U.S. patent application number 14/221853 was filed with the patent office on 2014-07-24 for gripper pusher mechanism for tissue apposition systems.
This patent application is currently assigned to ABBOTT CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEMS INC.. The applicant listed for this patent is Kent DELL, Jacob GREENBERG, Daniel HALE, Michael HONG, Stephanie JONES, Theodore KETAI, Tanmay MISHRA, Steven TYLER, Francisco VALENCIA. Invention is credited to Kent DELL, Jacob GREENBERG, Daniel HALE, Michael HONG, Stephanie JONES, Theodore KETAI, Tanmay MISHRA, Steven TYLER, Francisco VALENCIA.
Application Number | 20140207161 14/221853 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 47830512 |
Filed Date | 2014-07-24 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140207161 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
DELL; Kent ; et al. |
July 24, 2014 |
GRIPPER PUSHER MECHANISM FOR TISSUE APPOSITION SYSTEMS
Abstract
The invention provides devices, systems and methods for tissue
approximation and repair at treatment sites. The devices, systems
and methods of the invention will find use in a variety of
therapeutic procedures, including endovascular, minimally-invasive,
and open surgical procedures, and can be used in various anatomical
regions, including the abdomen, thorax, cardiovascular system,
heart, intestinal tract, stomach, urinary tract, bladder, lung, and
other organs, vessels, and tissues. The invention is particularly
useful in those procedures requiring minimally-invasive or
endovascular access to remote tissue locations, where the
instruments utilized must negotiate long, narrow, and tortuous
pathways to the treatment site. In addition, many of the devices
and systems of the invention are adapted to be reversible and
removable from the patient at any point without interference with
or trauma to internal tissues.
Inventors: |
DELL; Kent; (Redwood City,
CA) ; KETAI; Theodore; (San Francisco, CA) ;
MISHRA; Tanmay; (Philadelphia, PA) ; JONES;
Stephanie; (Naperville, IL) ; GREENBERG; Jacob;
(Mountain View, CA) ; HONG; Michael; (San
Francisco, CA) ; HALE; Daniel; (Belmont, CA) ;
VALENCIA; Francisco; (East Palo Alto, CA) ; TYLER;
Steven; (Portola Valley, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
DELL; Kent
KETAI; Theodore
MISHRA; Tanmay
JONES; Stephanie
GREENBERG; Jacob
HONG; Michael
HALE; Daniel
VALENCIA; Francisco
TYLER; Steven |
Redwood City
San Francisco
Philadelphia
Naperville
Mountain View
San Francisco
Belmont
East Palo Alto
Portola Valley |
CA
CA
PA
IL
CA
CA
CA
CA
CA |
US
US
US
US
US
US
US
US
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
ABBOTT CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEMS
INC.
Santa Clara
US
|
Family ID: |
47830512 |
Appl. No.: |
14/221853 |
Filed: |
March 21, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
13231586 |
Sep 13, 2011 |
|
|
|
14221853 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
606/151 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B 17/10 20130101;
A61B 2017/00243 20130101; A61F 2/2466 20130101; A61B 17/083
20130101; A61F 2/2454 20130101; A61B 17/08 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
606/151 |
International
Class: |
A61B 17/08 20060101
A61B017/08 |
Claims
1. A method for fixing tissue, said method comprising: providing an
implantable tissue fixation device comprising a pair of fixation
elements each having a first end, a free end opposite the first
end, and an engagement surface therebetween for engaging the
tissue, the fixation device further comprising a pair of gripping
elements, each gripping element moveable with respect to one of the
fixation elements and being disposed in opposition to one of the
engagement surfaces so as to capture tissue therebetween;
positioning the fixation element relative to tissue so that the
tissue is disposed between the pair of gripping elements and the
engagement surfaces of the pair of fixation element; actuating a
gripper actuation element to engage and displace one or more of the
gripping elements; and advancing the pair of gripping elements
toward the engagement surfaces of the fixation elements.
2. The method of claim 1, further comprising: providing a gripper
pusher releasably coupled to the implantable fixation device
adjacent the pair of gripping elements; and wherein advancing the
pair of gripping elements toward the engagement surfaces of the
fixation elements comprises engaging the pair of gripping elements
with the gripper pusher.
3. The method of claim 2, wherein engaging the pair of gripping
elements with the gripper pusher comprises placing the gripper
pusher into an expanded configuration from a collapsed
configuration.
4. The method of claim 3, wherein the gripper pusher comprises a
spring element having a longitudinal axis, and wherein engaging the
pair of gripping elements with the gripper pusher comprises
applying a compressive force to the spring element in a direction
substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis to move the gripper
pusher to the expanded configuration.
5. The method of claim 3, further comprising placing the gripper
pusher into the collapsed configuration from the expanded
configuration to reduce the radial profile of the gripper pusher
relative to the gripper pusher radial profile in the expanded
configuration to allow the pair of gripping elements to move away
from the engagement surfaces of the fixation elements.
6. The method of claim 1, further comprising moving the first ends
of the pair of the fixation elements between a closed position
wherein the engagement surface face each other to an inverted
position wherein the engagement surfaces face away from each
other.
7. The method of claim 5, further comprising moving fixation
elements to an open position between the closed position and the
inverted position.
8. A method of fixing tissue, said method comprising: providing an
implantable tissue fixation device, the fixation device comprising
a pair of fixation elements, the pair of fixation elements
comprising a first fixation element and a second fixation element,
each fixation element having a first end, a free end opposite the
first end, and an engagement surface therebetween for engaging the
tissue, the fixation device further comprising a pair of gripping
elements, the pair of gripping elements comprising a first gripping
element and a second gripping element, the first gripping element
being disposed in opposition to the engagement surface of the first
fixation element and the second gripping element being disposed in
opposition to the engagement surface of the second fixation
element; positioning the fixation element relative to tissue so
that the tissue is disposed between the first gripping element and
the engagement surface of the first fixation element; capturing the
tissue between the first gripping element and the engagement
surface of the first fixation element by moving the first gripping
element with respect to the first fixation element, and maintaining
the position of the second gripping element with respect to the
second fixation element while the first gripping element is moved
with respect to the first fixation element.
9. The method of claim 8, further comprising providing a first
gripping element actuator coupled to the first gripping element and
providing a second gripping element actuator coupled to the second
gripping element, wherein capturing the tissue between the first
gripping element and the engagement surface of the first fixation
element comprises moving the first gripping element actuator to
move the first gripping element; and maintaining the position of
the second gripping element with respect to the second fixation
element comprises holding the second gripping element actuator
stationary relative to the second gripping element.
10. The method of claim 8, further comprising releasing the
captured tissue between the first gripping element and the
engagement surface of the first fixation element by moving the
first gripping element away from the first fixation element.
11. The method of claim 10, further comprising repositioning the
fixation element relative to the tissue.
12. The method of claim 8, further comprising positioning the
fixation element relative to tissue so that the tissue is disposed
between the second gripping element and the engagement surface of
the second fixation element; and capturing the tissue between the
second gripping element and the engagement surface of the second
fixation element by moving the second gripping element with respect
to the second fixation element.
13. The method of claim 12, further comprising releasing the
captured tissue between the first gripping element and the
engagement surface of the first fixation element by moving the
first gripping element away from the first fixation element; and
releasing the captured tissue between the second gripping element
and the engagement surface of the second fixation element by moving
the second gripping element away from the second fixation
element.
14. The method of claim 13, further comprising repositioning the
fixation element relative to the tissue.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application is a divisional of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 13/231,586 filed Sep. 13, 2011, the entire
contents of which is incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates generally to medical methods,
devices, and systems. In particular, the present invention relates
to methods, devices, and systems for the endovascular, percutaneous
or minimally invasive surgical treatment of bodily tissues, such as
tissue approximation or valve repair. More particularly, the
present invention relates to repair of valves of the heart and
venous valves.
[0004] Surgical repair of bodily tissues often involves tissue
approximation and fastening of such tissues in the approximated
arrangement. When repairing valves, tissue approximation includes
coapting the leaflets of the valves in a therapeutic arrangement
which may then be maintained by fastening or fixing the leaflets.
Such coaptation can be used to treat regurgitation which most
commonly occurs in the mitral valve.
[0005] Mitral valve regurgitation is characterized by retrograde
flow from the left ventricle of a heart through an incompetent
mitral valve into the left atrium. During a normal cycle of heart
contraction (systole), the mitral valve acts as a check valve to
prevent flow of oxygenated blood back into the left atrium. In this
way, the oxygenated blood is pumped into the aorta through the
aortic valve. Regurgitation of the valve can significantly decrease
the pumping efficiency of the heart, placing the patient at risk of
severe, progressive heart failure.
[0006] Mitral valve regurgitation can result from a number of
different mechanical defects in the mitral valve or the left
ventricular wall. The valve leaflets, the valve chordae which
connect the leaflets to the papillary muscles, the papillary
muscles or the left ventricular wall may be damaged or otherwise
dysfunctional. Commonly, the valve annulus may be damaged, dilated,
or weakened limiting the ability of the mitral valve to close
adequately against the high pressures of the left ventricle.
[0007] The most common treatments for mitral valve regurgitation
rely on valve replacement or repair including leaflet and annulus
remodeling, the latter generally referred to as valve annuloplasty.
A recent technique for mitral valve repair which relies on suturing
adjacent segments of the opposed valve leaflets together is
referred to as the "bow-tie" or "edge-to-edge" technique. While all
these techniques can be very effective, they usually rely on open
heart surgery where the patient's chest is opened, typically via a
sternotomy, and the patient placed on cardiopulmonary bypass. The
need to both open the chest and place the patient on bypass is
traumatic and has associated high mortality and morbidity. More
recently, minimially invasive catheter based procedures have been
developed to deliver implantable clips to the incompetent valve.
These clips are used to fasten a portion of the valve leaflets
together, thereby reducing the regurgitation. While the clips
appear to be promising, delivery and deployment of the clip can be
challenging. In some situations, it may be challenging to visualize
the clip and valve leaflets using techniques such as fluoroscopy
and echocardiography. Therefore, improved attachment mechanisms and
attachment evaluation methods would be desirable.
[0008] For these reasons, it would be desirable to provide improved
methods, devices, and systems for performing the repair of mitral
and other cardiac valves. Such methods, devices, and systems should
preferably not require open chest access and be capable of being
performed either endovascularly, i.e., using devices which are
advanced to the heart from a point in the patient's vasculature
remote from the heart or by a minimally invasive approach. Further,
such devices and systems should provide features which allow easier
delivery of fixation devices, as well as repositioning and optional
removal of the fixation device prior to fixation to ensure optimal
placement. Still more preferably, the methods, devices, and systems
would be useful for repair of tissues in the body other than heart
valves. At least some of these objectives will be met by the
inventions described hereinbelow.
[0009] 2. Description of the Background Art
[0010] Minimally invasive and percutaneous techniques for coapting
and modifying mitral valve leaflets to treat mitral valve
regurgitation are described in PCT Publication Nos. WO 98/35638; WO
99/00059; WO 99/01377; and WO 00/03759.
[0011] Maisano et al. (1998) Eur. J. Cardiothorac. Surg.
13:240-246; Fucci et al. (1995) Eur. J. Cardiothorac. Surg.
9:621-627; and Umana et al. (1998) Ann. Thorac. Surg. 66:1640-1646,
describe open surgical procedures for performing "edge-to-edge" or
"bow-tie" mitral valve repair where edges of the opposed valve
leaflets are sutured together to lessen regurgitation. Dec and
Fuster (1994) N. Engl. J. Med. 331:1564-1575 and Alvarez et al.
(1996) J. Thorac. Cardiovasc. Surg. 112:238-247 are review articles
discussing the nature of and treatments for dilated
cardiomyopathy.
[0012] Mitral valve annuloplasty is described in the following
publications. Bach and Bolling (1996) Am. J. Cardiol. 78:966-969;
Kameda et al. (1996) Ann. Thorac. Surg. 61:1829-1832; Bach and
Bolling (1995) Am. Heart J. 129:1165-1170; and Bolling et al.
(1995) 109:676-683. Linear segmental annuloplasty for mitral valve
repair is described in Ricchi et al. (1997) Ann. Thorac. Surg.
63:1805-1806. Tricuspid valve annuloplasty is described in McCarthy
and Cosgrove (1997) Ann. Thorac. Surg. 64:267-268; Tager et al.
(1998) Am. J. Cardiol. 81:1013-1016; and Abe et al. (1989) Ann.
Thorac. Surg. 48:670-676.
[0013] Percutaneous transluminal cardiac repair procedures are
described in Park et al. (1978) Circulation 58:600-608; Uchida et
al. (1991) Am. Heart J. 121: 1221-1224; and Ali Khan et al. (1991)
Cathet. Cardiovasc. Diagn. 23:257-262.
[0014] Endovascular cardiac valve replacement is described in U.S.
Pat. Nos. 5,840,081; 5,411,552; 5,554,185; 5,332,402; 4,994,077;
and 4,056,854. See also U.S. Pat. No. 3,671,979 which describes a
catheter for temporary placement of an artificial heart valve.
[0015] Other percutaneous and endovascular cardiac repair
procedures are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,917,089; 4,484,579;
and 3,874,338; and PCT Publication No. WO 91/01689.
[0016] Thoracoscopic and other minimally invasive heart valve
repair and replacement procedures are described in U.S. Pat. Nos.
5,855,614; 5,829,447; 5,823,956; 5,797,960; 5,769,812; and
5,718,725.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0017] The invention provides devices, systems and methods for
tissue approximation and repair at treatment sites. The devices,
systems and methods of the invention will find use in a variety of
therapeutic procedures, including endovascular, minimally-invasive,
and open surgical procedures, and can be used in various anatomical
regions, including the abdomen, thorax, cardiovascular system,
heart, intestinal tract, stomach, urinary tract, bladder, lung, and
other organs, vessels, and tissues. The invention is particularly
useful in those procedures requiring minimally-invasive or
endovascular access to remote tissue locations, where the
instruments utilized must negotiate long, narrow, and tortuous
pathways to the treatment site. In addition, many of the devices
and systems of the invention are adapted to be reversible and
removable from the patient at any point without interference with
or trauma to internal tissues.
[0018] In preferred embodiments, the devices, systems and methods
of the invention are adapted for fixation of tissue at a treatment
site. Exemplary tissue fixation applications include cardiac valve
repair, septal defect repair, vascular ligation and clamping,
laceration repair and wound closure, but the invention may find use
in a wide variety of tissue approximation and repair procedures. In
a particularly preferred embodiment, the devices, systems and
methods of the invention are adapted for repair of cardiac valves,
and particularly the mitral valve, as a therapy for regurgitation.
The invention enables two or more valve leaflets to be coapted
using an "edge-to-edge" or "bow-tie" technique to reduce
regurgitation, yet does not require open surgery through the chest
and heart wall as in conventional approaches. Using the devices,
systems and methods of the invention, the mitral valve can be
accessed from a remote surgical or vascular access point and the
two valve leaflets may be coapted using endovascular or minimally
invasive approaches. While less preferred, in some circumstances
the invention may also find application in open surgical approaches
as well. According to the invention, the mitral valve may be
approached either from the atrial side (antegrade approach) or the
ventricular side (retrograde approach), and either through blood
vessels or through the heart wall.
[0019] The devices, systems and methods of the invention are
centered on variety of devices which may be used individually or in
a variety of combinations to form interventional systems. In
preferred embodiments, the interventional system includes a
multi-catheter guiding system, a delivery catheter and an
interventional device. Each of these components will be discussed
herein.
[0020] In a first aspect of the present invention, a system for
fixing tissue comprises an implantable tissue fixation device
comprising a pair of fixation elements each having a first end, a
free end opposite the first end, and an engagement surface
therebetween for engaging the tissue. The fixation device further
comprises a pair of gripping elements. Each gripping element is
moveable with respect to one of the fixation elements and is
disposed in opposition to one of the engagement surfaces so as to
capture tissue therebetween. The system also comprises a gripper
pusher releasably coupled to the implantable fixation device
adjacent the pair of gripping elements. The gripper pusher has an
expanded configuration and a collapsed configuration. In the
expanded configuration the gripper pusher engages the pair of
gripping elements and advances the pair of gripping elements toward
the engagement surfaces of the fixation elements. In the collapsed
configuration the gripper pusher has a reduced radial profile
relative to the gripper pusher radial profile in the expanded
configuration thereby allowing the pair of gripping elements to
move away from the engagement surfaces of the fixation
elements.
[0021] The first ends of the fixation elements may be movably
coupled together such that the fixation elements are moveable
between a closed position and an inverted position. In the closed
position, the engagement surfaces may face each other, and in the
inverted position the engagement surfaces may face away from each
other. Each fixation element may be at least partially concave such
that each gripping element is separated from an opposing engagement
surface in an undeployed configuration, and each gripping element
may be at least partially recessed within a fixation element in a
deployed configuration. The fixation elements may be further
moveable to an open position between the closed position and the
inverted position.
[0022] The gripping elements may be movable independently of the
fixation elements. They may be biased toward the engagement
surfaces. The gripping elements may be approximately parallel to
each other in an undeployed configuration.
[0023] The gripper pusher may comprise a spring element that moves
from the collapsed configuration to the expanded configuration when
a compressive force is applied thereto.
[0024] The spring element may comprise a longitudinal axis, and the
compressive force may be applied in a direction substantially
parallel thereto. The spring element may be resiliently biased to
return to the collapsed configuration when the compressive force is
released. The spring element may be resiliently biased to return to
the expanded configuration. The gripper pusher may comprise two
spring elements, or an elongate deflectable arm. The arm may
comprise a plurality of peaks or bowed regions. The deflectable arm
may be biased to return to the expanded configuration, and proximal
retraction of the proximal elements may collapse the deflectable
arm from the expanded configuration to the collapsed
configuration.
[0025] The gripper pusher may comprise an attachment mechanism for
releasably attaching a distal portion of the gripper pusher to the
implantable fixation device. The attachment mechanism may comprise
a notched region on a distal portion of the gripper pusher, and a
boss adjacent a proximal end of the implantable fixation device.
The notched region may be sized to accept the boss. The system may
further comprise an elongate delivery shaft having a proximal
portion and a distal portion. The distal portion of the elongate
delivery shaft may be releasably coupled to a proximal portion of
the gripper pusher. The gripper pusher may comprise an attachment
ring or coupling ring that may be coupled to the proximal portion
thereof, and the attachment ring may be slidably disposed over the
delivery shaft.
[0026] The system may further comprise an actuation mechanism that
may be coupled to the fixation elements, and that is adapted to
move the fixation elements between the closed position and the
inverted position. The system may also comprise a coupling member
for detachably coupling the fixation device to an elongate delivery
shaft. A covering may be disposed on the fixation elements that is
adapted to promote tissue ingrowth. A coating may be disposed on
the fixation elements that is adapted to deliver a therapeutic
agent to the treatment tissue.
[0027] In another aspect of the invention, a system for fixing
tissue may comprise an implantable tissue fixation device and a
first gripper actuator. The implantable tissue fixation device
comprises a pair of fixation elements and a pair of gripping
elements. The pair of fixation elements comprises a first fixation
element and a second fixation element. Each fixation element has a
first end, a free end opposite the first end, and an engagement
surface therebetween for engaging the tissue. The pair of gripping
elements comprises a first gripping element and a second gripping
element. The first gripping element is moveable with respect to the
first fixation element. The first gripping element is also disposed
in opposition to the engagement surface of the first fixation
element so as to capture tissue therebetween. Similarly, the second
gripping element is moveable with respect to the second fixation
element and is disposed in opposition to the engagement surface of
the second fixation element so as to capture tissue therebetween.
The first gripper actuator is releaseably coupled to the
implantable fixation device adjacent to the first gripping element.
The first gripper actuator has a first configuration and a second
configuration. Actuating the first gripper actuator between the
first configuration and the second configuration moves the first
gripping element with respect to the first fixation element.
Typically, the system further comprises a second gripper actuator.
The second gripper actuator is releaseably coupled to the
implantable fixation device adjacent to the second gripping
element. The second gripper actuator similarly has a first
configuration and a second configuration. Actuating the second
gripper actuator between the first configuration and the second
configuration moves the second gripping element with respect to the
second fixation element. The first gripper actuator and the second
gripper actuator are actuatable between their first configurations
and their second configurations independently of each other.
[0028] In many embodiments, the first ends are movably coupled
together such that the fixation elements are moveable between a
closed position and an inverted position. In the closed position,
the first ends of the pair of fixation elements have their
engagement surfaces facing each other. In the open position, the
first ends of the pair of fixation elements have their engagement
surfaces facing away from each other. The system may further
comprise an actuation mechanism coupled to the fixation elements.
The actuation mechanism is adapted to move the fixation elements
between the closed position and the inverted position.
[0029] In many embodiments, each fixation element is at least
partially concave. By being at least partially concave, each
gripping element is separated from an opposing engagement surface
in an undeployed configuration and may be at least partially
recessed within the fixation element in a deployed configuration.
The fixation elements may further be moveable to an open position
between the closed position and the inverted position.
[0030] In addition to being independently moveable relative to one
another, the gripping elements may be movable independently of the
fixation elements. The gripping elements may be biased toward the
engagement surfaces. The gripping elements may be approximately
parallel to each other in an undeployed configuration.
[0031] In many embodiments, the system further comprises a gripper
pusher as described above. The gripper pusher is releasably coupled
to the implantable fixation device adjacent the pair of gripping
elements. The gripper pusher has an expanded configuration and a
collapsed configuration. In the expanded configuration, the gripper
pusher engages one or more of the pair of gripping elements and
advances one or more of the pair of gripping elements toward the
engagement surfaces of the fixation elements. In the collapsed
configuration, the gripper pusher has a reduced radial profile
relative to the gripper pusher radial profile in the expanded
configuration. This reduced radial profile allows the pair of
gripping elements to move away from the engagement surfaces of the
fixation elements.
[0032] In many embodiments, the first gripper actuator comprises a
first wire and the second gripper actuator comprises a second wire.
The first wire and the second wire may be substantially flat or
have other profiles such as round, square, elliptical, etc.
Preferably, the substantially flat sides of the first and second
wire are positioned to engage the first and second gripping
elements and are biased to bend or flex along the flat side. Thus,
as the first and second wires are advanced, they will tend to
deflect in the direction toward the first and second gripping
elements.
[0033] In many embodiments, at least one of a distal end of the
first gripper actuator or a distal end of the second gripper
actuator is releaseably coupled to the implantation fixation device
by a suture knot.
[0034] In many embodiments, the system further comprises an
elongate delivery shaft having a proximal portion and a distal
portion. The distal portion of the elongate delivery shaft is
releasably coupled to a proximal portion of the fixation device.
Each of the first and second gripper actuators may comprise distal
portions. The distal portions of the first and second gripper
actuators may be releasably coupled to at least one of the distal
portion of the elongate delivery shaft or the proximal portion of
the fixation device. For example, the distal portions of the first
gripper actuator and second gripper actuator may each comprise a
closed loop or a coiled distal end disposed over at least one of
the distal portion of the elongate delivery shaft or the proximal
portion of the fixation device.
