U.S. patent application number 14/143584 was filed with the patent office on 2014-04-24 for multifunction medical device and related methods of use.
This patent application is currently assigned to Boston Scientific Scimed Inc.. The applicant listed for this patent is Boston Scientific Scimed Inc.. Invention is credited to Thinh D. NGUYEN, Stephen J. PERRY, Paul M. SCOPTON.
Application Number | 20140114125 14/143584 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38728905 |
Filed Date | 2014-04-24 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140114125 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
SCOPTON; Paul M. ; et
al. |
April 24, 2014 |
MULTIFUNCTION MEDICAL DEVICE AND RELATED METHODS OF USE
Abstract
An embodiment of the invention may include a medical device. The
medical device may include a flexible tube, an elongate member
configured to cut tissue and extend from the flexible tube, and a
cauterizing member configured to cauterize tissue and to move
relative to the elongate member and the flexible tube. The
cauterizing member may substantially surround at least a portion of
the elongate member.
Inventors: |
SCOPTON; Paul M.;
(Winchester, MA) ; NGUYEN; Thinh D.; (Meford,
MA) ; PERRY; Stephen J.; (Shirley, MA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Boston Scientific Scimed Inc. |
Maple Grove |
MN |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Boston Scientific Scimed
Inc.
Maple Grove
MN
|
Family ID: |
38728905 |
Appl. No.: |
14/143584 |
Filed: |
December 30, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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13532909 |
Jun 26, 2012 |
8636735 |
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14143584 |
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11822914 |
Jul 11, 2007 |
8226647 |
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13532909 |
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60831920 |
Jul 20, 2006 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
600/104 ;
606/46 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B 1/018 20130101;
A61B 2018/00482 20130101; A61B 2018/00595 20130101; A61B 18/1492
20130101; A61B 2217/007 20130101; A61B 1/015 20130101; A61B
2018/1475 20130101; A61B 2018/00494 20130101; A61B 2018/00601
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
600/104 ;
606/46 |
International
Class: |
A61B 18/14 20060101
A61B018/14; A61B 1/015 20060101 A61B001/015; A61B 1/018 20060101
A61B001/018 |
Claims
1. A medical device, comprising: a flexible tube configured to be
disposed in a working lumen of an endoscope; an elongate member
configured to cut tissue and extend from the flexible tube; and a
cauterizing member configured to cauterize tissue and to move
relative to the elongate member and the flexible tube, wherein the
cauterizing member substantially surrounds at least a portion of
the elongate member.
2. The medical device of claim 1, wherein the cauterizing member is
configured to move longitudinally relative to the elongate member
and the flexible tube, wherein the elongate member is configured to
remain substantially stationary in a longitudinal direction
relative to the flexible tube.
3. The medical device of claim 1, further comprising a handle
including a first portion and a second portion; and an elongate
connector connecting the cauterizing member to one of the first
portion and the second portion, wherein movement of the first
portion relative to the second portion moves the cauterizing member
relative to the elongate member and the flexible tube.
4. The medical device of claim 3, further comprising a cap
connecting the elongate member to the flexible tube, wherein the
cap defines a first lumen configured to accommodate the elongate
connector therethrough, wherein the cap and the elongate connector
are configured to cooperate so as to substantially prevent fluid
flow through the first lumen of the cap.
5. The medical device of claim 3, wherein the elongate connector is
configured to conduct current, wherein the elongate connector is
configured to be electrically connected to both of the cauterizing
member and the elongate member.
6. The medical device of claim 1, wherein in at least one
configuration the cauterizing member is substantially surrounded by
the flexible tube.
7. The medical device of claim 1, further comprising a handle
including an electrical connector and a fluid connector, wherein
the elongate member includes a lumen, wherein the electrical
connector is configured to be connected to a source of current and
is configured to be electrically connected to both of the
cauterizing member and the elongate member, wherein the fluid
connector is configured to be connected to a source of fluid so as
to provide fluid to the lumen of the elongate member.
8-14. (canceled)
15. A medical device, comprising: a flexible tube defining a lumen;
an elongate member configured to cut tissue, the elongate member
defining a lumen configured to accommodate fluid flow from the
lumen of the flexible tube; a cauterizing member configured to move
relative to the elongate member and the flexible tube; and an
electrical connector disposed in the lumen of the flexible tube,
wherein the electrical connector is configured to accommodate
current flow to at least one of the elongate member and the
cauterizing member when the electrical connector is in contact with
fluid disposed in the lumen of the flexible tube, wherein the
electrical connector consists of an electrically conductive
material.
16. The medical device of claim 15, wherein the cauterizing member
is configured to move longitudinally relative to the elongate
member and the flexible tube, wherein the elongate member is
configured to remain substantially stationary in a longitudinal
direction relative to the flexible tube.
17. The medical device of claim 15, further comprising a handle
including a first portion and a second portion, wherein movement of
the first portion relative to the second portion moves the
cauterizing member relative to the elongate member and the flexible
tube, wherein the electrical connector connects the cauterizing
member to one of the first portion and the second portion.
18. The medical device of claim 15, further comprising a cap
connecting the elongate member to the flexible tube, wherein the
cap defines a lumen configured to accommodate the elongate
connector therethrough, wherein the cap and elongate connector are
configured to cooperate so as to substantially prevent fluid flow
through the lumen of the cap.
19. The medical device of claim 15, wherein in at least one
configuration the cauterizing member is substantially surrounded by
the flexible tube.
20. The medical device of claim 18, further comprising a handle
including the electrical connector and a fluid connector, wherein
the electrical connector is configured to be connected to a source
of current, wherein the fluid connector is configured to be
connected to a source of fluid so as to provide fluid to the lumen
of the elongate member and the lumen of the flexible tube.
21. A method of treating tissue, comprising: providing a device
including: a flexible tube configured to be disposed in a working
lumen of an endoscope; an elongate member configured to cut tissue;
and a cauterizing member configured to move to a first position and
a second position relative to the elongate member and the flexible
tube, wherein the first position is different from the second
position, positioning the cauterizing member in the first position
such that the cauterizing member does not surround a portion of the
elongate member; with the cauterizing member in the first position,
cutting tissue via the portion of the elongate member; positioning
the cauterizing member to the second position so as to
substantially surround the portion of the elongate member; and with
the cauterizing member in the second position, cauterizing tissue
via the cauterizing member.
22. The method of claim 21, further comprising longitudinally
moving the cauterizing member relative to the flexible tube.
23. The method of claim 21, wherein the device further comprises a
handle Including a first portion and a second portion; and an
electrical connector connecting the cauterizing member to one of
the first portion and the second portion, the method further
comprising moving the first portion relative to the second portion
so as to implement the positioning steps; moving the electrical
connector via the movement of the first portion relative to the
second portion; and providing current to one of the cauterizing
member and the elongate member via the electrical connector.
24. The method of claim 21, further comprising surrounding the
cauterizing member with the flexible tube during the cutting
step.
