 126 of lateral sections 114A, 11413 is
larger than the radius 298 defined from longitudinal axis 110 to
the inner surface of the source body space. Furthermore, in those
embodiments, flange 102 is constructed of shape-memory material
such that external forces exerted on flange 102 made of memory
material may cause flange 102 to at least partially bend, but the
nature of the memory material will generate forces to return flange
102 to its original shape. In such embodiments where the radius of
lateral sections 114A, B is greater, that radius defined from
longitudinal axis 110 to contact surface 126 of lateral sections
114A, B may be 1 to 10% larger than the radius defined from
longitudinal axis 110 to the inner surface of the source body
space. The larger radius of lateral sections 114A, B combined with
the nature of the memory material with which it is constructed will
generate a chronic outward force when flow connector 100 is
implanted within the source body space, which will in turn cause
the walls of the source body space to resist the outward force,
thereby providing a compression force to lateral sections 114A, B.
The compression force applied to lateral sections 114A, B in turn
urges contact surface 126 of flange 102 towards the opening in the
tissue wall of the source body space, thus providing a seal between
contact surface 126 of flange 102 and the tissue wall such that
fluid within the source body space will not leak after implantation
of flow connector 100. It is to be understood that in one
embodiment of the present invention, some fluid from the source
body space may or may not leak immediately after implantation.
However, with normal physiological healing processes, such leakage
will soon thereafter cease as the aforementioned seal will be
provided by contact surface 126 on flange 102 with the tissue wall,
thereby eliminating the need for additional elements such as glue,
sutures etc. in order to stop or prevent fluid leakage.
[0158] In addition to providing a seal between contact surface 126
and flange 102, as described above, the larger radius of lateral
sections 114A, B combined with the nature of the memory material
with which it is constructed also acts to provide support for flow
connector 100. As used herein, supporting flow connector 100 refers
to physically supporting flow connector 100 such that it retains
its position within the source body space, after implantation,
without other components or objects contributing towards the
retaining of its implanted position.
[0159] In one embodiment of the present invention, lateral sections
114A, B extend circumferentially around the interior surface of the
source body space so as to leave approximately 180.degree. of the
source conduit's interior surface circumferentially uncovered by
lateral sections 114A, B and flow connector 100 generally. By
leaving approximately 180.degree. uncovered, obstruction to the
flow of fluid within the source body space is minimized while
enhancing stability provided by lateral sections 114A, B to flow
connector 100 when implanted. Longitudinal sections 112 are also
circumferentially curved with respect to the interior surface of
the source body space such that contact surface 126 makes contact
with the interior surface of the source body space in a sealing
region 116, thereby providing a fluid tight or hydrophobic seal as
well as stability between flow connector 100 and the source body
space.
[0160] Adjacent to sealing region 116 is reinforcement region 118,
configured to provide physical support to flow connector 100 by
being constructed and arranged to oppose various explanting or
other forces that may be exerted on flange 102 and conduit 104 when
flow connector 100 is implanted in the source body conduit.
Reinforcement region 118 is configured to have a rigidity that it
aids in the opposition of deflection forces, and is therefore less
prone to flexing of portions of flange 102 and/or conduit 104. The
rigidity of reinforcement region 118 decreases in a
radially-increasing direction thereby aiding in the implantation of
flange 102 in the source body space. It should be appreciated that
the rigidity may be provided in various ways, according to various
embodiments of the present invention. For example, reinforcement
region 118 may have a composition with a rigidity which makes it
more rigid than sealing region 116 or other portions of flange 102.
For example, in one embodiment of the present invention, sealing
region 116 may be manufactured with material having a Shore value
of 80 A and reinforcement region 118 may be manufactured with
material having a Shore value of 55 D. In other embodiments,
reinforcement region 118 may be manufactured with the same material
as its adjacent or other sections of flange 102, but reinforcement
region 118 may be configured to be thicker than adjacent sections
of flange 102, thereby making reinforcement region 118 more rigid.
By avoiding substantial deflecting or bending, flange 102 remains
larger than the aperture in the source body space through which
flange 102 was inserted, thus preventing explanting or pull-out
from the source body space. As used herein, substantial deflecting
by flange 102 refers to the reduction of the surface area of flange
102 to a size allowing flange 102 in its deflected state to fit
through aperture in the source body space through which flange 102
was inserted.
[0161] Reinforcement region 118 is proximal to conduit 104 so as to
provide structural integrity to conduit 104 such at the orifice at
the proximal end 131 of conduit 104 can withstand a greater amount
of compression force than without reinforcement region 118 being
present. As will be further discussed below, reinforcement region
118 also may assist in opposing explant forces that may be applied,
intentionally or inadvertently, on flow connector 100. Although
reinforcement section 118 is illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1C to be
substantially contiguous, it is to be understood that in other
embodiments of the present invention reinforcement section 118 may
not be contiguous but may have multiple reinforcement regions 118
disposed circumferentially around conduit 104. Similarly, it is to
be understood that although reinforcement region 118 is illustrated
in FIG. 1B is shown as having a similar or at least a corresponding
perimeter as that of flange sections 112, 114, in other embodiments
of the present invention, reinforcement region 118 may have a
perimeter which is shaped differently from that of flange sections
112, 114.
[0162] Longitudinal sections 112 are configured to facilitate
implantation of flow connector 100 while also opposing pullout
forces which may otherwise pull flow connector 100 out from the
source body space (not shown) after flow connector 100 is
implanted. Lateral sections 114A, B are also configured to
facilitate implantation and further configured to maintain the
position of flow connector 100 with respect to the source body
space (not shown) after flow connector 100 is implanted. In one
embodiment of the present invention, lateral sections 114A, B have
a radius of curvature substantially identical to the radius of
curvature of the source body space into which it is to be
implanted. In other embodiments of the present invention, lateral
sections 114A, B has a curvature radius which is slightly larger
than the curvature radius of the source body space into which it is
to be implanted. When this embodiment is implanted in the source
body space, the larger curvature radius of lateral sections 114A, B
will cause the source body space to generate compression forces on
the larger lateral sections 114A, B which will in turn promote the
maintenance of the position of flow connector 100 in the source
body space.
[0163] FIG. 1B is a cross-sectional view along the line 1B-1B noted
in FIG. 1A, in which a substantial portion of the conduit body 130
is shown as if removed for the purpose of showing an unobstructed
view of the longitudinal sections 112 and lateral sections 114. In
the embodiment shown in FIG. 1B, heel section 112A and toe section
112B have apices, heel section apex 121 and toe section apex 122,
respectively, when viewed from the perspective illustrated in FIG.
1B. In this embodiment, heel section apex 121 and toe section apex
122 come to a sharp point which may be helpful in redirecting fluid
flowing within the source body space so as to prevent or minimize
disturbances in flow shear stress, eddy flow, foil effects,
turbulence, resistance, tube wall deformation, and tensile
stress/strain distributions that can lead to intimal hyperplasia
and other similar or associated conditions. Similarly, as depicted
in FIG. 1A, flange edge 140 may be chamfered to an angle, for
example 60.degree., so as to similarly redirect fluid flowing
within the source body space for the same purpose.
[0164] Multiple cutout regions 124 are disposed between
longitudinal sections 112 and lateral sections 114. Cutout regions
124 represent an absence of material between those flanges 112, 114
and are dimensioned and configured to facilitate temporary foldover
of flanges 112, 114 during implantation of flow connector 100.
Sealing region 116 is also disposed over a portion of cutout
regions 124 to ensure that the contact surface 126 around conduit
body 130 is sealed with respect to the source body space so that
fluids flowing through the source body space remains either within
the source body space or through the lumen of conduit 104.
[0165] As noted above, flow connector 100 also comprises conduit
104 which is connected to flange 102 along joint region 106. At
joint region 106, the proximal end 131 of conduit body 130 and
flange 102 are joined such that first conduit orifice 120 leads
into the lumen of conduit body 130, as illustrated in FIGS. 1E and
1F, which shows at least a partial view of exposed surface 128 of
flange 102, as well as first conduit orifice 120 leading into the
lumen of conduit body 130. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS.
1A and 1B, conduit portion 106 is depicted largely as comprising a
cylindrical conduit body 130. However, it is to be appreciated by
one having ordinary skill in the art that conduit body 130 may have
other shaped tubular bodies other than a cylindrical one in other
embodiments of the present invention. For example, in other
embodiments of the present invention, conduit body 130 may comprise
a conduit body 130 with a rectangular or irregular cross section
and a similarly shaped longitudinal lumen disposed therein. On the
opposite end of conduit body 130 from proximal end 131 is distal
end 132 of conduit body 130 as well as second conduit orifice 134
which is disposed at distal end 132. Second conduit orifice 134
allows fluid flow traveling through the lumen of conduit body 130
to exit through second conduit orifice 134. For example, in one
embodiment of the present invention in which a source body space,
such as a vein or artery, is coupled to conduit 104, fluid flowing
through the source body space into which flange 102 is implanted is
diverted through first conduit orifice 120, through the lumen of
conduit body 130 and out of second conduit orifice 134 into the
source body space.
[0166] Although the construction of flow connector 100 may vary
depending on the one or more source conduits in which flow
connector 100 is to be implanted, embodiments of the present
invention may differ in terms of the material comprising flow
connector 100, the durometer values of materials selected,
thicknesses of the various components of flow connector 100
described herein or shown in the figures, and are considered a part
of certain embodiments of the present invention. In one embodiment,
flange 102 has a thickness ranging between approximately 0.15 mm
and approximately 0.35 mm. Similarly, the outside diameter of
conduit body 130 has a similar thickness range between
approximately 0.15 mm and 0.50 mm and more preferably, of between
approximately 0.30 mm and approximately 0.45 mm. In another
embodiment, the outside diameter of conduit body 130 has a
thickness of approximately 0.35 mm. The thickness of flange 102 may
be decreased as flange 102 is made to extend further which will
maintain the pullout forces necessary for flange 100 to be pulled
out of the source body space in which it is implanted. Similarly,
the thickness of flange 102 may be increased as the flange 102 is
made to extend less.