[0035] In many embodiments, the proximal portion of the fixation
device comprises a channel having a pair of notches. The distal
portion of the elongate delivery shaft comprises a pair of L-shaped
ends resiliently biased to fit into the pair of notches. The distal
portion of the elongate delivery shaft is releasably coupled to the
proximal portion of the fixation device by placing the pair of
L-shaped ends into channel of the fixation device and locking the
pair of notches in the channel. The first and second gripper
actuators each comprise distal ends. Placing the distal ends of the
first and second gripper actuators and coupling the distal portion
of the elongate delivery shaft to the proximal portion of the
fixation device locks the distal ends of the first and second
gripper actuators in place. The first and second gripper actuator
may each comprise T-shaped distal ends. The system may further
comprise a covering assembly coupled to and disposed over the
distal portion of the elongate delivery shaft. The covering
assembly comprises an outer slideable section and an inner section
having a pair of T-shaped openings. The first and second gripper
actuator are releaseably coupled to the fixation device by sliding
the T-shaped distal ends of the first and second gripper actuators
into the pair of the T-shaped opening of the inner section of the
covering assembly and sliding the outer slideable section to cover
the T-shaped openings.
[0036] In many embodiments, the first and second gripper actuators
are releaseably coupled to the first and second gripping elements,
respectively. The first and second gripping elements may each
comprise portions extending radially outward. The system may
further comprise first and second holding elements. The first
holding element is coupled to the first gripper actuator and
releaseably coupled to the first gripping element at its portion
extending radially outward. The second holding element is coupled
to the second gripper actuator and releaseably coupled to the
second gripping element at its portion extending radially outward.
The first and second holding element may comprises a first and
second ring, respectively. The rings are disposed over the portions
extending radially outward of their respective gripping elements.
Alternatively, the first and second holding elements may comprise a
first and second clip, respectively. The clips are releaseably
attached to the portion extending radially outward of their
respective gripping elements. The first and second clips may each
comprise a pair of legs disposed over the length of their
respective gripping elements. The portions extending radially
outward of the first and second gripping elements may each have
apertures. The first and second gripper actuators may be threaded
through the apertures of the radially outward portion of the first
and second gripping elements, respectively. The first and second
gripper actuators may each comprise an enlarged portion. The
diameters of the enlarged portions of the first and second gripper
actuator may be greater than that of the aperture of the portion
extending radially outward of the first and second gripping
elements, respectively, to facilitate moving the first and second
gripping elements. The enlarged portions of the first and second
gripper actuator may comprises a sleeve disposed over the first and
second gripper actuators.
[0037] In many embodiments, the first and second gripper actuator
and the second gripper actuator each comprise an actuation line and
a release line. Each actuation line may comprise a loop while each
release line may comprises a single release cable. The single
release cable is threaded through the loop of the actuation line
when a gripper actuator is coupled a gripping element. Pulling the
single release cable out through the loop of the actuation line
allows a gripper actuator to be released from a gripping
element.
[0038] The system may further comprise a coupling member for
detachably coupling the fixation device to an elongate delivery
shaft, a covering on the fixation elements adapted for promoting
tissue growth, and/or a coating on the fixation elements adapted
for delivering a therapeutic agent.
[0039] Another aspect of the invention provides a method for fixing
tissue. An implantable tissue fixation device is provided. The
fixation device comprises a pair of fixation elements. Each
fixation element has a first end, a free end opposite the first
end, and an engagement surface therebetween for engaging the
tissue. The fixation device further comprises a pair of gripping
elements. Each gripping element is moveable with respect to one of
the fixation elements and is disposed in apposition to one of the
engagement surfaces so as to capture tissue therebetween. The
fixation element is positioned relative to tissue so that the
tissue is disposed between the pair of gripping elements and the
engagement surfaces of the pair of fixation element. The pair of
gripping elements is advanced toward the engagement surfaces of the
fixation elements.
[0040] In many embodiments, a gripper pusher releasably coupled to
the implantable fixation device adjacent the pair of gripping
elements is provided, and the pair of gripping elements is advanced
toward the engagement surfaces of the fixation elements by engaging
the pair of gripping elements with the gripper pusher. Engaging the
pair of gripping elements with the gripper pusher may comprise
placing the gripper pusher into an expanded configuration from a
collapsed configuration. The gripper pusher may comprise a spring
element having a longitudinal axis, and the pair of gripping
elements may be engaged with the gripper pusher by applying a
compressive force to the spring element in a direction
substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis to move the gripper
pusher to the expanded configuration. The gripper pusher may be
placed into the collapsed configuration from the expanded
configuration to reduce the radial profile of the gripper pusher
relative to the gripper pusher radial profile in the expanded
configuration to allow the pair of gripping elements to move away
from the engagement surfaces of the fixation elements.
[0041] In many embodiments, the first ends of the pair of the
fixation elements is moved between a closed position to an inverted
position. The engagement surfaces face each other when the fixation
element is in the closed position and away from each other when the
fixation element is in the inverted position. The fixation elements
may be moved to an open position between the closed position and
the inverted position.
[0042] Another aspect of the invention provides a method of fixing
tissue. An implantable tissue fixation device is provided. The
fixation device comprises a pair of fixation elements, which
comprises a first fixation element and a second fixation element.
Each fixation element has a first end, a free end opposite the
first end, and an engagement surface therebetween for engaging the
tissue. The fixation device further comprises a pair of gripping
elements, which comprise a first gripping element and a second
gripping element. The first gripping element is disposed in
apposition to the engagement surface of the first fixation element.
The second gripping element is likewise disposed in apposition to
the engagement surface of the second fixation element. The fixation
element is positioned relative to tissue so that the tissue is
disposed between the first gripping element and the engagement
surface of the first fixation element. The tissue is captured
between the first gripping element and the engagement surface of
the first fixation element by moving the first gripping element
with respect to the first fixation element. The position of the
second gripping element is maintained with respect to the second
fixation element while the first gripping element is moved with
respect to the first fixation element.
[0043] In many embodiments, a first gripping element actuator
coupled to the first gripping element and a second gripping element
actuator coupled to the second gripping element are provided. The
tissue between the first gripping element and the engagement
surface of the first fixation element may be captured by moving the
first gripping element actuator to move the first gripping element.
The position of the second gripping element with respect to the
second fixation element may be maintained by holding the second
gripping element actuator stationary relative to the second
gripping element.
[0044] In many embodiments, the captured tissue between the first
gripping element and the engagement surface of the first fixation
element is released by moving the first gripping element away from
the first fixation element. The fixation can then be repositioned
relative to the tissue.
[0045] In many embodiments, the fixation element is positioned
relative to tissue so that the tissue is disposed between the
second gripping element and the engagement surface of the second
fixation element. The tissue between the second gripping element
and the engagement surface of the second fixation element may be
captured by moving the second gripping element with respect to the
second fixation element. In some embodiments, the captured tissue
between the pair of gripping elements and the engagement surfaces
of the pair of fixation elements can be released by moving the pair
of gripping elements away from the engagement surfaces of the pair
of fixation elements. The fixation can then be repositioned
relative to the tissue.
[0046] Other aspects of the nature and advantages of the invention
are set forth in the detailed description set forth below, taken in
conjunction with the drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0047] FIG. 1 illustrates the left ventricle and left atrium of the
heart during systole.
[0048] FIG. 2A illustrates free edges of leaflets in normal
coaptation, and FIG. 2B illustrates the free edges in regurgitative
coaptation.
[0049] FIGS. 3A-3C illustrate grasping of the leaflets with a
fixation device, inversion of the distal elements of the fixation
device and removal of the fixation device, respectively.
[0050] FIG. 4 illustrates the position of the fixation device in a
desired orientation relative to the leaflets.
[0051] FIGS. 5A-5B and 6A-6B illustrate exemplary embodiments of
coupling mechanisms of the instant application.
[0052] FIG. 7 illustrates an embodiment of the fixation device of
the present invention.
[0053] FIGS. 8A-8B, 9A-9B, 10A-10B, 11A-11B, and 12-14 illustrate
the fixation device of FIG. 7 in various possible positions during
introduction and placement of the device within the body to perform
a therapeutic procedure.
[0054] FIGS. 15A-15H illustrate the fixation device of FIG. 7 with
a gripper pusher.
[0055] FIGS. 15I-15V illustrate the fixation device of FIG. 7 with
independently actuatable proximal elements.
[0056] FIGS. 15W1-15AB7 illustrate various embodiments of coupling
a proximal element line to a proximal element of the fixation
device of FIG. 7.
[0057] FIGS. 15AC1-15AC4 illustrate various control mechanisms of
the independently actuatable proximal element lines of the fixation
device of FIGS. 15I-15V.
[0058] FIGS. 16A-16C illustrate a covering on the fixation device
wherein the device is in various positions.
[0059] FIG. 17 illustrates an embodiment of the fixation device
including proximal elements and a locking mechanism.
[0060] FIG. 18 provides a cross-sectional view of the locking
mechanism of FIG. 17.
[0061] FIGS. 19-20 provide a cross-sectional view of the locking
mechanism in the unlocked and locked positions respectively.
[0062] FIGS. 21 and 22A-22B illustrate another embodiment of a
locking mechanism.
[0063] FIGS. 23 and 24A-24B illustrate yet another embodiment of a
locking mechanism.
[0064] FIG. 25 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a delivery
catheter for a fixation device.
[0065] FIG. 26 illustrates an embodiment of a fixation device
coupled to the distal end of a delivery catheter.
[0066] FIG. 27 illustrates a portion of the shaft of a delivery
catheter and a fixation device which is coupleable with the
catheter.
[0067] FIGS. 28A-28B illustrate an exemplary embodiment of an
actuator rod assembly.
[0068] FIGS. 29A-28B, 30A-30B, 31A-31B, and 32A-32B illustrate
layers of an exemplary cable used in the actuator rod of FIGS.
28A-28B.
[0069] FIGS. 33A-33B, 34A-34B, 35A-35B, 36A-36B, and 37A-37B
illustrate layers in another exemplary cable used in the actuator
rod of FIGS. 28A-28B.
[0070] FIGS. 38-40 are cross-sectional views of embodiments of the
shaft of the delivery catheter.
[0071] FIGS. 40A-40B illustrate embodiments of the nose of the
shaft of the delivery catheter.
[0072] FIG. 41A-41C illustrate various arrangements of lock lines
engaging release harnesses of a locking mechanism.
[0073] FIGS. 42A-42B illustrate various arrangements of proximal
element lines engaging proximal elements of a fixation device.
[0074] FIG. 43 illustrates an embodiment of the handle of the
delivery catheter.
[0075] FIG. 44 is a cross-sectional view of the main body of the
handle.
[0076] FIG. 45 illustrates an embodiment of a lock line handle.
[0077] FIG. 45A illustrates the lock line handle of FIG. 45
positioned within a semi-tube which is disposed within the sealed
chamber.
[0078] FIGS. 46A-46B illustrate a mechanism for applying tension to
lock lines.
[0079] FIGS. 47 and 47A-47B illustrate features of the actuator rod
control and handle.
[0080] FIG. 48 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a
multi-catheter guiding system of the present invention, and an
interventional catheter positioned therethrough.
[0081] FIG. 49A illustrates a primary curvature in an outer guide
catheter.
[0082] FIG. 49B illustrates a secondary curvature in an inner guide
catheter.
[0083] FIGS. 49C-49D illustrate example movement of an inner guide
catheter through angle thetas.
[0084] FIG. 50A is a perspective side view of a multi-catheter
guiding system having an additional curve in the outer guide
catheter.
[0085] FIG. 50B illustrates lifting of the outer guide catheter due
to the additional curve of FIG. 49A.
[0086] FIGS. 51A-51D illustrate a method of using the
multi-catheter guiding system for accessing the mitral valve.
[0087] FIGS. 52A-52D illustrate curvature of a guide catheter of
the present invention by the actuation of one or more
pullwires.
[0088] FIG. 52E illustrates attachment of a pullwire to a tip
ring.
[0089] FIGS. 53A-53I illustrate embodiments of the present
invention comprising sections constructed with the inclusion of
braiding or a coil.
[0090] FIGS. 54A-54C illustrate a keying feature of the present
invention.
[0091] FIGS. 55A-55B are perspective views of a guide catheter
including a series of articulating members.
[0092] FIG. 56 illustrates embodiments of the handles.
[0093] FIG. 57 illustrates the handles of FIG. 56 with a portion of
the housing removed.
[0094] FIG. 58 illustrates steering mechanisms within a handle.
[0095] FIG. 59 illustrates attachment of a pullwire to a disk.
[0096] FIGS. 60A-60B illustrate a hard stop peg restricting
rotation of a disk.
[0097] FIGS. 61A-61C illustrates a portion of a hard stop gear
assembly.
[0098] FIGS. 62A-62F illustrate a ball restricting rotation of a
disk.
[0099] FIG. 63 illustrates an embodiment of a friction
assembly.
[0100] FIG. 64 illustrates an embodiment of an interventional
system of the present invention.
[0101] FIG. 64A illustrates an embodiment of a hemostatic valve for
use with the present invention.
[0102] FIG. 64B illustrates an embodiment of a fixation device
introducer.
[0103] FIG. 65 illustrates another embodiment of an interventional
system of the present invention.
[0104] FIGS. 66-68 illustrate an embodiment of a stabilizer base
for use with the present invention.
[0105] FIG. 69 illustrates a kit constructed in accordance with the
principles of the present invention.
[0106] FIG. 70 illustrates a handle in accordance with an exemplary
embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
I. Cardiac Physiology
[0107] The left ventricle LV of a normal heart H in systole is
illustrated in FIG. 1. The left ventricle LV is contracting and
blood flows outwardly through the tricuspid (aortic) valve AV in
the direction of the arrows. Back flow of blood or "regurgitation"
through the mitral valve MV is prevented since the mitral valve is
configured as a "check valve" which prevents back flow when
pressure in the left ventricle is higher than that in the left
atrium LA. The mitral valve MV comprises a pair of leaflets having
free edges FE which meet evenly to close, as illustrated in FIG. 1.
The opposite ends of the leaflets LF are attached to the
surrounding heart structure along an annular region referred to as
the annulus AN. The free edges FE of the leaflets LF are secured to
the lower portions of the left ventricle LV through chordae
tendinae CT (referred to hereinafter as the chordae) which include
a plurality of branching tendons secured over the lower surfaces of
each of the valve leaflets LF. The chordae CT in turn, are attached
to the papillary muscles PM which extend upwardly from the lower
portions of the left ventricle and intraventricular septum IVS.
[0108] A number of structural defects in the heart can cause mitral
valve regurgitation. Regurgitation occurs when the valve leaflets
do not close properly allowing leakage from the ventricle into the
atrium. As shown in FIG. 2A, the free edges of the anterior and
posterior leaflets normally meet along a line of coaptation C. An
example of a defect causing regurgitation is shown in FIG. 2B. Here
an enlargement of the heart causes the mitral annulus to become
enlarged, making it impossible for the free edges FE to meet during
systole. This results in a gap G which allows blood to leak through
the valve during ventricular systole. Ruptured or elongated chordae
can also cause a valve leaflet to prolapse since inadequate tension
is transmitted to the leaflet via the chordae. While the other
leaflet maintains a normal profile, the two valve leaflets do not
properly meet and leakage from the left ventricle into the left
atrium will occur. Such regurgitation can also occur in patients
who have suffered ischemic heart disease where the left ventricle
does not contract sufficiently to effect proper closure.
II. General Overview
[0109] The present invention provides methods and devices for
grasping, approximating and fixating tissues such as valve leaflets
to treat cardiac valve regurgitation, particularly mitral valve
regurgitation. The present invention also provides features that
allow repositioning and removal of the device if so desired,
particularly in areas where removal may be hindered by anatomical
features such as chordae CT. Such removal would allow the surgeon
to reapproach the valve in a new manner if so desired.
[0110] Grasping will preferably be atraumatic providing a number of
benefits. By atraumatic, it is meant that the devices and methods
of the invention may be applied to the valve leaflets and then
removed without causing any significant clinical impairment of
leaflet structure or function. The leaflets and valve continue to
function substantially the same as before the invention was
applied. Thus, some minor penetration or denting of the leaflets
may occur using the invention while still meeting the definition of
"atraumatic." This enables the devices of the invention to be
applied to a diseased valve and, if desired, removed or
repositioned without having negatively affected valve function. In
addition, it will be understood that in some cases it may be
necessary or desirable to pierce or otherwise permanently affect
the leaflets during either grasping, fixing or both. In some of
these cases, grasping and fixation may be accomplished by a single
device. Although a number of embodiments are provided to achieve
these results, a general overview of the basic features will be
presented herein. Such features are not intended to limit the scope
of the invention and are presented with the aim of providing a
basis for descriptions of individual embodiments presented later in
the application.
[0111] The devices and methods of the invention rely upon the use
of an interventional tool that is positioned near a desired
treatment site and used to grasp the target tissue. In endovascular
applications, the interventional tool is typically an
interventional catheter. In surgical applications, the
interventional tool is typically an interventional instrument. In
preferred embodiments, fixation of the grasped tissue is
accomplished by maintaining grasping with a portion of the
interventional tool which is left behind as an implant. While the
invention may have a variety of applications for tissue
approximation and fixation throughout the body, it is particularly
well adapted for the repair of valves, especially cardiac valves
such as the mitral valve. Referring to FIG. 3A, an interventional
tool 10, having a delivery device, such as a shaft 12, and a
fixation device 14, is illustrated having approached the mitral
valve MV from the atrial side and grasped the leaflets LF. The
mitral valve may be accessed either surgically or by using
endovascular techniques, and either by a retrograde approach
through the ventricle or by an antegrade approach through the
atrium, as described above. For illustration purposes, an antegrade
approach is described.
[0112] The fixation device 14 is releasably attached to the shaft
12 of the interventional tool 10 at its distal end. When describing
the devices of the invention herein, "proximal" shall mean the
direction toward the end of the device to be manipulated by the
user outside the patient's body, and "distal" shall mean the
direction toward the working end of the device that is positioned
at the treatment site and away from the user. With respect to the
mitral valve, proximal shall refer to the atrial or upstream side
of the valve leaflets and distal shall refer to the ventricular or
downstream side of the valve leaflets.
[0113] The fixation device 14 typically comprises proximal elements
16 (or gripping elements) and distal elements 18 (or fixation
elements) which protrude radially outward and are positionable on
opposite sides of the leaflets LF as shown so as to capture or
retain the leaflets therebetween. The proximal elements 16 are
preferably comprised of cobalt chromium, nitinol or stainless
steel, and the distal elements 18 are preferably comprised of
cobalt chromium or stainless steel, however any suitable materials
may be used. The fixation device 14 is coupleable to the shaft 12
by a coupling mechanism 17. The coupling mechanism 17 allows the
fixation device 14 to detach and be left behind as an implant to
hold the leaflets together in the coapted position.
[0114] In some situations, it may be desired to reposition or
remove the fixation device 14 after the proximal elements 16,
distal elements 18, or both have been deployed to capture the
leaflets LF. Such repositioning or removal may be desired for a
variety of reasons, such as to reapproach the valve in an attempt
to achieve better valve function, more optimal positioning of the
device 14 on the leaflets, better purchase on the leaflets, to
detangle the device 14 from surrounding tissue such as chordae, to
exchange the device 14 with one having a different design, or to
abort the fixation procedure, to name a few. To facilitate
repositioning or removal of the fixation device 14 the distal
elements 18 are releasable and optionally invertible to a
configuration suitable for withdrawal of the device 14 from the
valve without tangling or interfering with or damaging the chordae,
leaflets or other tissue. FIG. 3B illustrates inversion wherein the
distal elements 18 are moveable in the direction of arrows 40 to an
inverted position. Likewise, the proximal elements 16 may be
raised, if desired. In the inverted position, the device 14 may be
repositioned to a desired orientation wherein the distal elements
may then be reverted to a grasping position against the leaflets as
in FIG. 3A. Alternatively, the fixation device 14 may be withdrawn
(indicated by arrow 42) from the leaflets as shown in FIG. 3C. Such
inversion reduces trauma to the leaflets and minimizes any
entanglement of the device with surrounding tissues. Once the
device 14 has been withdrawn through the valve leaflets, the
proximal and distal elements may be moved to a closed position or
configuration suitable for removal from the body or for reinsertion
through the mitral valve.
[0115] FIG. 4 illustrates the position of the fixation device 14 in
a desired orientation in relation to the leaflets LF. This is a
short-axis view of the mitral valve MV from the atrial side,
therefore, the proximal elements 16 are shown in solid line and the
distal elements 18 are shown in dashed line. The proximal and
distal elements 16, 18 are positioned to be substantially
perpendicular to the line of coaptation C. The device 14 may be
moved roughly along the line of coaptation to the location of
regurgitation. The leaflets LF are held in place so that during
diastole, as shown in FIG. 4, the leaflets LF remain in position
between the elements 16, 18 surrounded by openings O which result
from the diastolic pressure gradient. Advantageously, leaflets LF
are coapted such that their proximal or upstream surfaces are
facing each other in a vertical orientation, parallel to the
direction of blood flow through mitral valve MV. The upstream
surfaces may be brought together so as to be in contact with one
another or may be held slightly apart, but will preferably be
maintained in the vertical orientation in which the upstream
surfaces face each other at the point of coaptation. This simulates
the double orifice geometry of a standard surgical bow-tie repair.
Color Doppler echo will show if the regurgitation of the valve has
been reduced. If the resulting mitral flow pattern is satisfactory,
the leaflets may be fixed together in this orientation. If the
resulting color Doppler image shows insufficient improvement in
mitral regurgitation, the interventional tool 10 may be
repositioned. This may be repeated until an optimal result is
produced wherein the leaflets LF are held in place.
[0116] Once the leaflets are coapted in the desired arrangement,
the fixation device 14 is then detached from the shaft 12 and left
behind as an implant to hold the leaflets together in the coapted
position. As mentioned previously, the fixation device 14 is
coupled to the shaft 12 by a coupling mechanism 17. FIGS. 5A-5B,
6A-6B illustrate exemplary embodiments of such coupling mechanisms.
FIG. 5A shows an upper shaft 20 and a detachable lower shaft 22
which are interlocked at a joining line or mating surface 24. The
mating surface 24 may have any shape or curvature which will allow
or facilitate interlocking and later detachment. A snuggly fitting
outer sheath 26 is positioned over the shafts 20, 22 to cover the
mating surface 24 as shown. FIG. 5B illustrates detachment of the
lower shaft 22 from the upper shaft 20. This is achieved by
retracting the outer sheath 26, so that the mating surface 24 is
exposed, which allows the shafts 20, 22 to separate.
[0117] Similarly, FIG. 6A illustrates a tubular upper shaft 28 and
a detachable tubular lower shaft 30 which are interlocked at a
mating surface 32. Again, the mating surface 32 may have any shape
or curvature which will allow or facilitate interlocking and later
detachment. The tubular upper shaft 28 and tubular lower shaft 30
form an outer member having an axial channel. A snuggly fitting rod
34 or inner member is inserted through the tubular shafts 28, to
bridge the mating surface 32 as shown. The rod 34 may also be used
to actuate the fixation device, such as actuator rod 64 seen in
FIG. 26 or actuator rod 64a illustrated in FIGS. 28A-28B, described
below. FIG. 6B illustrates detachment of the lower shaft 30 from
the upper shaft 28. This is achieved by retracting the rod 34 to a
position above the mating surface 32 which in turn allows the
shafts 28, 30 to separate. Other examples of coupling mechanisms
are described and illustrated in U.S. Pat. No. 6,752,813 (Attorney
Docket No. 020489-000400), and U.S. Patent Publication No.
