U.S. patent application number 15/290886 was filed with the patent office on 2017-02-02 for devices and methods for treatment of the eustachian tube and sinus cavity.
The applicant listed for this patent is Abbott Cardiovascular Systems Inc.. Invention is credited to Paul Consigny, Dariush Davalian, Adrain Gale, Syed Hossainy, Jesus Magana, Michael Ngo, Evan Norton, Benjamyn Serna, James Su, Mikael Trollsas.
Application Number | 20170027724 15/290886 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 53284495 |
Filed Date | 2017-02-02 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170027724 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Hossainy; Syed ; et
al. |
February 2, 2017 |
DEVICES AND METHODS FOR TREATMENT OF THE EUSTACHIAN TUBE AND SINUS
CAVITY
Abstract
A polymeric stent can be implanted for treatment of the
Eustachian tube. The stent can be designed to have length-dependent
radial strength to allow it to stay within the Eustachian tube and
to allow normal closing and opening of the Eustachian tube. A
balloon can be used to implant the stent, and the balloon can be
coated with a therapeutic agent. A coated balloon can also be used
to transfer therapeutic agents to the sinus cavity during a balloon
sinus dilation procedure.
Inventors: |
Hossainy; Syed; (Hayward,
CA) ; Consigny; Paul; (San Jose, CA) ;
Davalian; Dariush; (San Jose, CA) ; Su; James;
(Sunnyvale, CA) ; Ngo; Michael; (San Jose, CA)
; Gale; Adrain; (San Mateo, CA) ; Magana;
Jesus; (Redwood City, CA) ; Trollsas; Mikael;
(San Jose, CA) ; Norton; Evan; (Wilmette, IL)
; Serna; Benjamyn; (Gilroy, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Abbott Cardiovascular Systems Inc. |
Santa Clara |
CA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
53284495 |
Appl. No.: |
15/290886 |
Filed: |
October 11, 2016 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
14265343 |
Apr 29, 2014 |
9510976 |
|
|
15290886 |
|
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61F 2250/0082 20130101;
A61F 11/002 20130101; A61F 2250/0046 20130101; A61F 2250/0048
20130101; A61M 25/10 20130101; A61M 2025/1059 20130101; A61F 2/958
20130101; A61F 2230/0067 20130101; A61M 2025/105 20130101; A61F
2002/91575 20130101; A61B 1/06 20130101; A61F 2002/91583 20130101;
A61M 29/02 20130101; A61F 2250/0018 20130101; A61F 2250/0026
20130101; A61F 2250/005 20130101; A61F 2/915 20130101; A61M
2210/0675 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A61F 2/958 20060101
A61F002/958; A61M 29/02 20060101 A61M029/02; A61F 2/915 20060101
A61F002/915; A61F 11/00 20060101 A61F011/00; A61B 1/06 20060101
A61B001/06 |
Claims
1-10. (canceled)
11. A system for delivering a stent in the Eustachian tube, the
system comprising: a catheter including a body and a balloon at an
end of the body, the balloon configured to carry a stent for
delivery through a nasopharynx cavity and into a Eustachian tube of
a patient.
12. The system of claim 11, further comprising a stent mounted onto
the balloon.
13. The system of claim 11, further comprising a guidewire having
an end segment sized for insertion into the Eustachian tube and a
plurality of wire marks applied or etched on an exposed surface of
the end segment, and the catheter includes a passageway configured
to receive the guidewire.
14. The system of claim 13, wherein each of the wire marks has a
characteristic which distinguishes the wire mark from an adjacent
wire mark, and the characteristic is a color, a shade, a shape, an
alphanumeric character, or a combination thereof.
15. The system of claim 13, wherein each of the wire marks is a
band that encircles the end segment of the guidewire, and each band
has an axial size that is at least 2 mm.
16. The system of any one of claims 13, wherein the end segment of
the guidewire is configured to emit light.
17. The system of any one of claims 13, wherein the end segment of
the guidewire includes a stabilization feature configured to expand
and engage a surface of the Eustachian tube.
18. (canceled)
19. (canceled)
20. The system of any one of claims 11, wherein the catheter
further includes a collapsible spring and an indicator device
coupled to the collapsible spring, the collapsible spring
configured to collapse when pushed against a tympanic membrane or
other tissue in a middle ear of the patient, and the indicator
device is configured to generate an alarm when the collapsible
spring is collapsed.
21. (canceled)
22-33. (canceled)
34. A method of treating a Eustachian tube with a stent, the method
comprising: placing a stent in a Eustachian tube of a patient.
35. The method of claim 34, further comprising allowing a segment
of the stent to collapse to allow the Eustachian tube to close.
36. The method of claim 34, wherein placing the stent in the
Eustachian tube includes carrying the stent into the Eustachian
while the stent is crimped, followed by deploying the stent to an
enlarged state.
37. The method of any one of claims 34, wherein placing the stent
in the Eustachian tube includes moving the stent into the
nasopharynx cavity and into the Eustachian tube while viewing an
image of stent marks on the stent, and stopping the movement of the
stent into the Eustachian tube based on the image of the stent
marks.
38. The method of any one of claims 34, further comprising placing
a gauge catheter in the Eustachian tube to determine a travel depth
for the stent before placing the stent in the Eustachian tube.
39. The method of any one of claims 34, further comprising: placing
a guidewire in the Eustachian tube; followed by selecting a wire
mark on the guidewire based on an image taken from within the
Eustachian tube, wherein placing the stent in the Eustachian tube
includes carrying the stent on a catheter, moving the catheter over
the guidewire, and stopping the movement of the catheter into the
Eustachian tube based on a position of the catheter relative to the
selected wire mark.
40. The method of any one of claims 34, further comprising: placing
a guidewire in the Eustachian tube; followed by viewing an image of
a plurality of wire marks on the guidewire taken from within the
Eustachian tube; determining a size of a treatment zone of the
Eustachian tube based on the image of the plurality of wire marks;
and selecting a stent based on the size of the treatment zone,
wherein the selected stent is the stent that is then placed in the
Eustachian tube.
41. The method of any one of claims 34, wherein placing the stent
in the Eustachian tube includes expanding the stent by inflating a
balloon, and then allowing a therapeutic agent to transfer from the
inflated balloon to the Eustachian tube.
42. (canceled)
43. A method of treating a Eustachian tube or sinus cavity with a
balloon, the method comprising: inflating a balloon in a Eustachian
tube or a sinus cavity of a patient; and allowing at least one
therapeutic agent to transfer from the inflated balloon to a wall
of the Eustachian tube or the sinus cavity.
44. The method of claim 43, wherein the at least one therapeutic
agent includes an antibiotic and an anti-inflammatory
substance.
45. (canceled)
46. (canceled)
47. (canceled)
48. (canceled)
49. The method of any one of claims 43, wherein the balloon is
inflated in the Eustachian tube, and a stent is deployed by the
inflation of the balloon.
50. The method of any one of claims 43, wherein the balloon is
inflated in the sinus cavity while a coating is disposed on the
balloon, the coating includes the at least one therapeutic agent,
and the therapeutic agent is not carried in a polymer matrix.
Description
[0001] This application is a division of U.S. application Ser. No.
14/265,343 filed Apr. 29, 2014 which is incorporated by reference
herein.
FIELD
[0002] This application relates generally to medical devices and
methods and, more particularly, to medical devices and methods for
the Eustachian tube and/or the sinus cavity.
INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE
[0003] All publications and patent applications mentioned in this
specification are herein incorporated by reference to the same
extent as if each individual publication or patent application was
specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by
reference.
BACKGROUND
[0004] As shown in FIG. 19, the ear 900 can be divided into three
parts: the external ear, the middle ear 902, and the inner ear 904.
The external ear includes the visible part of the ear (the pinna)
and the ear canal 906. The middle ear 902 is an air-filled space
behind the tympanic membrane 908, also known as the ear drum. The
middle ear 902 contains small bones, known as the ossicles. The
inner ear 904 contains the sensory organs for hearing (the cochlea)
and balance (the semicircular canals).