[0167] As shown in FIG. 1C-1F and in cross-section in FIG. 5,
conduit body 130 may comprise a series of barbs or protrusions 129
which extend radially from conduit body 130. In one embodiment of
the present invention, the protrusions 129 provide periodic
increases in the outside diameter of conduit body 130 so that the
source body space within which conduit body 130 is inserted are
positioned over conduit body 130 in a friction fit over the
increased diameter portions of protrusions 131. Furthermore, once
the source body space is positioned over conduit 104 over
protrusions 131, one or more sutures may be disposed
circumferentially around conduit body 130 and in the areas between
conduit body 130 and the outer diameter of protrusions 131, thereby
snugly retaining the source body space in place with respect to
conduit 104. When one or more sutures are thus disposed, the one or
more sutures that compress the source body space towards the
conduit portion 104 will maintain its position since the diameter
of the one or more sutures are fixed to be smaller than the outer
diameter of the protrusions, which therefore provides an
interference fit to prevent the one or more sutures from
translating along the longitudinal axis 108 of conduit body
130.
[0168] In certain embodiments of the present invention, conduit
body 130, shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B as conduit body 230, has a
conduit recess 236 disposed thereon. Conduit recess 236 is
configured such that a source body space, such as source body space
260, rests within conduit recess 236 when flange 102, shown in
FIGS. 2A and 2B as flange 202, is positioned within the source body
space as described below. In one embodiment of the present
invention, conduit recess 236 is configured to have a depth of
between 0.5 mm and 1.0 mm in order to accommodate a source body
space to allow it to rest therein. In other embodiments of the
present invention, recess 236 may be configured to have a deeper
recess, for example 1.0 mm. The height of the conduit recess 236,
measured from flange 202 toward the distal end of conduit body 204
is approximately 0.8 mm, which will vary depending on the thickness
of the source body space 260 which is accommodated within conduit
recess 236, as depicted in FIG. 2A. Also as shown in FIG. 2B,
conduit 204 of one embodiment of the present invention is shown to
be angled approximately 60.degree. from the horizontal axis in the
illustration with respect to flange 202. This angle may vary in
other embodiments of the present invention depending on the
situation or the needs of the recipient. For example, in other
embodiments of the present invention, conduit 204 may be configured
with an angle between 10.degree. to 90.degree. from the horizontal
axis shown in FIG. 2B. As one having skill in the art would
appreciate, this angle can be from the opposite side as well with
respect to flange 202.
[0169] As noted previously, flow connector 100, shown in FIG. 3 as
flow connector 300, is configured to be at least partially placed
within a source body space. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG.
3, flange 102 is configured to be positioned through an opening 303
on source body space 360. More specifically, one or more of heel
section 312A, toe section 312B, and lateral sections 314A, B are
temporarily deformed or bent with respect to flow connector 100 so
that flange 102 can be inserted through opening 303. Opening 303
may be an existing opening or may be manually and/or intentionally
formed, at least in part, to allow flange 102 to be inserted
therethrough during the implantation of flow connector 300 within
source body space 360. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, heel
section 312A is longer than toe section 312B. The greater length of
heel section 312A is configured to promote stability and the
position of flange 102 within source body space 360. Additionally,
the shorter length of toe section 312B, in the present embodiment
of the invention, is configured to promote easier insertion of
flange 102, especially in implantation methods where only lateral
sections 314A, B are temporarily deformed, with longitudinal
sections 312 inserted through opening 303 in their substantially
extended position.
[0170] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3, the fluid flowing
substantially along longitudinal axis 310 through source body space
360 is flowing from the direction of heel section 312A and flowing
towards the direction of toe section 312B. As is seen in the
embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 3, the longitudinal axis 108
of conduit body 130 is angled with respect to the longitudinal axis
310 of source body space 360 at an angle of approximately
60.degree. towards to direction of heel section 312A. In this
embodiment of the present invention, the 60.degree. angled source
body space 360 is provided to promote, among other things, a
controlled rate and/or volume of fluid flow from source body space
360 into conduit body 330. In other embodiments of the present
invention, that angle may not be 60.degree., but may instead be
some other angle, depending on the placement of flow connector 300
within the recipient or the purpose for which flow connector 300
will be used once implanted. For example, in other embodiments of
the present invention, conduit body 330 may be angled 90 or
120.degree. with respect to longitudinal axis 310 in order to
achieve a desired rate or volume of flow from source body space
360.
[0171] In FIGS. 4 and 5, an imaginary plane having a midline 409 is
shown with respect to flow connector 400 and longitudinal axis 410
of source body space (not shown), according to one embodiment of
the present invention. Midline 409 is parallel with respect to
longitudinal axis 410 and is disposed on the exposed surface 128
around first conduit orifice 120. In the embodiment depicted,
longitudinal sections 412 are angled upwards 10.degree. from
midline 409 starting at transition points 415 as shown. In other
embodiments of the present invention, longitudinal sections 412 may
be angled by a different amount, for example between 0 and
15.degree.. The angling of longitudinal sections 412 upwards
towards the inner surface of the source body space in which flow
connector 400 is implanted will cause to be generated one or more
deflection forces as a result of longitudinal sections 412 being
pressed into the wall of the source body space. These deflection
forces will cause a deflection of longitudinal sections 412
downward such that longitudinal sections 412 will be more parallel
with midline 409 and longitudinal axis 410 of the source body
space. This deflection downward will permit later flanges 414A, B
to be disposed closer to the inner wall of the source body space
than if the deflection did not occur, and will also cause a broader
contact between contact surface 126 and the inside wall of the
source body space once flow connector 400 is positioned within the
source body space. FIG. 5 illustrates the imaginary line with
midline 409, now shown as midline 509, as well as the 10.degree.
angling of longitudinal sections 412, now shown as longitudinal
sections 512, with respect to longitudinal axis 510 of the source
body space.
[0172] Embodiments of the present invention include embodiments
having different configurations of longitudinal and lateral
sections. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6, longitudinal
sections 612A and 612B have about the same dimensions. In FIG. 6,
heel section 612A is configured to be longer and to come to a
pointed apex as illustrated. Toe section 612B is configured to be
shorter than heel section 612A and has an apex which is more round
than the apex of the heel section 612A. The shorter length of toe
section 612B is sufficient, in cooperation with longer heel section
612A, to oppose the pullout forces described previously, while
promoting easier insertion of flange 602 into the opening (not
shown) of the source body space. In certain embodiments of the
present invention, sections 612A, B are configured to each be
approximately 35-65% in length of the outside diameter of first
conduit orifice 620. In alternative embodiments of the present
invention, sections 612A, B are each configured to be approximately
50% in length of the outside diameter of first conduit orifice
620.
[0173] Similarly, in the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 7A and 7B,
longitudinal sections 712 are configured substantially identically
to one another. As shown, heel sections 712A and toe section 712B
are both shorter than in other embodiments shown and described
herein. FIG. 7B is a view along cross-section line 7B-7B and shows
conduit body 730 as if it were partially removed from flow
connector 700. The embodiment of the present invention illustrated
in FIGS. 7A and 7B is appropriately configured and dimensioned so
as to maintain the compensation for pullout forces by longitudinal
and lateral sections 712 and 714, respectively. As noted
previously, the thickness of sealing region 116 and reinforcement
118 may of flanges 712, 714 may be increased in order to provide
make flanges 712, 714 more rigid. Alternatively, in other
embodiments of the present invention, those components may be
constructed of a more rigid material. FIGS. 7A and 7B also depicts
cutout regions 724 which at least partly promotes flexibility of
flanges 712, 714 as one or more of flanges 712, 714 are temporarily
brought together during implantation of flow connector into the
recipient's source body space.
[0174] FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrates yet another embodiment of the
present invention in which cutout region 824 has zero to little
reduction in the material which comprises the flange 802 of flow
connector 800. Flange 802 may be constructed and dimensioned to be
readily bendable upon receiving an external force, such as from a
pickup tool being operated by a surgeon, despite having a very
minimal or no absence of material in the cutout region 824. It
should be understood by persons having skill in the art that cutout
region 824, and other parts of flange 802 and conduit portion 804
may be modified before or during the implantation procedure, as
will be further discussed below. Therefore, cutout region 824, or
longitudinal sections 812 and lateral sections 814 may be modified
in vivo to accommodate the dimensions of the source body space or
the opening through which flange 802 is to be inserted during
implantation of flow connector 800.
[0175] In operation, embodiments of the present invention may be
implanted in numerous ways. In one particular method of operation
as depicted in FIG. 9A, the source body space is mobilized 900 from
other conduits fluidically coupled to the destination body space.
The destination body space, for example a vein of a recipient, is
ligated and then cut 910 to receive the conduit 104 of flow
connector 100. Once the destination body space has conduit 104
fitted therein, an opening is formed 920 in the source body space.
Flange 102 of the flow connector, having the destination body space
coupled thereto, is inserted through the formed opening in order to
join 930 the source and destination body spaces together. In an
alternate method, the flow connector is first inserted through the
opening into the source body space and then the destination body
space is placed over the flow connector.
[0176] Expanding on the method outlined above and as further shown
in FIG. 9B and FIGS. 10A-10H generally, according one embodiment of
the present invention, all branches 1003 of other conduits within
the body of the recipient are severed or otherwise fluidically
decoupled or tied-off 902 from destination body space 1050, as
illustrated in FIG. 10A. As shown in FIG. 10B, destination body
space 1050 itself is then tied-off or otherwise occluded 911 using
a tie or suture 1100. FIG. 10C shows that an orientation line 1102
line is marked on destination body space 1050, and an opening 1104
is formed along orientation line 1102. As illustrated in FIG. 10D,
conduit portion 102 of flow connector 1000 is inserted 914 through
opening 1104. FIG. 10E illustrates two sutures 1006 which are
secured onto destination body space 1050 prior to the occluded end
being cut away 916 from the destination body space portion now
having flow connector 1000 secured thereto. In FIG. 10F, a location
is identified and marked 922 where an opening in source body space
1060 is to be formed. Once an opening 1112 is formed 924, as shown
in FIG. 10G, flange 1002 of flow connector 1000 is inserted through
opening 1112 and permitted to be securely retained within the walls
of source body space 1060 in cooperation with lateral sections 114
and longitudinal sections 112.