2009/0163934 (Attorney Docket No. 020489-001470US), the entire
contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference for
all purposes.
[0118] In a preferred embodiment, mating surface 24 (or mating
surface 32) is a sigmoid curve defining a male element and female
element on upper shaft 20 (or upper shaft 28) which interlock
respectively with corresponding female and male elements on lower
shaft 22 (or lower shaft 30). Typically, the lower shaft is the
coupling mechanism 17 of the fixation device 14. Therefore, the
shape of the mating surface selected will preferably provide at
least some mating surfaces transverse to the axial axis of the a
mechanism 19 to facilitate application of compressive and tensile
forces through the coupling mechanism 17 to the fixation device 14,
yet causing minimal interference when the fixation device 14 is to
be released from the upper shaft.
III. Fixation Device
[0119] A. Introduction and Placement of Fixation Device
[0120] The fixation device 14 is delivered to the valve or the
desired tissues with the use of a delivery device. The delivery
device may be rigid or flexible depending on the application. For
endovascular applications, the delivery device comprises a flexible
delivery catheter which will be described in later sections.
Typically, however, such a catheter comprises a shaft, having a
proximal end and a distal end, and a fixation device releasably
attached to its distal end. The shaft is usually elongate and
flexible, suitable for intravascular introduction. Alternatively,
the delivery device may comprise a shorter and less flexible
interventional instrument which may be used for trans-thoracic
surgical introduction through the wall of the heart, although some
flexibility and a minimal profile will generally be desirable. A
fixation device is releasably coupleable with the delivery device
as illustrated in FIG. 3A. The fixation device may have a variety
of forms, a few embodiments of which will be described herein.
[0121] FIG. 7 illustrates another embodiment of a fixation device
14. Here, the fixation device 14 is shown coupled to a shaft 12 to
form an interventional tool 10. The fixation device 14 includes a
coupling member 19 and a pair of opposed distal elements 18. The
distal elements 18 comprise elongate arms 53, each arm having a
proximal end 52 rotatably connected to the coupling member 19 and a
free end 54. The free ends 54 have a rounded shape to minimize
interference with and trauma to surrounding tissue structures.
Preferably, each free end 54 defines a curvature about two axes,
one being an axis 66 perpendicular to longitudinal axis of arms 53.
Thus, the engagement surfaces 50 have a cupped or concave shape to
surface area in contact with tissue and to assist in grasping and
holding the valve leaflets. This further allows arms 53 to nest
around the shaft 12 in the closed position to minimize the profile
of the device. Preferably, arms 53 are at least partially cupped or
curved inwardly about their longitudinal axes 66. Also, preferably,
each free end 54 defines a curvature about an axis 67 perpendicular
to axis 66 or the longitudinal axis of arms 53. This curvature is a
reverse curvature along the most distal portion of the free end 54.
Likewise, the longitudinal edges of the free ends 54 may flare
outwardly. Both the reverse curvature and flaring minimize trauma
to the tissue engaged therewith.
[0122] In a preferred embodiment suitable for mitral valve repair,
the transverse width across engagement surfaces 50 (which
determines the width of tissue engaged) is at least about 2 mm,
usually 3-10 mm, and preferably about 4-6 mm. In some situations, a
wider engagement is desired wherein the engagement surfaces 50 are
larger, for example about 2 cm, or multiple fixation devices are
used adjacent to each other. Arms 53 and engagement surfaces 50 are
configured to engage a length of tissue of about 4-10 mm, and
preferably about 6-8 mm along the longitudinal axis of arms 53.
Arms 53 further include a plurality of openings to enhance grip and
to promote tissue ingrowth following implantation.
[0123] The valve leaflets are grasped between the distal elements
18 and proximal elements 16. In some embodiments, the proximal
elements 16 are flexible, resilient, and cantilevered from coupling
member 19. The proximal elements are preferably resiliently biased
toward the distal elements. Each proximal element 16 is shaped and
positioned to be at least partially recessed within the concavity
of the distal element 18 when no tissue is present. When the
fixation device 14 is in the open position, the proximal elements
16 are shaped such that each proximal element 16 is separated from
the engagement surface 50 near the proximal end 52 of arm 53 and
slopes toward the engagement surface 50 near the free end 54 with
the free end of the proximal element contacting engagement surface
50, as illustrated in FIG. 7. This shape of the proximal elements
16 accommodates valve leaflets or other tissues of varying
thicknesses.
[0124] Proximal elements 16 include a plurality of openings 63 and
scalloped side edges 61 to increase grip on tissue. The proximal
elements 16 optionally include frictional accessories, frictional
features or grip-enhancing elements to assist in grasping and/or
holding the leaflets. In preferred embodiments, the frictional
accessories comprise barbs 60 having tapering pointed tips
extending toward engagement surfaces 50. It may be appreciated that
any suitable frictional accessories may be used, such as prongs,
windings, bands, barbs, grooves, channels, bumps, surface
roughening, sintering, high-friction pads, coverings, coatings or a
combination of these. Optionally, magnets may be present in the
proximal and/or distal elements. It may be appreciated that the
mating surfaces will be made from or will include material of
opposite magnetic charge to cause attraction by magnetic force. For
example, the proximal elements and distal elements may each include
magnetic material of opposite charge so that tissue is held under
constant compression between the proximal and distal elements to
facilitate faster healing and ingrowth of tissue. Also, the
magnetic force may be used to draw the proximal elements 16 toward
the distal elements 18, in addition to or alternatively to biasing
of the proximal elements toward the distal elements. This may
assist in deployment of the proximal elements 16. In another
example, the distal elements 18 each include magnetic material of
opposite charge so that tissue positioned between the distal
elements 18 is held therebetween by magnetic force. Actuation of
the proximal elements may also be accomplished using one or more
proximal element lines or actuators such as those described
below.
[0125] The proximal elements 16 may be covered with a fabric or
other flexible material as described below to enhance grip and
tissue ingrowth following implantation. Preferably, when fabrics or
coverings are used in combination with barbs or other frictional
features, such features will protrude through such fabric or other
covering so as to contact any tissue engaged by proximal elements
16.
[0126] In an exemplary embodiment, proximal elements 16 are formed
from metallic sheet of a spring-like material using a stamping
operation which creates openings 63, scalloped edges 61 and barbs
60. Alternatively, proximal elements 16 could be comprised of a
spring-like material or molded from a biocompatible polymer. It
should be noted that while some types of frictional accessories
that can be used in the present invention may permanently alter or
cause some trauma to the tissue engaged thereby, in a preferred
embodiment, the frictional accessories will be atraumatic and will
not injure or otherwise affect the tissue in a clinically
significant way. For example, in the case of barbs 60, it has been
demonstrated that following engagement of mitral valve leaflets by
fixation device 14, should the device later be removed during the
procedure barbs 60 leave no significant permanent scarring or other
impairment of the leaflet tissue and are thus considered
atraumatic.
[0127] The fixation device 14 also includes an actuation mechanism
58. In this embodiment, the actuation mechanism 58 comprises two
link members or legs 68, each leg 68 having a first end 70 which is
rotatably joined with one of the distal elements 18 at a riveted
joint 76 and a second end 72 which is rotatably joined with a stud
74. The legs 68 are preferably comprised of a rigid or semi-rigid
metal or polymer such as Elgiloy.RTM., cobalt chromium or stainless
steel, however any suitable material may be used. While in the
embodiment illustrated both legs 68 are pinned to stud 74 by a
single rivet 78, it may be appreciated, however, that each leg 68
may be individually attached to the stud 74 by a separate rivet or
pin. The stud 74 is joinable with an actuator rod 64 (not shown)
which extends through the shaft 12 and is axially extendable and
retractable to move the stud 74 and therefore the legs 68 which
rotate the distal elements 18 between closed, open and inverted
positions. Likewise, immobilization of the stud 74 holds the legs
68 in place and therefore holds the distal elements 18 in a desired
position. The stud 74 may also be locked in place by a locking
feature which will be further described in later sections.
[0128] In any of the embodiments of fixation device 14 disclosed
herein, it may be desirable to provide some mobility or flexibility
in distal elements 18 and/or proximal elements 16 in the closed
position to enable these elements to move or flex with the opening
or closing of the valve leaflets. This provides shock absorption
and thereby reduces force on the leaflets and minimizes the
possibility for tearing or other trauma to the leaflets. Such
mobility or flexibility may be provided by using a flexible,
resilient metal or polymer of appropriate thickness to construct
the distal elements 18. Also, the locking mechanism of the fixation
device (described below) may be constructed of flexible materials
to allow some slight movement of the proximal and distal elements
even when locked. Further, the distal elements 18 can be connected
to the coupling mechanism 19 or to actuation mechanism 58 by a
mechanism that biases the distal element into the closed position
(inwardly) but permits the arms to open slightly in response to
forces exerted by the leaflets. For example, rather than being
pinned at a single point, these components may be pinned through a
slot that allowed a small amount of translation of the pin in
response to forces against the arms. A spring is used to bias the
pinned component toward one end of the slot.
[0129] FIGS. 8A-8B, 9A-9B, 10A-10B, 11A-11B, and FIGS. 12-14
illustrate embodiments of the fixation device 14 of FIG. 7 in
various possible positions during introduction and placement of the
device 14 within the body to perform a therapeutic procedure. FIG.
8A illustrates an embodiment of an interventional tool 10 delivered
through a catheter 86. It may be appreciated that the
interventional tool 10 may take the form of a catheter, and
likewise, the catheter 86 may take the form of a guide catheter or
sheath. However, in this example the terms interventional tool 10
and catheter 86 will be used. The interventional tool 10 comprises
a fixation device 14 coupled to a shaft 12 and the fixation device
14 is shown in the closed position. FIG. 8B illustrates a similar
embodiment of the fixation device of FIG. 8A in a larger view. In
the closed position, the opposed pair of distal elements 18 are
positioned so that the engagement surfaces 50 face each other. Each
distal element 18 comprises an elongate arm 53 having a cupped or
concave shape so that together the arms 53 surround the shaft 12
and optionally contact each other on opposite sides of the shaft.
This provides a low profile for the fixation device 14 which is
readily passable through the catheter 86 and through any anatomical
structures, such as the mitral valve. In addition, FIG. 8B further
includes an actuation mechanism 58. In this embodiment, the
actuation mechanism 58 comprises two legs 68 which are each movably
coupled to a base 69. The base 69 is joined with an actuator rod 64
which extends through the shaft 12 and is used to manipulate the
fixation device 14. In some embodiments, the actuator rod 64
attaches directly to the actuation mechanism 58, particularly the
base 69. However, the actuator rod 64 may alternatively attach to a
stud 74 which in turn is attached to the base 69. In some
embodiments, the stud 74 is threaded so that the actuator rod 64
attaches to the stud 74 by a screw-type action. However, the rod 64
and stud 74 may be joined by any mechanism which is releasable to
allow the fixation device 14 to be detached from shaft 12. Other
aspects of the actuator rod and its coupling with the fixation
device are disclosed below.
[0130] FIGS. 9A-9B illustrate the fixation device 14 in the open
position. In the open position, the distal elements 18 are rotated
so that the engagement surfaces 50 face a first direction. Distal
advancement of the stud 74 relative to coupling member 19 by action
of the actuator rod 64 applies force to the distal elements 18
which begin to rotate around joints 76 due to freedom of movement
in this direction. Such rotation and movement of the distal
elements 18 radially outward causes rotation of the legs 68 about
joints 80 so that the legs 68 are directed slightly outwards. The
stud 74 may be advanced to any desired distance correlating to a
desired separation of the distal elements 18. In the open position,
engagement surfaces 50 are disposed at an acute angle relative to
shaft 12, and are preferably at an angle of between 90 and 180
degrees relative to each other. In one embodiment, in the open
position the free ends 54 of arms 53 have a span therebetween of
about 10-20 mm, usually about 12-18 mm, and preferably about 14-16
mm.
[0131] Proximal elements 16 are typically biased outwardly toward
arms 53. The proximal elements 16 may be moved inwardly toward the
shaft 12 and held against the shaft 12 with the aid of proximal
element lines 90 which can be in the form of sutures, wires,
nitinol wire, rods, cables, polymeric lines, or other suitable
structures. The proximal element lines 90 may be connected with the
proximal elements 16 by threading the lines 90 in a variety of
ways. When the proximal elements 16 have a loop shape, as shown in
FIG. 9A, the line 90 may pass through the loop and double back.
When the proximal elements 16 have an elongate solid shape, as
shown in FIG. 9B, the line 90 may pass through one or more of the
openings 63 in the element 16. Further, a line loop 48 may be
present on a proximal element 16, also illustrated in FIG. 9B,
through which a proximal element line 90 may pass and double back.
Such a line loop 48 may be useful to reduce friction on proximal
element line 90 or when the proximal elements 16 are solid or
devoid of other loops or openings through which the proximal
element lines 90 may attach. A proximal element line 90 may attach
to the proximal elements 16 by detachable means which would allow a
single line 90 to be attached to a proximal element 16 without
doubling back and would allow the single line 90 to be detached
directly from the proximal element 16 when desired. Examples of
such detachable means include hooks, snares, clips or breakable
couplings, to name a few. By applying sufficient tension to the
proximal element line 90, the detachable means may be detached from
the proximal element 16 such as by breakage of the coupling. Other
mechanisms for detachment may also be used. Similarly, a lock line
92 may be attached and detached from a locking mechanism by similar
detachable means.
[0132] In the open position, the fixation device 14 can engage the
tissue which is to be approximated or treated. The embodiment
illustrated in FIGS. 7-9B is adapted for repair of the mitral valve
using an antegrade approach from the left atrium. The
interventional tool 10 is advanced through the mitral valve from
the left atrium to the left ventricle. The distal elements 18 are
oriented to be perpendicular to the line of coaptation and then
positioned so that the engagement surfaces 50 contact the
ventricular surface of the valve leaflets, thereby grasping the
leaflets. The proximal elements 16 remain on the atrial side of the
valve leaflets so that the leaflets lie between the proximal and
distal elements. In this embodiment, the proximal elements 16 have
frictional accessories, such as barbs 60 which are directed toward
the distal elements 18. However, neither the proximal elements 16
nor the barbs 60 contact the leaflets at this time.
[0133] The interventional tool 10 may be repeatedly manipulated to
reposition the fixation device 14 so that the leaflets are properly
contacted or grasped at a desired location. Repositioning is
achieved with the fixation device in the open position. In some
instances, regurgitation may also be checked while the device 14 is
in the open position. If regurgitation is not satisfactorily
reduced, the device may be repositioned and regurgitation checked
again until the desired results are achieved.
[0134] It may also be desired to invert the fixation device 14 to
aid in repositioning or removal of the fixation device 14. FIGS.
10A-10B illustrate the fixation device 14 in the inverted position.
By further advancement of stud 74 relative to coupling member 19,
the distal elements 18 are further rotated so that the engagement
surfaces 50 face outwardly and free ends 54 point distally, with
each arm 53 forming an obtuse angle relative to shaft 12. The angle
between arms 53 is preferably in the range of about 270 to 360
degrees. Further advancement of the stud 74 further rotates the
distal elements 18 around joints 76. This rotation and movement of
the distal elements 18 radially outward causes rotation of the legs
68 about joints 80 so that the legs 68 are returned toward their
initial position, generally parallel to each other. The stud 74 may
be advanced to any desired distance correlating to a desired
inversion of the distal elements 18. Preferably, in the fully
inverted position, the span between free ends 54 is no more than
about 20 mm, usually less than about 16 mm, and preferably about
12-14 mm. In this illustration, the proximal elements 16 remain
positioned against the shaft 12 by exerting tension on the proximal
element lines 90. Thus, a relatively large space may be created
between the elements 16, 18 for repositioning. In addition, the
inverted position allows withdrawal of the fixation device 14
through the valve while minimizing trauma to the leaflets.
Engagement surfaces 50 provide an atraumatic surface for deflecting
tissue as the fixation device is retracted proximally. It should be
further noted that barbs 60 are angled slightly in the distal
direction (away from the free ends of the proximal elements 16),
reducing the risk that the barbs will catch on or lacerate tissue
as the fixation device is withdrawn.
[0135] Once the fixation device 14 has been positioned in a desired
location against the valve leaflets, the leaflets may then be
captured between the proximal elements 16 and the distal elements
18. FIGS. 11A-11B illustrate the fixation device 14 in such a
position. Here, the proximal elements 16 are lowered toward the
engagement surfaces 50 so that the leaflets are held therebetween.
In FIG. 11B, the proximal elements 16 are shown to include barbs 60
which may be used to provide atraumatic gripping of the leaflets.
Alternatively, larger, more sharply pointed barbs or other
penetration structures may be used to pierce the leaflets to more
actively assist in holding them in place. This position is similar
to the open position of FIGS. 9A-9B, however the proximal elements
16 are now lowered toward arms 53 by releasing tension on proximal
element lines 90 to compress the leaflet tissue therebetween. At
any time, the proximal elements 16 may be raised and the distal
elements 18 adjusted or inverted to reposition the fixation device
14, if regurgitation is not sufficiently reduced.
[0136] After the leaflets have been captured between the proximal
and distal elements 16, 18 in a desired arrangement, the distal
elements 18 may be locked to hold the leaflets in this position or
the fixation device 14 may be returned to or toward a closed
position. Such locking will be described in a later section. FIG.
12 illustrates the fixation device 14 in the closed position
wherein the leaflets (not shown) are captured and coapted. This is
achieved by retraction of the stud 74 proximally relative to
coupling member 19 so that the legs 68 of the actuation mechanism
58 apply an upwards force to the distal elements 18 which in turn
rotate the distal elements 18 so that the engagement surfaces 50
again face one another. The released proximal elements 16 which are
biased outwardly toward distal elements 18 are concurrently urged
inwardly by the distal elements 18. The fixation device 14 may then
be locked to hold the leaflets in this closed position as described
below.
[0137] As shown in FIG. 13, the fixation device 14 may then be
released from the shaft 12. As mentioned, the fixation device 14 is
releasably coupleable to the shaft 12 by coupling member 19 (best
seen in FIG. 17). FIG. 13 illustrates the coupling structure, a
portion of the shaft 12 to which the coupling member 19 of the
fixation device 14 attaches. As shown, the proximal element lines
90 may remain attached to the proximal elements 16 following
detachment from shaft 12 to function as a tether to keep the
fixation device 14 connected with the catheter 86. Optionally, a
separate tether coupled between shaft 12 and fixation device 14 may
be used expressly for this purpose while the proximal element lines
90 are removed. In any case, the repair of the leaflets or tissue
may be observed by non-invasive visualization techniques, such as
echocardiography, to ensure the desired outcome. If the repair is
not desired, the fixation device 14 may be retrieved with the use
of the tether or proximal element lines 90 so as to reconnect
coupling member 19 with shaft 12.
[0138] In an exemplary embodiments, proximal element lines 90 are
elongated flexible threads, wire, cable, sutures or lines extending
through shaft 12, looped through proximal elements 16, and
extending back through shaft 12 to its proximal end. When
detachment is desired, one end of each line may be released at the
proximal end of the shaft 12 and the other end pulled to draw the
free end of the line distally through shaft 12 and through proximal
element 16 thereby releasing the fixation device.
[0139] FIG. 14 illustrates a released fixation device 14 in a
closed position. As shown, the coupling member 19 remains separated
from the shaft 12 of the interventional tool 10 and the proximal
elements 16 are deployed so that tissue (not shown) may reside
between the proximal elements 16 and distal elements 18.
[0140] While the above described embodiments of the invention
utilize a push-to-open, pull-to-close mechanism for opening and
closing distal elements 18, it should be understood that a
pull-to-open, push-to-close mechanism is equally possible. For
example, distal elements 18 may be coupled at their proximal ends
to stud 74 rather than to coupling member 19, and legs 68 may be
coupled at their proximal ends to coupling member 19 rather than to
stud 74. In this example, when stud 74 is pushed distally relative
to coupling member 19, distal elements 18 would close, while
pulling on stud 74 proximally toward coupling member 19 would open
distal elements 18.
[0141] In some situations, the valve leaflets may fully or
partially detach from the fixation device due to poor leaflet
insertion between the proximal and distal elements. Evaluation of
valve leaflet insertion in the fixation device is therefore
performed using standard imaging technology such as
echocardiography and fluoroscopy. However, depending on the angle
and/or position of the proximal and distal elements relative to the
delivery catheter, it can be challenging to assess the depth of
valve leaflet insertion into the fixation device, or to
differentiate between the leaflets and the proximal and distal
elements of the fixation device. Visualization is therefore
preferably performed with the distal elements in a more open
configuration with the distal elements displaced from one another.
However, since many current embodiments of the fixation device only
permit the proximal elements to open up to an included angle of
about 85.degree., the distal elements therefore must be closed up
to an included angle of between about 45.degree. and preferably
60.degree. in order securely grasp the valve leaflets between the
proximal and distal elements. While this configuration helps an
operator visualize and differentiate between the valve leaflets and
the fixation device, it is preferable to further open up the distal
elements to an included angle of greater than 90.degree., and more
preferably to 120.degree. or more. Thus, it would be desirable to
modify the proximal elements to open up further.
[0142] FIGS. 15A-15H illustrate an embodiment of a fixation device
similar to the device of FIGS. 7A-14, with a major difference being
that this embodiment includes a gripper pusher. FIG. 15A
illustrates fixation device 14 that generally takes the same form
as fixation device 14 previously described. In addition to the
features previously described, fixation device 14 also includes a
gripper pusher 81. The gripper pusher 81 deflects radially outward
resulting in a bowed region 83 that expands outward until the bowed
region 83 engages a superior surface of the proximal elements 16.
As the bowed region 83 continues to deflect radially outward, it
further pushes on the proximal elements 16 such that the proximal
elements are deflected and rotated outward toward the engagement
surface of the distal elements 18. Thus, the proximal elements 16
may be deflected outward further than they normally would, and
therefore the valve leaflets may be captured between the proximal
and distal elements when the distal elements are disposed in a more
open position with a larger included angle therebetween. In
preferred embodiments, the included angle between the distal
elements is greater than about 90.degree., preferably greater than
about 110.degree., and more preferably greater than about
120.degree.. In the embodiment of FIG. 15A, the gripper pusher 81
includes two arms formed from a metal, polymer or other wire-like
material. Exemplary materials include cobalt chromium alloy,
stainless steel, nitinol, and the like. Polymers may also be used
to fabricate the gripper pusher. The gripper pusher 81 may be
actuated to bow outwards upon application of an axially oriented
compressive force that is generally parallel to the longitudinal
axis of the gripper pusher arms. During compression, the gripper
pusher bows outward forming bowed region 83. In other embodiments,
the gripper pusher may be a spring which is resiliently biased to
bow outward forming bowed region 83. However, when proximal element
lines (not illustrated here) are tensioned to lift the proximal
elements 16, the gripper pusher springs will collapse to a reduced
profile.
[0143] FIG. 15B illustrates the fixation device 14 having a
covering for tissue ingrowth that is substantially the same as
discussed in FIGS. 16A-16C below, and with the gripper pusher 81
expanded such that the proximal elements 16 (also referred to as
gripping elements) are in engagement with the distal elements 18
(also referred to as fixation elements). The valve leaflets (not
shown for convenience) are pinched therebetween. FIG. 15C
illustrates the gripper pusher 81 in the collapsed configuration.