[0005] The Eustachian tube 910 is a narrow tube that connects the
middle ear 902 to the back of the nose. In adults, the Eustachian
tube 910 is about 35 mm in length, is bony along one third of its
length nearest the ear drum 908 and is cartilaginous along the
remaining two thirds of its length nearest the opening 912 to the
nasopharynx cavity 914. The opening 912 can be about 1 mm in
diameter. The opening 912 can be reached from the nose or the
mouth.
[0006] The Eustachian tube 910 is normally closed, but it can open
periodically, such as when swallowing or yawning. In this way, the
Eustachian tube 910 acts like a pressure-equalizing valve for the
middle ear. The Eustachian tube 910 also serves to drain mucus
produced by the lining of the middle ear 902. Infections or
allergies can cause the Eustachian tube 910 to become swollen and
lead to Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD), which is a common
problem for both children and adults. When the Eustachian tube 910
is obstructed, due to anatomical or inflammatory reasons, the
middle ear 092 is not able to equalize pressure, which can lead to
negative pressure and fluid build-up. ETD can lead to many
ontological problems, such as chronic otitis media, refraction of
the tympanic membrane, hearing loss, and cholesteatoma.
[0007] According, there is a continuing need for devices and
methods for treating the Eustachian tube.
[0008] In addition, functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) is
performed by ear, nose, and throat (ENT) surgeons to treat patients
with chronic sinusitis. FESS can improve sinus drainage by
enlarging drainage pathways, which is often achieved through
surgical removal of nasal structures and expansion of the sinus
ostia, the natural openings of the sinus. While
[0009] FESS involves removal of some existing structures, ENT
surgeons work to preserve the lining of the sinus, called mucosa,
because it plays an important role in drainage. Potential risks to
undergoing traditional sinus surgery include but not limited to
excessive bleeding, cerebrospinal fluid leak, intraorbital
complications, and a failure to resolve sinus conditions. Topical
corticosteroids are commonly prescribed for chronic sinusitis (or
rhinosinusitis), which is the inflammation of the paranasal
sinuses. Oral steroid medications are also prescribed routinely in
rhinology-oriented practices for patients with nasal polyps or
chronic hyperplastic rhinosinusitis. However, the use of systemic
steroids has the potential for steroid-related complications, such
as aseptic necrosis of the femoral head, calcium demineralization,
posterior cataract formation, mood disorders, and difficulty in
controlling blood glucose levels in diabetic patients.
[0010] Accordingly, there is a continuing need for devices and
methods for treating the sinuses.
SUMMARY
[0011] Described herein are devices and methods for treating a
Eustachian tube or a sinus cavity.
[0012] In various aspects, a polymeric stent for treating the
Eustachian tube comprises a tubular scaffold configured for
implantation in the Eustachian tube. The tubular scaffold has a
polymer substrate. The tubular scaffold includes a proximal segment
and a distal segment. The proximal segment includes radially
deformable rings. The distal segment includes radially deformable
rings having a greater radial strength than the radially deformable
rings of the proximal segment.
[0013] In various aspects, a system for delivering a stent in the
Eustachian tube comprises a catheter including a body and a balloon
at the end of the body. The balloon is configured to carry a stent
for delivery through a nasopharynx cavity and into a Eustachian
tube of a patient.
[0014] In various aspects, a catheter for treating the Eustachian
tube or the sinus cavity comprises a body, a balloon at the end of
the body, and a coating on the balloon. The balloon is configured
to pass into a sinus cavity or into a Eustachian tube of a patient.
The coating includes at least one therapeutic agent.
[0015] In various aspects, a method of treating the Eustachian tube
with a stent comprises placing a stent in a Eustachian tube of a
patient.
[0016] In various aspects, a method of treating a Eustachian tube
or sinus cavity with a balloon comprises inflating a balloon in a
Eustachian tube or a sinus cavity of a patient, and allowing at
least one therapeutic agent to transfer from the balloon to a wall
of the
[0017] Eustachian tube or the sinus cavity.
[0018] The features and advantages of the invention will be more
readily understood from the following detailed description which
should be read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0019] FIG. 1 is a plan view showing an exemplary polymeric stent
for use in the Eustachian tube.
[0020] FIGS. 2 and 3 are detail views showing an exemplary portion
of the stent.
[0021] FIG. 4A is an isometric view showing an exemplary precursor
tube which can be used to make the tube of FIG. 4B.
[0022] FIGS. 4B and 4C are an isometric views showing exemplary
tubes which can be used to make a stent.
[0023] FIG. 5 is an isometric view showing an exemplary stent.
[0024] FIG. 6 is a plan view showing a stent on an exemplary
delivery catheter.
[0025] FIG. 7 is a plan view showing an exemplary gauge
catheter.
[0026] FIGS. 8 and 9 are plan views showing a stent on exemplary
delivery catheters.
[0027] FIG. 10 is a plan view showing an exemplary guidewire for
use in the Eustachian tube.
[0028] FIGS. 11 and 12 are partial section views showing exemplary
end segments of a guidewire.
[0029] FIG. 13 is a section view of a portion of a stent, showing a
polymer substrate and a coating.
[0030] FIGS. 14-16 are partial section views showing exemplary
coated balloon catheters that can be used to carry stent.
[0031] FIGS. 17 and 18 are schematic views showing exemplary
coatings for coated balloon catheters.
[0032] FIG. 19 is a section view showing a human ear and an
exemplary probe placed in the ear canal.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS
[0033] The terms "biodegradable," "bioresorbable," "bioabsorbable,"
and "bioerodable" are used interchangeably herein and refer to
polymers that are capable of being completely degraded and/or
eroded into different degrees of molecular levels when exposed to
bodily fluids such as blood and can be gradually resorbed,
absorbed, and/or eliminated by the body. The processes of breaking
down and absorption of the polymer can be caused by, for example,
by hydrolysis and metabolic processes.
[0034] The term "biostable" refers to polymers that are not
biodegradable.
[0035] Referring now in more detail to the exemplary drawings for
purposes of illustrating embodiments, wherein like reference
numerals designate corresponding or like elements among the several
views, there is shown in FIG. 1 exemplary stent 10 configured to be
implanted in the Eustachian tube. Stent 10 includes a plurality of
radially deformable rings 12 which are arranged axially to form a
tubular scaffold. Each ring 12 comprising a series of ring struts
14. Each ring strut 14 is connected by hinge 16 to adjacent ring
strut 14. Each ring 12 is connected by links 18 to adjacent ring
12. Rings 12 at opposite ends of stent 10 are further identified by
the letters "P" and "D". All hinges 16 are configured to bend
during crimping and deployment of stent 10. During crimping and
deployment, hinges 16 mechanically deform to allow a change in
overall outer diameter 20 of each ring 12.
[0036] Ring struts 14, hinges 16, and links 18 are constructed of
polymer substrate 150 (see, for example, FIG. 13). The strength and
elasticity of the polymer substrate allows stent 10 to be crimped
to a reduced configuration, and then deployed to an enlarged
configuration so that it makes contact with surrounding tissue.
Contact with surrounding tissue allows the stent to remain in place
within the Eustachian tube and allows for optional delivery of a
therapeutic agent from the stent directly to the tissue.
[0037] Although only nine rings 12 are illustrated in FIG. 1, it is
to be understood that stent 10 can have a greater number of rings
12 arranged axially along the overall length of stent 10. The
number of rings 12 may depend upon the desired overall length 21 of
stent 10. The overall length of stent 10 can be selected based on
the region of the Eustachian tube which is to be treated. It is to
be understood that FIG. 1 is a simplified view of rings 12. Each
ring 12 forms a loop that encircles central axis 50.