25. The method of claim 21, wherein the elongate member includes a
lumen, wherein the device further comprises a handle including an
electrical connector and a fluid connector, the method further
comprising providing a source of current and a source of fluid;
connecting the fluid connector to the source of fluid so as to
provide fluid to the lumen; irrigating tissue via fluid flowing
from the lumen; and connecting the electrical connector to the
source of current so as to provide a current to at least one of the
cauterizing member and elongate member.
26. The method of claim 21, wherein the elongate member is
configured to be substantially stationary relative to the flexible
tube.
27-41. (canceled)
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefits of priority under 35
U.S.C. .sctn.119(e) to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.
60/831,920, filed Jul. 20, 2006, for MULTIFUNCTION MEDICAL DEVICE
AND RELATED METHODS OF USE, the entirety of which is incorporated
herein by reference.
DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] A combined electro-cautery and electro-cutting device to be
used in medical procedures, and related methods of use.
[0004] 2. Background of the Invention
[0005] Cancerous or benign lesions of the gastrointestinal tract
often start in the mucosal layer of the stomach or intestines. With
improved diagnostics and screening, such lesions are being
identified prior to extension into the wall of the stomach or
intestines. Removal of such cancerous or benign lesions is
desirable, preferably before their extension into the wall of the
stomach or intestines.
[0006] One method of removing such lesions includes an invasive
surgical resection of the lesion and the adjacent bowel. However,
surgical approaches may cause trauma to the patient.
[0007] Another method of removing such lesions includes local
excision of the mucosal, for example, with access via natural
orifices. A variety of endoscopic instruments may be used in such a
procedure.
[0008] One such instrument and method may include placing a chamber
attached to the end of an endoscope near a lesion, applying suction
to the lesion so as to draw the lesion in the chamber, and then
using an electrosurgical snare within the chamber to excise the
portion of the lesion disposed in the chamber. This may be done
repeatedly to completely resect the affected tissue.
[0009] Another such instrument and method may include advancing a
grasper to a lesion via a channel of an endoscope. The grasper
lifts the lesion, and then an electrosurgical snare is passed
through another channel of the endoscope. The electrosurgical snare
is placed around the shaft of the grasper and is advanced to
encircle the lifted tissue. The snare is then activated to excise
the tissue.
[0010] Several other endoscopic instruments may be used in
conjunction with one or more of the above-referenced methods. For
example, a needle may be used to inject saline or other solution
under the mucosal to raise the lesion away from the underlying
muscle wall so as to limit perforation.
[0011] Current upper gastrointestinal (UGI) endoscopic mucosal
resection (EMR) procedures may utilize one or more endoscopic
instruments in one or more steps of the following sequence. First,
a dye applicator may be used to identify suspect tissue. Cautery
may then be used to mark the lesion margins. Injection, as
described above, may be used to raise the mucosal tissue layer,
followed by excision to remove the lesion, according to one of the
above described methods, for example. A cautery may then be used to
control bleeding due to the excised tissue. Irrigation may be used
to cleanse the area where the lesion was excised. These endoscopic
instruments and steps may be used on multiple, time-consuming
occasions in a single resection procedure, which may require
inserting and removing each of these instruments on multiple,
time-consuming occasions.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0012] In accordance with the invention, an embodiment of the
invention may include a medical device. The medical device may
include a flexible tube, an elongate member configured to cut
tissue and extend from the flexible tube, and a cauterizing member
configured to cauterize tissue and to move relative to the elongate
member and the flexible tube. The cauterizing member may
substantially surround at least a portion of the elongate
member.
[0013] Various embodiments of the invention may include one or more
of the following aspects: the cauterizing member may be configured
to move longitudinally relative to the elongate member and the
flexible tube; the elongate member may be configured to remain
substantially stationary in a longitudinal direction relative to
the flexible tube; a handle may include a first portion and a
second portion; an elongate connector connecting the cauterizing
member to one of the first portion and the second portion; movement
of the first portion relative to the second portion may move the
cauterizing member relative to the elongate member and the flexible
tube; a cap connecting the elongate member to the flexible tube;
the cap may define a first lumen configured to accommodate the
elongate connector therethrough; the cap and the elongate connector
may be configured to cooperate so as to substantially prevent fluid
flow through the first lumen of the cap; the elongate connector may
be configured to conduct current; the elongate connector may be
configured to be electrically connected to both of the cauterizing
member and the elongate member; at least one configuration the
cauterizing member may be substantially surrounded by the flexible
tube; a handle may include an electrical connector and a fluid
connector; the elongate member may include a lumen; the electrical
connector may be configured to be connected to a source of current
and may be configured to be electrically connected to both of the
cauterizing member and the elongate member; and the fluid'connector
may be configured to be connected to a source of fluid so as to
provide fluid to the lumen of the elongate member.
[0014] Another embodiment of the invention may include a medical
device. The medical device may include a flexible tube, an elongate
member configured to cut tissue, a cauterizing member configured to
move relative to the elongate member and the flexible tube, a
handle configured to move relative to the elongate member and the
flexible tube, and an electrical connector extending through the
flexible tube and configured to move substantially synchronously
with the cauterizing member and the handle relative to the elongate
member and the flexible tube. The electrical connector may be
configured to provide current to at least one of the elongate
member and the cauterizing member.
[0015] Various embodiments of the invention may include one or more
of the following aspects: the cauterizing member may substantially
surround at least a portion of the elongate member; the elongate
member may be configured to remain substantially stationary in a
longitudinal direction relative to the flexible tube; the handle
may include a first portion and a second portion; movement of the
first portion relative to the second portion may move the
cauterizing member relative to the elongate member and the flexible
tube; the electrical connector may connect the cauterizing member
to one of the first portion and the second portion; a cap may
connect the elongate member to the flexible tube; the cap may
define a lumen configured to accommodate the electrical connector
therethrough; the cap and the electrical connector may be
configured to cooperate so as to substantially prevent fluid flow
through the lumen of the cap; in at least one configuration the
cauterizing member may be substantially surrounded by the flexible
tube; the handle may include the electrical connector and a fluid
connector; the elongate member may include a lumen; the electrical
connector may be configured to be connected to a source of current
and may be configured to be electrically connected to both of the
cauterizing member and the elongate member; the fluid connector may
be configured to be connected to a source of fluid so as to provide
fluid to the lumen of the elongate member; and the electrical
connector may be configured to accommodate current flow to only one
of the elongate member and the cauterizing member at any point in
time.
[0016] A further embodiment of the invention may include a medical
device. The medical device may include a flexible tube defining a
lumen, an elongate member configured to cut tissue, the elongate
member defining a lumen configured to accommodate fluid flow from
the lumen of the flexible tube, a cauterizing member configured to
move relative to the elongate member and the flexible tube; and an
electrical connector disposed in the lumen of the flexible tube.
The electrical connector may be configured to accommodate current
flow to at least one of the elongate member and the cauterizing
member when the electrical connector may be in contact with fluid
disposed in the lumen of the flexible tube. The electrical
connector may consist of an electrically conductive material.