The bowed region 83 collapses, allowing the proximal elements 16 to
retract towards shaft 12, allowing the valve leaflets (not shown)
to be released from the fixation device 14. The gripper pusher 83
is offset from the proximal elements 16 so that the proximal
elements can retract without interfering with the gripper pusher
81.
[0144] FIG. 15D highlights the gripper pusher 83 which preferably
includes two spring arms 99. Each arm 99 is formed from wire or
machined from a sheet or other stock material and in this
embodiment has a rectangular cross-section, although other
cross-sections are also contemplated. A distal portion 91 of each
arm 99 has a notched region 93 forming a pair of fingers that can
engage with a boss or other attachment mechanism on the fixation
device. The notch may be released from the boss when the fixation
device 14 is detached from the delivery catheter shaft 12.
Additionally, each arm includes two bowed regions, or peaks,
including a larger distal bowed region 83, and a smaller proximal
bowed region 95. The larger bowed region 83 flares outwardly a
greater distance so as to engage and push the proximal elements 16
into engagement with the distal elements 18. When the distal bowed
region 83 relaxes and collapses away from the proximal elements 16,
or when collapsed by retraction of the proximal elements, the
smaller proximal bowed regions 95 expand radially outward. An
attachment ring or coupling collar 97 is adjacent nose 318
(described in greater detail below) and is slidably disposed over
the shaft 12 and allows coupling of the gripper arms 99 to the
shaft 12. FIG. 15E illustrates the distal bowed region 83 in
engagement with the proximal elements 16, and also illustrates
engagement of the notch 93 on the distal portion of each arm 99
with a boss 94 on the fixation device 14.
[0145] Additional components may be provided to facilitate
maintaining the alignment of the gripper pushers 83 relative to the
delivery catheter shaft 12. FIG. 15E1 shows a cross-sectional view
of the delivery catheter shaft 12 with the gripper pusher 83 and
FIG. 15E2 shows a side view of the same. As shown in FIGS. 15E1 and
15E2, each arm 99 may have a slot 8112 and the delivery catheter
shaft 12 may have one or more protrusions 1281 which the slots 8112
straddle to maintain the alignment of the gripper pusher 83
relative to the delivery catheter shaft 12. The region of the arm
99 having the slot 8112 is wider than the remainder of the arm 99
to accommodate the slot 8112. The greater width may also allow the
arm 99 to be pushed to the side without becoming misaligned
relative to the delivery catheter shaft 12. FIG. 15E3 shows a
cross-sectional view of the delivery catheter shaft 12 and FIG.
15E4 shows a side view of the same. As shown in FIGS. 15E3 and
15E4, each arm 99 may have one or more inwardly bowed regions 8212
and the delivery catheter shaft 12 may have one or more troughs
1282 which accommodate the inwardly bowed regions 8212 to maintain
the alignment of the gripper pusher 83 relative to the delivery
catheter shaft 12.
[0146] FIG. 15F illustrates a top view of the gripper pusher 81
having two arms 99. FIG. 15F illustrates that the two arms 99 are
offset from one another such that in this exemplary embodiment,
angle .alpha. is about 160.degree. and angle .theta. is about
200.degree., as opposed to positioning the arms 180.degree. apart
from one another. Asymmetrically positioning the arms about the
shaft creates a larger gap on one side, and allows the proximal
elements 16 to avoid colliding with the gripper pusher arms 99 when
the proximal elements retract against shaft 12. FIG. 15G is a top
view of collar 97, and FIG. 15H is a side view of gripper pusher
arm 99. A cutout 98 on one side of arm 99 creates additional room
between arms 99, thereby also helping to prevent the proximal
elements 16 from interfering with the gripper pusher 83 when the
proximal elements 16 are retracted. The cutouts are on both arms 99
and face the larger gap represented by angle .theta. to maximize
room for the proximal elements 16.
[0147] As described above, for example, with reference to FIGS. 9A
and 9B, actuation of the proximal elements 16 may be accomplished
by using one or more proximal element lines or actuators 90. Such
actuation can be achieved in various ways. For example, as shown in
FIG. 15I, the proximal element actuators 90A and 90B could be
threaded through line loops 48A and 48B, which are disposed on the
radially outward and proximal sides of the proximal elements 16A
and 16B, respectively. The distal ends of proximal element
actuators 90A and 90B may comprise closed loops 95A and 95B, which
encircle the shaft 12 and the coupling member 19 shown in FIG. 15I
as coupled together. As discussed above, the shaft 12 and the
coupling member 19 can be releasably coupled together. To have the
closed loops 95A and 95B surround shaft 12 and the coupling member
19, the closed loops 95A and 95B are placed over the shaft 12
and/or the coupling member 19 prior to the coupling shaft 12 and
the coupling member 19 together. When the closed loops 95A and 95B
encircle the shaft 12 and the coupling member 19, the closed loops
95A and 95B hold the distal ends of the proximal element actuators
90A and 90B in place relative to the shaft 12 and the coupling
member 19 and restrict the degree to which the proximal element
actuators 90A and 90B can be retracted. By being threaded through
the line loops 48A and 48B, the proximal element actuators 90A and
90B are mechanically linked to the proximal elements 16A and 16B,
respectively. Thus, as shown in FIG. 15J, when the proximal element
actuators 90A and 90B are retracted proximally in a direction 96,
they move the proximal elements 16A and 16B away from the distal
elements 18A and 18B, respectively. Similarly, pushing the proximal
element actuators 90A and 90B distally moves the proximal elements
16A and 16B toward the distal elements 18A and 18B.
[0148] The proximal element actuators 90A and 90B may be moved so
that the proximal elements 16A and 16B are moved at a variety of
angles and distances from the distal elements 18A and 18B. And, the
degree to which the proximal element actuators 90A and 90B are
pushed or pulled can be maintained to keep the positions the
proximal elements 16A and 16B have relative to the distal elements
18. For example, as shown in FIG. 15K, the proximal element
actuators 90A and 90B are pulled proximally and maintained in the
position shown so as to maintain the proximal elements 16A and 16B
in an intermediate position relative to the distal elements 18.
This intermediate position is between the position the proximal
elements 16A and 16B are biased toward and that in which the
proximal elements 16A and 16B are fully retracted as in FIG. 15J.
As shown in FIG. 15N, once the proximal elements 16A and 16B are in
a desired position, the shaft 12 and the coupling member 19 can be
decoupled so that proximal retraction of the proximal element
actuators 90A and/or 90B decouples the proximal element lines from
the proximal elements 16. Thus, the fixation device 14 can be left
in place while the shaft 12, the proximal element actuators 90A and
90B, and other parts can be removed from a site of operation. As
shown in FIGS. 15I through 15O, the fixation device 14 typically
includes a covering 100 substantially the same as discussed in
FIGS. 16A-16C below.
[0149] It may be desirable to provide for independent actuation of
the proximal elements 16A and 16B. For example, as shown in FIG.
15L, the proximal element actuator 90A is proximally retracted and
rotates the proximal element 16A away from the distal element 18A,
while the proximal element actuator 90B is pushed distally and
rotates the proximal element 16B toward the distal element 18B.
Similarly, as shown in FIG. 15M, the proximal element actuator 90A
is left alone, allowing the proximal element 16A to maintain the
position it is biased toward, while the proximal element actuator
90B is proximally retracted, moving the proximal element 16B away
from the distal element 18B. Providing for the independent
actuation of the proximal elements 16A and 16B allows leaflets to
be independently grasped by the proximal elements 16A and 16B and
the distal elements 18A and 18B. Thus, the fixation device 14 can
coapt leaflets more easily and at more optimal locations. For
example, as opposed to grasping two leaflets simultaneously, a
first leaflet can be grasped at a desired position and the fixation
device 14 can then be repositioned so that a second leaflet can be
grasped at a more optimal position. Alternatively, leaflets may be
still be simultaneously grasped if desired as the independently
actuatable proximal element actuators can still be moved
simultaneously. Also, after leaflets are grasped, they can be
released and the leaflets can be grasped again, for example, if the
leaflets are malcoapted at the first grasp.
[0150] Embodiments of the fixation device similar to the devices
described above may include both a gripper pusher 81 and
independently actuatable proximal elements 16A and 16B, as shown
for example in FIG. 15O. Having both a gripper pusher 81 and
independently actuatable proximal elements 16A and 16B may allow
the fixation device to have many of the advantages described above
such as to more accurately and more strongly grasp leaflets.
[0151] FIG. 15P shows the distal end of a proximal element actuator
90. The proximal element actuator 90 comprises a round section 90R
and a flat section 90F distal of the round section 90R. When this
proximal element actuator 90 is threaded through a proximal element
16 and coupled to a fixation device 14, the flatter portion of the
flat section may be positioned so that it faces proximal element
16. As the proximal element actuator 90 is proximally advanced, it
will therefore tend to deflect it in the direction toward the
proximal element 16 instead of in other directions and push the
proximal element. The proximal element actuator 90 further
comprises a looped end 95. As shown in FIG. 15P, the looped end 95
may comprise a separate loop of wire attached with the distal end
of the flat section 90F at its distal end, for example, with solder
94.
[0152] The proximal element actuator 90 may also be releaseably
coupled to the fixation device 14 in other ways. For example, as
shown in FIGS. 15Q and 15R, the proximal element actuator 90
comprises a spiraled distal section 95L which is releaseably
coupled to the fixation device 14. The spiraled distal section 95L
is wrapped about the shaft 12 and/or the coupling mechanism 19.
Retracting the proximal element actuator 90 with sufficient force
may deform the spiraled distal section 95L so that it is released
from the fixation device 14. Alternatively or in combination, the
spiraled distal section 95L may comprise a shape memory material
such that the spiraled distal section 95L is straightened upon the
application of a sufficient amount of heat, facilitating the
proximal retraction of the proximal element actuator 90 away from
the fixation device 14.
[0153] The proximal element actuator 90 may be releaseably coupled
to the fixation device 14 by suture. As shown in FIGS. 15S and 15T,
a proximal element actuator 90 is releaseably coupled to the
fixation device 14 via a suture knot 95S. Each proximal actuator 90
may be coupled to the fixation device 14 by a separate suture knot
95S. Alternatively, a pair of proximal actuators 90 may be coupled
to the fixation device 14 by a single suture knot.
[0154] A proximal element actuator 90 may comprise an enlarged
section 90T as shown in FIGS. 15U and 15V. The diameter of the
enlarged section 90T exceeds the diameter of the opening of the
loop line 48. As the proximal element actuator 90 is retracted, the
loop line 48 restricts the proximal movement of the enlarged
section 90T. Thus, a pulling force is exerted on the loop line 48
and proximal element 16, which facilitates the actuation of a
proximal element 16. The enlarged section 90T may be a sleeve
attached over the proximal element actuator 90.
[0155] The proximal element actuator 90 may be releaseably coupled
to the proximal element 16 at the radially outward ends of the
proximal element 16 by an attachment device, for example, as shown
in FIGS. 15W1 to 15W2. The attachment device may comprise a ring
90CR as shown in a perspective view in FIG. 15W1, a short clip 90CC
as shown in a perspective view in FIG. 15W2, or a long clip 90CL as
shown in FIGS. 15W3 to FIG. 15W5. FIG. 15W3 shows a perspective
view of the long clip 90CL attaching the proximal element actuator
90 to a proximal element 16. FIGS. 15W4 and 15W5 show a front and
side view of the same, respectively. The long clip 90CL may
comprise a pair of legs 90CLL which traverse the length of the
proximal element 16. As shown in FIG. 15W5, a leg 90CLL is disposed
between two rows of barbs 60.
[0156] The above described attachment devices may be spring loaded
to latch onto or sized to slip fit into the radially outward ends
of the proximal element 16. As the proximal element actuator 90 is
retracted, the attachment device continues to be attached to the
proximal element 16. As the proximal element 16 is rotated to be
substantially parallel to a shaft 19, however, further proximal
retraction of the proximal element actuator 90 can release the
attachment device from the outer end of the proximal element 16. A
mechanical mechanism may be provided to limit the degree to which
the proximal element actuator 90 can be proximally retracted so
that the attachment device is not detached inadvertently. Instead,
detachment will occur only upon retraction of the whole delivery
device, including the proximal element actuators 90, from the
fixation device 14.
[0157] The proximal element actuator 90 may comprise two lines: an
actuation line 90AA and a release line 90RR, for example, as shown
in FIGS. 15X1 to 15X3. FIG. 15X1 shows a perspective view of an
radially outer end of a proximal element 16 having an aperture 48A.
FIG. 15X2 shows a cross-sectional view of the same. The actuation
line 90AA has a looped end 90AAL which is threaded through the
aperture 48A to cross through proximal element 16. The release line
90RR is threaded through the portion of the looped end 90AAL. In
FIG. 15X3, the actuation line 90AA and the release line 90RR are
similarly positioned through loop line 48 of proximal element 16.
While the actuation line 90AA and the release line 90RR are
positioned in the arrangement shown in FIGS. 15X1 to 15X3,
retracting the actuation line 90AA rotates the proximal element 16
relative to a distal element 18 similarly to the embodiments
described above. Retracting the release line 90RR so that it no
longer is threaded through the looped end 90AAL allows the
actuation line to be retracted away from the proximal element
16.
[0158] In many embodiments, the shaft 12 and the coupling member 19
are releaseably coupled together via an L-locking mechanism. For
example, as shown in FIG. 15Y1, the proximal element actuator 90
may comprise a round T-shaped end 90T distal of the flat section
90F and the shaft 12 may comprise L-shaped ends 12L. As shown in
the perspective view of FIG. 15Y2, the proximal element actuator 90
is releaseably coupled to the coupling member 19 when it and shaft
12 are placed into the channel 19C of the coupling member 19. As
the shaft 12 is placed through the channel 19C, the L-shaped ends
12L are forced inwardly until they reach apertures 19A. At that
point, the L-shaped ends 12L expand outwardly to fit into the
apertures 19A, thereby locking the shaft 12 in place relative to
the coupling member 19, as shown in cross-sectional view of FIG.
15Y3. The round T-shaped distal end 90T will typically be placed in
the channel 19C prior to the shaft 12. As shown in FIG. 15Y3, the
round T-shaped distal end 90T then becomes trapped in the space
19CA between the channel 19C and a wider portion of the shaft 12
when the shaft is placed therein. Other L-locking or other locking
mechanisms are described in commonly assigned U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 12/393,452 entitled "Detachment Mechanism for
Implantable Fixation Devices" and filed Feb. 26, 2009, the full
contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.
[0159] The round T-shaped end 90T of the proximal element actuator
90 may also be used to facilitate releaseably coupling the proximal
element line 90 to the shaft 12 and coupling member 19 is many
other ways. For example, as shown in FIG. 15Z1, the L-shaped end
12L of the shaft 12 may comprise at least one proximal element line
slot 12S. As shown in FIGS. 15Z3 and 15Z4, the T-shape end 90T of
the proximal element actuator 90 is slid into the proximal element
line slot 12L. Then, the shaft 12 is placed into the coupling
member 19, thereby also locking the proximal element line 90 in
place. As shown in FIG. 15Z5, removing the shaft 12 from the
coupling member 19 allows the proximal element line 90 to be slid
out of the proximal element line slot 12S of L-shaped end 12L,
thereby decoupling the proximal element actuator 90 from both the
shaft 12 and the coupling device 19.
[0160] As shown in FIG. 15AA1, the proximal element actuator 90 may
comprise a flat T-shaped end 90TF. The shaft 12 may further
comprise an inner distal covering 1511 surrounding a distal portion
of the shaft 12 and an outer distal covering 1521 surrounding the
inner distal covering. The inner distal covering 1511 will
typically be in a fixed position relative to the shaft 12 while the
outer distal covering will be moveable relative to the shaft 12 at
a range determined by tabs 1515 of inner distal covering 1511
placed through side channels 1525 of the outer distal covering
1521. To releaseably couple the proximal element actuator 90 to the
shaft 12 and coupling line 19, the T-shaped end 90TF is fit into a
T-shaped cutout 1513 of inner distal covering 1511, and when the
shaft 12 is placed into the coupling device 19, the coupling device
19 pushes the outer distal covering 1521 over the inner distal
covering 1511 to cover the T-shaped cutout 1513 as well as the
T-shaped end 90TF, as shown in FIG. 15AA2. In some embodiments, the
outer distal covering 1521 may be spring loaded against the inner
distal cover 1523 so that tend to maintain their relative positions
shown in FIG. 15AA1.
[0161] Proximal element actuators 90 may be releaseably coupled to
the fixation device 14 in a variety of ways using variations of
inner and outer distal collars over the distal portion of shaft 12,
for example, as shown in FIGS. 15AB1 to 15AB7. FIG. 15AB1 shows an
inner distal collar 1511A having a pair of T-shaped cutouts 1513
and a tab 1514. FIG. 15AB3 shows an outer distal collar 1521A
having a channel 1524. The channel 1524 guides the inner distal
collar 1511A via its tab 1514 as the inner distal collar 1511A is
slid into the outer distal collar 1521A, for example as shown in
FIGS. 15AB3 through 15AB5. As in the embodiment shown in FIGS.
15AA1 and 15AA2, to releaseably couple the proximal element
actuators 90 to the shaft 12 and coupling member 19, the T-shaped
end 90TF is fit into a T-shaped cutout 1513 of inner distal collar
1511S. When the shaft 12 is placed into the coupling device 19, the
coupling member 19 pushes the outer distal collar 1521S over the
inner distal collar 1511S to cover the T-shaped cutout 1513 as well
as the T-shaped end 90TF, as shown in FIGS. 15AB6 and 15AB7.
[0162] As described below, a delivery device or delivery catheter
300 may be used to introduce and position fixation devices as
described above. In embodiments of the invention with independently
actuatable proximal element lines, the handle 304 of the delivery
catheter will typically include control mechanisms for the
independently actuable proximal element lines. For example, a
control mechanism may comprise a pair of independently actuable
proximal element line handles 393A and 393B placed in parallel, as
shown in FIG. 15AC1, or placed coaxially, as shown in FIG. 15AC2.
The proximal element line handles 393A and 393B are coupled to
proximal element lines 90A and 90B and may share a common or
interconnecting lumens in the delivery device. Stop may be provided
to limit the degree to which the proximal element line handles 393A
and 393B can be retracted or advanced, thereby limiting the degree
to which the proximal element actuators 90A and 90B can be
retracted or advanced. In some embodiments, for example, as shown
by FIGS. 15AC3 and 15AC4, a proximal element line handle 393 may be
actuated by a rotatable switch 395 attached to it.
[0163] B. Covering on Fixation Device
[0164] The fixation device 14 may optionally include a covering.
The covering may assist in grasping the tissue and may later
provide a surface for tissue ingrowth. Ingrowth of the surrounding
tissues, such as the valve leaflets, provides stability to the
device 14 as it is further anchored in place and may cover the
device with native tissue thus reducing the possibility of
immunologic reactions. The covering may be comprised of any
biocompatible material, such as polyethylene terepthalate,
polyester, cotton, polyurethane, expanded polytetrafluoroethylene
(ePTFE), silicon, or various polymers or fibers and have any
suitable form, such as a fabric, mesh, textured weave, felt, looped
or porous structure. Generally, the covering has a low profile so
as not to interfere with delivery through an introducer sheath or
with grasping and coapting of leaflets or tissue.
[0165] FIGS. 16A-16C illustrate a covering 100 on the fixation
device 14 wherein the device 14 is in various positions. FIG. 16A
shows the covering 100 encapsulating the distal elements 18 and the
actuation mechanism 58 while the device 14 is in the open position.
Thus, the engagement surfaces 50 are covered by the covering 100
which helps to minimize trauma on tissues and provides additional
friction to assist in grasping and retaining tissues. FIG. 16B
shows the device 14 of FIG. 16A in the inverted position. The
covering 100 is loosely fitted and/or is flexible or elastic such
that the device 14 can freely move to various positions and the
covering 100 conforms to the contours of the device 14 and remains
securely attached in all positions. FIG. 16C shows the device 14 in
the closed position. Thus, when the fixation device 14 is left
behind as an implant in the closed position, the exposed surfaces
of the device 14 are substantially covered by the covering 100. It
may be appreciated that the covering 100 may cover specific parts
of the fixation device 14 while leaving other parts exposed. For
example, the covering 100 may comprise sleeves that fit over the
distal elements 18 and not the actuation mechanism 58, caps that
fit over the distal ends 54 of the distal elements 18 or pads that
cover the engagement surfaces 50, to name a few. It may be
appreciated that, the covering 100 may allow any frictional
accessories, such as barbs, to be exposed. Also, the covering 100
may cover the proximal elements 16 and/or any other surfaces of the
fixation device 14. In any case, the covering 100 should be durable
to withstand multiple introduction cycles and, when implanted
within a heart, a lifetime of cardiac cycles.
[0166] The covering 100 may alternatively be comprised of a polymer
or other suitable materials dipped, sprayed, coated or otherwise
adhered to the surfaces of the fixation device 14. Optionally, the
polymer coating may include pores or contours to assist in grasping
the tissue and/or to promote tissue ingrowth.
[0167] Any of the coverings 100 may optionally include drugs,
antibiotics, anti-thrombosis agents, or anti-platelet agents such
as heparin, COUMADIN.RTM. (Warfarin Sodium), to name a few. These
agents may, for example, be impregnated in or coated on the
coverings 100. These agents may then be delivered to the grasped
tissues surrounding tissues and/or bloodstream for therapeutic
effects.
[0168] C. Fixation Device Locking Mechanisms
[0169] As mentioned previously, the fixation device 14 optionally
includes a locking mechanism for locking the device 14 in a
particular position, such as an open, closed or inverted position
or any position therebetween. It may be appreciated that the
locking mechanism includes an unlocking mechanism which allows the
device to be both locked and unlocked. FIGS. 17-20 illustrate an
embodiment of a locking mechanism 106. Referring to FIG. 17, in
this embodiment, the locking mechanism 106 is disposed between the
coupling member 19 and the base 69 of the actuation mechanism 58.
The base 69 is fixedly attached to the stud 74 which extends
through the locking mechanism 106. The stud 74 is releasably
attached to the actuator rod 64 which passes through the coupling
member 19 and the shaft 12 of the interventional tool 10. The base
69 is also connected to the legs 68 of the actuation mechanism 58
which are in turn connected to the distal elements 18.
[0170] FIG. 17 also illustrates the proximal elements 16, which in
this embodiment straddle the locking mechanism and join beneath the
locking mechanism 106. The proximal elements 16 are shown supported
by proximal element lines 90. The proximal elements 16 are raised
and lowered by manipulation of the proximal element lines 90. In
addition, lock lines 92 are shown connected with a release harness
108 of the locking mechanism 106. The lock lines 92 are used to
lock and unlock the locking mechanism 106 as will be described
below. The proximal element lines 90 and lock lines 92 may be
comprised of any suitable material, typically wire, nitinol wire,
cable, suture or thread, to name a few. In addition, the proximal
element lines 90 and/or lock lines 92 may include a coating, such
as parylene. Parylene is a vapor deposited pinhole free protective
film which is conformal and biocompatible. It is inert and protects
against moisture, chemicals, and electrical charge.
[0171] FIG. 18 provides a front view of the locking mechanism 106
of FIG. 17. However, here the proximal elements 16 are supported by
a single proximal element line 90 which is through both of the
proximal elements 16. In this arrangement both of the elements are
raised and lowered simultaneously by action of a single proximal
element line 90. Whether the proximal elements 16 are manipulated
individually by separate proximal element lines 90 or jointly by a
single proximal element line 90, the proximal element lines 90 may
extend directly through openings in the proximal elements and/or
through a layer or portion of a covering 100 on the proximal
elements, or through a suture loop above or below a covering
100.