[0038] Stent 10 is illustrated with W-shaped closed cells arranged
in an offset brick pattern. It is to be understood that that the
stent pattern is not limited to what is depicted. The stent pattern
refers to the arrangement, and orientation of rings and of the
various struts, hinges, and links. For example, the stent can have
diamond-shaped closed cells or V-shaped closed cells. The stent can
have any of the stent patterns described in U.S. Pat. Nos.
7,476,245 and 8,002,817. The stent can have virtually any stent
pattern suitable for a polymer substrate.
[0039] In an exemplary embodiment, overall length 21 matches the
length of the bony part of the Eustachian tube. In adult persons,
the length of the bony part is approximately 10 mm, so overall
length 21 can be from 7 mm to 14 mm, or from 11 mm to 14 mm, or
about 10 mm.
[0040] When used as a modifier preceding a numerical value, the
term "about" means plus or minus 10% of the numerical value. For
example, "about 10 mm" means from 9 mm to 11 mm, and "about 20 mm"
means from 18 mm to 22 mm.
[0041] In an exemplary embodiment, overall length 21 matches the
length of the cartilaginous part of the Eustachian tube. In adult
persons, the length of the cartilaginous part is approximately 20
mm, so overall length 21 can be from 17 mm to 25 mm, or from 18 mm
to 23 mm, or about 20 mm.
[0042] In an exemplary embodiment, overall length 21 matches the
length of the bony part plus the cartilaginous part of the
Eustachian tube. For example, overall length 21 can be from about
12 mm to about 38 mm, or 31 mm to 38 mm, or about 35 mm.
[0043] In any of the above embodiments herein, overall outer
diameter 20 of each ring 12 is from about 3 mm to about 4 mm before
crimping of stent 10 and/or after deployment of stent 10.
[0044] In an exemplary embodiment, overall length 21 is about 10
mm, and stent 10 is centered in the middle segment of the
cartilaginous segment of the Eustachian tube. With a Eustachian
tube that is about 35 mm in length in most adults, the
cartilaginous segment can be about 20 mm in length. With this
centered placement of stent 10 in a cartilaginous segment of about
20 mm, stent 10 would not extend into a 5 mm segment of the
cartilaginous segment that is closest to the opening 912 (FIG. 19)
of the Eustachian tube. That 5 mm segment would be free to open and
close without any risk of interference from stent 10. In an
exemplary embodiment, overall length 21 is about 10 mm and distal
edge 25 of stent 10 is placed at the junction between the bony and
cartilaginous segments of the Eustachian tube that is about 35 mm
in length. With this off-center placement of stent 10 in a
cartilaginous segment of about 20 mm, stent 10 would not extend
into a 10 mm segment of the cartilaginous segment that is closest
to the opening 912 (FIG. 19) of the Eustachian tube. That 10 mm
segment would be free to open and close without any risk of
interference from stent 10.
[0045] As shown in FIG. 1, stent 10 includes proximal segment 22
and distal segment 24. Proximal segment 22 abuts distal segment 24.
Proximal segment 22 begins at end ring 12P at one end (proximal end
23) of stent 10. Distal segment 24 begins at end ring 12D at the
opposite end (distal end 25) of stent 10.
[0046] As used herein, the term "proximal segment" is the portion
of stent 10 that is intended to be closest to the opening 912 (FIG.
19) of the Eustachian tube when stent 10 is implanted. The term
"distal segment" is the portion of stent 10 that is intended to be
closest to the tympanic membrane 908 (FIG. 19) when stent 10 is
implanted.
[0047] In some embodiments, proximal segment 22 and distal segment
24 are each half of the overall length 21 of stent 10. For example,
proximal segment 22 can be about 5 mm in length and distal segment
can be about 5 mm in length. As a further example, proximal segment
22 can be about 10 mm in length and distal segment can be about 10
mm in length. In alternative embodiments, proximal segment 22 and
distal segment 24 are unequal in length.
[0048] Keeping the Eustachian tube open all the time can cause
complications. For example, patulous Eustachian tube is a disorder
where the Eustachian tube stays open and does not close normally.
When the Eustachian tube stays open, the person experiences
autophony, the hearing of sounds generated by the body, such as
breathing, one's own voice, and heartbeat.
[0049] Thus, in some embodiments, distal segment 24 has a greater
radial strength than proximal segment 22. Lower radial strength of
proximal segment 22 can encourage natural opening and closing of
portions of the cartilaginous segment of the Eustachian tube. As
used herein, radial strength refers to the ability of rings 12 to
resist radially inward compression forces that can reduce the
diameter of the rings 12. For example, rings 12 within distal
segment 24 can be configured to have a greater resistance to
radially inward compression forces than rings 12 within proximal
segment 22. This length-dependent radial strength can be
accomplished by creating discontinuities 27 in the rings 12. For
example, discontinuities 27 can be formed in one or more rings 12
within proximal segment 22 while discontinuities 27 are absent from
all rings 12 within distal segment 24. As shown in FIG. 2,
exemplary discontinuity 27 can be in the form of a full cut that
passes completely across full width 26 and full thickness 28 of
portion 30 of ring 12. As used herein, the term "thickness" refers
to a dimension in a radial direction that is perpendicular to
central axis 50 of the stent.
[0050] Exemplary discontinuity 27 can be a partial cut. As used
herein, a partial cut is a cut that passes only partially across
any one or both of full width 26 and full thickness 28. For
example, as shown in FIG. 3, exemplary discontinuity 27 can be in
the form of a partial cut that passes partially across full width
26 and full thickness 28. Alternatively, the partial cut can pass
completely across full width 26 but does not pass completely across
full thickness 28. Alternatively, the partial cut can pass
completely across full thickness 28 but does not pass completely
across full width 26. Depth 31 of the cut can be sufficient to
enable ring 12 to break across full width 26 and full thickness 28
at discontinuity 27 during crimping of stent 10 onto a delivery
catheter and/or during expansion of stent 10 when deploying and
implanting stent 10 in the Eustachian tube. For example, depth 31
of a partial cut can be at least 30%, at least 50%, or at least 80%
of full width 26 and/or full thickness 28.
[0051] In some embodiments, discontinuities 27 in the form of full
or partial cuts are formed at the time when rings 12 are created
during an in injection molding process or a casting process. In
such cases, it may not be necessary to remove or cut in material
from the polymer substrate in order to form discontinuity 27.
[0052] Alternatively, discontinuities 27 in the form of full or
partial cuts are formed after rings 12 are created. In such cases,
parts of the polymer substrate can be removed or cut in order to
form discontinuity 27. Parts can be removed or cut using a laser
device or mechanical knife.
[0053] Portion 30 illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3 can be one of the
ring struts 14 or one of the hinges 16 of a ring. Although only one
ring 12 of proximal segment 22 is illustrated as having a single
discontinuity 27, it is to be understood that all or any number of
the rings of stent 10 can have one or more discontinuities. For
example, all rings 12 of proximal segment 22 can have
discontinuities 27, while discontinuities are absent from all rings
12 of distal segment 24. The number of discontinuities 27 can
decrease with increasing distance from proximal end 23. For
example, end ring 12P of proximal segment 22 can have a greater
number of discontinuities 27 than another ring 12 of proximal
segment 22. As a further example, there can be a total of three
discontinuities 27 in end ring 12P while there is only
discontinuity 27 in the ring adjacent to distal segment 24.
[0054] In some embodiments, distal segment 24 is narrower than
proximal segment 22 to accommodate to some extent the natural shape
of the Eustachian tube. In this context, the term "narrower" means
that one or more rings 12 within distal segment 24 have a smaller
outer diameter 20 than one or more rings 12 within proximal segment
22. This difference in outer diameter 20 exists in stent 10 before
stent 10 is crimped onto a delivery catheter and after stent 10 is
deployed in the Eustachian tube. A narrower proximal segment 22 can
encourage natural opening and closing of the Eustachian tube.