[0017] Various embodiments of the invention may include one or more
of the following aspects: the cauterizing member may be configured
to move longitudinally relative to the elongate member and the
flexible tube; the elongate member may be configured to remain
substantially stationary in a longitudinal direction relative to
the flexible tube; a handle may include a first portion and a
second portion; movement of the first portion relative to the
second portion may move the cauterizing member relative to the
elongate member and the flexible tube; the electrical connector may
connect the cauterizing member to one of the first portion and the
second portion; a cap may connect the elongate member to the
flexible tube; the cap may define a lumen configured to accommodate
the elongate connector therethrough; the cap and elongate connector
may be configured to cooperate so as to substantially prevent fluid
flow through the lumen of the cap; the electrical connector may be
configured to be electrically connected to both of the cauterizing
member and the elongate member; in at least one configuration the
cauterizing member may be substantially surrounded by the flexible
tube; a handle may include the electrical connector and a fluid
connector; the electrical connector may be configured to be
connected to a source of current; and the fluid connector may be
configured to be connected to a source of fluid so as to provide
fluid to the lumen of the elongate member and the lumen of the
flexible tube.
[0018] Yet another embodiment of the invention may include a method
of treating tissue. The method may include providing a device
including, a flexible tube, an elongate member configured to cut
tissue, and a cauterizing member configured to move to a first
position and a second position relative to the elongate member and
the flexible tube. The first position may be different from the
second position. The method may include positioning the cauterizing
member in the first position such that the cauterizing member does
not surround a portion of the elongate member, with the cauterizing
member in the first position, cutting tissue via the portion of the
elongate member, positioning the cauterizing member to the second
position so as to substantially surround the portion of the
elongate member, and with the cauterizing member in the second
position, cauterizing tissue via the cauterizing member.
[0019] Various embodiments of the invention may include one or more
of the following aspects: longitudinally moving the cauterizing
member relative to the flexible tube; the device may further
comprise a handle including a first portion and a second portion
and an electrical connector connecting the cauterizing member to
one of the first portion and the second portion; moving the first
portion relative to the second portion so as to implement the
positioning steps; moving the electrical connector via the movement
of the first portion relative to the second portion; providing
current to one of the cauterizing member and the elongate member
via the electrical connector; surrounding the cauterizing member
with the flexible tube during the cutting step; the elongate member
may include a lumen; the device may further comprise a handle
including an electrical connector and a fluid connector; the method
may further comprise providing a source of current and a source of
fluid; connecting the fluid connector to the source of fluid so as
to provide fluid to the lumen; irrigating tissue via fluid flowing
from the lumen; connecting the electrical connector to the source
of current so as to provide a current to at least one of the
cauterizing member and elongate member; and the elongate member may
be configured to be substantially stationary relative to the
flexible tube.
[0020] A yet further embodiment of the invention includes a method
of treating tissue. The method may include providing a device
including a flexible tube, an elongate member configured to cut
tissue, a cauterizing member configured to move relative to the
elongate member and the flexible tube, a handle portion configured
to move relative to the elongate member and the flexible tube, and
an electrical connector configured to move substantially
synchronously with the cauterizing member and the handle portion
relative to the elongate member and the flexible tube. The method
may further include manipulating the handle portion so as to move
the electrical connector and the cauterizing member relative to the
elongate member and the flexible tube, providing current to the
elongate member via the electrical connector, and providing current
to the cauterizing member via the electrical connector.
[0021] Various embodiments of the invention may include one or more
of the following aspects: positioning the cauterizing member such
that the cauterizing member does not surround a portion of the
elongate member and cutting tissue via the portion of the elongate
member; positioning the cauterizing member so as to substantially
surround the portion of the elongate member and cauterizing tissue
via the cauterizing member; longitudinally moving the cauterizing
member relative to the flexible tube; the device may further
comprise a handle including the handle portion and a second
portion; moving the handle portion relative to the second portion
so as to implement the positioning steps; surrounding the
cauterizing member with the flexible tube during the cutting step;
the device may further comprise a handle including the handle
portion, the electrical connector, and a fluid connector; the
elongate member may include a lumen; providing a source of current
and a source of fluid; connecting the fluid connector to the source
of fluid so as to provide fluid to the lumen; irrigating tissue via
fluid flowing from the lumen; connecting the electrical connector
to the source of current so as to provide a current to at least one
of the cauterizing member and elongate member; and the elongate
member may be configured to be substantially stationary relative to
the flexible tube.
[0022] Still another embodiment of the invention may include a
method of treating tissue. The method may include providing a
device including a flexible tube defining a lumen, an elongate
member configured to cut tissue, the elongate member defining a
lumen configured to accommodate fluid flow from the lumen of the
flexible tube, a cauterizing member configured to move relative to
the elongate member and the flexible tube, and an electrical
connector disposed in the lumen of the flexible tube, the
electrical connector being in electrical connection with both the
elongate member and the cauterizing member, wherein the electrical
connector consists of an electrically conductive material. The
method may further include flowing fluid through the lumen of at
least one of the flexible tube and the elongate member and
providing current to at least one of the elongate member and the
cauterizing member via the electrical connector while fluid may be
disposed in the lumen of the flexible tube and may be in contact
with the electrical connector.
[0023] Various embodiments of the invention may include one or more
of the following aspects: positioning the cauterizing member such
that the cauterizing member does not surround a portion of the
elongate member and cutting tissue via the portion of the elongate
member; positioning the cauterizing member so as to substantially
surround the portion of the elongate member and cauterizing tissue
via the cauterizing member; longitudinally moving the cauterizing
member relative to the flexible tube; the device may further
comprise a handle including a first portion and a second portion;
the electrical connector may connect the cauterizing member to one
of the first portion and the second portion; moving the first
portion relative to the second portion so as to implement the
positioning steps; moving the electrical connector via the movement
of the first portion relative to the second portion; surrounding
the cauterizing member with the flexible tube during the cutting
step; the device may further comprise a handle including the
electrical connector and a fluid connector; providing a source of
current and a source of fluid; connecting the fluid connector to
the source of fluid so as to provide fluid to the lumen of the
elongate member; irrigating tissue via fluid flowing from the lumen
of the elongate member; connecting the electrical connector to the
source of current so as to provide a current to the at least one of
the cauterizing member and elongate member; and the elongate member
may be configured to be substantially stationary relative to the
flexible tube.
[0024] Additional objects and advantages of the invention will be
set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part
will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice
of the invention. The objects and advantages of the invention will
be realized and attained by means of the elements and combinations
particularly pointed out in the appended claims.
[0025] The foregoing general description and the following detailed
description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not
restrictive of the invention, as claimed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0026] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and
constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of
the invention and together with the description, serve to explain
the principles of the invention.
[0027] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a medical device according
to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0028] FIG. 1A is schematic view of a part of a proximal portion of
the medical device of FIG. 1.