[0172] FIGS. 19-20 illustrate the locking mechanism 106 showing the
locking mechanism 106 in the unlocked and locked positions
respectively. Referring to FIG. 19, the locking mechanism 106
includes one or more wedging elements, such as rolling elements. In
this embodiment, the rolling elements comprise a pair of barbells
110 disposed on opposite sides of the stud 74, each barbell having
a pair of generally cylindrical caps and a shaft therebetween. The
barbells 110 and the stud 74 are preferably comprised of cobalt
chromium or stainless steel, however any suitable material may be
used. The barbells 110 are manipulated by hooked ends 112 of the
release harness 108. When an upwards force is applied to the
harness 108 by the lock line 92 (illustrated in FIG. 17), the
hooked ends 112 raise the barbells 110 against a spring 114, as
shown in FIG. 19. This draws the barbells 110 up along a sidewall
or sloping surface 116 which unwedges the barbells 110 from against
the stud 74. In this position, the stud 74 is free to move. Thus,
when the lock line 92 raises or lifts the harness 108, the locking
mechanism 106 is in an unlocked position wherein the stud 74 is
free to move the actuation mechanism 58 and therefore the distal
elements 18 to any desired position. Release of the harness 108 by
the lock line 92 transitions the locking mechanism 106 to a locked
position, illustrated in FIG. 20. By releasing the upwards force on
the barbells 110 by the hooked ends 112, the spring 114 forces the
barbells 110 downwards and wedges the barbells 110 between the
sloping surface 116 and the stud 74. This restricts motion of the
stud 74, which in turn locks the actuation mechanism 58 and
therefore distal elements 18 in place. In addition, the stud 74 may
include one or more grooves 82 or indentations which receive the
barbells 110. This may provide more rapid and positive locking by
causing the barbells 110 to settle in a definite position, increase
the stability of the locking feature by further preventing movement
of the barbells 110, as well as tangible indication to the user
that the barbell has reached a locking position. In addition, the
grooves 82 may be used to indicate the relative position of the
distal elements 18, particularly the distance between the distal
elements 18. For example, each groove 82 may be positioned to
correspond with a 0.5 or 1.0 mm decrease in distance between the
distal elements 18. As the stud 74 is moved, the barbells 110 will
contact the grooves 82; by counting the number of grooves 82 that
are felt as the stud 74 is moved, the user can determine the
distance between the distal elements 18 and can provide the desired
degree of coaptation based upon leaflet thickness, geometry,
spacing, blood flow dynamics and other factors. Thus, the grooves
82 may provide tactile feedback to the user.
[0173] The locking mechanism 106 allows the fixation device 14 to
remain in an unlocked position when attached to the interventional
tool 10 during grasping and repositioning and then maintain a
locked position when left behind as an implant. It may be
appreciated, however, that the locking mechanism 106 may be
repeatedly locked and unlocked throughout the placement of the
fixation device 14 if desired. Once the final placement is
determined, the lock line 92 and proximal element lines 90 are
removed and the fixation device is left behind.
[0174] FIGS. 21, 22A-22B illustrate another embodiment of a locking
mechanism 106. Referring to FIG. 21, in this embodiment, the
locking mechanism 106 is again disposed between the coupling member
19 and the base 69 of the actuation mechanism 58. The base 69 is
connected to the stud 74 which extends through the locking
mechanism 106, and connects to an actuator rod which extends
through the coupling member 19 and the shaft 12 of the
interventional tool 10. The base 69 is also connected to the legs
68 of the actuation mechanism 58 which are in turn connected to the
distal elements 18. FIG. 21 also illustrates the proximal elements
16 which manipulate the locking mechanism 106 in this embodiment.
The locking mechanism 106 comprises folded leaf structures 124
having overlapping portions 124a, 124b, each folded structure 124
being attached to a proximal element 16. In FIG. 21 and FIG. 22A,
the folded structures 124 are shown without the remainder of the
locking mechanism 106 for clarity. Proximal elements 16 are
flexible and resilient and are biased outwardly. The folded leaf
structures 124 include holes 125 (FIG. 22B) in each overlapping
portion 124a, 124b so that the stud 74 passes through the holes 125
of the portions 124a, 124b as shown. The locking mechanism includes
slots into which ends 123 of the folded leaf structures 124 are
fixed. When the proximal elements 16 are in an undeployed position,
as in FIG. 21, the folded leaf structures 124 lie substantially
perpendicular to the stud 74 so that the holes 125 in each
overlapping portion are vertically aligned. This allows the stud 74
to pass freely through the holes and the locking mechanism 106 is
considered to be in an unlocked position.
[0175] Deployment of the proximal elements 16, as shown in FIG.
22A, tilts the folded leaf structures 124 so as to be disposed in a
non-perpendicular orientation relative to the stud 74 and the holes
125 are no longer vertically aligned with one another. In this
arrangement, the stud 74 is not free to move due to friction
against the holes of the folded leaf structure 124. FIG. 22B
provides a larger perspective view of the folded structures 124 in
this position. Thus, the locking mechanism 106 is considered to be
in a locked position. This arrangement allows the fixation device
14 to maintain an unlocked position during grasping and
repositioning and then maintain a locked position when the proximal
elements 16 are deployed and the fixation device 14 is left behind
as an implant. It may be appreciated, however, that the locking
mechanism 106 may be repeatedly locked and unlocked throughout the
placement of the fixation device 14 if desired.
[0176] FIGS. 23, 24A-24B illustrate another embodiment of a locking
mechanism 106. Referring to FIG. 22, in this embodiment, the
locking mechanism 106 is again disposed between the coupling member
19 and the base 69 of the actuation mechanism 58. And, the base 69
is connected to the stud 74 which extends through the locking
mechanism 106 and connects to an actuator rod which extends through
the coupling member 19 and the shaft of the interventional tool 10.
FIG. 22 illustrates the proximal elements 16 which manipulate the
locking mechanism 106 in this embodiment. The locking mechanism 106
comprises C-shaped structures 128, each C-shaped structure 128
attached to a proximal element 16. The C-shaped structures 128 hook
around the stud 74 so that the stud 74 passes through the "C" of
each structure 128 as shown in FIGS. 24A-24B. As shown, the
structures 128 cross each other and the "C" of each structure 128
faces each other. A spring 130 biases the C-shaped structures into
engagement with one another. When the proximal elements are in an
undeployed position, as in FIG. 24A, the C-shaped structures 128
are urged into an orientation more orthogonal to the axial
direction defined by stud 74, thus bringing the "C" of each
structure 128 into closer axial alignment. This allows the stud 74
to pass freely through the "C" of each structure 128. Deployment of
the proximal elements 16 outwardly urges the C-shaped structures
into a more angular, non-orthogonal orientation relative to stud 74
causing the sidewalls of the "C" of each structure 128 to engage
stud 74 more forcefully. In this arrangement, the stud 74 is not
free to move due to friction against the "C" shaped structures
128.
[0177] D. Additional Embodiments of Fixation Devices
[0178] In other embodiments, the proximal elements may be
manipulated to enhance gripping. For example, the proximal elements
may be lowered to grasp leaflets or tissue between the proximal and
distal elements, and then the proximal elements may be moved to
drag the leaflets or tissue into the fixation device. In another
example, the proximal elements may be independently lowered to
grasp the leaflets or tissue. This may be useful for sequential
grasping. In sequential grasping, one proximal element is lowered
to capture a leaflet or tissue portion between the proximal and
distal elements. The fixation device is then moved, adjusted or
maneuvered to a position for grasping another leaflet or tissue
portion between another set of proximal and distal elements. In
this position, the second proximal element is then lowered to grasp
this other leaflet or tissue portion.
[0179] Other exemplary embodiments of fixation devices are
disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,563,267 (Attorney Docket No.
020489-001400US) and U.S. Pat. No. 7,226,467 (Attorney Docket No.
020489-001700US), the entire contents of each, fully incorporated
herein by reference. One of skill in the art will appreciate that
the various features of the disclosed fixation devices may be
substituted with one another or used in combination with other
disclosed features.
IV. Delivery Device
[0180] A. Overview of Delivery Device
[0181] FIG. 25 provides a perspective view of an embodiment of a
delivery device or delivery catheter 300 which may be used to
introduce and position a fixation device as described above. The
delivery catheter 300 includes a shaft 302, having a proximal end
322 and a distal end 324, and a handle 304 attached to the proximal
end 322. A fixation device (not shown) is removably coupleable to
the distal end 324 for delivery to a site within the body,
typically for endovascular delivery to the mitral valve. Thus,
extending from the distal end 324 is a coupling structure 320 for
coupling with a fixation device. Also extending from the distal end
324 is an actuator rod 64. The actuator rod 64 is connectable with
the fixation device and acts to manipulate the fixation device,
typically opening and closing the distal elements. Such coupling to
a fixation device is illustrated in FIG. 26.
[0182] FIG. 26 illustrates an embodiment of a fixation device 14
coupled to the distal end 324 of the delivery catheter 300. The
shaft 302 is shown having a nose 318 near its distal end 324. In
this embodiment, the nose 318 has a flanged shape. Such a flanged
shape prevents the nose 318 from being retracted into a guiding
catheter or introducer as will be discussed in later sections.
However, it may be appreciated that the nose 318 may have any shape
including bullet, rounded, blunt or pointed, to name a few.
Extending from the nose 318 is a compression coil 326 through which
the coupling structure 320 and actuator rod 64 pass. The actuator
rod 64 is coupleable, as shown, with the stud 74 of the fixation
device 14. Such coupling is illustrated in FIG. 27.
[0183] FIG. 27 illustrates a portion of the shaft 302 of the
delivery catheter 300 and a fixation device 14 which is coupleable
with the catheter 300. Passing through the shaft 302 is the
actuator rod 64. In this embodiment, the actuator rod 64 comprises
a proximal extremity 303 and a distal extremity 328, the distal
extremity 328 of which is surrounded by a coil 330. The proximal
extremity 303 is typically comprised of stainless steel, nitinol,
or Elgiloy.RTM., to name a few, and may have a diameter in the
range of 0.010 in. to 0.040 in., preferably 0.020 in. to 0.030 in.,
more preferably 0.025 in., and a length in the range of 48 to 72
in. The distal extremity 328 may be tapered, is typically comprised
of stainless steel, nitinol, or Elgiloy.RTM., to name a few, and
may have a diameter in the range of 0.011 to 0.025 in and a length
in the range of 4 to 12 in. Such narrowing increases flexibility of
the distal end 324 of the actuator rod 64. The actuator rod 64
further comprises a joiner 332 which is attached to the distal
extremity 328. The joiner 332 is removably attachable with stud 74
of the fixation device 14. In this embodiment, the joiner 332 has
internal threads which mate with external threads on the stud 74 of
the fixation device 14. As described previously, the stud 74 is
connected with the distal elements 18 so that advancement and
retraction of the stud 74, by means of the actuator rod 64,
manipulates the distal elements. Likewise, the coupling member 19
of the fixation device 14 mates with the coupling structure 320 of
the catheter 300. Thus, the coupling member 19 and coupling
structure 320 function as previously described in relation to FIGS.
6A-6B.
[0184] Referring back to FIG. 26, the fixation device 14 may also
include a locking mechanism which includes a release harness 108,
as previously described in relation to FIGS. 17-20. Lock lines 92
are connected with the release harness 108 to lock and unlock the
locking mechanism 106 as previously described. The lock lines 92
extend through the shaft 302 of the delivery catheter 300 and may
connect with the release harness 108 in various arrangements as
will be illustrated in later sections. Similarly, proximal element
lines 90 extend through the shaft 302 of the delivery catheter 300
and connect with the proximal elements 16. The proximal elements 16
are raised and lowered by manipulation of the proximal element
lines 90 as previously described. The proximal element lines 90 may
connect with the proximal elements 16 in various arrangements as
will be illustrated in later sections.
[0185] Referring back to FIG. 25, the handle 304 attached to the
proximal end 322 of the shaft 302 is used to manipulate the coupled
fixation device 14 and to optionally decouple the fixation device
14 for permanent implantation. As described, the fixation device 14
is primarily manipulated by the actuator rod 64, proximal element
lines 90 and lock lines 92. The actuator rod 64 manipulates the
distal elements 18, the proximal element lines 90 manipulate the
proximal elements 16 and the lock lines 92 manipulate the locking
mechanism. In this embodiment, the actuator rod 64 may be
translated (extended or retracted) to manipulate the distal
elements 18. This is achieved with the use of the actuator rod
control 314 which will be described in later sections. The actuator
rod 64 may also be rotated to engage or disengage the threaded
joiner with the threaded stud 74. This is achieved with the use of
the actuator rod handle 316 which will also be described in later
sections. Further, the proximal element lines 90 may be extended,
retracted, loaded with various amounts of tension or removed with
the use of the proximal element line handle 312. And, the lock
lines 92 may be may be extended, retracted, loaded with various
amounts of tension or removed with the use of the lock line handle
310. Both of these handles 310, 312 will be described in more
detail in later sections. The actuator rod handle 316, actuator rod
control 314, proximal element line handle 312 and lock line handle
310 are all joined with a main body 308 within which the actuator
rod 64, proximal element lines 90 and lock lines 92 are guided into
the shaft 302. The handle 304 further includes a support base 306
connected with the main body 308. The main body 308 is slideable
along the support base 306 to provide translation of the shaft 302.
Further, the main body 308 is rotateable around the support base
306 to rotate the shaft.
[0186] While the embodiment of FIG. 27 is promising, in certain
situations, the actuator rod 64 may deform, especially along the
thinner distal extremity region 328, during delivery of fixation
device 14, thereby making it more challenging to properly deliver
and attach the fixation device to the valve leaflets. For example,
when tracking tortuous vessels, or when steering the distal portion
of the delivery device through large angles, e.g. 90.degree. or
more, the distal tapered extremity 328 of the actuator rod 64 may
take a permanent set and thus may fail to return to a substantially
straight configuration after being deflected. FIGS. 28A-28B
illustrate an alternative embodiment of the actuator rod
illustrated in FIG. 27. In this embodiment, the distal tapered
extremity 328 has been replaced with a flexible cable. Actuator rod
64a is a long shaft or mandrel that generally takes the same form
as actuator rod 64 in FIG. 27. A flexible cable 2702 is disposed
between a distal end of the actuator rod 64a, and a proximal end of
coupler or joiner 2708. The flexible cable 2702 allows torque,
tension, and compression to be transmitted to the coupler 2708,
while allowing bending and flexing without resulting in the
flexible cable taking a set. In this exemplary embodiment, a distal
portion of actuator rod 64a is joined to a proximal end of the
flexible cable 2702 with a sleeve 2704. The sleeve 2704 has a
central channel 2718 extending therethrough for receiving the
flexible cable and the actuator rod. The sleeve 2704 may then be
crimped, swaged, or otherwise reduced in diameter in order to
fixedly attach the two ends together. In alternative embodiments,
adhesives, welds, soldering joints, etc. may also be used to join
the two ends together. Similarly, a proximal end of the coupler
2708 may include a central channel 2718 that is sized to receive a
distal portion of the flexible cable 2702. In this exemplary
embodiment, the coupler is cylindrically shaped with a proximal
portion 2716 having a larger diameter than the distal portion 2710.
After the proximal portion 2716 has been crimped or swaged onto the
flexible cable, the diameters of the proximal and distal portions
of the coupler may be the same, as illustrated in FIG. 28B. The
distal portion of the coupler may include a threaded channel 2712
which may be threadably attached to the fixation device 14, such as
previously described above in FIGS. 7 and 27. FIG. 28B illustrates
the actuator rod 64a after it has been coupled with the flexible
cable and the coupler by swaging.
[0187] The flexible cable is preferably resiliently biased to
return to a substantially straight or linear configuration, even
after being bent or deflected by 90.degree. or more. In preferred
embodiments, the flexible cable is 25 cm or shorter, preferably 10
cm to 20 cm long, and more preferably 15 to 20 cm long. The
flexible cable also has an outer diameter preferably 0.015'' to
0.035'' and more preferably is 0.020'' to 0.030'' and nominally is
0.025'' although one of skill in the art will appreciate that other
dimensions may also be used. The actuator rod 64a generally takes
the same form as actuator rod 64 in FIG. 27. The actuator rod 64a
and flexible cable 2702 are configured to transmit at least 0.74
inch-ounces of torque with a substantially 1:1 torque transmission
ratio from the proximal end of the actuator mandrel to the distal
end of the flexible cable. This torque is required to threadably
disengage the coupler 2708 from the fixation device after the valve
has been satisfactorily repaired. Additionally, the actuator rod
64a and the flexible cable 2702 are also designed to transmit at
least 2.5 pounds of compressive force distally to the fixation
device in order to actuate the distal elements thereof. Also, the
actuator rod and flexible cable can withstand at least 14.7 pounds
of tensile force without substantial stretching or elongation. This
force is experienced when actuating the fixation device to close
the distal elements. Various metals, polymers, and other materials
may be used for the actuator rod, flexible cable, sleeve, and
coupler. However, in preferred embodiments, the coupler is
fabricated from 17-4 H1150 stainless steel, while the cable
comprises 304V stainless steel, and the mandrel is 304 stainless
steel with an ultraspring wire temper.
[0188] Various configurations of the flexible cable may be used,
such as the cable illustrated in FIGS. 29A-32B. The flexible cable
of FIG. 29A-32B is a stranded cable with a reverse wind designed to
have a high torque transmission ratio in the counterclockwise
direction. This cable includes four layers of wires. The innermost
layer 2802 is seen in FIG. 29A and includes three wires 2802a,
2802b, 2802c helically wound together. FIG. 29B illustrates a
cross-section of cable 2802 taken along the line A-A. The next
layer 2902 comprises nine additional strands of wire 2904 wrapped
around the innermost layer 2802 as illustrated in FIG. 30A. FIG.
30B is a cross-section taken along the line B-B. The next layer
3002 is illustrated in FIG. 31A, and comprises ten additional
strands of wire 3006 wrapped around layer 2902, and a cross-section
taken along line D-D is shown in FIG. 31B. Finally, the outermost
layer 3102 comprises ten more wires 3108 wrapped around layer 3002
as seen in FIG. 32A, with cross-sectional taken along line D-D in
FIG. 32B. One of skill in the art will appreciate the various
strand material characteristics (e.g. diameter, tensile strength,
etc.) and winding patterns that may be used.
[0189] An alternative embodiment is illustrated in FIGS. 33A-37B.
This embodiment is similar to that previously described above, with
the major difference being that after the cable has been wound, it
is drawn thereby altering the surface finish and some of the
mechanical characteristics. FIG. 33A illustrates the innermost
layer 3202 which includes three wires 3204 wound together, as seen
in the cross-section of FIG. 33B taken along the line A-A. FIG. 34A
shows the next layer 3302 which includes nine wires 3304 wrapped
around the innermost layer 3202. FIG. 34B shows a cross-section
taken along line B-B. The next layer 3402 of wires are shown in
FIG. 35A having ten wires 3404 wrapped around the previous layer
3302, as illustrated in the cross-section of FIG. 35B taken along
line C-C. The outermost layer 3502 is shown in FIG. 36A and
includes another ten wires 3504 wrapped around the previous layer
3402, with cross-section taken along line D-D in FIG. 36B. The
assembly of four layers of wire are then drawn in order to alter
the surface finish of the cable and to alter material properties of
the finished cable assembly to a desired value. FIG. 37A
illustrates the finished cable assembly 3602 with cross-section
taken along line E-E in FIG. 37B. One of skill in the art will
appreciate that other cable configurations may be used, and that
these are only exemplary embodiments.
[0190] B. Delivery Catheter Shaft
[0191] FIG. 38 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the delivery
catheter shaft 302 of FIG. 25. In this embodiment, the shaft 302
has a tubular shape with inner lumen 348 and is comprised of a
material which provides hoop strength while maintaining flexibility
and kink resistance, such as a braided laminated material. Such
material may include stainless steel braided or coiled wire
embedded in a polymer such as polyurethane, polyester, Pebax,
Grilamid TR55, and AESNO to name a few. To provide further support
and hoop strength, a support coil 346 is disposed within the lumen
348 of shaft 302 as illustrated in FIG. 38.
[0192] Passing through the support coil 346 are a variety of
elongated bodies, including tubular guides and cylindrical rods.
For example, one type of tubular guide is a compression coil 326
extending through lumen 348 from the proximal end 322 to the distal
end 324 of the shaft 302, and the actuator rod 64 extends through
the compression coil 326. Therefore, the compression coil typically
has a length in the range of 48 to 60 in. and an inner diameter in
the range of 0.020 to 0.035 in. to allow passage of the actuator
rod 64 therethrough. The actuator rod 64 is manipulable to rotate
and translate within and relative to the compression coil 326. The
compression coil 326 allows lateral flexibility of the actuator rod
64 and therefore the shaft 302 while resisting buckling and
providing column strength under compression. The compression coil
may be comprised of 304V stainless steel to provide these
properties.
[0193] To provide additional tensile strength for the shaft 302 and
to minimize elongation, a tension cable 344 may also pass through
the support coil 346. The tension cable 344 extends through lumen
348 from the proximal end 322 to the distal end 324 of the shaft
302. Therefore, the tension cable 344 typically has a diameter in
the range of 0.005 in. to 0.010 in. and a length in the range of 48
to 60 in. In preferred embodiments, the tension cable 344 is
comprised of 304V stainless steel.
[0194] In addition, at least one lock line shaft 341 having a
tubular shape may be present having a lock line lumen 340 through
which lock lines 92 pass between the lock line handle 310 and the
locking mechanism 106. The lock line shaft 341 extends through
lumen 348 from the proximal end 322 to the distal end 324 of the
shaft 302. Therefore, the lock line shaft 341 typically has a
length in the range of 48 to 60 in., an inner diameter in the range
of 0.016 to 0.030 in., and an outer diameter in the range of 0.018
to 0.034 in. In preferred embodiments, the lock line shaft 341 is
comprised of a 304V stainless steel coil however other structures
or materials may be used which provide kink resistance and
compression strength.
[0195] Similarly, at least one proximal element line shaft 343
having a tubular shape may be present having a proximal element
line lumen 342. Proximal element lines 90 pass through this lumen
342 between the proximal element line handle 312 and the proximal
elements 16. Thus, the proximal element line shaft 343 extends
through lumen 348 from the proximal end 322 to the distal end 324
of the shaft 302. Therefore, the proximal element line shaft 343
typically has a length in the range of 48 to 60 in., an inner
diameter in the range of 0.016 to 0.030 in., and an outer diameter
in the range of 0.018 to 0.034 in. In preferred embodiments, the
proximal element line shaft 343 is comprised of a 304V stainless
steel coil however other structures or materials may be used which
provide kink resistance and compression strength.
[0196] In this embodiment, the elongated bodies (compression coil
326 enclosed actuator rod 64, tension cable 344, lock line shaft
342, proximal element line shaft 343) each "float" freely in inner
lumen 348 within the support coil 346 and are fixed only at the
proximal end 322 and distal end 324 of shaft 302. The lumen 348 is
typically filled and flushed with heparinized saline during use.