[0055] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 4B, stent 10 can be
made from tube 40 which has a greater outer diameter 41 at one end
as compared to the opposite end. Tube segment 42 with the smaller
outer diameter will eventually become proximal segment 22 of stent
10, while tube segment 44 with the larger outer diameter will
eventually become distal segment 24 of stent 10. A cutting tool,
such as a laser device or a mechanical knife, can be used to cut
material away from tube 40 to form rings 12 (with or without
discontinuities 27) of proximal and distal segments 22 and 24.
Cutting using a laser can be performed as described in U.S.
Publication No. 2007/0283552 A1.
[0056] Tube 40 can be formed by extruding polymer substrate
material out of a die to form a precursor tube having a uniform
outer diameter. Exemplary precursor tube 34 is shown in FIG. 4A.
Next, precursor tube 34 can be radially expanded by a blow molding
process which increases the internal air pressure within the
precursor tube while the precursor tube is heated. Blow molding can
be performed as described in U.S. Publication No. 2011/0066222
[0057] Al. The internal pressure, temperature, and/or other
parameter can be adjusted during the blow molding process to
achieve a tube having a length-dependent outer diameter, such as
tube 40 in FIG. 4B. Before blow molding, the polymer molecule
chains in precursor tube 34 can have orientations that are
preferentially aligned in axial direction 36. The preferential
axial orientation can arise from the extrusion process. Radial
expansion of the precursor tube, such as during a blow molding
process, will induce the polymer molecule chains to have a
preferential orientation that is less axial and more aligned in
circumferential direction 38. As used herein, "less axial"
encompasses a preferential orientation of polymer molecule that is
any one of circumferential (in the direction of arrow 38), mostly
circumferential, partially circumferential, and partially axial (in
the direction of arrow 36). Orientation of polymer molecule chains
can be determined by polarized light microscopy.
[0058] Alignment in circumferential direction 38 is associated with
greater radial strength. Due to less radial expansion of precursor
tube 34 (FIG. 4A) to form tube segment 42 (FIG. 4B), the polymer
molecule chains in rings 12 within proximal segment 22 of stent 10
can retain a preferentially axial orientation. In comparison, due
to greater radial expansion of precursor tube 34 (FIG. 4A) to form
tube segment 44 (FIG. 4B), the polymer molecule chains in rings 12
within distal segment 24 of stent 10 can be induced to have a
preferentially circumferential orientation that increases the
strength of ring struts 14 in circumferential direction 38 and
enables rings 12 within distal segment 24 to have greater radial
strength than rings 12 within proximal segment 22.
[0059] In some embodiments, rings 12 can be formed, such as by
cutting tube 40, so that full width 26 of rings 12 within distal
segment 44 is greater than full width 26 of rings 12 within
proximal segment 42. This difference in full width 26 among rings
12 can enable distal segment 24 to have greater radial strength
than proximal segment 22.
[0060] As shown in FIG. 4C, tube 40 can be formed, such as by
injection molding or casting or extrusion, so that wall thickness
42 of tube 40 is greater at tube segment 44 than at tube segment
42. Rings 12 can be formed, such as by cutting tube 40, so that
full thickness 28 of rings 12 within distal segment 44 is greater
than full thickness 28 of rings 12 within proximal segment 42. This
difference in full thickness 28 among rings 12 can enable distal
segment 24 to have greater radial strength than proximal segment
22.
[0061] Any of the ways for enabling distal segment 24 to have
greater radial strength than proximal segment 22, as described
above, can be combined to construct stent 10. For example, as
compared to rings 12 within proximal segment 22, rings 12 within
distal segment 24 can have any one or a combination of the
following features: (1) lesser number or total absence of
discontinuities 27, (2) polymer molecule chains having a
preferential orientation that is less axial, (3) full widths 26
that are greater in size, and (4) full thicknesses 28 that are
greater size. Any one or a combination of features (1), (3) and (4)
can be achieved with three-dimensional printing methods in which an
additive process lays down or bonds together successive layers to
form the desired shape for tube 40 or stent 10. As shown in FIG. 5,
stent 10 can also be a tubular scaffold formed from a tubular braid
of filaments 46. Each filament 46 has polymer substrate 150 (see,
for example, FIG. 13). Variations along overall length 21 of braid
characteristics of filaments 46 enable stent 10 to have distal
segment 24 that has a greater radial strength than proximal segment
22. Braid characteristics include braid angle, outer diameter 20,
and filament density. The braid angle is acute angle 48 measured
from filament 46 to a line parallel to central axis 50. For
example, distal segment 24 can have greater braid angles than
proximal segment 22. Filament density can be in terms of weight of
filaments 46 per unit area of stent 10 or weight of filaments 46
per unit length of stent 10. For example, distal segment 24 can
have greater filament density than proximal segment 22.
[0062] It will be appreciated from the forgoing descriptions that
stent 10 can have axially varying load bearing mechanical
properties along the length of the Eustachian tube. This applies to
stent 10 of FIGS. 1-3 and 5 and to stents made from tubes 40 of
FIGS. 4B and 4C. The axial variability can be introduced by any one
or a combination of parameters, such as: (a) polymer backbone
architecture; (b) polymer molecular weight, including random versus
block; (c) polymer processing for different degree of chain
orientation in the axial versus circumferential directions; (d)
dimension of the strut width and thickness; and (e) introduction of
varying number of discontinuities per unit length.
[0063] For example, in a stent according to FIGS. 1-3, axial
variability in load bearing mechanical properties can arise from a
varying number of discontinuities along the axial length of the
stent. For example, proximal segment 22 of the stent can have a
greater number of discontinuities 27 than distal segment 24 so that
distal segment 24 has greater radial strength than proximal segment
22.
[0064] For example, in a stent made from tube 40 in FIG. 4B, axial
variability in load bearing mechanical properties can arise from
processing for different degree of polymer chain orientation in the
axial direction versus circumferential direction. For example,
proximal segment 22 of the stent can have a polymer substrate in
which the preferential polymer chain orientation is more axial than
the preferential polymer chain orientation of the polymer substrate
of the distal segment 24, so that distal segment 24 has greater
radial strength than proximal segment 22.
[0065] For example, in the stent made from tube 40 in FIG. 4C,
axial variability in load bearing mechanical properties can arise
from a dimension, such as width and/or thickness, of a stent
structural element, such as struts 14, hinges 16, and links 18. For
example, proximal segment 22 of the stent can have struts 14,
hinges 16, and/or links 18 which are smaller in width and/or
thickness than struts 14, hinges 16, and/or links 18 of distal
segment 24, so that distal segment 24 has greater radial strength
than proximal segment 22.
[0066] Axial variability in load bearing mechanical properties can
also be introduced in the stent by having a variation the molecular
weight of the polymer substrate, which may be a random copolymer
and a block copolymer. For example, proximal segment 22 of the
stent can have a substrate made of a first polymer, and distal
segment 24 of the stent can have a substrate made of a second
polymer that is greater in molecular weight than the first polymer,
so that distal segment 24 has greater radial strength than proximal
segment 22. In some embodiments, the first polymer can be PLLA (or
other lactic acid polymer or a polymer based on PLA) having a first
molecular weight and the second polymer can be PLLA (or the same
lactic acid polymer or the same polymer based on PLA) having a
second molecular weight greater than the first molecular weight.
Alternatively, the first polymer and the second polymer can have a
different chemical composition. Axial variability in load bearing
mechanical properties can also be introduced in the stent by a
variation in the polymer backbone architecture along the axial
length of the stent. For example, proximal segment 22 of the stent
can have a first polymer backbone architecture, and distal segment
24 of the stent can have a second polymer backbone architecture
that provides distal segment 24 with greater radial strength than
proximal segment 22.