[0029] FIG. 1B is a cross-sectional view of the part of the
proximal portion along line I-I of FIG. 1A.
[0030] FIG. 1C is a schematic view of another part of the proximal
portion of the medical device of FIG. 1.
[0031] FIG. 1D is a cross-sectional view of the another part of the
proximal portion along line II-II of FIG. 10.
[0032] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a medial portion and a
distal portion of the medical device of FIG. 1 in a first
configuration.
[0033] FIG. 2A is a cross-sectional view of a part of the medial
portion along line III-III of FIG. 2.
[0034] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the medial portion and the
distal portion of the medical device of FIG. 1 in a second
configuration.
[0035] FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional view of a part of the distal
portion along line IV-IV of FIG. 3.
[0036] FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view of another part of the
distal portion along line V-V of FIG. 3.
[0037] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a distal portion of a
medical device according to another embodiment of the
invention.
[0038] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a distal portion of a
medical device according to a further embodiment of the
invention.
DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS
[0039] Reference will now be made in detail to the present
exemplary embodiments of the invention illustrated in the
accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference
numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same
or like parts.
[0040] FIGS. 1, 1A-1D, 2, 2A, 3, and 3A-3B depict an exemplary
embodiment of a medical device 1. Medical device 1 may be
configured to combine excision, cautery, and irrigation features
into a single device. Medical device 1 may have the advantage. of
permitting all three procedures to be conducted without using
multiple instruments and any associated problems that come with
using multiple instruments, including device exchange, additional
time for the procedure, additional trauma to the patient, and
increased cost.
[0041] Medical device 1 may include a proximal portion 100, a
medial portion 200, and a distal portion 300. The major components
of the proximal portion 100 may include a handle 101, an actuator
102 movable relative to handle 101, an electrical connector 103
connected to actuator 102, and an irrigation port 104 connected to
handle 101. As shown in FIG. 2, for example, medial portion 200 may
include, as its major components, an outer elongate member 201 or
sheath, a middle elongate member 202 or coil, and elongate wire
connectors 203. Elongate connectors 203 may connect to actuator 102
and electrical connector 103. A lumen 202c of middle elongate
member 202 may be in fluid communication with port 104.
[0042] The major components of distal portion 300 may include a cap
301, a sheath 302, a capsule 303, a knife 304 and a tip 305 with an
orifice 306. Cap 301 may be disposed on an end of middle elongate
member 202, and sheath 302 may be an extension of outer elongate
member 201. Capsule 303, which performs cautery, and knife 304,
which excises tissue, may have power supplied to them by elongate
connectors 203. In this embodiment, a monopolar current may be
provided to device 1.
[0043] Capsule 303 may move relative to cap 301, sheath 302, and
knife 304, such that in a first configuration, a distal portion of
knife 304 may be covered by capsule 303, and in a second
configuration, the distal portion of knife 304 may be exposed to
perform excisions. Orifice 306 and a lumen 310 of knife 304 may be
in fluid communication with lumen 202c of middle elongate member
202 for the supply of irrigation fluid. Tip 305 may be at a distal
end of knife 304 to minimize perforation and assist in lifting
target tissue for excision. Each of the various components of
device 1, and their interconnection and function, will now be
described in more detail.
[0044] FIGS. 2, 3, and 3A-3B depict an exemplary embodiment of
distal portion 300. Distal portion 300 may include various
components to perform excision, cautery, and irrigation. As
mentioned above, distal portion 300 may include cap 301, sheath
302, capsule 303, knife 304, and tip 305 with orifice 306.
[0045] Cap 301 may be coupled to a distal end of elongate member
202 at a proximal end of distal portion 300. Cap 301 may serve as a
passage for elongate electrical connectors 203 and for irrigation
fluid. Three lumens 301a, 301b, 301c may extend through cap 301, as
shown in FIG. 3A. Each of lumens 301a, 301b, 301c may have a
circular cross-sectional profile and a longitudinal axis
substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of cap 301.
[0046] Lumens 301a, 301c may be configured to accommodate elongate
connectors 203 therethrough. Lumens 301a, 301c may have the same
cross-sectional areas and may be spaced symmetrically around lumen
301b. Electrical connectors 203 may have a cross-sectional shape
and dimensions substantially similar to that of lumens 301a, 301c
such that they form a tight fit. Accordingly, electrical connectors
203 may be in physical contact with cap 301 via lumens 301a, 301c
and may provide current to cap 301. The tight pacing of electrical
connectors 203 within lumens 301a, 301c, while still allowing
longitudinal movement of electrical connectors 203 relative to
lumens 301a, 301c, may substantially prevent or impede fluid from
flowing through lumens 301a, 301c, for example, from lumen 202c to
an area distal to cap 301.
[0047] Lumen 301b may be configured to accommodate irrigation
therethrough, for example, from lumen 202c. Lumen 301b may be
substantially coaxial with cap 301. In the embodiment shown, lumen
301b may have a larger cross-sectional area than each of lumens
301a, 301c. Lumen 301b may accommodate irrigation and may provide
irrigation to an end of interior lumen 310 of elongate member
304.
[0048] Cap 301 may have a variety of alternative configurations,
including, for example, a different number of lumens. In addition,
each of lumens 301a, 301b, 301c may have the same configuration
(including cross-sectional shape and/or area), or two or more of
lumens 301a, 301b, 301c may have different configurations. Lumens
301a, 301b, 301c may be disposed on any portion of cap 301 in any
desired configuration. For example, any one of lumens 301a, 301b,
301c may be substantially coaxial with cap 301.
[0049] Sheath 302 may be configured to surround cap 301, capsule
303, and a distal portion of elongate member 304 that may be not
exposed. Sheath 302 may extend distally from cap 301 and may be
made of an insulation material, such as a rubber or polymer, to
prevent a current from passing therethrough. When sheath 302
surrounds at least the electrically conductive portions of capsule
303, capsule 303 may be prevented from either contacting or passing
a current to an area outside of outer surface 302a of sheath 302.
An outer surface 303a of capsule 303 may contact an inner surface
302b of sheath 302 when sheath 302 is disposed around capsule 303.
Sheath 302 may be integral with, and an extension of, outer
elongate member 201 from medial portion 200 of medical device 1.
Capsule 303 may be longitudinally movable relative to sheath 302 so
as to cause sheath 302 to cover and uncover capsule 303.
[0050] Sheath 302 may have a variety of alternative configurations,
including, for example, being made of any suitable biocompatible
material. A space may be present between an outer surface 303a of
capsule 303 and an inner surface 302b of sheath 302 when sheath 302
is disposed around capsule 303. Sheath 302 may be a separate piece
attached to outer elongate member 201. Sheath 302 may be
longitudinally movable relative to one or more of cap 301, capsule
303, elongate member 304, tip 305, and/or orifice 306, for example,
to cover and/or uncover one or more of those components.