[0177] A cross-section of a portion of conduit 1404 according to
one embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 14.
In FIG. 14, the portion shown illustrates a ramp configured to
improve the flow from proximal end 1431 to distal end 1432 and out
conduit orifice 1434 as it enters the destination element (not
shown), for example a blood vessel. In FIG. 14, for the portion
illustrated, the inside diameter of conduit 1404 gradually
increases while the outside diameter of conduit 1404 remains
substantially unchanged. By making the inside diameter of conduit
1404 substantially equal to the inside diameter of the destination
element, the flow can across the cross-section of orifice 1434 is
as uniform or consistent as possible, thus minimizing turbulence
and other disturbances in flow which can lead to undesirable
biological responses such as intimal hyperplasia. It will be
understood that the ramp feature may be provided at either end of
conduit 1404, to provide a smooth flow into and/or out of conduit
1404. For example, in one embodiment of the present invention, a
ramp feature is disposed at both ends of conduit 1404 and promotes
a smooth inflow of fluid into conduit 1404 for a limited length of
conduit 1404, followed by a length of conduit 1404 in which the
inside diameter remains constant, followed by a final distal length
of conduit 1404 wherein a ramp having a gradually increasing inside
diameter is provide and facilitates a non-turbulent outflow of the
fluid out of conduit orifice 1434.
[0178] In other embodiments of the present invention, the outside
diameter of conduit 1404 may change from the proximal end 1431 to
distal end 1432. For example, in one embodiment, the outside
diameter at each end may decrease gradually along its length. In
another embodiment of the present invention, the outside diameter
may increase gradually along its length. In yet further
embodiments, the outside diameter may increase for some length,
before decreasing for another length, and vice versa. As one having
ordinary skill in the art will recognize, the outside diameter may
be adjusted to be constantly or variably changing to meet specific
needs or for specific uses.
[0179] In certain embodiments of the present invention, the second
end of conduit 104 is configured to have an inside diameter
approximately equal to the inside diameter of the destination
element's lumen, for example the lumen in a blood vessel. As
discussed previously, matching the inside diameters of the distal
end of conduit 104 and the destination element at the point in each
where fluid flow transitions from one to the other significantly
reduces eddy current flow and other disturbances in the flow, which
in turn reduces the occurrence of clots, thrombus, intimal
hyperplasia, and other conditions which are largely undesirable. In
other words, these features enable embodiments of the flow
connector of the present invention to restore anatomical blood
flow; that is, laminar flow, which is the normal condition for
blood flow throughout most of the circulatory system. As one of
ordinary skill in the art would appreciate, laminar flow is
characterized by concentric layers of blood moving in parallel down
the length of a blood vessel. In other words, the highest velocity
is found in the center of the vessel while the lowest velocity is
found along the vessel wall.
[0180] Other types of flow disturbances may include, but are not
limited to, dead flow areas where a swirling or other types of flow
pattern which deviates from a generally linear flow are formed by
too steep of a step or diameter change with respect to certain
factors such as the rate of flow, the viscosity of the fluid, the
inside diameters of conduit 104 and the destination element, among
others. In one embodiment of the present invention, conduit 104 has
a chamfered distal end 132 or a gradually tapering distal end 132
in which the inside diameter gradually increases approaching the
opening of the destination conduit. In another embodiment of the
present invention, conduit 104 terminates at orifice 134 proximal
the destination conduit at a knife-edge, where the wall thickness
immediately proximal to the destination element approaches
zero.
[0181] As illustrated in FIGS. 1F and 13-15, the inside surface of
conduit 104 (also 1304, 1404, 1504), is a substantially
frictionless surface configured to allow fluid flow over the
surface without undergoing friction. This smooth surface minimizes
or eliminates turbulence which might otherwise be generated during
the flow through conduit 104.
[0182] FIG. 12B illustrates another embodiment of the present
invention in which bend 1260 is provided at a point along conduit
1204. The internal surface of bend 1260 in conduit 1204 redirects
fluid flowing through conduit 1204, from flange 1202 to the
destination elements, for example a blood vessel. In the embodiment
illustrated in FIG. 12B, a first pre-bend longitudinal axis 1266 is
shown as well as a second post-bend longitudinal axis 1268. In the
illustrated embodiment, fluid flowing from flange 1202 through a
first pre-bend portion 1265 is redirected by bend 1260 before the
fluid enters a second post-bend portion 1267. While the fluid is
thus redirected, conduit 1204 at bend 1260 absorbs the force from
the fluid flowing towards bend 1260 as it is redirected towards the
destination element (not shown), thus avoiding those forces being
applied to a body vessel which would otherwise have received the
forces. Using embodiments of the present invention having one or
more bends 1260 as described, it is possible to provide an improved
connection between the source body space and the destination
element. For example, where the source body space is a artery and
the destination element is a vein, as illustrated according to a
different embodiment of the present invention in FIGS. 10A-10H,
flow connector 1200B may be utilized to connect body space or vein
1050 with body space or artery 1060 but such that vein 1050 need
not be bent as shown in FIG. 10H. Instead, connector 1200B is
configured with a bend 1260 which would extend from artery 1060 and
then bend towards the opening in vein 1050 such that vein 1050
remains substantially straight.
[0183] In further embodiments of the present invention, as
illustrated in FIG. 15, distal end 1532 of conduit 1504 is beveled
such that orifice 1534 at distal end 1532 is not 90.degree. with
respect to the longitudinal axis of conduit 1504. In the embodiment
illustrated, the beveled distal end 1532 is approximately
30.degree. from a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of
conduit 1504. However, a person having ordinary skill in the art
will appreciate that the angle may be different depending on the
situation in which an embodiment of the present invention is to be
used. Beveled distal end 1532 facilitates a better transition of
fluid flowing through conduit 1504 and exiting at beveled distal
end 1532 into the destination element by accommodating a bend in
the destination element by allowing an earlier exit of the fluid
flow in the direction of the bend in conduit 1504. For example, the
embodiment illustrated in FIG. 15 has a beveled end 1532 such that
orifice 1534 is biased towards the left. This left-facing orifice
1534 may be used where the destination element is coupled to and
extends up from conduit 1504 and bends towards the left. In
addition to permitting an earlier exit from conduit 1504, beveled
distal end 1532 also minimizes situations where a bend in the
destination element, for example a conduit or blood vessel, causes
the inside surface of the vessel to become constricted or
reduced.
[0184] In yet further embodiments of the present invention, where
the source body space and the destination element have different
outside diameters, the outside diameters may be configured to
accommodate the different outside diameters. As illustrated in FIG.
13, according to one such embodiment of the present invention, the
outside diameter of conduit 1304 may vary from its proximal end
1331 to its distal end 1332. As shown, the inside diameter of
conduit 1304 may also increase at the same rate as the change in
the outside diameter of conduit 1304. However, it is to be
understood that in other embodiments of the present invention, the
inside diameter may change at a different rate, or not at all, as
the change in the outside diameter.
[0185] As shown in FIGS. 17A, B, and 18A, B, according to other
embodiments of the present invention, flow connector 1700 and 1800
may be configured to be collapsible (FIGS. 17A, B) or expandable
(FIG. 18A, B) to further accommodate differences in the inside
diameters of the source body space and the destination element.
Furthermore, the collapsible and expandable embodiments may be used
to assist implantation by implanting conduit 1704, 1804 while
having a reduced physical size and then being forced (or being
allowed) to take on a larger shape to fit, for example seal and
retain, the destination or source body space. Conduits 1704 and
1804 may be composed of a mesh material which has various joints or
hinges or other manipulable series of parts which permit the
overall shape of conduit 1704 and 1804 to be manipulated.
Expandable conduit 1704 may be configured with a small
cross-sectional shape, as illustrated in FIG. 17A and later forced
to take on and retain an expanded cross-sectional shape, as
illustrated in FIG. 17B. In one embodiment of the present
invention, expandable conduit 1704 may be expanded with a balloon
inserted into implanted conduit 1704 and expanded. In another
embodiment of the present invention, expandable conduit 1704 may
have a mechanical expanding force applied at a proximal end 1731
which is communicated through the expanding portion of conduit 1704
in order to open conduit 1704 as illustrated in FIG. 17B. In the
embodiment illustrated, conduit 1704 comprises finger-like portions
which overlap one another as illustrated in FIG. 17A but which
expand and separate as illustrated in FIG. 17B. It is to be
understood that a portion of the finger-like portions may be used
to retain the destination body space while a different portion may
be used to provide a seal between conduit 1704 and the destination
body space.
[0186] Similarly, collapsible conduit 1804 may be configured with a
shape-memory material, in a mesh or other configuration, which is
expanded at rest but can be made to collapse when sufficient force
is applied to it. As shown in FIGS. 18A, B, a portion of conduit
1804 may comprise the collapsible portion while another portion may
be a non-collapsible portion. In one embodiment of the present
invention, collapsible conduit 1804 may be disposed in a delivery
tube (not shown) which is configured to receive conduit 1804 in a
collapsed position before being inserted and then delivered in a
destination body space. In another embodiment of the present
invention, delivery tube (not shown) may be made of a resorbable
material such that collapsible conduit 1804 may be delivered into
the destination body conduit within the resorbable delivery tube.
Subsequent to delivery, the resorbable delivery tube begins to be
resorbed and cause the collapsible conduit 1804 to be released and
permitted to return to its naturally expanded configuration.