Alternatively or in addition, the lumen 348 may be filled with one
or more fillers, such as flexible rods, beads, extruded sections,
gels or other fluids. Preferably the fillers allow for some lateral
movement or deflection of the elongated bodies within lumen 348 but
in some cases may restrict such movement. Typically, the elongated
bodies are fixed at the proximal and distal ends of the shaft and
are free to move laterally and rotationally therebetween. Such
freedom of movement of the elongated bodies provides the shaft 302
with an increased flexibility as the elongated bodies self-adjust
and reposition during bending and/or torqueing of the shaft 302. It
may be appreciated that the elongated bodies may not be fixed at
the proximal and distal ends. The elongated bodies are simply
unconstrained relative to the shaft 302 in at least one location so
as to be laterally moveable within the lumen 348. Preferably the
elongated bodies are unrestrained in at least a distal portion of
the catheter, e.g. 5-15 cm from the distal end 324, so as to
provide maximum flexibility in the distal portion.
[0197] It may be appreciated, however, that alternate shaft 302
designs may also be used. For example, referring to FIG. 39, in
this embodiment the shaft 302 again has a tubular shape with an
inner lumen 348 and a support coil 346 disposed within the lumen
348 of shaft 302. Filling the inner lumen 348 within the support
coil 346 is an extrusion 334 having lumens through which pass a
variety of elongated bodies, including the compression coil 326
enclosed actuator rod 64, tension cable 344, lock line shafts 342,
and proximal element line shafts 343, as shown. The support coil
346 and elongated bodies may have the same geometries and be
comprised of the same materials as described above in relation to
FIG. 38.
[0198] Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 40, the shaft 302 may
include an internal partition 350 to create multiple lumens within
the shaft 302. For example, the partition 350 may have a central
lumen 352 for passage of the actuator rod 64, optionally surrounded
by the compression coil 326. In addition, the partition 350 may
also create at least one lock line lumen 340 for passage of a lock
line 92 and at least one proximal element line lumen 341 for
passage of a proximal element line 90. Optionally, each of the
lumens defined by partition 350 may be lined with a kink-resistant
element, such as a coil as in previous embodiments.
[0199] FIGS. 40A-40B illustrate embodiments of the nose 318 of the
shaft 302. In FIG. 40A, the nose 318 comprises a tip ring 280 and a
lock ring 282. In preferred embodiments, Epoxy and PEBAX are
deposited between the tip ring 280 and the lock ring 282 to bond
them together. The lock ring 282 has a geometry to mate with the
tip ring 280 to maintain relative alignment between the two. FIG.
40B illustrates another embodiment of the nose 318 of the shaft
302. Here, the tip ring 280 is covered by a soft tip 284 to provide
a more atraumatic tip and a smoother transition to the shaft.
[0200] C. Lock Line Arrangements
[0201] As mentioned previously, when lock lines 92 are present, the
lines 92 pass through at least one lock line lumen 340 between the
lock line handle 310 and the locking mechanism 106. The lock lines
92 engage the release harnesses 108 of the locking mechanism 106 to
lock and unlock the locking mechanism 106 as previously described.
The lock lines 92 may engage the release harnesses 108 in various
arrangements, examples of which are illustrated in FIGS. 41A-41C.
In each embodiment, two lock line lumens 340 are present within the
shaft 302 of the delivery catheter 300 terminating at the nose 318.
The lumens 340 are disposed on alternate sides of the actuator rod
64 so that each lumen 340 is directed toward a release harness
108.
[0202] FIG. 41A illustrates an embodiment wherein two lock lines
92, 92' pass through a single lock line lumen 340 and are threaded
through a release harness 108 on one side of the actuator rod 64
(the actuator rod 64 is shown without surrounding housing such as
coupling structure, for clarity). The lock lines 92, 92' are then
separated so that each lock line passes on an opposite side of the
actuator rod 64. The lock lines 92, 92' then pass through the
release harness 108' on the opposite side of the actuator rod 64
and continue together passing through a another single lock line
lumen 340'. This lock line arrangement is the same arrangement
illustrated in FIG. 26.
[0203] FIG. 41B illustrates an embodiment wherein one lock line 92
passes through a single lock line lumen 340, is threaded through a
release harness 108 on one side of the actuator rod 64, and is
returned to the lock line lumen 340. Similarly, another lock line
92' passes through another single lock line lumen 340', is threaded
through a different release harness 108' located on the opposite
side of the actuator rod 64, and is returned to the another single
lock line lumen 340'.
[0204] FIG. 41C illustrates an embodiment wherein both lock lines
92, 92' pass through a single lock line lumen 340. One lock line 92
is threaded through a release harness 108 on one side of the
actuator rod 64 and is then passed through another lock line lumen
340' on the opposite side of the actuator rod 64. The other lock
line 92' is threaded through another release harness 108' on the
other side of the actuator rod 64' and is then passed through the
another lock line lumen 340' with the previous lock line 92.
[0205] It may be appreciated that a variety of lock line
arrangements may be used and are not limited to the arrangements
illustrated and described above. The various arrangements allow the
harnesses 108 to be manipulated independently or jointly, allow
various amounts of tension to be applied and vary the force
required for removal of the lock lines when the fixation device is
to be left behind. For example, a single lock line passing through
one or two lumens may be connected to both release harnesses for
simultaneous application of tension.
[0206] D. Proximal Element Line Arrangements
[0207] As mentioned previously, when proximal element lines 90 are
present, the lines 90 pass through at least one proximal element
line lumen 342 between the proximal element line handle 312 and at
least one proximal element 16. The proximal element lines 90 engage
the proximal elements 16 to raise or lower the element 16 as
previously described. The proximal element lines 90 may engage the
proximal elements 16 in various arrangements, examples of which are
illustrated in FIGS. 42A-42B. In each embodiment, two proximal
element line lumens 342 are present within the shaft 302 of the
delivery catheter 300 terminating at the nose 318. The lumens 342
are disposed on alternate sides of the actuator rod 64 (the
actuator rod 64 is shown without surrounding housing such as
coupling structure, for clarity) so that each lumen 342 is directed
toward a proximal element 16.
[0208] FIG. 42A illustrates an embodiment wherein one proximal
element line 90 passes through a single proximal element line lumen
342. The proximal element line 90 is threaded through an eyelet 360
of a proximal element 16 on one side of the actuator rod 64, passes
over the actuator rod 64 and is threaded through an eyelet 360' of
another proximal element 16' on the other side of the actuator rod
64. The proximal element line 90 then passes through another single
proximal element line lumen 342'. This proximal element line
arrangement is the same arrangement illustrated in FIG. 26.
[0209] FIG. 42B illustrates an embodiment wherein one proximal
element line 90 passes through a single proximal element line lumen
342, is threaded through an eyelet 360 of a proximal element 16 on
one side of the actuator rod 64, and is returned to the proximal
element line lumen 342. Similarly, another proximal element line
90' passes through another single proximal element line lumen 342'
on the opposite side of the actuator rod 64, and is returned to the
another single proximal element line lumen 342'.
[0210] It may be appreciated that a variety of proximal element
line arrangements may be used and are not limited to the
arrangements illustrated and described above. The various
arrangements allow the proximal elements to be manipulated
independently or jointly, allow various amounts of tension to be
applied and vary the force required for removal of the proximal
element lines when the fixation device is to be left behind. For
example, a single proximal element line passing through one or two
lumens in shaft 302 may be used for simultaneous actuation of both
proximal elements.
[0211] E. Main Body of Handle
[0212] FIG. 43 illustrates an embodiment of the handle 304 of the
delivery catheter 300. As mentioned previously, the actuator rod
handle 316, actuator rod control 314, proximal element line handle
312 and lock line handle 310 are all joined with the main body 318.
The handle 304 further includes a support base 306 connected with
the main body 308. The main body 308 is slideable along the support
base 306 to provide translation of the shaft 302 and the main body
308 is rotateable around the support base 306 to rotate the
shaft.
[0213] FIG. 44 provides a partial cross-sectional view of the main
body 308 of the handle 304 depicted in FIG. 43. As shown, the main
body 308 includes a sealed chamber 370 within which the actuator
rod 64, proximal element lines 90 and lock lines 92 are guided into
the shaft 302. The sealed chamber 370 is in fluid communication
with the inner lumen 348 of shaft 302 and is typically filled with
saline and flushed with heparin or heparinized saline. The sealed
chamber 370 has a seal 372 along its perimeter to prevent leakage
and the introduction of air to the chamber 370. Any air in the
chamber 370 may be bled from the chamber 370 by one or more luers
374 which pass through the main body 308 into the chamber 370 as
illustrated in FIG. 43. In this embodiment, the handle 304 includes
two such luers 374, one on each side of the main body 308 (second
luer symmetrically positioned on backside of main body 308 in FIG.
43, hidden from view). Referring now to FIG. 44, the sealed chamber
370 also has various additional seals, such as an actuator rod seal
376 which surrounds the actuator rod 64 where the actuator rod 64
enters the sealed chamber 370, and a shaft seal 378 which surrounds
the shaft 302 where the shaft 302 enters the sealed chamber
370.
[0214] F. Lock Line Handle and Proximal Element Line Handle
[0215] As mentioned previously, the lock lines 92 may be may be
extended, retracted, loaded with various amounts of tension or
removed using the lock line handle 310. Likewise, the proximal
element lines 90 may be extended, retracted, loaded with various
amounts of tension or removed using the proximal element line
handle 312. Both of these handles 310, 312 may be similarly
designed to manipulate the appropriate lines 90, 92 passing
therethrough.
[0216] FIG. 45 illustrates an embodiment of a lock line handle 310
having lock lines 92 passing therethrough. The lock line handle 310
has a distal end 384, a proximal end 382 and an elongate shaft 383
therebetween. The distal end 382 is positionable within the sealed
chamber 370 so that the proximal end 382 extends out of the chamber
370, beyond the main body 308. The free ends of the lock lines 92
are disposed near the proximal end 382, passing through the wall of
the handle 310 near a threaded nub 390. The handle 310 further
includes a cap 388 which is positionable on the nub 309. Internal
threading with the cap 388 mates with the threading on the threaded
nub 390 so that the cap 388 holds the free ends of the lock lines
92 between the cap 388 and the nub 390 and/or other portions of the
handle 310 by friction. The lock lines 92 pass through a central
lumen (not shown) of the elongate shaft 383, extend through the
sealed chamber 370 (as shown in FIG. 44) and extend through the
shaft 302 to the locking mechanism 106.
[0217] Disposed near the distal end 384 of the handle 310 is at
least one wing 392. In the embodiment of FIG. 45, two wings 392 are
present, each wing 392 disposed on opposite sides of the elongate
shaft 383. The wings 392 extend radially outwardly and curve
proximally so that a portion is parallel to the elongate shaft 383,
as shown. It may be appreciated that the wings 392 may
alternatively have the shape of solid or continuous protrusions
which extend radially and have a portion which is parallel to the
elongate shaft 383. The wings 392 are used to hold the lock line
handle 310 in a desired position which in turn holds the lock under
a desired load of tension, as will be described further below. The
handle 310 also includes a finger grip 386 near the proximal end
382 which extends radially outwardly in alignment with the radial
extension of the at least one wing 392. Thus, the user may
determine the orientation of the wings 392 within the sealed
chamber 370 from the orientation of the finger grip 386 outside of
the main body 308. The finger grip 386 may also serve an ergonomic
purpose to assist in manipulating the handle 310.
[0218] The portion of the wings 392 parallel to the elongate shaft
383 have grooves or serrations 394. The serrations 394 are used to
apply tension to the lock lines 92. As shown in FIG. 45A, the lock
line handle 310 is positioned within a semi-tube 400 which is
disposed within the sealed chamber 370. The semi-tube 400 comprises
a top half 402 and a bottom half 404, each half 402, 404 having
grooves or serrations 406 which mate with the serrations 394 of the
wings 392. Thus, when the wings 392 are rotated to mate the
serrations 394, 406, as shown in FIG. 46A, the elongate shaft 383
is held in place. Likewise, the wings 392 may be rotated, as shown
in FIG. 46B, so that the wings 392 are disposed between the halves
402, 404 and the serrations 394, 406 are disengaged. In this
position, the shaft 383 may be translated to apply or release
tension in the lock lines 92. Thus, tension in the lines 92 may be
adjusted by rotating the shaft 383 to disengage the serrations 394,
406, translating the shaft 383 and then rotating the shaft 383 back
to reengage the serrations 394, 406. Alternatively, the finger grip
386 may be pulled to apply tension to the lock lines 92. Pulling
the finger grip 386 translates the lock line handle 310 within the
semi-tube 400. Such translation is achievable due to angling of the
serrations 394, 406 and flexibility of wings 382. However, the
angling of the serrations 394, 406 prevents translation in the
opposite direction, i.e. by pushing the finger grip 386. Therefore,
to release tension from the lock lines 92, the shaft 383 is rotated
to disengage the serrations 394, 406, allowing translation of the
shaft 383, and then the shaft 383 is rotated back to reengage the
serrations 394, 406.
[0219] To remove the lock lines 92, the cap 388 is removed from the
threaded nub 390 exposing the free ends of the lock lines 92. If
one lock line 92 is present having two free ends, continuous
pulling on one of the free ends draws the entire length of lock
line 92 out of the catheter 300. If more than one lock line 92 is
present, each lock line 92 will have two free ends. Continuous
pulling on one of the free ends of each lock line 92 draws the
entire length of each lock line 92 out of the catheter 300.
[0220] It may be appreciated that the proximal element line handle
312 has corresponding features to the lock line handle 310 and
operates in the same manner as illustrated in FIGS. 45A, 46A-46B.
It may also be appreciated that other mechanisms may be used for
manipulating the lock lines 92 and proximal element lines 90, such
as including buttons, springs, levers and knobs.
[0221] G. Actuator Rod Control and Handle
[0222] The actuator rod 64 may be manipulated using the actuator
rod control 314 and the actuator rod handle 316. FIG. 47 provides a
cross-sectional view of a portion of the handle 304 which includes
the actuator rod control 314 and the actuator rod handle 316. The
actuator rod handle 316 is located at the proximal end of the
handle 314. The actuator rod handle 316 is fixedly attached to the
proximal end of the actuator rod 64. The actuator rod 64 is
inserted through a collet 426 which is disposed within a holder 428
as shown. The holder 428 has external threads 434 which mate with
internal threads 432 of the actuator rod control 314. Thus,
rotation of the actuator rod control 314 causes the holder 428 to
translate along the actuator rod control 314 by action of the
threading, as will be described in more detail below. The actuator
rod control 314 is rotatably coupled with the main body 308 of the
handle 304 and is held in place by a lip 430.
[0223] Referring to FIG. 47A, the actuator rod control 314 may be
manually rotated in a clockwise or counter clockwise direction, as
indicated by arrow 436. Rotation of the actuator rod control 314
translates (extends or retracts) the actuator rod 64 to manipulate
the distal elements 18 of the fixation device 14. Specifically,
rotation of the actuator rod control 314 causes the external
threads 434 of the adjacent holder 428 to translate along the mated
internal threads 432 of the actuator rod control 314. Rotation of
the holder 428 itself is prevented by holding pins 424 which
protrude from the holder 428 and nest into grooves 438 in the main
body 308 of the handle 304. As the holder 428 translates, each
holding pin 424 translates along its corresponding groove 438.
Since the collet 426 is attached to the holder 428, the collet 426
translates along with the holder 428. To simultaneously translate
the actuator rod 64, the actuator rod 64 is removably attached to
the collet 426 by a pin 422. The pin 422 may have any suitable
form, including a clip-shape which partially wraps around the
collet 426 as illustrated in FIG. 47. Thus, rotation of the
actuator rod control 314 provides fine control of translation of
the actuator rod 64 and therefore fine control of positioning the
distal elements 18.
[0224] Referring to FIG. 47B, removal of the pin 422, as shown,
allows disengagement of the actuator rod handle 316 and fixedly
attached actuator rod 64 from the collet 426. Once disengaged, the
actuator rod 64 may be rotated, as indicated by arrow 440, by
manually rotating the actuator rod handle 316. As described
previously, rotation of the actuator rod 64 engages or disengages
the threaded joiner 332 of the delivery catheter 300 from the
threaded stud 74 of the fixation device 14. This is used to attach
or detach the fixation device 14 from the delivery catheter 300. In
addition, when the actuator rod 64 is in the disengaged state, the
actuator rod 64 may optionally be retracted and optionally removed
from the catheter 300 by pulling the actuator rod handle 316 and
withdrawing the actuator rod 64 from the handle 304.
[0225] Depending on the application, the location of the target
site, and the approach selected, the devices of the invention may
be modified in ways well known to those of skill in the art or used
in conjunction with other devices that are known in the art. For
example, the delivery catheter may be modified in length,
stiffness, shape and steerability for a desired application
Likewise, the orientation of the fixation device relative to the
delivery catheter may be reversed or otherwise changed. The
actuation mechanisms may be changed to be driven in alternate
directions (push to open, pull to close, or pull to open, push to
close). Materials and designs may be changed to be, for example,
more flexible or more rigid. And the fixation device components may
be altered to those of different size or shape. Further, the
delivery catheter of the present invention may be used to deliver
other types of devices, particularly endovascular and minimally
invasive surgical devices used in angioplasty, atherectomy,
stent-delivery, embolic filtration and removal, septal defect
repair, tissue approximation and repair, vascular clamping and
ligation, suturing, aneurysm repair, vascular occlusion, and
electrophysiological mapping and ablation, to name a few. Thus, the
delivery catheter of the present invention may be used for
applications in which a highly flexible, kink-resistant device is
desirable with high compressive, tensile and torsional
strength.
[0226] H. Pusher Handle Design
[0227] After engaging successfully grasping the leaflets, usually
at an angle between 120 and 180 degrees, the actuator rod 64 is
manually rotated to manipulate the distal elements of the fixation
device. This moves the distal elements proximally to an angle, such
as 60 degrees as shown in FIG. 11B. However, with reference to FIG.
15B, the gripper pusher 81 and the proximal element actuators 90
also need to be retracted as angle between the distal elements 18
is reduced. FIG. 70 shows an embodiment of a handle that
coordinates these movements. As shown in the figure, the proximal
element line handle 312 of FIG. 44 is fitted with a spring loaded
pusher attachment 414 that is connected to a gripper pusher
actuator 411 that extends to the gripper pusher 81 of the fixation
device. This spring loaded pusher attachment 414 surrounds, but
moves independently of the proximal element line 90. The spring 413
functions to provide a tension on the proximal element line 90 by
exerting a small force on the gripper pusher 81 relative to the
gripper pusher actuator. Further, a gripper pusher actuator wire
412 is coupled to the actuator rod 64 so that when the actuator rod
64 is actuated to close the distal elements 18, the gripper pusher
81 is retracted. As shown in FIG. 70, the pusher actuator wire 412
interacts with the spring loaded pusher attachment 414 to retract
the spring loaded pusher attachment 414 when the distal elements 18
are closed. On the other hand, the distal end of the pusher
actuator wire 412 is configured to slide distally with respect to
the spring loaded pusher attachment 414 so that the distal movement
of the gripper pusher 81 is independent of the movement of the
distal elements 18. This permits separation between the proximal
elements 16 and the distal elements 18 to aid in grasping leaflets.
Lastly, due to the spring coupling between the spring loaded pusher
attachment 414 and the proximal element line handle 312, the
proximal element actuator 90 is also retracted in combination with
the retracting of the gripper pusher actuator 411. Notably, due to
the spring coupling via the spring 413, the proximal element
actuator 90 is permitted further travel than the gripper pusher
actuator 411. This additional travel is permitted via expansion of
the spring 413 and functions to remove slack in the proximal
element actuator as the angle between the proximal elements 16 and
the distal elements 18 is reduced.
V. Multi-Catheter Guiding System
[0228] A. Overview of Guiding System
[0229] Referring to FIG. 48, an embodiment of a multi-catheter
guiding system 1 of the present invention is illustrated. The
system 1 comprises an outer guide catheter 1000, having a proximal
end 1014, a distal end 1016, and a central lumen 1018 therethrough,
and an inner guide catheter 1020, having a proximal end 1024,
distal end 1026 and central lumen 1028 therethrough, wherein the
inner guide catheter 1020 is positioned coaxially within the
central lumen 1018 of the outer guide catheter 1000, as shown. The
distal ends 1016, 1026 of catheters 1000, 1020, respectively, are
sized to be passable to a body cavity, typically through a body
lumen such as a vascular lumen. Thus, the distal end 1016
preferably has an outer diameter in the range of approximately
0.040 in. to 0.500 in., more preferably in the range of 0.130 in.
to 0.320 in. The central lumen 1018 is sized for the passage of the
inner guide catheter 1020; the distal end 1026 preferably has an
outer diameter in the range of approximately 0.035 in. to 0.280
in., more preferably 0.120 in to 0.200 in. The central lumen 1028
is sized for the passage of a variety of devices therethrough.
Therefore, the central lumen 1028 preferably has an inner diameter
in the range of approximately 0.026 in. to 0.450 in., more
preferably in the range of 0.100 in. to 0.180 in.
[0230] FIG. 48 illustrates an interventional catheter 1030
positioned within the inner guide catheter 1020 which may
optionally be included in system 1, however other interventional
devices may be used. The interventional catheter 1030 has a
proximal end 1034 and a distal end 1036, wherein an interventional
tool 1040 is positioned at the distal end 1036. In this embodiment,
the interventional tool 1040 comprises a detachable fixation device
or clip. Optionally, the interventional catheter 1030 may also
include a nosepiece 1042 having a stop 1043, as shown. The stop
1043 prevents the interventional tool 1040 from entering the
central lumen 1028 of the inner guide catheter 1020. Thus, the
interventional catheter 1030 may be advanced and retracted until
the stop 1043 contacts the distal end 1026 of the inner guiding
catheter 1020 preventing further retraction. This may provide
certain advantages during some procedures. It may be appreciated
that in embodiments which include such a stop 1043, the
interventional catheter 1030 would be pre-loaded within the inner
guide catheter 1020 for advancement through the outer guiding
catheter 1000 or both the interventional catheter 1030 and the
inner guiding catheter 1020 would be pre-loaded into the outer
guiding catheter 1000 for advancement to the target tissue. This is
because the stop 1043 prevents advancement of the interventional
catheter 1030 through the inner guiding catheter 1020.
[0231] The outer guide catheter 1000 and/or the inner guide
catheter 1020 are precurved and/or have steering mechanisms,
embodiments of which will be described later in detail, to position
the distal ends 1016, 1026 in desired directions. Precurvature or
steering of the outer guide catheter 1000 directs the distal end
1016 in a first direction to create a primary curve while
precurvature and/or steering of the inner guide catheter 1020
directs distal end 1026 in a second direction, differing from the
first, to create a secondary curve. Together, the primary and
secondary curves form a compound curve. Advancement of the
interventional catheter 1030 through the coaxial guide catheters
1000, 1020 guides the interventional catheter 1030 through the
compound curve toward a desired direction, usually in a direction
which will allow the interventional catheter 1030 to reach its
target.
[0232] Steering of the outer guide catheter 1000 and inner guide
catheter 1020 may be achieved by actuation of one or more steering
mechanisms. Actuation of the steering mechanisms is achieved with
the use of actuators which are typically located on handles
connected with each of the catheters 1000, 1020. As illustrated in
FIG. 48, handle 1056 is connected to the proximal end 1014 of the
outer guide catheter 1000 and remains outside of the patient's body
during use. Handle 1056 includes steering actuator 1050 which may
be used to bend, arc or reshape the outer guide catheter 1000, such
as to form a primary curve. Handle 1057 is connected to the
proximal end (not shown) of the inner guide catheter 1020 and may
optionally join with handle 1056 to form one larger handle, as
shown. Handle 1057 includes steering actuator 1052 which may be
used to bend, arc or reshape the inner guide catheter 1020, such as
to form a secondary curve and move the distal end 1026 of the inner
guide catheter 1020 through an angle theta, as will be described in
a later section.