[0051] Capsule 303 may be a cautery member that includes a first
section 307, a second section 308, and a third section 309, as
shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. First section 307 may be a proximal
section, second section 308 may be a medial section, and third
section 309 may be a distal section. Second section 308 may be a
cautery segment and therefore may be comprised of an electrically
conductive material such as copper, stainless steel, or other
metals. First and third sections 307, 309 may be insulation
segments and therefore may be comprised of nonconductive materials
such as a rubber, polymer, or ceramic. Second section 308 may be
configured to accommodate a current therethrough, and may be
electrically connected to elongate connectors 203 extending through
lumens 301a, 301c of cap 301. That connector may be made by a
direct connection between second section 308 and elongate
connectors 203, i.e., connectors 203 extending through first
section 307 to a proximal portion of second section 308.
[0052] Capsule 303 may be longitudinally movable relative to sheath
302. In a first configuration, substantially an entirety of capsule
303, including second section 308, may be covered by sheath 302. In
a second configuration, however, at least a portion of capsule 303
may cover the portion of elongate member 304 otherwise exposed and
extending from the end of sheath 302. In this second configuration,
a portion of capsule 303; for example, second section 308, may not
be covered by sheath 302, and a distal end of capsule 303 may
contact a proximal portion of tip 305, which may act as a distal
stop against further distal movement of capsule 303. In such a
configuration, capsule 303 may prevent elongate member 304 from
coming into contact with body tissue and/or passing a current from
elongate member 304 to body tissue.
[0053] Capsule 303 may have a variety of alternative
configurations, including, for example, sections 307, 308, 309
having any shape and/or configuration. Any combination of sections
307, 308, 309 may be a cautery segments and insulation segments. As
a further example, second section 308 may be indirectly connected
to elongate connectors 203 via intervening connectors. As an even
further example, in the first configuration, only a portion of
capsule 303, for example, only first section 307 and second section
308, may be covered by sheath 302, and in the second configuration,
a portion of capsule 303 may still be covered by sheath 302, and/or
a space may separate a distal. end of capsule 303 from contacting
tip 305. In another example, capsule 303 may be temporarily closed
at either end in the configuration shown in FIG. 2. For example,
tip 305 may cooperate with a distal end of section 309 to close the
distal end of section 309 and prevent fluid from flowing into an
interior of capsule 303.
[0054] Elongate member 304 may be a cutting member made of a
suitable biocompatible material, such as stainless steel.
Specifically, elongate member 304 may be a hypotube. Elongate
member 304 may be configured to cut issue, for example, by
including one or more sharp edges. Elongate member 304 may be
affixed to lumen 301b of cap 301, and elongate member 304 itself
may define a lumen 310, as shown in FIG. 3B, that may be in flow
communication with lumen 301b and orifice 306 to form an irrigation
conduit. A source of current may be connected to elongate member
304 via a part of medial portion 200, such as elongate connectors
203, so as to pass a current through member 304.
[0055] The current may be passed through member 304 using any
suitable method and configuration. For example, elongate connectors
203 may be in electrical communication with cap 301 via lumens
301a, 301c, which may provide power to elongate member 304.
[0056] Elongate member 304 may have a variety of alternative
configurations, including, for example, a configuration of any
suitable cutting member. Elongate member 304 may be made of any
suitable material and by any suitable method, and may be affixed to
any portion of distal portion 300. Elongate member 304 may be solid
and not define a lumen 310, in which case the device either does
not perform irrigation or irrigation may be conducted by other
means. The source of current may be any suitable source of current,
for example, a high-frequency generator. As another alternative,
elongate member 304 may be configured to excise tissue without the
use of electrical current. In some embodiments, an inner insulator
may disposed on an inner surface of elongate member 304 to insulate
lumen 310, and the fluid flowing therethrough, from the current
passing through elongate member 304.
[0057] Tip 305 may be a safety tip at a distal end of elongate
member 304. Tip 305 may be configured to minimize perforation of
tissue by a distal end of elongate member 304. Tip 305 may be
configured to hook, lift, and position tissue for excision, for
example, as described herein. Tip 305 may be made out of an
insulating material, such as a rubber, polymer, or ceramic, and has
a substantially spherical shape. Tip 305 may define a lumen leading
to orifice 306.
[0058] Tip 305 may have a variety of alternative configurations.
For example, tip 305 may be a safety tip made out of any suitable
material having any suitable shape and/or configuration, and may be
placed on any suitable portion of distal portion 300. Tip 305 may
be configured to minimize perforation of tissue by any portion of
distal portion 300. Tip 305 may include a coating made out of an
insulating material, such as a rubber, polymer, or ceramic. Tip 305
may be configured to lift tissue, for example, folded tissue
portions in the gastrointestinal tract.
[0059] Tip 305 may include an orifice 306 on its distal end.
Orifice 306 may be in flow communication with the lumen of tip 305
and interior lumen 310 of elongate member 304. Orifice 306 may be
configured to allow fluid flow past the distal tip of elongate
member 304 and tip 305. Orifice 306 may be aligned with a
longitudinal axis of elongate member 304 and tip 305.
[0060] Orifice 306 may have a variety of alternative
configurations, such as any suitable shape. Orifice 306 may be in
flow communication with any suitable source of fluid, such as
saline, water, or other biocompatible irrigation fluids. Orifice
306 may be disposed at any surface of tip 305 to direct irrigation
fluid in any suitable direction. For example, orifice 306 may be
directed proximal to tip 305 so as to provide fluid to an area
adjacent to elongate member 304 and/or capsule 303. Orifice 306 may
include a nozzle configured to control fluid flow, for example, the
fluid flow's direction, velocity, and area of coverage.
[0061] FIGS. 1 and 1A-1D depict an exemplary embodiment of proximal
portion 100. As mentioned above, proximal portion 100 may include a
handle 101, an actuator 102, an electrical connector 103, and an
irrigation port 104.
[0062] Handle 101 may include a thumb ring 105 and a guide shaft
106. Thumb ring 105 may be integrally formed with guide shaft 106.
Guide shaft 106 may include a slot 110 extending therethrough
configured to accommodate elongate connectors 203 and a portion of
actuator 102 and connector 103, more specifically, second end 111
of connector 103.
[0063] Actuator 102 is shown in FIGS. 1 and 1A-1B. Actuator 102 may
be configured to move relative to handle 101 by sliding relative to
guide shaft 106. Actuator 102 may include finger rings 107 disposed
around guide shaft 106. A user may be able to move actuator 102
relative to handle 101 by placing fingers in thumb ring 105 and
finger rings 107 and moving the fingers relative to each other.