[0187] According to embodiments of the present invention, as
illustrated in FIGS. 11K and 11L, conduit 1104 may be modified or
reduced subsequent to factory manufacturing. For example, according
to one embodiment of the present invention, conduit 1104 is
configured to allow a surgeon in vivo to evaluate the opening in
the destination element, for example a vein, into which the distal
end of conduit 1104 is to be inserted. After mentally or physically
marking where the conduit 1104 is to be reduced, the surgeon cuts
away material from distal end 132 in order to better fit flow
connector 100 into the destination element. In other embodiments of
the present invention, conduit 1104 may be configured with
perforations adjacent one or more recesses 1181 or visual markers
such as protrusions 1129 which can aid in the measuring of the
portion to be cut or removed. In certain embodiments of the present
invention, markers on the outside of conduit 1104 facilitate
cutting of conduit 1104 at increments of 0.25 mm, 0.5 mm or 1.0 mm,
or variations thereof. In other embodiments of the present
invention, perforations along conduit 1104 are provided to
facilitate in the cutting or otherwise modifying conduit 1104 at
those increments of 0.25 mm, 0.5 mm or 1.0 mm, or variations
thereof. Conduit 1104 may be constructed of a material that is
resiliently flexible, such as silicone or other materials that are
resiliently flexible, as will be appreciated by a person having
ordinary skill in the art. Alternatively, conduit 1104 may be
constructed of one or more materials so as to be rigid or hard,
thus necessitating different tools in order to reduce or otherwise
modify it than in embodiments of the present in which conduit 1104
is resiliently flexible.
[0188] Additionally, certain embodiments of the present invention
may have one or more active elements in conduit 104 or flange 102
which are configured and arranged to provide one or more
therapeutic benefits. For example, in one embodiment of the present
invention, flow connector 100 is constructed of a material so that
one or more portions of flow connector 100 is radiopaque. In other
embodiments of the present invention, the active element is one or
more drug compounds or pharmaceutical materials configured to be
released by flow connector 100 and to act on into the area near the
flow connector or systemically throughout the recipient. In certain
embodiments of the present invention, the one or more
pharmaceutical materials may be configured to require heat or
fluid-contact activation in order to begin its being released. In
other embodiments of the present invention, the pharmaceutical
materials on flow connector 100 is further configured to be
time-released such that the compounds therein are released
gradually over a period of time at a constant or varying rates of
release. In yet further embodiments of the present invention, the
active element comprises pharmaceutical materials disposed within a
heat or fluid-contact activated dissolving capsule shell.
[0189] As shown in FIG. 12B, other embodiments of the present
invention may comprise a malleable conduit 1204 configured to take
on and hold a different configuration upon receiving sufficient
external force. For example, in one embodiment of the present
invention, the surgeon may apply a bending force to conduit 1204 in
order to accommodate the source and destination body conduits. Upon
receiving sufficient bending force from the surgeon, conduit 1204
will retain the bend and direct or channel fluid flowing
therethrough according to the shape, specifically the internal
surface, of conduit 1204. Malleable conduit 1204 is configured from
a mesh or other structure having cooperating elements such as shape
memory metals which allow malleable conduit 1204 to retain a shape
upon receiving the bending force described.
[0190] Embodiments of the present invention may be configured to
aid in the retention of the destination element (not shown) on the
distal end 1132 of conduit 1104. In certain embodiments of the
present invention, as illustrated in FIGS. 11A and 11B, protrusions
1129 are disposed circumferentially around the exterior surface of
conduit 1104. FIG. 11A illustrates conduit 1104 in a simplified
profile view, and shows the silhouette of radial protrusions 1129
which are disposed around conduit 1104. FIG. 11B illustrates a
plurality of extrusions or projections which are disposed on, or
extend from, the exterior of conduit 1104. As shown in FIG. 11M,
according to another embodiment of the present invention, a
plurality of radial protrusions 1129 on conduit 1104 may be
provided along the substantial length of conduit 1104, or at least
along a section, for example distal end section 1132. According to
another embodiment of the present invention, protrusions 1129 may
be disposed on a separate collar and positioned on conduit 1104
prior to implantation of flow connector 1100. As illustrated in
FIGS. 11P and 11Q, the retention protrusions 1129 need not be
uniform or simple. A matrix protrusion configuration 1129 is
illustrated in FIG. 11P, according to another embodiment of the
present invention. In a yet further embodiment of the present
invention, sinusoidal protrusions 1129 are illustrated in FIG.
11Q.
[0191] In other embodiments of the present invention, the retention
feature provided on the surface of conduit 1104 may be surface
treatments. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention
illustrated in FIG. 110, the exterior surface of conduit 1104 may
be dimpled or dented such that the treated exterior surface
provides retention. Depending on the size of the dimpling or
denting surface treatment, the exterior surface can be configured
to provide a friction fit on the interior surface of the
destination element, for example a blood vessel. Other retention
features may be provided on the exterior of conduit 1104. For
example, in another embodiment of the present invention, a
plurality of barbs 1229 or other sharp projections are disposed on
the exterior of conduit 1204. Barbs 1229 are configured such that
they at least partially pierce the wall of the destination element,
for example a blood vessel, in order to retainingly secure the
element on conduit 1204. In other embodiments of the present
invention, barbs 1229 pierces through the destination element while
retainingly securing the destination element on conduit 1204.
[0192] Flow connector 100, 200 further comprises a rest surface
136, 236 on conduit 104 adjacent the joint region 106, as
illustrated in FIGS. 1D and 2B according to yet further embodiments
of the present invention. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1D,
rest surface 136 is a recess in the body of conduit 104 configured
to receive a wall of the source body space around rest surface 136
once flange 102 is implanted therein. In the embodiment
illustrated, rest surface 136 is substantially smooth and free of
protrusions 129 described above which are configured to retain the
destination element once the destination element is positioned over
protrusions 129. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1D and 2B,
rest surface 136 is shaped with a curve, and source body space 227
is shown in FIG. 2B as conforming to the curved shape of rest
surface 136. However, the degree to which body space 227 is shown
to curve in FIG. 2B is exaggerated for illustrative purposes and
may not always take the degree of curvature depicted.
[0193] In addition to the protrusions described above being used to
retain the destination element upon being fit on the protrusions,
the protrusions may also be used to receive one or more retaining
elements such as sutures or a securing collar, or combinations
thereof, as in embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 10E, 11A-11N. FIG.
10E illustrates one embodiment of the present invention in which
two sutures are placed on the destination element, in this case a
vein, in order to compress the vein towards recesses disposed along
the exterior surface of conduit 1004. FIG. 11A illustrates one
embodiment in which the plurality of adjacent protrusions 1129
cooperatively form angled recess therebetween into which retaining
elements such as sutures 1190, as illustrated in FIGS. 11E, 11F,
11I, 11J, can compress the destination element at least partly
into. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 11B, the retaining
elements can compress the destination element, such as the tissue
wall of a vein, in between the spaces between protrusions 1129. In
the embodiments of the present invention illustrated in FIGS. 11C,
11D, 11G, 11H, a securing collar 1169 may be used with a portion of
the destination element, for example the tissue wall of a vein,
disposed between securing collar 1169 and conduit 1104 to secure
the destination element on conduit 1104. In certain embodiments of
the present invention, the destination element portion may be
compressed by securing collar 1169 against the exterior surface of
conduit 1104. In other embodiments of the present invention,
securing collar 1169 may press the destination element portion into
correspondingly shaped recesses along the exterior surface of
conduit 1104 such that an interference fit between the recesses and
securing collar 1169 will retain the destination element portion on
conduit 1104. Although a plurality of protrusions 1129 may be
disposed along a length of conduit 1104 according to certain
embodiments of the present invention, such that a surgeon may have
a wide variety of choices of protrusions 1129 to use in order to
secure the destination element on conduit 1104, protrusions 1129
may also be provided at distinct locations in order to simplify
conduit 1104, where the surgeon is provided with a reduced number
of protrusions 1129, for example two as shown in FIG. 11N according
to one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 11N,
protrusions 1129 may flare out from a smooth exterior surface of
conduit 1104 such that a securing element such as sutures 1190,
configured with a smaller diameter than protrusions 1129, may be
placed nearer the proximal end 1131 of conduit 1104 such that an
interference fit is formed between sutures 1190 and protrusions
1129. In such embodiments, in addition to the one or more sutures
acting to retain the destination element on conduit 1104, the flare
at the distal end of conduit 1104 itself may be sufficient to
provide a compression fit to also retain the destination element on
conduit 1104. Such a compression fit also acts to provide a seal to
prevent leakage flowing through conduit 1104 into the destination
element. In alternative embodiments of the invention, flare
portions 1129 (referred to previously as protrusions 1129) may be
constructed as a separate component from conduit 1104 such that
conduit 1104 can rotate 360.degree. about a longitudinal axis of
flare portion 1129 while flare portion 1129 remains stationary and
secure to the destination element.
[0194] It is to be understood that embodiments of the present
invention may be used to connect flow connector described herein
with an artificial conduit 1999, as illustrated in FIG. 19. As
shown, a first flow connector 1900 is configured to be coupled to
artificial conduit 1999 and retained by securing collar parts
1269A, B. Securing collar parts 1269A, B combine to form securing
collar 1269. Securing collar parts 1269A, B each may be configured
with a retention feature such as the recess shown for fitting
around a correspondingly configured protrusion on the exterior of
conduit. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 19, each end of
artificial conduit 1999 is positioned between each of the conduits
1904 and retaining collars 1269, wherein each of the flanges 1902
of the flow connectors are implanted without the same or different
body spaces, such that the flow connectors 1900 become fluidically
coupled. In this manner, flow connectors 1900 may be used in bypass
or other procedures which can benefit from one or more flanges
which provide fluidic coupling as well as self-sealing and
self-supporting features, among others.
[0195] Alternate embodiments to aid retention of the first and
second body spaces on the flow connector and to hold the flow
connector in the body spaces to keep the flow connector from
migrating are illustrated in FIGS. 20-55. These retention devices
are described herein as used with vessels, e.g. connecting a vein
and artery, but can also be used with grafts, other body conduits,
etc. as described above. Therefore, although the terms first and
second body spaces (or "spaces within the body") are used herein,
each body space can encompass a vessel, graft, conduit or other
natural or artificially implanted enclosed element as described
above. Further, although in the methods and devices described
herein the first body space can be an artery and the second body
space a vein, this is by way of example only since the first body
space can be a vein and the second body space can be an artery, or
can be grafts, body conduits, etc. described herein.