[0067] The polymer backbone architecture may refer to the way in
which components of a polymer are organized and/or may refer to the
proportion of components of the polymer. For example, proximal
segment 22 of the stent can have a polymer substrate made of a
first lactic acid polymer, and distal segment 24 of the stent can
have a polymer substrate made of a second lactic acid polymer that
provides distal segment 24 with greater radial strength than
proximal segment 22. The first and second lactic acid polymers can
both be PLLA-co-PCL (a copolymer of poly(L-lactide) and
poly(caprolactone)) but with different architecture. The proportion
of PLLA is greater in the second lactic acid polymer (used for
distal segment 24) than in the first lactic acid polymer (used in
proximal segment 22). The proportion of PCL is lower in the second
lactic acid polymer (used for distal segment 24) than in the first
lactic acid polymer (used in proximal segment 22). PCL has a lower
elastic modulus than PLLA, which results in distal segment 24
having greater radial strength than proximal segment 22.
[0068] In the above example, PLLA is referred to as the base
component, and PCL is referred to as the dopant. PCL can be
replaced with any other suitable dopant having a lower elastic
modulus than the base component. For example, the dopant can be
poly(D-lactide) (PDLA), which has a lower elastic modulus than
PLLA. Also, PLLA can be replaced with other suitable base
components. The base component need not be bioabsorbable. For
example, the base component can be a biostable polymer such as
polyurethanes (SPU), polypropylene (PP), and polyetherimide block
copolymers (e.g., PEBAX (R)).
[0069] As used herein, the "base component" by definition has a
greater elastic modulus than the "dopant." The proportion of any
base component (e.g., PLLA or other) in the polymer used to make
distal segment 24 (which could be implanted in the bony segment of
the Eustachian tube) can within the range of about 50% to about
95%, with the dopant (e.g., PCL, PDLA, or other) having the
remaining percentage. The proportion of the base component can
instead be in the range of about 60% to about 95%, or about 70% to
about 95%. In addition or alternatively, the proportion of any
dopant (e.g., PCL, PDLA, or other) in the polymer used to the
proximal segment 22 (which could be implanted in the cartilaginous
segment of the Eustachian tube) can be within the range of about
50% to about 95%, with the base component (e.g., PLLA or other)
having the remaining percentage. The proportion of the dopant can
instead be in the range of about 60% to about 95%, or about 70% to
about 95%.
[0070] In addition or alternatively, the polymers used to make
distal segment 24 (which could be implanted in the bony segment of
the Eustachian tube) and the proximal segment 22 (which could be
implanted in the cartilaginous segment of the Eustachian tube) can
have the exemplary characteristics shown in TABLE I. The
characteristics of polymer substrate 150 are in terms of Tm (melt
temperature), Tg (glass transition temperature) and percent
crystallinity. Distal segment 24 could have a greater radial
strength than proximal segment 22 when polymer substrate 150 of
distal segment 24 has one or more of the following three properties
relative to polymer substrate 150 of proximal segment 22: (1)
greater Tm, (2) greater Tg, and (2) greater percent
crystallinity.
TABLE-US-00001 TABLE I Percent Tm Tg Crystallinity Polymer
150.degree. C. to 250.degree. C. 45.degree. C. to 100.degree. C.
25% to 70% substrate 150 of distal segment 24 Polymer 50.degree. C.
to 250.degree. C. -60.degree. C. to 65.degree. 0% to 70% substrate
150 (*see note) of proximal segment 22 *Note: No Tm if polymer
substrate 150 is an amorphous polymer.
[0071] Proximal segment 22 and distal segment 24 can be formed
separately to achieve the desired polymer characteristics or
backbone architecture for each segment. After each segment is
formed independently, proximal segment 22 and distal segment 24 are
joined together such as with the use of an adhesive, heat, or
interlocking structures.
[0072] Alternatively, proximal segment 22 and distal segment 24 can
be formed simultaneously to form a unitary structure having no
structural seam or joint between the two segments while each
segment has its own polymer characteristics or backbone
architecture. This can be accomplished, for example, by a
three-dimensional printing process in which particles of polymer
substrate 150 for proximal segment 22 are deposited on one area of
a three-dimensional print bed, and particles of polymer substrate
150 for distal segment 24 are deposited on an adjacent area of the
three-dimensional print bed. During the bonding process, particles
for proximal segment 22 are bonded to each other and are also
bonded to adjacent particles for distal segment 24.
[0073] As shown in FIG. 6, exemplary delivery catheter 100 can be
used to carry and deploy stent 10 in the Eustachian tube. Delivery
catheter 100 can be inserted into the Eustachian tube via the
nasopharynx cavity 914 (see FIG. 19). The total axial length of
delivery catheter 100 can be 20 cm to 50 cm. Catheter 100 includes
balloon 102 at the end of catheter body 104. While balloon 102 is
in a folded state, stent 10 can be crimped to a reduced diameter
onto balloon 102. Balloon 102 is inflated to deploy stent 10 to an
enlarged diameter after delivery catheter 100 is inserted into the
Eustachian tube and after it has been determined that stent 10 is
positioned at the desired region of the Eustachian tube.
[0074] Stent 10 can include optically visible marks to help
determine whether stent 10 is at the desired region of the
Eustachian tube. For example, stent 10 can include stent marks 106,
which are depicted schematically as round dots. Stent marks 106 are
periodically spaced apart from each other along the length of stent
10. Since the length of the Eustachian tube in adults is fairly
constant and about 35 mm in total length (the bony segment being
about one third of the total length and the cartilaginous segment
being about two thirds of the total length) stent marks 106 can
function like a visual depth gauge that can indicate to a physician
the position of stent 10. Stent marks 106 can be applied before or
after stent 10 is crimped onto a delivery device. When applied
after stent 10 is crimped, each stent mark 106 can be in the form
of a band that extends around the entire outer circumference of
stent 10. Application of each stent mark 106 can be precisely
controlled such that each band indicates a predefined length of
stent 10. For example, one stent mark 106 can indicate a length of
the stent as being 2 mm, and the next stent mark can indicate a
length of the stent as being 4 mm. Stent marks 106 can include a
thin material that is coated on the polymer substrate of the stent.
The thin material can have a color that contrasts with areas of
stent 10 which surround stent marks 106. For example, stent marks
106 can be black or have color that is darker than a polymer
substrate that is optically translucent. Additionally or
alternatively, stent marks 106 can include an etched mark on the
surface of the polymer substrate. The etched mark, which can be
produced by a laser or other method, can be opaque and have a level
of opacity that makes it readily visible and distinguishable from
areas of stent 10 which surround stent marks 106. For example,
stent marks 106 which are etched can create a spot or region that
has a greater opacity than a polymer substrate that is optically
translucent.
[0075] Stent marks 106 are sized to be readily visible and
distinguishable from areas of stent 10 which surround stent marks
106 when viewed using an endoscope or other imaging device within
the Eustachian tube. For example, stent marks 106 can have a size
that is at least 0.2 mm, about 0.2 mm, at least 0.3 mm, about 0.3
mm, at least 0.4 mm, or about 0.4 mm. Additionally or
alternatively, each stent mark 106 can have the shape of a symbol
(such as a circle, square, rectangle, alphanumeric character, or
combination thereof) that distinguishes the stent mark from
adjacent stent marks.
[0076] Any of the stent marks described above can be equally spaced
apart from each other. For example, stent marks 106 can be placed
on each ring 12 of stent 10. As a further example, stent marks 106
can be placed on each ring 12 and each link 18 of stent 10.
[0077] In addition or as an alternative to stent marks 106, a
method for implanting stent 10 can include the following sequence
of steps to minimize the risk of contact with the tympanic
membrane. Gauge catheter 108, shown in FIG. 7, includes end segment
110 configured to emit light. Gauge catheter 108 does not carry
stent 10 and does not need to have a balloon. Gauge catheter 108
can have fiber optic wire 112 configured to deliver light and
receive image signals. Fiber optic wire 112 can be coupled to
camera 114 configured to provide an image taken from within the
Eustachian tube. Gauge catheter 108 is introduced through the
nasopharynx cavity and into the Eustachian tube to measure travel
depth that is needed to place stent 10 at a desired distance away
from the tympanic membrane. After the travel depth is determined,
gauge catheter 108 is withdrawn from the Eustachian tube. Delivery
catheter 100, which carries stent 10, will then be introduced
through the nasopharynx cavity and into the Eustachian tube
according to the pre-determined travel depth.