[0064] Actuator 102 may include a central portion 108 that has a
central throughhole, or lumen, to accommodate shaft 106. Central
portion 108, as well as finger rings 107, shaft 106, and thumb ring
105, may be molded from a suitable insulative material, such as a
plastic. Central portion 108 may accommodate structure configured
to pass current therethrough, specifically, connector 103. Central
portion 108 may prevent an electrical current from passing from
connector 103 and elongate connectors 203 to other portions of
actuator 102 and proximal portion 100, such as thumb ring 105 and
finger rings 107. Central portion 108 may includes structure, such
as cross pins, that extends into slot 110 of handle 101 from both
sides of slot 110 to maintain actuator 102 in a specific rotational
position relative to guide shaft 106. At least a portion of
connector 103 may be substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal
axis of guide shaft 106. Actuator 102 may be coupled to and
configured to move capsule 303 longitudinally via elongate
connectors 203.
[0065] In various embodiments, actuator 102 may be an suitable
actuator, may be configured to move relative to handle 101 in any
suitable manner, and may include one or no finger ring 107. For
example, handle 101 and actuator 102 may take the form of a thumb
ring and spool-type handle known in the art. Actuator 102 may be
coupled to and/or configured to move capsule 303 using any suitable
method. As another example, thumb ring 105 may be separately formed
from guide shaft 106 and then attached.
[0066] Connector 103 may include a first end 109 configured to be
connected to a high-frequency generator. Connector 103 may extend
through central portion 108 and may be connected at a second end
111, more specifically the end disposed inside guide shaft 106 and
actuator 102, to elongate connectors 203, as shown in FIG. 1A.
Connector 103 may be made out of any suitable material configured
to pass current from the source of current to elongate connectors
203, such as stainless steel or other metals. Second end 111 of
connector 103 may extend into slot 110 of guide shaft 106, as shown
in FIGS. 1A and 1B. Connector 103 may be coupled to and configured
to move capsule 303 via elongate connectors 203. In various
embodiments, connector 103 may be configured to be connected to any
suitable source of current and may have any suitable
configuration.
[0067] Port 104 is shown in FIGS. 1, 1C, and 1D. Port 104 may be
configured to be connected to guide shaft 106 of handle 101 at a
distal end 106a of guide shaft 106. Port 104 may define lumens
104a, 104b as shown in FIGS. 1C and 1D. Both lumens 104a, 104b may
be configured to accommodate fluid therethrough. Lumen 104a may be
disposed substantially parallel to and substantially coaxial with a
longitudinal axis of guide shaft 106. Lumen 104b may be at an angle
relative to lumen 104a. For example, lumen 104b may be disposed
substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of guide shaft
106 and/or lumen 104a. Lumen 104b may have a connection portion
104b-1 that may be configured to be connected to a source of fluid
and form a substantially fluid tight seal with a connector of the
source of fluid. Lumen 104a may have a distal end 104a-1 that may
be configured to be connected to an irrigation lumen defined by a
portion of medial portion 200, such as lumen 202c of middle
elongate member 202. Lumens 104a, 140b may be configured to
accommodate fluid flow from connection portion 104b-1 to a distal
end 104a-1.
[0068] Elongate portion 113 may be disposed within lumen 104a. For
example, elongate portion 113 may be a hypotube. Elongate portion
113 may extend from a distal end 106a of guide shaft 106 to a
distal end 104a-1 of lumen 104a. At a proximal end 104c of port
104, a cross-sectional area of lumen 104a may narrow such that an
inner diameter of proximal end 104c may be substantially similar to
an outer diameter of . elongate portion 113. In such a
configuration, elongate portion 113 may be moved substantially
longitudinally relative to portion 104. O-ring 114 may be disposed
in distal end 106a of guide shaft 106 and may form a substantially
fluid-tight fit with both an outer surface of elongate portion 113
and an inner surface 106b of guide shaft 106, and may still allow
elongate portion 113 to move longitudinally relative to lumen 104a
and guide shaft 106. A combination of the tight fit between
elongate portion 113, proximal end 104c, and O-ring 114 may form a
tight fit so as to impede or prevent fluid flow therethrough, for
example, from lumen 104a to the area in guide shaft 106 proximal to
proximal end 104c. Connectors 203 may be disposed and/or integral
with elongate portion 113. For example, connectors 203 may extend
through an entire length of elongate portion 113 and may be
attached to an inner surface of elongate portion 113. Connectors
203 may emerge from elongate portion 113 substantially at distal
end 104a-1 of port 104.
[0069] FIGS. 2, 2A, and 3 disclose an exemplary embodiment of
medial portion 200. Medial portion 200 may include outer elongate
member 201, middle elongate member 202, and elongate connectors
203.
[0070] Outer elongate member 201 (i.e., sheath) may be configured
to be advanced through a working channel of an endoscope having a
diameter of, for example, about 2.8 mm. Outer elongate member 201
may be made out of an electrically insulating, heat resistant,
flexible material, such as tetraflouroethylene, polyethylene, or
polytetraflouroethylene. Outer elongate member 201 may have a
substantially cylindrical configuration when outer elongate member
201 is substantially straight, and with sheath 302, may have a
length sufficient to cover cap 301 and at least a portion of
capsule 303 on the distal end, and extend to port 104 at the
proximal end. A proximal end 201a of outer elongate member 201 may
be integrally, formed with or otherwise connected to a distal end
of port 104, and a distal end 201b of outer elongate member 201 may
be integrally formed with a proximal end 302a of sheath 302. Outer
elongate member 201 may substantially cover and may be affixed to
middle elongate member 202 to define a lumen 202c that accommodates
elongate connectors 203 and irrigation fluid.
[0071] Various alternative configurations may be also possible. For
example, outer elongate member 201 may be configured to be advanced
through a working channel of an endoscope having any suitable
diameter. Outer elongate member 201 may be made out of any suitable
material, may have any suitable configuration, and may have any
suitable length. For example, outer elongate member 201 may have a
length sufficient to cover a portion of distal portion 300 and/or a
portion of proximal portion 100. Outer elongate member 201 may
connect to and/or be integrally formed with one or more portions of
proximal portion 100 and/or distal portion 300. Alternatively,
outer elongate member 201 may be separate from and connected to one
or more portions of proximal portion 100 and/or distal portion
300
[0072] Middle elongate member 202 may be a stainless steel coil
that may be closely wound, both to accommodate fluid flow
therethrough and prevent fluid flow from an inner surface of middle
elongate member 202 to an outer surface of middle elongate member
202. Middle elongate member 202 may be flexible so that it may pass
through an endoscope channel and through tortuous anatomy. Middle
elongate member 202 may be connected to portions of proximal
portion 100 and distal portion 300. Specifically, middle elongate
member 202 may be connected on a distal end to cap 301 and on a
proximal end 202b to distal end 104a-1 of port 104. Middle elongate
member 202 may substantially cover elongate connectors 203, and may
define a lumen 202c configured to accommodate elongate connectors
203 therethrough. Lumen 202c may also accommodate fluid flow
between lumen 104a of port 104 and lumen 301b of cap 301. In
alternative embodiments, middle elongate member 202 may be made out
of any suitable material and have any suitable configuration.