[0196] In one approach, illustrated in the embodiments of FIGS.
20-31 and 47-51, the securement/retention (or stability) device is
placed within the vessel and external of the flow connector so the
retention device is positioned between the external wall of the
flow connector and the internal wall of the vessel. The flow
connector asserts a radial outward force against the retention
device which engages the vessel(s) as the outer diameter of the
flow connector is slightly greater than the internal diameter of
the retention devices. In another approach, illustrated in the
embodiments of FIGS. 32-41 and 52-55, the securement/retention (or
stability) device is placed outside the vessel (or graft or body
conduit) so the vessel is positioned between the internal wall of
the securement/retention device and the external wall of the flow
connector and the retention device applies a radial inward clamping
force against the vessel and flow connector as the inner diameter
of the retention device is slightly smaller than the outer diameter
of the flow connector and/of vessel. Further, in some embodiments,
the retention devices are one piece units which lockingly engage
with both the first and second body spaces; in other embodiments
the retention devices are two pieces with one piece engaging the
first body space and the other piece engaging the second body space
and then the two retention devices are connected or
interlocked.
[0197] The retention devices of FIGS. 20-51 provide a sutureless
connection of the first and second body spaces and sutureless
connection of the flow connector to the body spaces which
facilitates and simplifies the procedures and improves the
consistency of the anastomosis since reliance on the suturing
technique of the surgeon is avoided. However, a surgeon would not
be precluded from applying a suture(s) if desired. The retention
device of FIGS. 52-55 enables a sutureless connection to the second
body space, e.g., destination element such as a vein, but, has tabs
for sutures for securement to the first body space, e.g., a source
element such as an artery. Each of these retention devices are
described below.
[0198] Turning first to FIGS. 20-30, which illustrates one
embodiment of an internal retention device, retention device is
designated generally by reference numeral 2010. Retention device
2010 has a proximal end 2012 and a distal end 2014, the distal end
defined herein in the direction of blood flow--flowing in a distal
direction. The device 2010 is preferably composed of a metallic
material with sufficient springiness so that it can be compressed
(collapsed) to a reduced profile position during delivery and
return to its original position once delivered. In some
embodiments, the device 2010 can be, composed of a shape memory
material such as Nitinol. Other materials are also
contemplated.
[0199] The device 2010 is preferably formed from a tube having
cutouts therein forming a series of struts. The cutouts can be
formed from laser cutting or other methods. The struts form a
pattern to create substantially diamond shaped openings 2016, shown
in FIGS. 20 and 22. The strut pattern and diamond shaped openings
enable collapse of the device 2010 for delivery. The strut pattern
includes a first (distal) set of connected V-shaped struts 2020 and
a second (proximal) set of connected V-shaped struts 2022, each set
2020 and 2022 extending around 360 degrees to form a closed ring.
The proximal vertices 2025 of the first set of struts 2020 is
joined to the distal vertices 2023 of the second set of struts
2022, designated as region 2024. For clarity, not all of the struts
and vertices are labeled in the drawings as not all identical parts
are labeled.
[0200] At the proximal end 2012 of device 2010, the strut pattern
includes an elongated longitudinally extending strut 2026,
extending from the proximal vertex 2027 of the proximal struts
2022, and each terminating in a hook 2028. Each hook 2028 curves
radially outwardly from the longitudinally extending strut 2026 and
curves in a 180 degree arc so that the penetrating (sharpened) tip
2036 which engages and penetrates the first body space points
toward the distal end 2014 of the device 2010. Other hook
configurations and angles are also contemplated to achieve the
purpose of engaging and penetrating the wall of the body space for
the reasons described below. An example of such alternate
configuration is described below and illustrated in FIG. 31.
Additionally a fewer number of hooks can be provided. Although six
V-shaped struts 2020 and 2022 are shown, it is also contemplated
that a fewer or greater number of V-shaped struts could be
provided.
[0201] At the distal end 2014 of the device 2010 are a series of
tines 2030. The tines 2030 extend from the distal vertex 2029 of
the distal struts 2020. In the illustrated embodiment, the tines
2030 extend from every other distal vertex 2029 of the distal strut
2020, however, it is also contemplated that a greater number of
tines 2030 could be provided, e.g., extending from each vertex
2029, or alternatively a fewer number of tines 2030 could be
provided. The tines 2030 extend proximally from the distal vertex
2025, extend radially outwardly, and terminate in sharpened
penetrating tips 2032. Other tine configurations and angles are
also contemplated to achieve the purpose of engaging and
penetrating the wall of the body space for the reasons described
below in conjunction with the method of use.
[0202] The device 2010, as well as the other retention devices of
FIGS. 31-55 described hereinbelow, is preferably formed from a cut
tube so the struts are integral, however, in alternate embodiments,
the struts are formed by separate elements, e.g., wires, strips,
etc., that are bonded or welded together to form the strut pattern
of FIG. 20.
[0203] In the normal position of the device 2010, the device 2010
by way of example can have an inner diameter of about 2 mm to about
8 mm, and preferably about 4 mm, and an outer diameter of about 2.2
mm to about 9 mm, and preferably about 4.4 mm. The device 2010 can
be compressed to an outer diameter of about 1 mm to about 4 mm, and
preferably about 2 mm for delivery and then allowed to expand to
its original position. Other diameters are also contemplated.
[0204] The conduit portion of the flow connector can, by way of
example, have an inner diameter of about 1.5 mm to about 7.5 mm,
and preferably about 3.5 mm, and an outer diameter of about 2 mm to
about 8 mm, and preferably about 4.0 mm.
[0205] An alternate embodiment of the hook configuration is
illustrated in FIG. 31. The securement/retention device is
designated generally by reference numeral 2050 and is identical to
device 2010 except for the hook configuration. Therefore, the
retention device 2050 has a first (distal) set of V-shaped struts
2060 and a second (proximal) set of V-shaped struts 2062, each set
2060 and 2062 extends around 360 degrees to form a closed ring as
in device 2010. The sets 2060 and 2062 are joined at their
vertices, designated as region 2064 and form substantially diamond
shaped openings 2066. The device 2060 also has a series of tines
2070 identical to tines 2030 of FIG. 20 which extend from distal
vertices 2068 of distal struts 2060. Further details of the device
2060, other than the hooks 2070 will not be further described
herein, since device 2060 and 2010 differ only in the hook
design.
[0206] A longitudinally proximally extending strut 2074 extends
from the proximal vertices 2072 of the proximal set of struts 2062.
The proximal end of the elongated strut 2074 branches outwardly
into opposing directions, forming barb shaped hooks 2076, rather
than the U-shaped hooks of FIG. 20. More specifically, each branch
2078 extends outwardly from strut 2074 and then curves distally so
the hooks 2076 point in a distal direction. The hooks 2076
terminate in penetrating (sharpened) tips 2079. Although a hook
2076 extends from each proximal strut 2062, it is also contemplated
that a fewer number of hooks 2076 could be provided.
[0207] The method of insertion of the flow connector and retention
device of FIG. 20 will now be described with reference to FIGS.
23-29. Note the method is described for attaching a vein to an
artery, however, connection of spaces within the body including,
grafts, other conduits, etc. are also contemplated. The device of
FIG. 31 would be inserted in an identical manner.
[0208] First, as shown in FIG. 23, after an opening A is made in
the arterial wall B of the artery, the retention device 2010,
contained in a compressed (collapsed) position within a cannula C
to reduce its profile for insertion, is moved toward the vessel
opening A. Note in some embodiments, depending on the internal
diameter of the cannula and/or the outward extension of the tines
2030, the tines 2030 are compressed by the cannula wall to a more
straightened position. Note also in the compressed position the
hooks 2028 maintain their curved configuration. However, it is also
contemplated that the hooks in the compressed configuration could
be maintained in a more straightened position and return to their
curved position when released from the cannula C. Materials such as
shape memory Nitinol could be used to achieve this.
[0209] The cannula C is placed adjacent, in abutment with or
slightly into the opening A and a pusher D is advanced distally to
advance the device 2010 through the opening A and into the artery
lumen as shown in FIG. 24. In a preferred method, however, the
cannula C would be inserted through the opening A and into the
lumen of the artery with the retention device 2010 contained inside
and then the pusher D advanced to move the retention device 2010
out of the confines of the cannula. In either case, after the
proximal portion of the retention device 2010, with the hooks 2028,
is positioned within the vessel lumen, the cannula C is removed and
the retention device 2010 returns (expands) to its original,
non-compressed position as shown in FIG. 25. The retention device
2010 preferably applies a radial force around the opening A of the
artery to facilitate insertion of the flow connector delivery
sheath.
[0210] With the hooks 2028 within the vessel lumen, the flow
connector 100A is inserted through the axial opening 2031 in
retention device 2020 as shown in FIG. 26. In the illustrated
method, the flow connector 100A is inserted through the retention
device 2010 before the retention device 2010 is pulled away
(retracted) for the hooks 2028 to penetrate the vessel wall B.
However, it is also contemplated in an alternate insertion method,
that the retention device 2010 is first retracted so the hooks 2028
penetrate the vessel wall B prior to insertion of the flow
connector 100A. In this version, cannula C is moved proximally with
proximal portions of the retention device 2010 contained therein to
move the hooks 2028 distally to penetrate the vessel wall (as in
the hook position of FIG. 28) prior to insertion of the flow
connector 100A.
[0211] Returning to FIG. 26, the flow connector 100A is contained
in a folded or collapsed low profile insertion position within a
delivery sheath F. Note that the flange 102A of the flow connector
100A is positioned within the vessel lumen, extending distally
beyond the hooks 2028 of retention device 2010. The flow connector
100A, when released from the delivery sheath F by advancement of
pusher G, expands toward its original diameter such that the outer
diameter is slightly greater than the inner diameter of the
retention device 2010 to provide a slight radial outward force
against the retention device 2010 to provide an interference fit to
hold the two together as shown in FIG. 27. In an exemplary
embodiment, the outer diameter of the flow connector could be
between about 2 mm and about 8 mm, and preferably about 4 mm. With
the flow connector 100A and retention device 2010 held together,
the unit is pulled away as shown in FIG. 28 so the hooks 2028
engage and penetrate the vessel wall adjacent the vessel opening A.