[0078] As shown in FIG. 8, delivery catheter 100, which carries
stent 10, can include end segment 120 configured to emit light as a
safety feature. Light coming from the tip of the catheter can be
used to determine when the tip of delivery catheter 100 is near the
tympanic membrane so that forward movement of delivery catheter 100
can be stopped to avoid contact with the tympanic membrane. In
addition or alternatively, metallic band 121 can be attached to the
catheter tip as a safety feature.
[0079] For example, as shown in FIG. 19, probe 916 is located in
the ear canal, on the other side of the tympanic membrane. Probe
916 can have a light sensor and/or a metal detector that detects
light from the catheter tip and/or detects metal. When the light
and/or metal is detected, the probe can generate an alarm that
alerts a physician when forward movement of delivery catheter 100
should be stopped. For example, probe 916 can be configured such
that it generates the alarm when the catheter tip has traversed
through the Eustachian tube and has begun to enter the middle ear
where the tympanic membrane is located.
[0080] In addition or alternatively, delivery catheter 100 can have
fiber optic wire 122 configured to deliver light and receive image
signals. Fiber optic wire 122 can be coupled to camera 124
configured to provide an image taken from within the Eustachian
tube. The image is used to provide visual orientation of stent 10
during delivery of stent 10 into the Eustachian tube.
[0081] In addition or alternatively, end segment 120 of delivery
catheter 100 can have soft, collapsible spring 126 coupled to
indicator device 128, as shown in FIG. 9. Spring 126 is a safety
feature that enables detection of when contact with tissue occurs.
Upon tissue contact, spring 126 collapses to prevent damage to the
tissue. The collapse of spring 126 is detected by indicator device
128 which generates an alarm that alerts a physician when forward
movement of delivery catheter 100 should be stopped.
[0082] In some embodiments, end segment 110 of gauge catheter 108
has a soft, collapsible spring coupled to indicator device similar
to that described for delivery catheter 100 in FIG. 9.
[0083] As shown in FIG. 10, exemplary guidewire 130 can be used to
guide delivery catheter 100 into the Eustachian tube. Guidewire 130
can have an outer diameter 131 that is up to 1 mm, or about 1 mm.
Guidewire 130 is sized to fit within internal passageway 105 within
delivery catheter 100. Typically, guidewire 130 is placed within
the Eustachian tube. Then guidewire 130 functions like a stationary
track over which delivery catheter 100 travels. Delivery catheter
100 is pushed forward into the Eustachian tube as delivery catheter
100 slides over guidewire 130.
[0084] In some embodiments, guidewire 130 includes any one or a
combination of the same safety features (e.g., light emitted from
the tip, a metallic band, fiber optic wire and camera, and soft
spring) that were described above for delivery catheter 100.
[0085] Guidewire 130 includes wire marks 132 visible on the surface
of guidewire 130. Wire marks 132 are arranged periodically along
full axial length 134 of end segment 136 of guidewire 130. In use,
guidewire 130 would be placed in the Eustachian tube adjacent to or
partially within an endoscope or other imaging device configured to
take an image of end segment 136 in relation to surfaces of the
Eustachian tube which surround end segment 136. Based on an image
taken by the endoscope or other device from within the Eustachian
tube, wire marks 132 would be used to determine the length of the
treatment zone of the
[0086] Eustachian tube. The overall length of the stent 10 can be
selected to be about the same as the length of the treatment zone.
For example, the length of the treatment zone may be determined to
be about 15 mm, so stent 10 having overall length 21 that is about
15 mm may be selected. By determining the length of the treatment
zone before stent deployment, it would be possible to select a
stent having an overall length that is as small as possible in
order to minimize the risk of interfering with the natural function
of other portions of the Eustachian tube.
[0087] In FIG. 10, wire marks 132 are in the form of a connected
series of bands having varying shades or varying colors that allow
each wire mark 132 to be distinguished from adjacent wire mark 132.
Each band encircles end segment 136. From an image taken by an
imaging device (e.g., an endoscope) from within the Eustachian
tube, the variations in shade or color can enable a physician to
select a particular band within or adjacent the treatment zone. The
selected band would be where end segment 120 of delivery catheter
100 would be placed prior to expansion of balloon 102 to deploy
stent 10 in the Eustachian tube. The shade or color of the
particular band selected by the physician allows for identification
of the same band when delivery catheter 100 is being pushed over
guidewire 130 while guidewire 130 remains stationary. Movement of
delivery catheter 100 can be stopped when end segment 120 of
delivery catheter 100 reaches the particular wire mark 132 (e.g.,
band) which was previously selected.
[0088] In the illustrated embodiment, wire marks 132 are in the
form of bands of equal, pre-determined axial size 133 but of
varying shades or varying colors that allow wire marks 132 to be
distinguished from each other. With advance knowledge of the axial
size of each band, a physician can gauge the length of the
treatment zone of the Eustachian tube. For example, axial size 133
for all bands can be the same axial dimension. That axial dimension
can be from 1 mm to 5 mm, from 1 mm to 4 mm, from 1 mm to 2 mm,
from 1 mm to 2 mm, about 2 mm, or about 1 mm. In alternative
embodiments, the bands can be unequal in axial dimension.
[0089] Wire marks 132 can be exclusively present in end segment
136. The remaining segment of guidewire 130 need not have any of
the wire marks. Full axial length 134, in which wire marks 132 are
present, can be at least as long as the Eustachian tube. For
example, full axial length 134 of end segment 136 can be from 35 mm
to 65 mm, or from 35 mm to 45 mm, or about 35 mm.
[0090] Wire marks 132 can include a thin material that is applied
on the surface of guidewire 130. Wire marks 132 can be applied by a
printing process, a painting process, or an adhesive. The thin
material can have a color that contrasts with areas of guidewire
130 which surround wire marks 132. Additionally or alternatively,
wire marks 132 can include an etched mark on the surface of
guidewire 130. The etched mark, which can be produced by a laser or
other method, can be opaque and have a level of opacity that makes
it readily visible and distinguishable from areas of guidewire 130
which surround wire marks 132. Additionally or alternatively, each
wire mark 132 can have a color or opacity that distinguishes the
wire mark from adjacent wire marks. Additionally or alternatively,
each wire mark 132 can have a shape (such as a circle, square,
rectangle, alphanumeric character, or combination thereof) that
distinguishes the wire mark from adjacent wire marks. Additionally
or alternatively, wire marks 132 can be periodically arranged so
that all the wire marks are equally spaced apart from each other.
Additionally or alternatively, wire marks 132 can be periodically
arranged so that at least some of the wire marks are equal in size
and abut each other.
[0091] As shown in FIGS. 11 to 12, guidewire end segment 140 of
guidewire 130 can include a stabilization feature 142.
Stabilization feature 142 can be present on guidewire 130 having
the wire marks described above.
[0092] In FIG. 11, exemplary stabilization feature 142 is in the
form of a compressed spring which is confined within tubular sheath
144. Spring 142 can be made of a superelastic nickel-titanium
alloy, such as Nitinol, or other elastic material. Guidewire 130
and sheath 144 are pushed forward together into the Eustachian
tube. When guidewire end segment 140 has reached a desired location
in the Eustachian tube (such the bony segment or a location beyond
a treatment zone), sheath 144 is pulled backwards away from
guidewire end segment 140, which allows spring 142 to expand and
engage the surrounding surface of the
[0093] Eustachian tube. When expanded, spring 142 prevents or
inhibits subsequent axial movement of guidewire 130. Next, stent 10
can be implanted according to processes previously described for
tracking delivery catheter 100 over guidewire 130.