[0073] Medial portion 200 may include elongate connectors 203 such
as electrical wires. Elongate connectors 203 may be configured to
conduct current to establish an electrical connection between a
source of current, via connector 103, second section 308 of capsule
303, and elongate member 304. A proximal end 203a of elongate
connectors 203 may be connected to a second end 111 of connector
103, and a distal end of elongate connectors 203 may be connected
to second section 308 of capsule 303 and elongate member 304.
Elongate connectors 203 may be disposed through lumens 301a, 301c
of cap 301 and lumen 104a of port 104. Elongate connectors 203 may
also be disposed within lumen 113a of elongate portion 113, and may
be attached to elongate portion 113. Elongate connectors 203 may be
longitudinally movable relative to cap 301, elongate member 304,
tip 305, orifice 306, outer elongate member 201, middle elongate
member 202, port 104, guide shaft 106, and thumb ring 101. Elongate
connecters 203 may be configured and coupled to move longitudinally
substantially synchronously with the movement of finger rings 107,
central portion 108, connector 103, and capsule 303. Elongate
connectors 203 may be configured to move capsule 303 proximally
relative to elongate member 304 and tip 305 into sheath 302, so as
to expose elongate member 304 and prevent capsule 303 from coming
into contact with tissue. Elongate connectors 203 also may be
configured move capsule 303 distally relative to elongate member
304 and tip 305 out of sheath 302, so as to cover elongate member
304 and allow capsule 303 to come into contact with tissue. In the
embodiments shown, elongate connectors 203 are not covered by
insulation.
[0074] In various embodiments, medial portion 200 may include any
number of elongate connectors 203, for example one connector.
Connectors 203 may be any suitable connectors made of electrically
conductive material and either covered or uncovered with
insulation. For example, elongate connectors 203 may be covered by
an insulation material, such as rubber or plastic, so as to prevent
current from flowing out of elongate connectors to other portions
of medical portion 200, such as middle elongate member 202.
Elongate connectors 203 may be configured to conduct current
between any portions of proximal portion 100 and/or distal portion
300. For example, elongate connectors 203 may be in direct
electrical communication with one or more of cap 301 and elongate
member 304. Elongate connectors 203 may be configured as thin film
conductors that may be incorporated in an electrically conductive
material, for example, elongate portion 113.
[0075] Embodiments of the invention include methods of using
medical device 1. In one example, medical device 1 and an endoscope
may be provided. The endoscope may be placed into a tortuous body
lumen of a patient such as any portion of the gastrointestinal
tract. The endoscope may be then advanced into the body lumen until
a distal end of the endoscope may be substantially adjacent to body
tissue to be removed, such as a lesion. Medical device 1 may then
be advanced down a working channel of the endoscope. Specifically,
distal portion 300 may be first advanced down the working channel
of the endoscope, followed by medial portion 200. Medical device 1
may be continuously advanced until at least a part of distal
portion 300 emerges from a distal end of the working channel
substantially adjacent to body tissue to be removed.
[0076] At some point prior to or during the procedure, medical
device 1 may be connected to a source of current and a source of
fluid. Specifically, a source of current may be connected to a
first end 109 of connector 103 so as to establish an electrical
connection between connector 103, elongate connectors 203, capsule
303 (e.g., second section 308), and elongate member 304. A source
of fluid may be connected to a connection portion 104b-1 of port
104 so as to establish a fluid connection between the source of
fluid and lumen 104b, lumen 104a, lumen 202c, lumen 301b of cap
301, lumen 310 of elongate member 304, and orifice 306.
[0077] While medical device 1 may be advanced down the working
channel of the endoscope, medical device 1 may be in a passive
configuration. No portion of medical device 1 has current running
through it and no portion of medical device 1 includes fluid, or at
least does not have fluid running through it. In the passive
configuration, capsule 303 may be in an advanced (i.e., distal)
configuration and covers elongate member 304 such that a distal end
of capsule 303 may be in contact with tip 305. Some portions of
capsule 303 may be covered by sheath 302 (e.g., a proximal portion
of first section 307) while other portions of capsule 303 may be
exposed (e.g., a distal portion of first section 307 and
substantially all of second section 308 and third section 309).
Along with capsule 303, one or more of elongate connectors 203,
connector 103, finger rings 107, and central portion 108 may be in
an advanced configuration by being in a longitudinally distal
position relative to shaft 106.
[0078] When medical device 1 may be disposed in the desired
position substantially adjacent to tissue to be removed, medical
device 1 may be placed into an active configuration at any point
during the procedure when current or irrigation may be needed. To
do so, first end 109 of connector 103 may be connected to a source
of current so as to allow current to flow through connector 103,
elongate connectors 203, second section 308 of capsule 303, and
elongate member 304. Connection portion 104b-1 of port 104 may be
connected to a source of fluid to allow fluid to flow through lumen
104b, lumen 104a, middle elongate member 202, lumen 310 of elongate
member 304, and out orifice 306. The fluid may be any suitable
fluid for irrigating body tissue.
[0079] When medical device 1 is disposed in the desired position
substantially adjacent to tissue to be removed, medical device 1
may be operated. Specifically, tip 305 may be used to hook, lift,
and position tissue for excision. This may be necessary where, in
some instances, the tissue to be removed may be folded over so as
to make it difficult, if not impossible, to get elongate member 304
underneath the tissue. In such cases, tip 305 may be used by
placing tip 305 underneath the tissue and then using the tip 305 to
raise the tissue. This may be called hooking. Tip 305 may be
configured to hook tissue, for example, by having a beveled edge
configured to assist in getting underneath the folded over tissue.
Once the tissue is raised, elongate member 304 may be used to cut
the tissue. In other cases, fluid may be supplied to lumen 104b,
lumen 104a, lumen 202c of middle elongate member 202, lumen 310 of
elongate member 304, and orifice 306 via a source of fluid
connected to connection portion 104b-1 of port 104. Fluid may be
ejected distally out of orifice 306 and underneath the tissue so as
to raise the tissue to be cut. Fluid may also be ejected to clear
blood and/or other bodily fluids from the tissue site so as to
allow for accurate manipulation of the tissue. Once raised,
elongate member 304 may be used to cut the tissue. Any other
suitable method of raising the tissue, such as by needle injection
of fluid, may be used.
[0080] A user then may cause capsule 303 to move proximally so as
to expose elongate member 304 and substantially cover capsule 303
(or at least first and second sections 307, 308) with sheath 302.
Capsule 303 may be moved proximally by moving actuator 102
proximally along guide shaft 106 toward thumb ring 105 of handle
101. Actuator 102 may be moved proximally by a user placing fingers
in finger rings 107 and a thumb in thumb ring 105, and then
bringing the finger rings 107 and thumb ring 105 closer together.
Moving actuator 102 proximally may cause connector 103, elongate
portion 113, and elongate connectors 203 to also move proximally.