As shown, the hooks 2028 surround the opening and extend 360
degrees around the opening. Note in this position, the elongated
struts 2026 are positioned external of the vessel B. As noted
above, it an alternate embodiment, the hooks would already be in
position prior to insertion of the flow connector 100A.
[0212] Next the vein V which is intended to be connected to the
artery B to provide a fluid connection (communication) is placed
over the outer wall of the retention device 2010 as shown in FIGS.
29 and 30. That is, the proximal end of the vein V is placed over
the retention device 2010, and pulled (stretched) over the
retention device 2010. Note the tines 2030 can be flexed inwardly
by the vein V until in the desired position. Once fully positioned
over the retention device 2010, the penetrating ends 2032 of the
tines 2030 penetrate the wall of the vein V to retain the vein V
thereon. Thus, the tines 2030 secure the vein V to the retention
device 2010 which is secured to the artery B via hooks 2028. Fluid
flow is then allowed between the two vessels, which are now
connected to form an end to side anastomosis. Note that the
retention device 2020, by holding the vessels B and V in place also
helps to maintain the flow connector 100 in place so the flow
connector 100 can maintain the fluid tight seal between the flange
100A of the implantable flow connector 100 and the wall of the
artery B. This seal is described in detail above with respect to
the discussion of the flow connector flange.
[0213] Note that the flow connectors 100a illustrated and described
herein are substantially identical to the flow connector 100 of
FIG. 1A in that it has a conduit 104a and a flange 102a, identical
to conduit 104 and flange 102, except since it does not require
suture attachment, it need not be provided with protrusions as
shown in FIG. 1C.
[0214] FIGS. 47-51 illustrate an alternate embodiment of an
internal retention/securement device. In this embodiment, instead
of a one piece retention device placed internally, two pieces, one
attached to the first space within the body, e.g. the artery
(source element), and the other attached to the second space within
the body, e.g., the vein (destination element), are provided and
are connected in situ. It should be appreciated that if other body
spaces are being connected, e.g., artificial grafts or other body
conduits, one piece would be attached to one body space and the
other piece to the other body space to join the two body
spaces.
[0215] More particularly, the retention device of FIGS. 47-51 is
designated generally by reference numeral 4010. Retention device
4010 has a first proximal component or member 4012 for attachment
to the first body space, e.g., an artery, and a second distal
component or member 4040 for attachment to the second body space,
e.g., the vein. Proximal component 4012 has a distal end 4018 and a
proximal end 4016. The proximal component 4012 is substantially
identical to retention device 2010, except for the tines 4030, and
has a strut pattern forming a first (distal) set of joined V-shaped
struts 4020, a second (proximal) set of V-shaped struts 4022,
substantially diamond shaped openings 4036, regions 4037 where the
distal vertex of proximal struts 4022 are joined with the proximal
vertex of distal struts 4020, an elongated strut 4026 extending
from the proximal vertex 4027 of the proximal struts 4022, and
hooks 4028 with penetrating tips 4029 extending from elongated
struts 4026. Since these components are identical to those of FIG.
20, further discussion of these components is not necessary since
their configuration, structure and function can be understood by
reference to the description of the retention device 2010 of FIG.
20. Also note as in the discussion of the other embodiments herein,
for clarity, not all identical parts are labeled.
[0216] Locking members 4030 extend from alternating distal vertices
4031 of the distal struts 4020 and perform a different function
than tines 2030 of retention device 2010. More specifically,
locking members 4030, which extend radially outwardly from device
4010, are configured to engage slots formed in the distal component
4040 as described below. Note the locking members 4030 can also be
configured of sufficient length and have penetrating tips to engage
and penetrate the second body space to provide supplemental
retention of the second body space. In this configuration, the
locking members would then also function as wall penetrating tines
and would be similar to tines 2030 of retention device 2010.
[0217] The distal component 4040, like the proximal component 4012,
is formed from a cut tube, preferably laser cut, although other
cutting methods are contemplated. Distal component 4040 has a
distal end 4042 and a proximal end 4044. A series of solid wall
portions 4045 connected by a web 4046. The solid wall portions 4045
have substantially triangular regions and substantially rectangular
regions. More particularly, the more distal regions are somewhat
triangular with sides 4048a, 4048b extending proximally from vertex
4049. After angling outwardly in triangular-like form, the sides
4048a, 4048b each extend proximally in substantially linear sides
4050a 4050b, forming a substantially rectangular region. Elongated
axial slots 4060 extend distally from the proximal edges and
terminate in radial slot 4062 to receive locking members 4030 of
proximal component 4012 as described below. Alternatively, upper
(distal) slot 4064 can receive locking members 4030 of component
4012, also described below. Structure can also be provided so that
the proximal component 4012 interlocks with structure at vertex
4046 of distal component 4040 or with other regions of distal
component 4040.
[0218] Note that that the components 4012, 4040 can be moved in the
opposite direction, e.g., distal component 4040 moved distally with
respect to proximal component 4012, to disengage the locking
members 4030 to release the components 4012, 4040 from the
interlocked position to allow removal of the flow connector if
desired.
[0219] A series of interconnecting V-shaped struts 4052, at distal
end 4042, have distal vertices 4054 and proximal vertices 4056.
Extending proximally and radially outwardly from each of the distal
vertices 4054 is a tine 4058 with a penetrating tip 4059,
substantially identical to tines 2030 of retention device 2012 and
configured to engage and penetrate the wall of the second body
space placed thereover.
[0220] In use, with reference to FIGS. 49-51, proximal component
4012 is inserted through an opening in the first body space, e.g.,
artery B, in the same manner as described above with respect to
FIGS. 24 and 25, i.e., inserted through a cannula, like cannula C,
so the hooks 4028 are positioned in the lumen of the artery B. The
cannula C is then withdrawn in the same manner as described above
with respect to FIG. 25, and the flow connector 100a is inserted
through the axial opening in the proximal component 4012 in the
same manner as described above in conjunction with FIG. 26 above,
i.e., inserted in a folded or collapsed position through a delivery
sheath like delivery sheath F, and then the delivery sheath is
withdrawn, leaving the flange 102a of the flow connector 100a
positioned in the lumen of the artery B in the same manner as in
FIG. 27. This positioning of the flow connector and distal
component is shown in FIG. 49.
[0221] A second body space, e.g., a vein V, is placed over the
distal component 4040 as in FIG. 49, and together placed over the
proximal component 4012 as shown in FIG. 50. (Note it is also
contemplated that the vein V is placed over component 4040 before
component 4012 is placed in the artery). The distal and proximal
components 4040 and 4012 interlock, preferably releasably
interlock, as the locking members 4030 extend through upper
(distal) slots 4064 and are held within the widened slot area 4064a
due to the narrowing of the slot (slot area 4064b) above the
widened area 4064a. That is, as the two components are moved
together, the locking members 4030 are forced through the narrowed
slot area 4064b into the widened slot area 4064a (see FIG. 50). It
should also be appreciated, that in an alternate embodiment, the
locking members 4030 could engage the lower (proximal) slots 4062
and held therein by the proximal wall 4062a and narrowed slot 4060.
With the two components 4012 and 4040 interlocked as shown, and
with the flow connector 100a applying an outward radial force on
the retention device 4010, the device 4010 and flow connector 100a
are retracted so that penetrating hooks 4029 of hooks 4028
penetrate the wall of the artery B as shown in FIG. 51. Note that
alternatively, the proximal component 4012 and flow connector 100a
positioned therein can be retracted first so the hooks penetrate
the artery wall, and then the distal component 4040 (with attached
vein V) can be interlocked with the proximal component 4012. In
either case, the interlocking of the components 4040 and 4012
retains the flow connector 100a and artery B and vein V in position
to achieve an end to side anastomosis which fluidly connects the
artery B and vein V and maintains the above described fluid tight
seal.
[0222] FIGS. 42-46 illustrate an alternate embodiment of a
retention device. In this embodiment, a one piece retention device
is provided, however, the flow connector and retention device are
provided as a single unit. That is, instead of the user having to
place the flow connector through the retention device in a separate
step, the flow connector and retention device are already attached
so the user can insert the flow connector and retention device
together through the vessel opening. In this embodiment, the
retention device is encapsulated in a polymer material of the fluid
connector so there is no need for a separate retention device or
the need for the additional steps of pre-inserting a retention
device or of attaching a retention device.
[0223] The device, or implant, of this embodiment is designated
generally by reference numeral 5010 and has an integrated flow
connector and retention device. Stated another way, the flow
connector 100b includes a conduit 104b similar to the conduit 104
of FIG. 1A, a flange 102b similar to the flange 102 of FIG. 1A, and
a retention portion 5012 having a strut pattern embedded between
the inner and outer walls 107b, 109b of the conduit 104b. The flow
connector 100b is similar to the flow connector 100 of FIG. 1A in
that it has a conduit 104b and a flange 102b, identical to conduit
104 and flange 102, except as in the other embodiments herein that
do not require suture attachment, it need not be provided with
protrusions as shown in FIG. 1C. The device 5010 as noted above
provides the flow connector 100b formed integrally with the
retention device 5012. Such integration can be achieved by various
methods such as overmolding, dip forming, etc. Additional details
of the flow connector 100b are not discussed herein as they are
substantially identical to that of flow connector 100.