[0094] In FIG. 12, exemplary stabilization feature 142 is in the
form of an inflatable balloon. Guidewire 130 is pushed forward into
the Eustachian tube while inflatable balloon 142 is deflated. When
guidewire end segment 140 has reached a desired location in the
Eustachian tube (such the bony segment or a location beyond a
treatment zone), balloon 142 is inflated and expands by
introduction of fluid through fluid passageway 148 in guidewire
130. The inflated balloon engages the surrounding surface of the
Eustachian tube and prevents or inhibits subsequent axial movement
of guidewire 130. Next, stent 10 can be implanted according to
processes previously described for tracking delivery catheter 100
over guidewire 130.
[0095] As shown in FIG. 13, polymer substrate 150 of one or more
rings 12 is optionally covered by coating 152. FIG. 13 is a
cross-section view in a radial direction that is perpendicular to
central axis 50 of the stent. Stent coating 152 can be applied on
substrate 150 by spraying, immersion, or other method. Stent
coating 152 is applied on abluminal surface 154 and luminal surface
156 of substrate. The term "abluminal surface" refers to the
radially outward facing surface or the surface that faces away from
central axis 50 of stent 10. The term "luminal surface" refers to
the radially inward facing surface or the surface that faces toward
central axis 50 of stent 10. In alternative embodiments, stent
coating 152 can be present on abluminal surface 154 but not on
luminal surface 156 when it is desired to deliver a drug or other
therapeutic agent directly to inner surfaces of the Eustachian
tube.
[0096] In some embodiments, stent coating 152 is a polymer without
any drug or other therapeutic agent. In alternative embodiments,
stent coating 152 is a combination of a polymer and a therapeutic
agent. For example, the therapeutic agent can be everolimus. The
therapeutic agent can be an antihistamine, an anti-inflammatory
steroid, an antibiotic, a corticosteroid, or other type of
therapeutic agent. An antihistamine can inhibit mucous build up
that can clog the Eustachian tube. The polymer can be polylactide
(PLA) or a polymer based on PLA. Forms of PLA include
poly-L-lactide (PLLA) and poly-D-lactide (PDLA). Polymers based on
PLA include graft copolymers, block copolymers, such as AB
block-copolymers ("diblock-copolymers") or ABA block-copolymers
("triblock-copolymers"), and mixtures thereof.
[0097] Polymer substrate 150 can be a bioresorbable material. The
polymer substrate material can be polylactide (PLA) or a polymer
based on PLA, as was described above for stent coating 152.
Examples of materials for polymer substrate 150 include without
limitation poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA), poly(glycolic
acid), poly(glycolide) (PGA), poly(L-lactic acid), poly(L-lactide)
(PLLA), poly(D,L-lactic acid), and poly(caprolactone) (PCL)
copolymers. As a further example, polymer substrate 150 can be made
from a PLLA/PCL copolymer.
[0098] Polymer substrate 150 can be a biostable material. Example
materials for a biostable polymer substrate include without
limitation polyurethanes (SPU), polypropylene (PP), and
polyetherimide block copolymers (e.g., PEBAX (R)).
[0099] As discussed above, the polymer substrate of stent 10 can be
coated with a therapeutic agent. Additionally or alternatively,
polymer substrate 150 can incorporate a therapeutic agent. The
location of the therapeutic agent (whether in polymer substrate 150
and/or stent coating 152) can be controlled such that the drug is
present on the portion of stent 10 that will be in the
cartilaginous segment of the Eustachian tube. For example, the
therapeutic agent can be located within proximal segment 22 but not
distal segment 24. As a further example, the therapeutic agent can
be located within proximal segment 22 and distal segment 24 if both
of these segments will be implanted within the cartilaginous
segment of the Eustachian tube.
[0100] As discussed above, a stent can be implanted within the
Eustachian tube to deliver a therapeutic agent. A coating on a
balloon can also be used to deliver a therapeutic agent to the
Eustachian tube or a sinus cavity.
[0101] Balloon 102 of delivery catheter 100 can be coated with any
of the previously mentioned therapeutic agents for stent 10.
Balloon 102 can have coating 206 as described below.
[0102] In FIG. 14, coated balloon catheter 200 includes balloon 202
at the end of catheter body 204. Balloon coating 206 has been
applied onto the balloon substrate material, such as by spraying,
immersion, or other method. Balloon coating 206 includes a
therapeutic agent, such that balloon coating 206 can be the
therapeutic agent without a polymer carrier or balloon coating 206
can be a combination of the therapeutic agent and a polymer
carrier. As used herein, a polymer carrier is a matrix in which a
therapeutic agent is blended or carried. Balloon 202 can be
inflated to deliver a therapeutic agent without there being a stent
on balloon 202. Alternatively, balloon 202 can be inflated to
deliver a therapeutic agent while a stent (such as stent 10
described above) is deployed by balloon 202. Balloon coating 206
can be configured for any of (1) homogenous transfer of a
therapeutic agent to the entire sinus wall or the entire treatment
zone within Eustachian tube, (2) rapid release of high
concentrations of a therapeutic agent at the sinus wall or
Eustachian tube, and (3) controlled release of the therapeutic
agent for predetermined periods of time with little impact on
long-term healing.
[0103] In some embodiments, coated balloon 206 is configured for
insertion into the sinus to provide sinus dilation. Sinus dilation
can be performed alone or in combination with conventional sinus
surgery techniques as part of a functional endoscopic sinus surgery
(FESS) procedure. For some patients, balloon sinus dilation may be
an effective alternative to conventional sinus surgery. Balloon
sinus dilation can be an in-office procedure performed under local
anesthesia, in which coated balloon 206 is used to reshape the
sinus and nasal drainage pathway anatomy and thereby deliver
instant relief that lasts. Patients can return to normal activity
within forty-eight hours after the balloon sinus dilation
procedure.
[0104] Balloon coating 206 can be any therapeutic agent without a
polymer carrier. The therapeutic agent can be any of those
mentioned or referred to below. Absence of a polymer in balloon
coating 206 may decrease chronic inflammation. Absence of a polymer
carrier can be accomplished by applying the therapeutic agent
directly to the balloon substrate material. This can also be
accomplished by dissolving or dispersing the therapeutic agent in
solvent or other liquid, and then applying the resulting solution
or mixture onto the balloon substrate material. Thereafter, the
solvent or other liquid is allowed to evaporate and leave the
therapeutic agent on the balloon substrate.
[0105] Balloon coating 206 can be combination of any therapeutic
agent mentioned or referred to below and any polymer material
mentioned or referred to below. Such combination can be created by
dissolving or suspending the therapeutic agent in the polymer. Any
polymer known to be suitable for coating an inflatable balloon can
be used. Examples of polymers include polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP)
and other water soluble polymers, such as hydrogels.
[0106] In some embodiments, the therapeutic agent is a hydrophobic
drug that reduces inflammation in the sinus or the Eustachian tube.
Examples of such therapeutic agents include without limitation
mometasone furoate, dexamethasone, paclitaxel, and a derivative of
paclitaxel.
[0107] In some embodiments, the therapeutic agent is an
anti-inflammatory drug and a hydrophobic antibiotic. A non-limiting
example of an antibiotic is doxycycline.
[0108] As used herein, the term "nanoparticle" encompasses coarse,
fine, and ultrafine nanoparticles. A nanoparticle can have a
diameter between 2,500 and 10,000 nanometers (for coarse
nanoparticles), between 100 and 2,500 nanometers (for fine
nanoparticles), or between 1 and 100 nanometers (for ultrafine
nanoparticles).
[0109] In some embodiments, the therapeutic agent is encapsulated
within a nanoparticle or microparticle. Then, the nanoparticles or
microparticles are applied on the balloon substrate. The
nanoparticle or microparticle can be a polymeric nanoparticle or
polymeric microparticle.