The outer surface of elongate portion 113 may cooperate with inner
surface 106b of guide shaft 106 and O-ring 114 to substantially
prevent fluid from flowing from lumen 104a proximal to proximal end
104c of port 104 and O-ring 114. Similarly, the outer surface of
elongate connectors 203 may cooperate with an inner surface of
lumens 301a, 301c to substantially prevent fluid from flowing from
lumen 202c to an area surrounding elongate portion 304. Movement of
elongate connectors 203 proximally may cause capsule 303 to move
proximally due to their attachment to capsule 303 at second section
308. Capsule 303 may be moved proximally until a proximal end of
first section 307 comes into contact with a distal end of cap 301
and/or when a portion of actuator 102 disposed in slot 110 contacts
a proximal end of slot 110.
[0081] Current may be then supplied to elongate member 304 and
second section 308 via a source of current connected to connector
103 and elongate connectors 203. Specifically, a monopolar current
may flow from the source of current to elongate connectors 203, to
cap 301, and then to elongate member 304 when elongate member 304
contacts tissue. Because second section 308 is covered by sheath
302, even though second section 308 is connected to elongate
connectors 203, current does not flow through second section 308 at
this time because a circuit cannot be completed without second
section 308 being in contact with body tissue.
[0082] With or without current, elongate member 304 may be used to
cut tissue using any suitable technique. One method may involve
placing the tissue to be removed to one side of elongate member
304, and then manipulating elongate member 304 so as to cut through
the tissue to be removed. Another method may involve moving
elongate member 304 laterally or circumferentially in a given
direction of resection.
[0083] Once tissue is removed, the remaining tissue may bleed. In
such cases, capsule 303 may be advanced distally out of sheath 302
so as to expose capsule 303, at least second section 308 and third
section 309. Capsule 303 may be advanced longitudinally distally by
moving distally elongate connectors 203, connector 103, actuator
102, and finger rings 107 relative to thumb ring 105, guide shaft
106, port 104, outer elongate member 201, middle elongate member
202, inner elongate member 204, sheath 302, cap 301, elongate
member 304, tip 305, and orifice 306.
[0084] Current may be supplied to second section 308. Specifically,
when second section 308 contacts tissue, current may flow from
elongate connectors 203, through second section 308, and to the
body tissue with which second section 308 is in contact. Thus, when
second section 308 is in contact with the bleeding tissue, current
may be applied to the tissue so as to cauterize the tissue and stop
or at least substantially reduce the bleeding. At this time,
because capsule 303 prevents elongate portion 304 from contacting
body tissue, current may not flow through elongate portion 304 even
though elongate portion 304 is electrically connected to elongate
connectors 203 via cap 301.
[0085] There may be other variations in embodiments of the
invention. For example, the endoscope and device 1 may be placed
into any tortuous body lumen of a patient. The endoscope and device
1 may be advanced separately or together. Any suitable portion of
the endoscope and device 1 may be substantially adjacent to body
tissue to be removed. Medical device 1 may be connected to a source
of current and/or a source of fluid at any point in time, and
cautery or irrigation may be supplied at any suitable point in the
procedure. At any point, therefore, any portion of medical device 1
may be in the active or passive configuration. Device 1 may be used
without an endoscope. For example, a separate visual device may be
placed adjacent to device 1 in the body.
[0086] Any of the steps set forth herein may be repeated as many
times as necessary and/or implemented in any particular order. For
example, a tissue portion may be removed using elongate member 304,
the remaining tissue may be cauterized using second section 308,
and then another tissue portion may be removed followed by
cauterization. The tissue may be irrigated at any point in any of
these steps set forth herein. These steps may be performed at
substantially the same tissue site (e.g., multiple cuts,
cauterizations, and/or irrigations may be necessary to remove a
single piece of tissue) or at different tissue sites (e.g., medical
device 1 may be repositioned in the body lumen so as to remove
different tissue portions). An advantage of embodiments of the
invention may be that tissue may be removed, cauterized, and/or
irrigated using a single medical device 1 that does not need to be
removed from the body lumen during the procedure.
[0087] In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4, distal portion
1300 may include a capsule 1303 and an elongate member 1304 each
having a bipolar configuration. Other portions of such a medical
device may be modified to accommodate this bipolar configuration.
Capsule 1303 may have first section 1303a, second section 1303b,
third section 1303c, fourth section 1303d, and fifth section 1303e.
Second section 1303b and fourth section 1303d may be comprised of
conductive material and may be configured to pass a bipolar current
therethrough, whether or not these sections are in contact with
tissue, while first section 1303a, third section 1303c, and fifth
section 1303e may be comprised of insulative material and may be
configured to insulate second section 1303b and fourth section
1303d from each other and surrounding structure. Bipolar current
may be provided to both of second section 1303b and fourth section
1303d via elongate connectors to enable bipolar cauterization,
whether or not these sections are in contact with tissue.
[0088] In the same embodiment, elongate member 1304 may have first
section 1304a, second section 1304b, third section 1304c, fourth
section 1304d, and fifth section 1304e. Second section 1304b and
fourth section 1304d may be comprised of conductive material and
may be configured to pass a bipolar current therethrough, whether
or not these sections are in contact with tissue, while first
section 1304a, third section 1304c, and fifth section 1304e may be
comprised of insulative material and may be configured to insulate
second section 1304b and fourth section 1304d from each other and
surrounding structure. Bipolar current may be provided to both of
second section 1304b and fourth section 1304d via elongate
connectors to enable bipolar current for excision of tissue,
whether or not these sections are in contact with tissue.
[0089] In a further example, as shown in FIG. 5, a capsule 2303 may
have a first section 2303a and a second section 2303b. Each of
first section 2303a and second section 2303b may have a
substantially complementary helical configuration, and second
section 2303b may be configured to pass a monopolar current
therethrough when second section 2303b is in contact with tissue,
while first section 2303a may be configured to insulate various
portions of second section 2303b longitudinally separated by
corresponding portions of first section 2303a. Monopolar current
may be provided to second section 2303b via the elongate connectors
203 when second section 2303b is in contact with tissue.
[0090] In yet another example, as shown in FIG. 5, an elongate
member 2304 (e.g., a cutting member) may have a first section 2304a
and a second section 2304b. Each of first section 2304a and second
section 2304b may have a substantially complementary helical
configuration, and second section 2304b may be configured to pass a
monopolar current therethrough when second section 2304b is in
contact with tissue, while first section 2304a may be configured to
insulate various portions of second section 2304b longitudinally
separated by corresponding portions of first section 2304a.
Monopolar current may be provided to second section 2304b via the
elongate connectors 203 when second section 2304b is in contact
with tissue.
[0091] In various embodiments, capsule 1303, 2303 and elongate
member 1304, 2304 may have any number of current conducting and
insulating sections in any suitable shape and/or combination.
Current may be provided to the appropriate portions of capsule
1303, 2303 and elongate member 1304, 2304 using any suitable
method, for example, via elongate connectors 203.
[0092] Other embodiments of the invention will be apparent to those
skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and
practice of the invention disclosed herein. It may be intended that
the specification and examples be considered as exemplary only,
with the true scope and spirit of the invention being indicated by
the following claims.
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