[0224] The retention portion 5012 has a distal end 5014 and a
proximal end 5024. Retention device 5012 is formed from a series of
struts forming two rings of substantially diamond shaped
openings--substantially diamond shaped openings 5020 being in the
distal ring and substantially diamond shaped openings 5022 being in
the proximal ring. These openings 5020, 5022 are formed by the
strut pattern shown in FIG. 42 which has a first (distal) set of
interconnected V-shaped struts 5026, a second (proximal) set of
interconnected V-shaped struts 5028 oriented in the same direction
as the distal struts 5026 and an intermediate set of
interconnecting V-shaped struts 5030 oriented in the opposite
direction of the proximal and distal struts 5028, 5026. The
proximal vertices 5032 of the distal struts 5026 are joined to the
distal vertices 5034 of intermediate struts 5030 and the distal
vertices 5036 of proximal struts 5028 are joined to the proximal
vertices 5038 of intermediate struts 5030. An elongated strut 5040
extends from the proximal vertex 5042 of the proximal struts 5028,
terminating in vessel penetrating hooks 5044 with penetrating tips
5046 similar to hooks 2028 of FIG. 20. A set of tines 5048 with
penetrating tips 5049 extend radially outwardly and proximally from
the distal vertices 5035 of distal struts 5026. The strut pattern
can be formed by cutting, e.g., laser cutting, a tube. Note for
clarity, not all identical parts are labeled in the drawings.
[0225] In use, the device (implant) or implantable flow connector
5010 is inserted into the first space within the body, e.g., artery
B, through a delivery sheath, such as delivery sheath F of FIG. 26.
When delivery sheath F is withdrawn as in the manner described
above with respect to the embodiment of FIGS. 20-31, the device
5010 moves from its reduced profile insertion position to its
original position. With the flange 102b positioned in the lumen of
the artery B, a second body space, e.g., vein V, is positioned over
the device as shown in FIG. 45, with the tines 5048 penetrating the
wall of the vein V when the vein V is in position. The device 5010
is then pulled proximally as shown in FIG. 46, with the hooks 5044
penetrating the wall of the artery B around the opening, e.g.,
circumferentially around the opening as in the other embodiments
described herein, thereby securing together and fluidly coupling
the vein V and artery B forming a seal tight end to side
anastomosis as with the other embodiments described below. Note
that the method also contemplates that the device 5010 is first
retracted so the hooks 5044 penetrate the artery wall B, and then
the vein V is placed over the device 5010.
[0226] Turning now to the embodiments wherein the
securement/retention devices are placed external of the body space
rather than internal of the body space as in the embodiments
described above, reference is initially made to the embodiment of
FIGS. 32-41. With reference to FIGS. 32 and 33, retention device
3010 includes a first outer body member or component 3012 and a
second inner body member or component 3014 which are connectable or
lockable together as described below. In use, the retention device
3010 is placed on the outer surface of the second body space, e.g.,
vein, rather than internal of the vein as in the embodiments of
FIGS. 20-31. The inner body member 3014 receives within its axial
opening the second body space which is positioned over the flow
connector, and the outer body member 3012 engages the first body
space, e.g., the artery, and is slidable along the outer surface of
the inner body member 3012 to lockingly engage the inner body
member 3012, thereby securing the flow connector and retaining the
first and second body spaces, e.g., the artery and vein, so the
flow connector can sealingly fluidly couple the body spaces. The
inner and outer members 3012, 3014 can be packaged pre-assembled or
alternatively assembled by the user.
[0227] With reference to FIGS. 32-36, outer body member 3012 has a
proximal portion 3016, a distal portion 3018 and an intermediate
portion 3020. The outer body member 3012 is substantially C-shaped,
extending in an arc of about 180 degrees (although arcs of other
degrees are contemplated) and slides along the outer surface of the
inner body member 3014. Outer body member 3012 is preferably formed
from a tube, cut to form the illustrated strut pattern, such as by
laser cutting or other methods. The strut pattern includes first
and second (proximal and distal) radial struts 3022, 3024,
separated by axial struts or walls 3026, forming five closed
geometric shapes or windows--two outer windows 3028a, two inner
windows 3028b and an intermediate window 3028c between the two
inner windows 3028b. Outer windows 3028a include inner region 3029a
and outer region 3029b, with outer region 3029b raised with respect
to inner region 3029a to form a ledge 3030. Outer region 3029b
extends distal of wall 3031 of inner region 3029a to form an
elongated slot region 3029c. The configuration of the windows
3028a-c provides for sliding movement of the outer component 3012
with respect to the inner component 3014 in the manner described
below. Note the edges of the windows 3028a-3028c are substantially
linear. However, alternatively, one or more of the edges could be
radiused.
[0228] Each of the two inner windows 3028b has a compression
member, illustratively in the form of a U-shaped spring 3032,
positioned therein, with the base of the U extending proximally and
the arms 3036 of the U curving in a somewhat S-shape into the axial
struts 3026. The springs 3032 deflect when the inner and outer
components 3014. 3012 are interlocked in the manner described
below.
[0229] Proximal radial struts 3022 have a distal wall 3022a which
is configured to engage a portion of the inner body 3014 to limit
relative movement of the components as described below.
[0230] The axial struts 3026 extend proximally beyond the proximal
radial strut 3022 and terminate in a hook or spike 3036, extending
radially inwardly to engage the first body space, e.g., the artery,
as described below. The hook 3036 terminates in a penetrating
(sharpened) tip 3038 configured to penetrate the artery wall from
the outside in (in contrast to the hooks 2028 of FIG. 20 which
penetrate the artery from the inside out). Although each axial
strut 3026 is shown terminating in a hook 3036, it is also
contemplated that alternatively a fewer number of hooks could be
provided such that not all axial struts terminate in hooks.
[0231] Turning now to the inner body member 3014, this component
has a distal portion 3040, a proximal portion 3042 and an
intermediate portion 3044. Inner body member 3014 is preferably
formed from a tube, cut to form the illustrated strut pattern, such
as by laser cutting or other methods. The strut pattern forms a
series axially stacked interleaved radially extending fingers 3050.
These interleaved fingers 3050 are positioned in radial openings
3055 formed in inner member 3014 and are positioned in an axial
row. Note that the fingers 350 extend in alternating opposite
directions so that the first (distalmost) and third fingers extend
radially in a first direction and the second and fourth
(proximalmost) fingers extend in an opposite second direction. Each
of the fingers 3050 terminates in end region 3052 which as shown is
spaced from the wall 3054 to form a gap 3056. Each of the fingers
3050 has a series of elongated axially extending openings 3058
formed therein to reduce the mass of the inner body member 3014 and
increase flexibility. Note that for clarity, not all identical
features of the components have been labeled in the drawings.
[0232] The intermediate portion 3044 includes a pair of tool
engagement tabs 3060, located on opposite ends of the inner member
3014, preferably spaced about 180 degrees apart. The engagement
tabs 3060 extend radially outwardly from the inner body member 3014
and are configured to be engaged by a tool to move the inner body
member 3014 from its normal position as shown in FIG. 37 to an open
(spread) position shown in FIG. 39, thereby opening the inner body
member 3014 into a substantially C-shape configuration to provide
an opening to receive therein a second body space, e.g., a vein,
and attached flow connector as described below in the discussion of
the method of use. Note when the inner body member 3014 is moved
out of its 360 degree substantially cylindrical configuration,
expanded to the position of FIG. 39, fingers 3050 move away from
walls 3054 (see also FIG. 38), and out of the radial opening 3055
to open the inner body member 3014. Note the inner body member 3014
is made of material that enables it to return to its normal
substantially cylindrical position after it is opened so it can
clamp around the circumference of the second body space. One
material that can be used is shape memory material, although other
materials are also contemplated.
[0233] A series of ramps 3062 are positioned in the proximal
portion 3042 of inner body member 3014. The ramps 3062 extend
radially outwardly from the inner body member 3014 and are spaced
apart about the proximal portion. The ramps 3062 include a lower
(proximal) edge 3062a to engage the distal wall 3022a of proximal
radial strut 3022. Note the proximal portion 3042 of inner body
member 3014 preferably does not extend about the full 360 degrees
as does the intermediate and distal portions 3044 and 3040. This
enables it to better accommodate the connection between the first
and second body spaces since the second body space (and flow
connector) is preferably connected at an angle to the first body
space (see e.g., FIGS. 40 and 41). Inner body member 3014 further
includes a series of reliefs 3072 formed in the proximal portion
3042. These reliefs 3072 shield the hooks 3036 of the outer body
member 3012 during delivery and deployment. Bent guide hooks 3066
of inner body member 3014 extend from the intermediate portion 3044
and engage axial struts 3026 of outer body member 3012 to provide
guides for the outer body member 3012 as it slides along the inner
body member 3014. A pair of locking tabs 3070, with a substantially
planar upper surface 3071, extend radially from the intermediate
portion 4044 of the inner body member 3014 and engage the proximal
surface of the spring 3032 of outer body member 3012 to lockingly
engage the inner and outer body members 3014 and 3012 in the manner
described below.
[0234] As shown in FIG. 32, in the initial position of the outer
body member 3012 with respect to the inner body member 3014, the
proximal radial strut 3022 is blocked from proximal movement by the
radially extending ramps 3060. Also note in this position, the
engagement tabs 3060 are in abutment with the ledges 3030 of outer
windows 3028a and radially extending locking tabs 3070 of inner
body member 3014 are positioned proximally of and out of contact
with the U-shaped springs 3032. Note also in this position, the
hooks 3066 of outer body member 3012 are shielded within the
reliefs 3072 of inner body member 3014. Two of the axial struts
3026 are received in the opening formed in bent guide hooks 3066 so
that the hooks 3066 serve as guides for the struts 3026 to help
maintain alignment of the outer body member 3012 and facilitate its
sliding movement with respect to the inner body member 3014.
[0235] A series of other cutouts in the body of inner body member
3014 reduce the overall mass of the component and increase its
flexibility.
[0236] Turning now to the method of insertion utilizing the
retention device 3010 and with reference to FIGS. 40 and 41, the
flow connector 100a is inserted through an opening in the first
body space, e.g., an artery, through a cannula (not shown). The
cannula is similar to the cannula C described above in FIG. 26 and
retains the flow connector 100a in the collapsed or reduced profile
position. Note the insertion of the flow connector 100a differs
from that of FIG. 26 since in this embodiment it is being placed in
the artery as in FIGS. 3-5, and does not pass through a retention
device as in FIG. 26. Once placed in the artery and positioned so
that flange 102a engages the internal wall of the artery B, the
second body space, e.g., the vein V, is placed over the conduit
portion of the flow connector 100a. Note that it is also
contemplated that alternately the vein V is first placed over the
flow connector 100a and then the flow connector is inserted into
the artery B.