[0110] For example, as shown in FIG. 17, balloon coating 206 can
include polymeric nanoparticles 220, which is schematically
represented by a circle. Each nanoparticle encapsulates an
antibiotic (e.g., doxycycline, other tetracycline antibiotic,
ciproflaxin, or other quinolone antibiotic) schematically
represented as a triangle, and another therapeutic agent (e.g.,
mometasone furoate, dexamethasone, other corticosteroid,
paclitaxel, a derivative of paclitaxel other substance used for
stent coating 152, or another anti-inflammatory substance)
schematically represented as a rectangle. The antibiotic and the
other therapeutic agent can be present in a predetermined ratio
within each polymeric nanoparticle. For example, the ratio of
antibiotic to the other therapeutic agent can be 2:1, as indicated
in FIG. 17. Other ratios are possible. Balloon coating 206
optionally includes a polymer which carries nanoparticles 220.
[0111] As a further example, as shown in FIG. 18, balloon coating
206 can include polymeric nanoparticles in which a first group 222
of the nanoparticles encapsulate an antibiotic (schematically
represented as a triangle) and a second group 224 of the
nanoparticles encapsulate an anti-inflammatory or other therapeutic
agent (schematically represented as a rectangle). The first group
of nanoparticles is mixed with the second group of nanoparticles at
a predetermined ratio, and then the mixture of nanoparticles is
applied to balloon wall 203. For example, the ratio of the first
group of nanoparticles (containing an antibiotic) to the second
group of nanoparticles (containing an anti-inflammatory or other
therapeutic agent) can be 2:1, as indicated in FIG. 18. Other
ratios are possible. Balloon coating 206 optionally includes a
polymer which carries the nanoparticles.
[0112] In some embodiments, the nanoparticles which encapsulate an
antibiotic are polyanhydride nanoparticles containing ciprofloxacin
as the antibiotic. The polyanhydride nanoparticles would allow for
relatively fast degradation.
[0113] In some embodiments, the nanoparticles containing
ciprofloxacin or other antibiotic are blended with a composition of
poly(caprolactone-co-glycolide) (PCL-co-PGA) or other bioresorbable
polymer matrix. To form balloon coating 206, the blend can be
mounted on balloon wall 203 as a flat ribbon. When balloon 202 is
expanded in a cavity, the flat ribbon will be warmed to a
temperature from about 40 to about 50 degrees C. and paved in situ
in the Eustachian tube as a drug-carrying and load-bearing
transient liner. Warming can be achieved by inflating the balloon
with a fluid that has been warmed to a temperature from about 40 to
about 50 degrees C. Balloon coating 206 (in the form of the ribbon)
reshapes and conforms to the surface of the Eustachian tube. As an
alternative to heating, the blend can include dimethyl sulfoxide
(DMSO) which would allow for paving and reshaping of the ribbon
when balloon 202 is expanded.
[0114] In some embodiments, any therapeutic substances listed
herein can be encapsulated in a particle, then the particles
blended with a composition of poly(caprolactone-co-glycolide), and
then the blend can be applied to form balloon coating 206. The
blend can optionally include DMSO.
[0115] In some embodiments, the therapeutic agent is itself a
nanoparticle, such as a nanocrystal. For example, balloon coating
206 can include a mixture of nanocrystals of an antibiotic and
nanocrystals of another therapeutic agent selected from the
examples mentioned above or other anti-inflammatory substances.
[0116] In some embodiments, particle formulation of the antibiotic
in balloon coating 206 is selected to provide the most appropriate
duration of release. For example, the nanoparticles can be
formulated such that an antibiotic is released from the
nanoparticles over a period of 2 to 7 days, or about 7 days. Also,
particle formulation of the other therapeutic agent in balloon
coating 206 is selected to provide the most appropriate duration of
its release. For example, the nanoparticles can be formulated such
that another therapeutic agent, such as an anti-inflammatory
substance, can be released over a period of greater than 7 days,
greater than 14 days, or about 14 days to about 28 days.
[0117] For example, the nanoparticles can be made of a
bioresorbable polymer in the size ranges of 75 um to 1000 um. The
bioresorbable polymer can be for example, without limitation, PLLA,
poly(D,L-lactic acid), or PLGA. The molecular weight of the
polymer, drug-polymer miscibility governed by polymer type and drug
type, polymer equilibrium water uptake, and the size of the polymer
will dictate the release rate of the drug. These parameters can be
adjusted to obtain 80% drug release in a range of periods from 3
days up to 180 days.
[0118] Structural patterns on balloon 202 can be varied for
Eustachian tube access to allow for differences in mechanical
properties in different segments of the Eustachian tube. As
previously discussed, the forward segment (nearest the tympanic
membrane) of the
[0119] Eustachian tube is bony, and the rear segment (nearest the
opening) of the Eustachian tube is cartilaginous. Balloon 202 can
be configured to exert greater expansionary force at a forward
segment of the balloon if the forward segment will be placed in the
bony segment of the Eustachian tube.
[0120] Balloon 202 can have a length-dependent compliance. As used
herein, the term "compliance" refers to the ability of the balloon
202 to collapse in response to external pressure applied to the
balloon. When balloon rear segment 210 is intended to be inflated
in the cartilaginous segment, balloon rear segment 210 is
configured to have a compliance that is greater than that of
balloon forward segment 208. The greater compliance of balloon rear
segment 210 can allow for natural collapse and closing of the
cartilaginous segment of the Eustachian tube.
[0121] As shown in FIG. 15, exemplary balloon 202 includes balloon
forward segment 208 and balloon rear segment 210. Balloon forward
segment 208 can be configured to exert greater expansionary
(radially outward) force to surrounding tissue (such as the bony
segment of the Eustachian tube) as compared to balloon rear segment
210. The interior of balloon 202 can include ribs 212 which can
limit expansion of balloon 202. Balloon rear segment 210 can have a
greater number of ribs 212 than balloon forward segment 208. The
greater number of ribs 216 can reduce the ability of balloon rear
segment 210 to expand as compared to balloon forward segment 208.
In addition or alternatively, the thickness of wall 203 of balloon
202 can be thicker at balloon rear segment 210 as compared to
balloon forward segment 208. The thicker wall of balloon rear
segment 210 can reduce the ability of balloon rear segment 210 to
expand.
[0122] As shown in FIG. 16, exemplary balloon 202 includes inner
balloon 214 at balloon forward segment 208. Balloon 202 is inflated
by fluid introduced through first fluid passageway 216, and inner
balloon 214 is inflated by fluid introduced through second fluid
passageway 218. Inner balloon 214 is inflated at a greater fluid
pressure than the remainder of balloon 202. Greater fluid pressure
at balloon forward segment 208 allows for greater expansionary
(radially outward) force to surrounding tissue (such as the bony
segment of the Eustachian tube) as compared to balloon rear segment
210. A lower fluid pressure in balloon rear segment 210 results in
greater compliance at balloon rear segment 210, which can allow
natural collapse and closing of the cartilaginous segment of the
Eustachian tube. Optionally, the ribs and/or variable wall
thickness described in FIG. 15 are implemented in coated balloon
catheter 200 of FIG. 16.
[0123] In FIGS. 15 and 16, balloon forward and rear segments 208
and 210 appear to be about the same in axial length. In other
embodiments, forward and rear segments 208 and 210 are unequal in
axial length. For example, balloon forward segment 208 can be a
percentage of overall axial length 205 of balloon 202, where the
percentage can be from 10% to 50%, from 20% to 40%, or about 30%.
Balloon rear segment 210 corresponds to the remaining
percentage.
[0124] While several particular forms of the invention have been
illustrated and described, it will also be apparent that various
modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the
invention. It is also contemplated that various combinations or
subcombinations of the specific features and aspects of the
disclosed embodiments can be combined with or substituted for one
another in order to form varying modes of the invention.
Accordingly, it is not intended that the invention be limited,
except as by the appended claims.
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