[0233] In addition, locking actuators 1058, 1060 may be used to
actuate locking mechanisms to lock the catheters 1000, 1020 in a
particular position. Actuators 1050, 1052, 1058, 1060 are
illustrated as buttons, however it may be appreciated that these
and any additional actuators located on the handles 1056, 1057 may
have any suitable form including knobs, thumbwheels, levers,
switches, toggles, sensors or other devices. Other embodiments of
the handles will be described in detail in a later section.
[0234] In addition, the handle 1056 may include a numerical or
graphical display 1061 of information such as data indicating the
position the catheters 1000, 1020, or force on actuators. It may
also be appreciated that actuators 1050, 1052, 1058, 1060 and any
other buttons or screens may be disposed on a single handle which
connects with both the catheters 1000, 1020.
[0235] B. Example Positions
[0236] FIGS. 49A-49D illustrate examples of positions that the
catheters 1000, 1020 may hold. Referring to FIG. 49A, the outer
guide catheter 1000 may be precurved and/or steered into a position
which includes a primary curve 1100. The primary curve 1100
typically has a radius of curvature 1102 in the range of
approximately 0.125 in. to 1.000 in., preferably in the range of
approximately 0.250 in. to 0.500 in. or forms a curve in the range
of approximately 0.degree. to 120.degree.. As shown, when the
position includes only a primary curve 1100, the distal end 16 lies
in a single plane X. An axis x, transversing through the center of
the central lumen 18 at the distal end 16, lies within plane X.
[0237] Referring to FIG. 49B, the inner guide catheter 1020 extends
through the central lumen 1018 of the outer guide catheter 1000.
The inner guide catheter 1020 may be precurved and/or steered into
a position which includes a secondary curve 1104. The secondary
curve 1104 typically has a radius of curvature 10600 in the range
of approximately 0.050 in. to 0.750 in., preferably in the range of
approximately 0.125 in. to 0.250 in. or forms a curve in the range
of approximately 0.degree. to 180.degree.. The secondary curve 1104
can lie in the same plane as the primary curve 1100, plane X, or it
can lie in a different plane, such as plane Z as shown. In this
example, plane Z is substantially orthogonal to plane X. Axis z,
transversing through the center of the central lumen 1028 of the
inner guide catheter 1020 at the distal end 1026, lies within plane
Z. In this example, axis x and axis z are at substantially 90
degree angles to each other; however, it may be appreciated that
axis x and axis z may be at any angle in relation to each other.
Also, although in this example the primary curve 1100 and the
secondary curve 1104 lie in different planes, particularly in
substantially orthogonal planes, the curves 1100, 1104 may
alternatively lie in the same plane.
[0238] Referring now to FIG. 49C, the inner guide catheter 1020 may
be further manipulated to allow the distal end 1026 to move through
an angle theta 1070. The angle theta 1070 is in the range of
approximately -180.degree. to +180.degree., typically in the range
of -90.degree. to +90.degree., possibly in the range of -60.degree.
to +60.degree., -45.degree. to +45.degree., -30.degree. to
+30.degree. or less. As shown, the angle theta 1070 lies within a
plane Y. In particular, axis y, which runs through the center of
the central lumen 1028 at the distal end 1026, forms the angle
theta 1070 with axis z. In this example, plane Y is orthogonal to
both plane X and plane Z. Axes x, y, z all intercept at a point
within the central lumen 1028 which also coincides with the
intersection of planes X, Y, Z.
[0239] Similarly, FIG. 49D illustrates movement of the distal end
1026 through an angle theta 1070 on the opposite side of axis z.
Again, the angle theta 1070 is measured from the axis z to the axis
y, which runs through the center of the central lumen 1016 at the
distal end 1026. As shown, the angle theta 1070 lies in plane Y.
Thus, the primary curve 1100, secondary curve 1104, and angle theta
1070 can all lie in different planes, and optionally in orthogonal
planes. However, it may be appreciated that the planes within which
the primary curve 1100, secondary curve 1104 and angle theta 1070
lie may be mutually dependent and therefore would allow the
possibility that some of these lie within the same plane.
[0240] In addition, the outer guide catheter 1000 may be pre-formed
and/or steerable to provide additional curves or shapes. For
example, as illustrated in FIG. 50A, an additional curve 1110 may
be formed by the outer guide catheter 1000 proximal to the primary
curve 1100. In this example, the curve 1110 provides lift or raises
the distal end 1016 of the outer guide catheter 1000, which in turn
raises the distal end 1026 of the inner guide catheter 1020. Such
lifting is illustrated in FIG. 50B. Here, the system 1 is shown
prior to lifting in dashed line wherein the axis y' passes through
the intersection of axis z and axis x'. After application of curve
1110, the distal portion of the system 1 is lifted in the direction
of axis z so that axis x' is raised to axis x'' and axis y' is
raised to axis y''. This raises distal end 1026 to a desired
height.
[0241] The articulated position of the multi-catheter guiding
system 1 illustrated in FIGS. 49A-49D and FIGS. 50A-50B is
particularly useful for accessing the mitral valve. FIGS. 51A-51D
illustrate a method of using the system 1 for accessing the mitral
valve MV. To gain access to the mitral valve, the outer guide
catheter 1000 may be tracked over a dilator and guidewire from a
puncture in the femoral vein, through the inferior vena cava and
into the right atrium. As shown in FIG. 51A, the outer guide
catheter 1000 may be punctured through a fossa F in the interatrial
septum S. The outer guide catheter 1000 is then advanced through
the fossa F and curved by the primary curve 1100 so that the distal
end 1016 is directed over the mitral valve MV. Again, it may be
appreciated that this approach serves merely as an example and
other approaches may be used, such as through the jugular vein,
femoral artery, port access or direct access, to name a few.
Positioning of the distal end 1016 over the mitral valve MV may be
accomplished by precurvature of the outer guide catheter 1000,
wherein the catheter 1000 assumes this position when the dilator
and guidewire are retracted, and/or by steering of the outer guide
catheter 1000 to the desired position. In this example, formation
of the primary curve 1100 moves the distal end 1016 within a
primary plane, corresponding to previous plane X, substantially
parallel to the valve surface. This moves the distal end 1016
laterally along the short axis of the mitral valve MV, and allows
the distal end 1016 to be centered over the opening O between the
leaflets LF.
[0242] Referring to FIG. 51B, the inner guide catheter 1020 is
advanced through the central lumen 1018 of the outer guide catheter
1000 and the distal end 1026 is positioned so that the central
lumen 1028 is directed toward the target tissue, the mitral valve
MV. In particular, the central lumen 1028 is to be directed toward
a specific area of the mitral valve MV, such as toward the opening
O between the valve leaflets LF, so that a particular
interventional procedure may be performed. In FIG. 51B, the inner
guide catheter 1020 is shown in a position which includes a
secondary curve 1104 in a secondary plane, corresponding to
previous plane Z. Formation of the secondary curve 1104 moves the
distal end 1026 vertically and angularly between the commissures C,
directing the central lumen 1028 toward the mitral valve MV. In
this position an interventional device or catheter 1030 which is
passed through the central lumen 1028 would be directed toward
and/or through the opening O. Although the primary curve 1100 and
the secondary curve 1104 may be varied to accommodate different
anatomical variations of the valve MV and different surgical
procedures, further adjustment may be desired beyond these two
curvatures for proper positioning of the system 1.
[0243] Referring to FIG. 51C, the distal end 1026 of the inner
guide catheter 1020 may be positioned through an angle theta 1070.
This moves the distal end 1026 vertically and angularly through a
theta plane, corresponding to previous plane Y. Movement of the
distal end 1026 through the angle theta 1070 in either direction is
shown in dashed line in FIG. 51C. Such movement can be achieved by
precurvature and/or by steering of the catheter 1020. Consequently,
the central lumen 1028 can be directed toward the mitral valve MV
within a plane which differs from the secondary plane. After such
movements, the inner guide catheter 1020 will be in a position so
that the opening of the central lumen 1028 at the end 1016 faces
the desired direction. In this case, the desired direction is
toward the center of and orthogonal to the mitral valve.
[0244] In some instances, it is desired to raise or lower the
distal end 1026 so that it is at a desired height in relation to
the mitral valve MV. This may be accomplished by precurvature
and/or by steering of the outer guide catheter 1000 to form
additional curve 1110. Generally this is used to lift the distal
end 1026 above the mitral MV wherein such lifting was illustrated
in FIG. 50B.
[0245] When the curvatures in the catheters 1000, 1020 are formed
by steering mechanisms, the steering mechanisms may be locked in
place by a locking feature. Locking can provide additional
stiffness and stability in the guiding system 1 for the passage of
interventional devices or catheters 1030 therethrough, as
illustrated in FIG. 48. The interventional catheter 1030 can be
passed through the central lumen 1028 toward the target tissue, in
this case the mitral valve MV. Positioning of the distal end 1026
over the opening O, as described above, allows the catheter 1030 to
pass through the opening O between the leaflets LF if desired, as
shown in FIG. 51D. At this point, any desired procedure may be
applied to the mitral valve for correction of regurgitation or any
other disorder.
[0246] C. Steering Mechanisms
[0247] As described previously, the curvatures may be formed in the
catheters 1000, 1020 by precurving, steering or any suitable means.
Precurving involves setting a specific curvature in the catheter
prior to usage, such as by heat setting a polymer or by utilizing a
shape-memory alloy. Since the catheters are generally flexible,
loading of the catheter on a guidewire, dilator obturator or other
introductory device straightens the catheter throughout the curved
region. Once the catheter is positioned in the anatomy, the
introductory device is removed and the catheter is allowed to relax
back into the precurved setting.
[0248] To provide a higher degree of control and variety of
possible curvatures, steering mechanisms may be used to create the
curvatures and position the catheters. In some embodiments, the
steering mechanisms comprise cables or pullwires within the wall of
the catheter. As shown in FIG. 52A, the outer guide catheter 1000
may include a pullwire 1120 slidably disposed in lumens within the
wall of the catheter 1000 extending to the distal end 1016. By
applying tension to the pullwire 1120 in the proximal direction,
the distal end 1016 curves in the direction of the pullwire 1120 as
illustrated by arrow 1122. Likewise, as shown in FIG. 52B,
placement of the pullwire 1120 along the opposite side of the
catheter 1000 will allow the distal end 1016 to curve in the
opposite direction, as illustrated by arrow 1124, when tension is
applied to the pullwire 1120. Thus, referring to FIG. 52C,
diametrically opposing placement of pullwires 1120 within the walls
of the catheter 1000 allows the distal end 1016 to be steered in
opposite directions. This provides a means of correcting or
adjusting a curvature. For example, if tension is applied to one
pullwire to create a curvature, the curvature may be lessened by
applying tension to the diametrically opposite pullwire. Referring
now to FIG. 52D, an additional set of opposing pullwires 1120' may
extend within the wall of the catheter 1000 as shown. This
combination of pullwires 1120, 1120' allows curvature of the distal
end in at least four directions illustrated by arrows 1122, 1124,
1126, 1128. In this example, pullwires 1120 create the primary
curve 1100 of the outer guide catheter 1000 and the pullwires 1120'
create the lift. It may be appreciated that FIGS. 52A-52D also
pertain to the inner guide catheter 1020. For example, in FIG. 52D,
pullwires 1120 may create the secondary curve 1104 of the inner
guide catheter 1020 and the pullwires 1120' create the angle theta
1070.
[0249] Such pullwires 1120 and/or pullwires 1120' and associated
lumens may be placed in any arrangement, singly or in pairs,
symmetrically or nonsymmetrically and any number of pullwires may
be present. This may allow curvature in any direction and about
various axes. The pullwires 1120, 1120' may be fixed at any
location along the length of the catheter by any suitable method,
such as gluing, tying, soldering, or potting, to name a few. When
tension is applied to the pullwire, the curvature forms from the
point of attachment of the pullwire toward the proximal direction.
Therefore, curvatures may be formed throughout the length of the
catheter depending upon the locations of the points of attachment
of the pullwires. Typically, however, the pullwires will be
attached near the distal end of the catheter, optionally to an
embedded tip ring 280, illustrated in FIG. 52E. As shown, the
pullwire 1120 passes through an orifice 286 in the tip ring 280,
forms a loop shape and then passes back through the orifice 286 and
travels back up through the catheter wall (not shown). In addition,
the lumens which house the pullwires may be straight, as shown in
FIGS. 52A-52D, or may be curved.
[0250] D. Catheter Construction
[0251] The outer guide catheter 1000 and inner guide catheter 1020
may have the same or different construction which may include any
suitable material or combination of materials to create the above
described curvatures. For clarity, the examples provided will be in
reference to the outer guide catheter 1000, however it may be
appreciated that such examples may also apply to the inner guide
catheter 1020.
[0252] In embodiments in which the catheter is precurved rather
than steerable or in addition to being steerable, the catheter 1000
may be comprised of a polymer or copolymer which is able to be set
in a desired curvature, such as by heat setting Likewise, the
catheter 1000 may be comprised of a shape-memory alloy.
[0253] In embodiments in which the catheter is steerable, the
catheter 1000 may be comprised of one or more of a variety of
materials, either along the length of the catheter 1000 or in
various segments. Example materials include polyurethane, Pebax,
nylon, polyester, polyethylene, polyimide,
polyethylenetelephthalate(PET), polyetheretherketone (PEEK). In
addition, the walls of the catheter 1000 may be reinforced with a
variety of structures, such as metal braids or coils. Such
reinforcements may be along the length of the catheter 1000 or in
various segments.
[0254] For example, referring to FIG. 53A, the catheter 1000 may
have a proximal braided segment 1150, a coiled segment 1152 and
distal braided segment 1154. The proximal braided segment 1150
provides increased column strength and torque transmission. The
coiled segment 1152 provides increased steerability. The distal
braided segment 1154 provides a blend of steerability and
torque/column strength. In another example, referring to FIG. 53B,
the outer guiding catheter 1000 has a proximal double-layer braided
segment 1151 and a distal braided segment 1154. Thus, the proximal
double-layer segment 1151 comprises a multi-lumen tube 1160 (having
steering lumens 1162 for pullwires, distal ends of the steering
lumens 1162 optionally embedded with stainless steel coils for
reinforcement, and a central lumen 1163), an inner braided layer
1164, and an outer braided layer 1166, as illustrated in the
cross-sectional view of FIG. 53C. Similarly, FIG. 53D provides a
cross-sectional view of the distal braided segment 1154 comprising
the multi-lumen tube 1160 and a single braided layer 1168. In a
further example, referring to FIG. 53E, the inner guiding catheter
1020 comprises a multi-lumen tube 1160 without reinforcement at its
proximal end, a single braided layer middle segment 1170 and a
single braided layer distal segment 1171. Each of the single
braided layer segments 1170, 1171 have a multi-lumen tube 1160 and
a single layer of braiding 1168, as illustrated in cross-sectional
view FIG. 53F. However, the segments 1170, 1171 are comprised of
polymers of differing durometers, typically decreasing toward the
distal end.
[0255] FIG. 53G illustrates an other example of a cross-section of
a distal section of an outer guiding catheter 1000. Here, layer
1130 comprises 55 D Pebax and has a thickness of approximately
0.0125 in. Layer 1131 comprises a 30 ppi braid and has a thickness
of approximately 0.002 in. by 0.0065 in. Layer 1132 comprises 55 D
Pebax and has a thickness of approximately 0.006 in. Layer 1133
comprises 30 ppi braid and has a thickness of approximately 0.002
in by 0.0065 in. And finally, layer 1134 comprises Nylon 11 and
includes steering lumens for approximately 0.0105 in. diameter
pullwires 1120. Central lumen 1163 is of sufficient size for
passage of devices.
[0256] FIGS. 53H-53I illustrate additional examples of
cross-sections of an inner guiding catheter 1020, FIG. 53I
illustrating a cross-section of a portion of the distal end and
FIG. 53I illustrating a cross-section of a more distal portion of
the distal end. Referring to FIG. 53H, layer 1135 comprises 40 D
polymer and has a thickness of approximately 0.0125 in. Layer 1136
comprises a 30 ppi braid and has a thickness of approximately 0.002
in. by 0.0065 in. Layer 1137 comprises 40 D polymer and has a
thickness of approximately 0.006 in. Layer 1138 comprises a 40 D
polymer layer and has a thickness of approximately 0.0035 in. And
finally, layer 1139 comprises a 55 D liner. In addition, coiled
steering lumens are included for approximately 0.0105 in. diameter
pullwires 1120. And, central lumen 1163 is of sufficient size for
passage of devices. Referring to FIG. 53I, layer 1140 comprises a
40 D polymer, layer 1141 comprises a 35 D polymer, layer 1142
comprises a braid and layer 1143 comprises a liner. In addition,
coiled steering lumens 1144 are included for pullwires. And,
central lumen 1163 is of sufficient size for passage of
devices.
[0257] FIGS. 54A-54C illustrate an embodiment of a keying feature
which may be incorporated into the catheter shafts. The keying
feature is used to maintain relationship between the inner and
outer guide catheters to assist in steering capabilities. As shown
in FIG. 54A, the inner guide catheter 1020 includes one or more
protrusions 1400 which extend radially outwardly. In this example,
four protrusions 1400 are present, equally spaced around the
exterior of the catheter 1020. Likewise, the outer guide catheter
1000 includes corresponding notches 1402 which align with the
protrusions 1400. Thus, in this example, the catheter 1000 includes
four notches equally spaced around its central lumen 1018. Thus,
the inner guide catheter 1020 is able to be translated within the
outer guide catheter 1000, however rotation of the inner guide
catheter 1020 within the outer guide catheter 1000 is prevented by
the keying feature, i.e. the interlocking protrusions 1400 and
notches 1402. Such keying helps maintain a known correlation of
position between the inner guide catheter 1020 and outer guide
catheter 1000. Since the inner and outer guide catheters 1020, 1000
form curvatures in different directions, such keying is beneficial
to ensure that the compound curvature formed by the separate
curvatures in the inner and outer guide catheters 1020, 1000 is the
compound curvature that is anticipated. Keying may also increase
stability wherein the curvatures remain in position reducing the
possibility of compensating for each other.
[0258] FIG. 54B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the outer
guiding catheter 1000 of FIG. 54A. Here, the catheter 1000 includes
a notched layer 1404 along the inner surface of central lumen 1018.
The notched layer 1404 includes notches 1402 in any size, shape,
arrangement and number. Optionally, the notched layer 1404 may
include lumens 1406, typically for passage of pullwires 1120.
However, the lumens 1406 may alternatively or in addition be used
for other uses. It may also be appreciated that the notched layer
1404 may be incorporated into the wall of the catheter 1000, such
as by extrusion, or may be a separate layer positioned within the
catheter 1000. Further, it may be appreciated that the notched
layer 1404 may extend the entire length of the catheter 1000 or one
or more portions of the length of the catheter 1000, including
simply a small strip at a designated location along the length of
the catheter 1000.
[0259] FIG. 54C illustrates a cross-sectional view of the inner
guiding catheter 1020 of FIG. 54A. Here, the catheter 1020 includes
protrusions 1400 along the outer surface of the catheter 1020. The
protrusions 1400 may be of any size, shape, arrangement and number.
It may be appreciated that the protrusions 1400 may be incorporated
into the wall of the catheter 1020, such as by extrusion, may be
included in a separate cylindrical layer on the outer surface of
the catheter 1020, or the protrusions 1400 may be individually
adhered to the outer surface of the catheter 1020. Further, it may
be appreciated that the protrusions 1400 may extend the entire
length of the catheter 1000 or one or more portions of the length
of the catheter 1020, including simply a small strip at a
designated location along the length of the catheter 1020.
[0260] Thus, the keying feature may be present along one or more
specific portions of the catheters 1000, 1020 or may extend along
the entire length of the catheters 1000, 1020. Likewise, the
notches 1402 may extend along the entire length of the outer
guiding catheter 1020 while the protrusions 1400 extend along
discrete portions of the inner guiding catheter 1000 and vice
versa. It may further be appreciated that the protrusions 1400 may
be present on the inner surface of the outer guiding catheter 1000
while the notches 1402 are present along the outer surface of the
inner guiding catheter 1020.
[0261] Alternatively or in addition, one or more steerable portions
of the catheter 1000 may comprise a series of articulating members
1180 as illustrated in FIG. 55A. Exemplary embodiments of steerable
portions of catheters comprising such articulating members 1180 are
described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,682,319 (Attorney Docket No.
020489-001210US) incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.
FIG. 55B illustrates the outer guide catheter 1000 having a
steerable portion comprising articulating members 1180 at its
distal end 1016.
[0262] Briefly, referring to FIG. 55A, each articulating member
1180 may have any shape, particularly a shape which allows
interfitting or nesting as shown. In addition, it is desired that
each member 1180 have the capability of independently rotating
against an adjacent articulating member 1180. In this embodiment,
the articulating members 1180 comprise interfitting domed rings
1184. The domed rings 1184 each include a base 1188 and a dome
1186. The base 1188 and dome 1186 have a hollow interior which,
when the domed rings 1184 are interfit in a series, forms a central
lumen 1190. In addition, the dome 1186 allows each articulating
member 1180 to mate against an inner surface of an adjacent domed
ring 1184.
[0263] The interfitting domed rings 1184 are connected by at least
one pullwire 1120. Such pullwires typically extend through the
length of the catheter 1000 and at least one of the interfitting
domed rings 1184 to a fixation point where the pullwire 1120 is
fixedly attached. By applying tension to the pullwire 1120, the
pullwire 1120 arcs the series of interfitting domed rings 1184
proximal to the attachment point to form a curve. Thus, pulling or
applying tension on at least one pullwire, steers or deflects the
catheter 1000 in the direction of that pullwire 1120. By
positioning various pullwires 1120 throughout the circumference of
the domed rings 1184, the catheter 1000 may be directed in any
number of directions.
[0264] Also shown in FIG. 55A, each interfitting domed ring 1184
may comprise one or more pullwire lumens 1182 through which the
pullwires 1120 are threaded. Alternatively, the pullwires 1120 may
be threaded through the central lumen 1190. In any case, the
pullwires are attached to the catheter 1000 at a position where a
desired curve is to be formed. The pullwires 1120 may be fixed in
place by any suitable method, such as soldering, gluing, tying,
welding or potting, to name a few. Such fixation method is
typically dependent upon the materials used. The articulating
members 1180 may be comprised of any suitable material including
stainless steel, various metals, various polymers or co-polymers.
Likewise the pullwires 1120 may be comprised of any suitable
material such as fibers, sutures, metal wires, metal braids, or
polymer braids.
[0265] E. Handles
[0266] As mentioned previously, manipulation of the guide catheters
1000, 1020 is achieved with the use of handles 1056, 1057 attached
to the proximal ends of the catheters 1000, 1020. FIG. 56
illustrates a preferred embodiment of handles 1056, 1057. As shown,
handle 1056 is attached to the proximal end 1014 of outer guide
catheter 1000 and handle 1057 is attached to the proximal end 1024
of inner guide catheter 1020. Inner guide catheter 1020 is inserted
through handle 1056 and is positioned coaxially within outer guide
catheter 1000. In this embodiment, the handles 1056, 1057 are not
linked together as shown in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 48.