[0237] Once the flow connector 100a and vein V are positioned as
shown in FIG. 40, retention device 3010 is moved to its open
C-shaped position (see FIG. 39) by a tool applying a force to
engagement tabs 3060 and then placed about the outer wall of the
vein V. The force on the tabs 3060 are then released, allowing the
retention device 3010 to return to its normal closed position to
clamp about the vein V. (Preferably the inner diameter of the
retention device 3010 is slightly smaller than the outer diameter
of the vein to provide an interference fit). Consequently, the vein
V is positioned between an internal wall of the inner member 3014
and an external wall of the flow connector. (In contrast to the
inner retention devices of FIGS. 20 and 47 which are positioned so
that the devices are between the external wall of the flow
connector and the internal wall of the vein).
[0238] Once the retention device 3010 is positioned about the vein
V to surround the circumference in a 360 degree arc, the outer body
member 3012 is slid distally with respect to the inner member 3014
to lockingly engage the inner body member 3014 to prevent further
movement. More specifically, as a force is applied to the outer
body member 3012 to slide it proximally, proximal radial strut 3022
is forced over the inclined surface of ramps 3062, forcing the
ramps 3062 radially inwardly, and the axial struts 3076 are
maintained in axial alignment by the guide hooks 3066 of inner
member 3014. The outer member 3012 is advanced sufficiently to
advance radial strut 3022 past the ramps 3062. Once passed the
ramps, the ramps 3062 return to their initial position and the
distal wall 3022a of radial strut 3022 engages the proximal surface
3062a of ramp 3062. By this engagement, in this position, distal
movement of the outer body member 3012 is prevented. Also, in this
position, the U-shape spring 3032 of outer member 3012 and the tabs
3070 of inner member 3014 are engaged, with the tabs 3070
deflecting the springs 3032, and the springs applying a force to
return to their original shape. With this spring/tab and rail/ramp
interaction, the outer and inner members 3014, 3012 are lockingly,
and preferably releasingly lockingly, engaged. Note further that
the hooks 3036 of the outer body member 3012 engage and penetrate
the wall of the artery, extending through the artery wall from the
outside into the inside. Consequently, with the inner and outer
components 3014, 3012 lockingly engaged, the hooks of the outer
component 2012 engaging the arterial wall, and the inner member
3014 clampingly engaging the vein V which is fit over the flow
connector, the vein and artery are fluidly and sealingly connected
forming a secure end to side anastomosis.
[0239] Note that the components 3014, 3012 can be moved in the
opposite direction, e.g., the ramps 3062 pressed inwardly and the
outer body member 3012 slid proximally to disengage from the
interlocked position to allow removal of the flow connector if
desired.
[0240] FIGS. 52-55 illustrate an alternate embodiment of an
external retention device. This device differs from the retention
devices of FIG. 20-51 in that it is configured to receive a suture
wherein the embodiments of FIGS. 20-51 as noted above, can provide
a sutureless system if desired. The external securement/retention
device of FIG. 52 is designated generally by reference numeral 6010
and has a distal portion 6012, a proximal portion 6014 and an
intermediate portion 6016. Retention device 6016 is somewhat
similar to the inner body member 3014 of retention device 3010 of
FIG. 32 in that it has a series of radially extending interleaved
fingers 6020, except it differs from retention device 3010 in
various respects. Retention device 6010 does not receive an outer
member which is positioned in the first body space. Instead,
retention device 6010 has at its proximal portion 6014 a plurality
of radially extending tabs 6018 with a proximal undersurface
configured to abut the external wall of the first body space, e.g.,
the artery. As shown, the tabs 6018 lie in a plane angled with
respect to a longitudinal axis of the device 6010 to better conform
to the outer wall of the first body space since the flow connector
(and second body space) are preferably positioned at an angle to
the first body space as shown in FIG. 55.
[0241] As in the embodiment of FIG. 32, device 6010 is preferably
formed from a tube, cut to form the illustrated strut pattern, such
as by laser cutting or other methods. The strut pattern forms a
series axially stacked interleaved radially extending fingers 6020.
These interleaved fingers 6020 are positioned in radial openings
6024 and are positioned in an axial row. The fingers 6020 extend in
alternating opposite directions so that the first (distalalmost)
and third fingers extend radially in a first direction and the
second and fourth (proximalmost) finger extend in an opposite
second direction. Each of the fingers 6020 terminates in end region
6022 which as shown is spaced from the wall 6025 to form a gap
6026. Each of the fingers 6020 has a series of elongated axially
extending openings 6028 formed therein to reduce the mass thereof
and increase flexibility. Note that for clarity, not all identical
features of the device 6010 have been labeled.
[0242] A series of tabs 6030 which have tips 6032 extending
radially inwardly are configured to mate with an anastomotic
connector 100c similar to the flow connector of FIG. 1D in that it
has barbs or protrusions extending from the conduit portion. The
tabs 6030 preferably engage the overlapping wall of the
protrusions. As shown, the tabs 6030 are positioned such that
within openings 6031 and 6032 two tabs 6030 extend toward each
other. A similar arrangement of tabs 6030 is provided spaced about
90 degrees apart (see FIG. 53).
[0243] A pair of tool engagement tabs 6034, located on opposite
ends of retention device 6010, are preferably spaced about 180
degrees apart. The engagement tabs 6034 extend radially outwardly
and are configured to be engaged by a tool to move the device 6010
from its normal position as shown in FIG. 52 to a spread position
shown in FIG. 54 (in the same manner as described above with
respect to FIG. 39), thereby opening the device 6010 into a
substantially C-shape configuration to provide an opening to
receive a second body space, e.g., a vein, and attached flow
connector, as described below in the discussion of the method of
use. Note when the body is moved out of its 360 degree
substantially cylindrical configuration, expanded to the position
of FIG. 54, fingers 6020 move away from walls 6025, and out of the
openings 6024 to open the body member. Note the device 6010 is made
of material that enables it to return to its normal substantially
cylindrical position after it is opened so it clamps around the
circumference of the second body space as its internal diameter is
preferably slightly less than the outer diameter of the second body
space. A shape memory material such as Nitinol can be used to
achieve this, although other materials are also contemplated.
[0244] In use, the flow connector, e.g., flow connector 100c,
similar to the flow connector of FIG. 1D, is inserted into the
first body space, e.g. artery B, with the flange 102c positioned in
the body lumen in the same manner as in FIG. 40. After placement of
flow connector 100c, the second body space, e.g. the vein, is
placed over the flow connector 100c. (Alternatively, the vein could
be placed over the flow connector before inserted into the artery).
Next, tabs 6032 of device 6010 are pressed by a tool (not shown) to
open the device 6010 from its substantially closed (substantially
cylindrical) configuration to its open position so that the flow
connector 100c and vein can be placed into the device 6010. After
such placement, the tabs 6032 are released, allowing the device
6010 to return to its original position to extend circumferentially
around and clamp the vein against the flow connector with the tabs
6030 engaging the protrusions on the conduit portion of the flow
connector 100c, thereby securely retaining the vein. The tabs 6018
of device 6010 remain external of the artery B, resting on the
outer surface of the arterial wall. A suture 6040 is then applied
through the vessel wall, interweaving between the tabs 6018, i.e.,
the suture extends over one tab 6018 and into the vessel wall and
then out from the vessel wall and over the next tab 6018, etc., to
secure the retention device 6010 to the artery B, thereby
maintaining the flow connector 100c in position and maintaining a
secure fluid connection between the artery B and vein V.
[0245] The method of implanting the flow connector, attaching the
retention device and attaching the vein are described above. It
should be appreciated that the retention devices and flow connector
can be removed and placed at an alternate location one or multiple
times if the user is not satisfied with the original placement.
This can be achieved by removal of the retention devices and
compression of the flow connector. In certain instances, it might
be desirable to remove the flow connector and retention device
altogether from the body. This can also be achieved by removing the
retention device and compressing the flow connector to reduce its
profile for withdrawal from the body. In the embodiments where the
retention device includes two interlocking components, the
components can be unlocked and separated to a non-interlocked
position, and then re-interlocked if desired. This
locking/unlocking can be repeated multiple times if necessary.
[0246] The retention devices disclosed herein can be used with any
of the flow connectors described above. Additionally, the retention
devices disclosed herein could have structure to engage the
protrusions, recesses, or other irregular outer structure of the
flow connectors of FIGS. 11A-11Q.
[0247] The retention devices described herein can be packaged as a
kit with one or more of the flow connectors. However, it is also
contemplated that the retention devices can be packaged as a
separate unit for utilization with any of the foregoing flow
connectors as well as for utilization with other flow connectors or
other implants. Still further, in some embodiments, the retention
devices described herein can be used itself to couple first and
second body spaces without the aforedescribed flow connectors. In
these embodiments, the retention device would engage, both the
first and second body spaces in the various manners discussed
above, such as for example by penetrating members penetrating the
wall of the body spaces, to enable fluid coupling of the body
spaces or to otherwise join these two body spaces. To enable fluid
coupling, in some embodiments, the flow connector can include a
non-porous material positioned internal and/or external of the
retention device.
[0248] It is to be understood that although embodiments of the
present invention have been largely described as being used to
connect two tissue-enclosed body spaces, for example veins and
arteries, other embodiments of the present invention may be used to
connect a body space to an artificial device, such as a pump, an
artificial conduit connected to the flow connector 100 conduit,
sensors, plugs, among others.
[0249] While various embodiments of the present invention have been
described above, it should be understood that they have been
presented by way of example only, and not limitation. It will be
apparent to persons skilled in the relevant art that various
changes in form and detail can be made therein without departing
from the spirit and scope of the invention. Thus, the breadth and
scope of the present invention should not be limited by any of the
above-described exemplary embodiments, but should be defined only
in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents. All
patents and publications discussed herein are incorporated in their
entirety by reference thereto.
* * * * *