It may be appreciated that such handles 1056, 1057 may
alternatively be connected by external connecting rods, bars or
plates or by an additional external stabilizing base. An embodiment
of a stabilizing base will be described in a later section.
Referring back to FIG. 56, interventional catheter is inserted
through handle 1057 and is positioned coaxially within inner guide
catheter 1020 and outer guide catheter 1000.
[0267] Each handle 1056, 1057 includes two steering knobs 1300a,
1300b emerging from a handle housing 1302 for manipulation by a
user. Steering knobs 1300a are disposed on a side of the housing
1302 and steering knobs 1300b are disposed on a face of the housing
1302. However, it may be appreciated that such placement may vary
based on a variety of factors including type of steering mechanism,
size and shape of handle, type and arrangement of parts within
handle, and ergonomics to name a few.
[0268] FIG. 57 illustrates the handles 1056, 1057 of FIG. 56 with a
portion of the housing 1302 removed to reveal the assemblies of the
handles. Each knob 1300a, 1300b controls a steering mechanism which
is used to form a curvature in the attached catheter. Each steering
mechanism includes a hard stop gear assembly 1304 and a friction
assembly 1306. Tension is applied to one or more pullwires by
action of the hard stop gear assembly to form a curve in a
catheter. Tension is maintained by the friction assembly. When
tension is released from the one or more pullwires the catheter
returns to a straightened position.
[0269] FIG. 58 illustrates steering mechanisms within a handle
wherein the housing 1302 is removed for clarity. Here, steering
knob 1300a is attached to a hard stop gear assembly 1304 and a
friction assembly (not in view) and steering knob 1300b is attached
to a separate hard stop gear assembly 1304 and friction assembly
1306. Steering knob 1300a is attached to a knob post 1318 which
passes through a base 1308, terminating in a knob gear wheel 1310.
The knob gear wheel 1310 actuates the hard stop gear assembly 1304,
thereby applying tension to one or more pullwires 1120.
[0270] The knob gear wheel 1310 is a toothed wheel that engages a
disk gear wheel 1312. Rotation of the steering knob 1300a rotates
the knob post 1318 and knob gear wheel 1310 which in turn rotates
the disk gear wheel 1312. Rotation of the disk gear wheel 1312
applies tension to one or more pullwires extending through the
attached catheter, in this example the outer guiding catheter 1000.
As shown, the outer guiding catheter 1000 passes through the base
1308, wherein one or more pullwires 1120 extending through the
catheter 1000 are attached to the disk 1314. Such attachment is
schematically illustrated in FIG. 59. Catheter 1000 is shown
passing through base 1308. A pullwire 1120 passing through a
steering lumen 1162 in the catheter 1000 emerges from the wall of
the catheter 1000, passes through an aperture 1320 in the disk 1314
and is attached to an anchor peg 1316 on the disk 1314. Rotation of
the disk 1314 (indicated by arrow 1328) around disk post 1315 by
action of the disk gear wheel 1312, applies tension to the pullwire
1120 by drawing the pullwire 1120 through the aperture 1320 and
wrapping the pullwire 1120 around the disk 1314 as it rotates.
Additional rotation of the disk 1314 applies increasing tension to
the pullwire 1120. To limit the amount of tension applied to the
pullwire 1120, to limit curvature of the catheter and/or to avoid
possible breakage of the pullwire 1120, the rotation of the disk
1314 may be restricted by hard stop peg 1322 which is attached to
the disk 1314 and extends into the base 1308.
[0271] FIGS. 60A-60B illustrate how the hard stop peg 1322 is used
to restrict rotation of disk 1314. FIGS. 60A-59B provide a top
view, wherein the disk 1314 is disposed on the base 1308. The
anchor peg 1316 is shown with the pullwire 1120 thereattached. A
groove 1326 is formed in the base 1308 beneath the disk 1314 and
forms an arc shape. The hard stop peg 1322 extends from the disk
1314 into the groove 1326 in the base 1308. Referring now to FIG.
60B, rotation of the disk 1314 around knob post 1318, indicated by
arrow 1330, draws the pullwire 1120 through the aperture 1320 as
previously described, wrapping the pullwire 1120 around the disk
1314. As the disk 1314 rotates, the hard stop peg 1322 follows
along the groove 1326, as shown. The disk 1314 continues rotating
until the hard stop peg 1322 reaches a hard stop 1324. The hard
stop 1324 is positioned in the groove 1326 and prevents further
passage of the hard stop peg 1322. Thus, disk 1314 rotation may be
restricted to any degree of rotation less than or equal to 360
degrees by positioning of the hard stop 1324.
[0272] In some instances, it is desired to restrict rotation of the
disk 1314 to a degree of rotation which is more than 360 degrees.
This may be achieved with another embodiment of the hard stop gear
assembly 1304. Referring now to FIGS. 61A-61B, a portion of such a
hard stop gear assembly 1304 is shown. FIG. 61A illustrates the
base 1308 and the disk post 1315 positioned therethrough. Also
shown in the base 1308 is an aperture 1334 through which the knob
post 1318, knob gear wheel 1310 and friction assembly 1306 pass,
and a passageway 1336 through which the catheter 1000 passes. In
this embodiment of the hard stop gear assembly 1304, a groove 1326
is also present in an arc shape around the disk post 1315, however
a ball 1332 is positioned in the groove 1326 rather than a hard
stop peg 1322. Disk 1314 is positioned over the groove 1326 and the
ball 1332 as shown in FIG. 61B. The disk 1314, illustrated in FIG.
61C, has a groove 1356 in its surface which is positioned adjacent
to the base 1308, the groove 1356 having an arc shape similar to
the groove 1326 in the base 1308. The ball 1332 is not fixedly
attached to the base 1308 or the disk 1314 and is therefore free to
move along the channel formed by the groove 1326 in the base 1308
and the groove in the disk 1314.
[0273] FIGS. 62A-62F illustrate how rotation of the disk 1314 may
be restricted by the ball 1332 to a degree of rotation which is
more than 360 degrees. FIGS. 62A-62F illustrate the groove 1326 in
the base 1308 wherein the groove 1326 has an arc shape around disk
post 1315. The groove 1326 does not form a complete circle; a first
groove end 1350a and a second groove end 1350b form a wall which
prevent passage of the ball 1332. It may be appreciated that the
groove ends 1350a, 1350b may be any distance apart, shortening the
length of the groove 1326 by any amount, and allowing the ball 1332
movement, and hence catheter deflection, to be adjusted to any
desired amount. To begin, referring to FIG. 62A, the ball 1332 is
positioned within the groove 1326 near the first groove end 1350a.
The disk 1314 has a matching groove 1352 (shape illustrated in
dashed line) including a first groove end 1354a and a second groove
end 1354b. The disk 1314 is positioned over the ball 1332 so that
the ball 1332 is near the second groove end 1354b.
[0274] Referring now to FIG. 62B, the disk 1314 may be rotated
while the ball 1332 remains in place. Here, the disk 1314 has
rotated 90 degrees, as indicated by arrow 36000 and the position of
the groove ends 1354a, 1354b. Referring now to FIG. 62C, the disk
1314 may be further rotated while the ball 1332 remains in place.
Here, the disk 1314 has rotated 270 degrees, as indicated by arrow
36000 and the position of the groove ends 1354a, 1354b. The disk
1314 may continue rotating to 360 degrees, as shown in FIG. 62D,
indicated by arrow 36000. Here, the first groove end 1354a in the
disk 1314 has contacted the ball 1332 and pushes the ball 1332
along groove 1326 in the base. Referring now to FIG. 62E, the disk
1314 may be further rotated while the ball 1332 is pushed along the
groove 1326 in the base 1308 by the first groove end 1354a in the
disk 1314. Here, the disk 1314 is shown to have rotated 540
degrees. Referring to FIG. 62F, the disk 1314 rotates until the
ball 1332 reaches the second groove end 1350b of the base 1308,
providing a hard stop. In this position, the ball 1332 is held
between the first groove end 1354a of the disk 1314 and the second
groove end 1350b of the base 1308 and further rotation of the disk
1314 is prevented. Thus, the disk 1314 was rotated approximately
660 degrees in this example. Any maximum degree of rotation may be
set by positioning of groove ends 1350a, 1350b and/or groove ends
1354a, 1354b. Additionally, in some embodiments, rotation can be
limited by adding more than one ball 1332 to the groove 1326, for
example, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten or
more balls may be used to limit travel and hence curvature.
[0275] It may be appreciated that one or more pullwires 1120 are
attached to the disk 1314 in a manner similar to that illustrated
in FIG. 59. Therefore, as the disk 1314 rotates, around disk post
1315 by action of the disk gear wheel 1312, tension is applied to
the pullwire 1120 by drawing the pullwire 1120 through the aperture
1320 and wrapping the pullwire 1120 around the disk 1314 as it
rotates. Additional rotation of the disk 1314 applies increasing
tension to the pullwire 1120. Restriction of rotation as described
above limits the amount of tension applied to the pullwire 1120, to
limit curvature of the catheter and/or to avoid possible breakage
of the pullwire 1120.
[0276] As mentioned, each steering mechanism includes at least a
hard stop gear assembly 1304 and a friction assembly 1306. As
described above, tension is applied to one or more pullwires by
action of the hard stop gear assembly to form a curve in a
catheter. Tension is maintained by the friction assembly. FIG. 63
illustrates an embodiment of a friction assembly 1306. The friction
assembly 1306 essentially holds a steering knob, in this example
steering knob 1300b, and the associated knob post 1318 in a rotated
position. Here, rotation of the knob 1300b and post 1318 rotates
attached knob gear wheel 1310. The knob gear wheel 1310 actuates
the hard stop gear assembly 1304, thereby applying tension to one
or more pullwires 1120. The knob gear wheel 1310 is a toothed wheel
that engages a disk gear wheel 1312. Rotation of the steering knob
1300b rotates the knob post 1318 and knob gear wheel 1310 which in
turn rotates the disk gear wheel 1312. Rotation of the disk gear
wheel 1312 applies tension to one or more pullwires extending
through the attached catheter, in this example the outer guiding
catheter 1000.
[0277] The steering knob 1300b and knob post 1318 are held in a
rotated position by friction provided by a frictional pad 1370. The
frictional pad 1370 is positioned between ring 1372 attached to the
knob post 1318 and a plate 1374 attached to the base 1308. The knob
post 1318 extends from the knob 1300b through the ring 1372, the
frictional pad 1370 and then the plate 1374. The plate 1374 has
internal threads which mate with threads on the knob post 1318. As
the knob post 1318 rotates, the threads on the post 1318 advance
through the threads on the plate 1374. This draws the ring 1372
closer to the plate 1374, compressing the frictional pad 1370
therebetween. Frictional pad 1370 may be comprised of any O-ring or
sheet material with desirable frictional and compressibility
characteristics, such as silicone rubber, natural rubber or
synthetic rubbers, to name a few. In preferred embodiments, an EPDM
rubber O-ring is used. Reverse rotation of the knob post 1318 is
resisted by friction of the frictional pad 1370 against the ring
1372. The higher the compression of the frictional pad 1370 the
stronger the frictional hold. Therefore, as the steering knob 1300b
is rotated and increasing amounts of tension are applied to the
pullwires 1120, increasing amounts of friction are applied to the
ring 1372 to hold the knob 1300b in place.
[0278] Manual reverse rotation of the steering knob 1300b releases
tension on the pullwires 1120 and draws the ring 1372 away from the
plate 1374 thereby reducing the frictional load. When tension is
released from the pullwires 1120 the catheter 1000 returns toward a
straightened position.
[0279] It may be appreciated that each handle 1056, 1057 includes a
steering mechanism for each curve to be formed in the attached
catheter. Thus, as shown in FIG. 57, handle 1056 includes a
steering mechanism to form the primary curve 1100 in outer guiding
catheter 1000 and a steering mechanism to form the additional curve
1110. Likewise, handle 1057 includes a steering mechanism to form
the secondary curve 1104 in inner guiding catheter 1020 and a
steering mechanism to form the angle theta 1070.
[0280] Some curves, such as the primary curve 1100, secondary curve
1104 and additional curve 1110 each typically vary in curvature
between a straight configuration and a curved configuration in a
single direction. Such movement may be achieved with single set of
a hard stop gear assembly 1304 and a friction assembly 1306.
However, other curves, such as the angle theta 1070, may be formed
in two directions as shown in FIGS. 49C-49D. Such movement is
achieved with two sets of the hard stop gear assembly 1304 and the
friction assembly 1306, each set controlling curvature in a single
direction.
[0281] FIG. 63 illustrates the presence of an additional set of the
friction assembly 1306'. One or more pullwires 1120', such as an
opposing set as illustrated in FIG. 52D, extending within the wall
of the catheter 1000 are attached to the disk 1314' in the same
manner as pullwires 1120 are attached to disk 1314. The disks 1314,
1314' are arranged so that rotation of steering knob 1300b in one
direction applies tension to the pullwires 1120 via disk 1314 and
rotation of steering knob 1300b in the opposite direction applies
tension to the pullwires 1120' via disk 1314'. Likewise, the
additional friction assembly 1306' is shown having a ring 1372'
attached to the knob post 1318 and a frictional pad 1370' disposed
between the ring 1372' and the opposite side of the plate 1374.
Therefore, as rotation of the steering knob 1300b in the opposite
direction applies tension to the pullwires 1120' via disk 1314',
the frictional pad 1370' applies tension to the ring 1372' holding
the knob post 1318' in place.
[0282] It may be appreciated that various other mechanisms may be
used for tensioning and holding pullwires 1120 in place. Example
mechanisms that may alternatively be used include clutches,
ratchets, levers, knobs, rack and pinions, and deformable handles,
to name a few.
[0283] F. Interventional System
[0284] FIG. 64 illustrates an embodiment of an interventional
system 3 of the present invention. An embodiment of the
multi-catheter guiding system 1 of the present invention is shown
comprising an outer guide catheter 1000, having a proximal end 1014
and a distal end 1016, and an inner guide catheter 1020, having a
proximal end 1024 and a distal end 1026, wherein the inner guide
catheter 1020 is positioned coaxially within the outer guide
catheter 1000, as shown. In addition, a hemostatic valve 1090 is
disposed within handle 1056 or external to handle 1056 as shown to
provide leak-free sealing with or without the inner guide catheter
1020 in place. The valve 1090 also prevents back bleeding and
reduces the possibility of air introduction when inserting the
inner guide catheter 1020 through the outer guide catheter 1000. An
example of a hemostatic valve 1090 is illustrated in FIG. 64A,
however any suitable valve or hemostatic valve may be used to
provide similar functions. In FIG. 64A, the valve 1090 has a first
end 1091, a second end 1092 and a lumen 1093 therethrough. The
inner wall of lumen 1093 is preferably tapered toward end 1091 and
may further include a plurality of tapered axial channels
configured to receive the protrusions 1400 on the inner guide
catheter 1020. The first end 1091 is attached to the outer guide
catheter 1000 and the second end 1092 is free. Referring now back
to FIG. 64, the distal ends 1016, 1026 of catheters 1000, 1020,
respectively, are sized to be passable to a body cavity, typically
through a body lumen such as a vascular lumen.
[0285] To assist in inserting the fixation device 14 through a
hemostatic valve 1090, a fixation device introducer may be used.
For example, when the fixation device 14 is loaded on a delivery
catheter 300 and an inner guide catheter 1020, insertion of the
fixation device 14, delivery catheter 300 and inner guide catheter
1020 through an outer guide catheter 1000 involves passing the
fixation device 14 through a hemostatic valve 1090 on the outer
guide catheter 1000. To reduce any trauma to the fixation device 14
by the hemostatic valve 1090, a fixation device introducer may be
used. An embodiment of a fixation device introducer 1420 is
illustrated in FIG. 64B. The introducer 1420 includes a loading
body 1422 and an insertion endpiece 1424. The fixation device 14 is
loaded into the loading body 1422 and into the insertion endpiece
1424 to approximately the dashed line 1428. The insertion endpiece
1424 has a split end creating individual split sections 1430, in
this embodiment, four split sections 1430. By compressing the split
sections 1430, the endpiece 1424 forms a taper. Such a taper is
then inserted through a hemostatic valve 1090, so that the
insertion endpiece 1424 creates a smooth passageway through the
valve for the fixation device 14. Once the insertion endpiece 1424
is inserted through the valve 1090, the fixation device 14, and
attached delivery catheter 300 and inner guide catheter 1020, may
then be advanced through the fixation device introducer 1420. The
fixation device introducer 1420 also includes a hemostatic valve
within the loading body 1422 to prevent any backbleeding or leakage
through the introducer 1420.
[0286] Manipulation of the guide catheters 1000, 1020 is achieved
with the use of handles 1056, 1057 attached to the proximal ends of
the catheters 1000, 1020. As shown, handle 1056 is attached to the
proximal end 1014 of outer guide catheter 1000 and handle 1057 is
attached to the proximal end 1024 of inner guide catheter 1020.
Inner guide catheter 1020 is inserted through handle 1056 and is
positioned coaxially within outer guide catheter 1000.
[0287] An embodiment of the delivery catheter 300 of the present
invention is inserted through handle 1057 and is positioned
coaxially within inner guide catheter 1020 and outer guide catheter
1000. Therefore, a hemostatic valve 1090 is disposed within handle
1057 or external to handle 1057 as shown to provide leak-free
sealing with or without the delivery catheter 300 in place. The
valve 1090 functions as described above. The delivery catheter 300
includes a shaft 302, having a proximal end 322 and a distal end
324, and a handle 304 attached to the proximal end 322. A fixation
device 14 is removably coupled to the distal end 324 for delivery
to a site within the body.
[0288] The outer guide catheter 1000 and/or the inner guide
catheter 1020 are precurved and/or have steering mechanisms to
position the distal ends 1016, 1026 in desired directions.
Precurvature or steering of the outer guide catheter 1000 directs
the distal end 1016 in a first direction to create a primary curve
while precurvature and/or steering of the inner guide catheter 1020
directs distal end 1026 in a second direction, differing from the
first, to create a secondary curve. Together, the primary and
secondary curves form a compound curve. Advancement of the delivery
catheter 300 through the coaxial guide catheters 1000, 1020 guides
the delivery catheter 300 through the compound curve toward a
desired direction, usually in a direction which will position the
fixation device 14 in a desired location within the body.
[0289] FIG. 65 illustrates portions of another embodiment of an
interventional system 3 of the present invention. Handles 1056,
1057 of the multi-catheter guiding system 1 of the present
invention are shown. Each handle 1056, 1057 includes a set of
steering knobs 1300a, 1300b, as shown. Manipulation of the guide
catheters 1000, 1020 is achieved with the use of the steering knobs
1300a, 1300b attached to the proximal ends of the catheters 1000,
1020. Handle 304 of the delivery catheter 300 is also shown,
including the proximal element line handle 312, the lock line
handle 310, the actuator rod control 314 and the actuator rod
handle 316, among other features. The handle 304 is supported by
the support base 306 which is connected to the handle 1057.
[0290] It may be appreciated the above described systems 3 are not
intended to limit the scope of the present invention. The systems 3
may include any or all of the components of the described
invention. In addition, the multi-catheter guiding system 1 of the
present invention may be used to introduce other delivery
catheters, interventional catheters or other devices. Likewise, the
delivery catheter 300 may be introduced through other introducers
or guiding systems. Also, the delivery catheter 300 may be used to
deliver other types of devices to a target location within the
body, including endoscopic staplers, devices for electrophysiology
mapping or ablation, septal defect repair devices, heart valves,
annuloplasty rings and others.
[0291] In addition, many of the components of the system 3 may
include one or more hydrophilic coatings. Hydrophilic coatings
become slippery when wet, eliminate the need for separate
lubricants. Thus, such coatings may be present on the
multi-catheter guiding system, delivery catheter, and fixation
device, including the proximal elements and distal elements, to
name a few.
[0292] Further, the system 3 may be supported by an external
stabilizer base 1440, an embodiment of which is illustrated in FIG.
66. Stabilizer base 1440 maintains the relative positions of the
outer guide, inner guide and delivery catheter during a procedure.
In this embodiment, the base 1440 comprises a platform 1442 having
a planar shape for positioning on or against a flat surface, such
as a table or benchtop. The base 1440 further includes a pair of
handle holders 1444, 1448, each attached to the platform 1442 and
extending upwardly from the platform 1442, either angularly or
perpendicularly. Handle holder 1444 includes a notch 1446 for
holding the outer guiding catheter 1000, as illustrated in FIG. 67,
thereby supporting the handle 1056. FIG. 67 shows the handle 1056
attached to the outer guiding catheter 1000 positioned so that the
proximal end 1014 of the outer guiding catheter 1000 rests in the
notch 1446. Referring back to FIG. 66, handle holder 1448 includes
an elongate portion 1452 having a trough 1450 and a hooked end
1454. As shown in FIG. 68, handle 1057 rests on the elongate
portion 1452 and the handle 304 rests on hooked end 1454 so that
the inner guiding catheter 1020 extends from the handle 1057 to the
handle 1056 and continues on within outer guiding catheter 1000.
The handle 304 is additionally supported by support base 306, as
shown.
[0293] It may be appreciated that the stabilizer base 1440 may take
a variety of forms and may include differences in structural design
to accommodate various types, shapes, arrangements and numbers of
handles.
[0294] G. Kits
[0295] Referring now to FIG. 69, kits 1500 according to the present
invention comprise any of the components described in relation to
the present invention. The kits 1500 may include any of the
components described above, such as the outer guide catheter 1000
including handle 1056, the inner guide catheter 1020 including
handle 1057, the delivery catheter 300 and the fixation device 14
and instructions for use IFU. Optionally, any of the kits may
further include any other system components described above, such
as various interventional tools 1040, or components associated with
positioning a device in a body lumen, such as a guidewire 1202,
dilator 1206 or needle 1204. The instructions for use IFU will set
forth any of the methods as described above, and all kit components
will usually be packaged together in a pouch 1505 or other
conventional medical device packaging. Usually, those kit
components which will be used in performing the procedure on the
patient will be sterilized and maintained within the kit.
Optionally, separate pouches, bags, trays or other packaging may be
provided within a larger package, where the smaller packs may be
opened separately to separately maintain the components in a
sterile fashion.
[0296] While the foregoing is a complete description of the
preferred embodiments of the invention, various alternatives,
substitutions, additions, modifications, and equivalents are
possible without departing from the scope of the invention. For
example, in many of the above-described embodiments, the invention
is described in the context of approaching a valve structure from
the upstream side--that is, the atrial side in the case of a mitral
valve. It should be understood that any of the foregoing
embodiments may be utilized in other approaches as well, including
from the ventricular or downstream side of the valve, as well as
using surgical approaches through a wall of the heart. Moreover,
the invention may be used in the treatment of a variety of other
tissue structures besides heart valves, and will find usefulness in
a variety of tissue approximation, attachment, closure, clamping
and ligation applications, some endovascular, some endoscopic, and
some open surgical.
[0297] Again, although the foregoing invention has been described
in some detail by way of illustration and example, for purposes of
clarity of understanding, it will be obvious that various
alternatives, modifications and equivalents may be used and the
above description should not be taken as limiting in scope of the
invention which is defined by the appended claims.
* * * * *