U.S. patent application number 16/098143 was filed with the patent office on 2019-05-16 for magnetic system to prevent migration of intra-luminal medical stent and method thereof.
This patent application is currently assigned to University of Virginia Patent Foundation. The applicant listed for this patent is University of Virginia Patent Foundation. Invention is credited to Gorav AILAWADI, Robert G. SAWYER.
Application Number | 20190142539 16/098143 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 60203231 |
Filed Date | 2019-05-16 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20190142539 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
SAWYER; Robert G. ; et
al. |
May 16, 2019 |
MAGNETIC SYSTEM TO PREVENT MIGRATION OF INTRA-LUMINAL MEDICAL STENT
AND METHOD THEREOF
Abstract
Systems and methods for fixing a stent in position in an
anatomical lumen. Such systems and methods include an intra-luminal
stent and a magnet, implanted, for example, in the subcutaneous
layer of the subject. The stent and the magnet are magnetically
coupled such that the magnetic forces fix the stent in position.
Use of the invention permits fixation of an intra-luminal stent to
avoid stent migration while minimizing tissue damage.
Inventors: |
SAWYER; Robert G.;
(Kalamazoo, MI) ; AILAWADI; Gorav;
(Charlottesville, VA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
University of Virginia Patent Foundation |
Charlottesville |
VA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
University of Virginia Patent
Foundation
Charlottesville
VA
|
Family ID: |
60203231 |
Appl. No.: |
16/098143 |
Filed: |
May 3, 2017 |
PCT Filed: |
May 3, 2017 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/US2017/030824 |
371 Date: |
November 1, 2018 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62331571 |
May 4, 2016 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
623/23.65 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B60W 2720/403 20130101;
B60W 10/02 20130101; A61F 2002/046 20130101; A61B 17/50 20130101;
B60W 2710/021 20130101; A61F 2/82 20130101; B60W 30/18172 20130101;
A61F 2210/009 20130101; B60W 2554/00 20200201; A61F 2/848 20130101;
A61F 2002/044 20130101; A61B 17/52 20130101; A61F 2002/045
20130101; B60W 50/0097 20130101; A61L 2300/44 20130101; A61M 25/00
20130101; B60W 2556/45 20200201; A61F 2220/0008 20130101; A61F
2002/043 20130101; A61L 31/022 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A61B 34/00 20060101
A61B034/00; A61F 2/848 20060101 A61F002/848 |
Claims
1. A medical system for fixing a stent in position within an
anatomical lumen of a subject, the medical system comprising: an
intra-luminal stent; a magnet wherein said magnet is configured to
be implanted in the subject in one or more of the following
locations: the subcutaneous layer of the subject, the
intra-muscular layer of the subject, or the sub-fascial layer of
the subject; and wherein a magnetic force between said
intra-luminal stent and said magnet is configured to fix said stent
in position.
2. The medical system of claim 1, wherein said stent is composed of
a material selected from the group consisting of a magnet, a
magnetizable material, and a magnetic metal.
3. The medical system of claim 1, wherein said magnet is composed
of a material selected from the group consisting of a magnet, a
magnetizable material, and a magnetic metal.
4. The medical system of claim 1, wherein said stent is
expandable.
5. The medical system of claim 1, wherein said stent is designed to
be flexible to follow the contours of said anatomical lumen.
6. The medical system of claim 1, wherein said stent is located in
the respiratory tract.
7. The medical system of claim 1, wherein said stent is located in
the gastrointestinal tract.
8. The medical system of claim 1, wherein said stent is inserted
endoscopically.
9. The medical system of claim 1, wherein said stent is configured
to be advanced by peristaltic contractions.
10. The medical system of claim 1, wherein said stent is removed
through open surgery.
11. The medical system of claim 1, wherein said stent is removed
endoscopically.
12. The medical system of claim 1, wherein said stent is removed by
advancing through the lumen naturally.
13. The medical system of claim 12, wherein said stent is
configured to be advanced by peristaltic contractions.
14. The medical system of claim 1, wherein multiple of said magnets
are used to fix said stent in position.
15. The medical system of claim 1, wherein said magnetic force is
adjusted by the size, strength, and location of said magnet.
16. A method for fixing a medical stent in position of a subject,
said method comprising: inserting a stent in an anatomical lumen;
implanting a magnet in the subject in one or more of the following
locations: the subcutaneous layer of the subject, the
intra-muscular layer of the subject, or the sub-fascial layer of
the subject; and employing a magnetic force between said stent and
said magnet to fix said stent in position.
17. The method of claim 16, wherein said stent is composed of a
material selected from the group consisting of a magnet, a
magnetizable material, and a magnetic metal.
18. The method of claim 16, wherein said magnet is composed of a
material selected from the group consisting of a magnet, a
magnetizable material, and a magnetic metal.
19. The method of claim 16, wherein said stent is expandable.
20. The method of claim 16, wherein said stent is designed to be
flexible to follow the contours of said anatomical lumen.
21. The method of claim 16, wherein said stent is located in the
respiratory tract.
22. The method of claim 16, wherein said stent is located in the
gastrointestinal tract.
23. The method of claim 16, wherein said stent is inserted
endoscopically.
24. The medical system of claim 16, wherein said stent is
configured to be advanced by peristaltic contractions.
25. The method of claim 16, wherein said stent is removed by
advancing through the lumen naturally.
26. The method of claim 25, wherein said stent is configured to be
advanced by peristaltic contractions.
27. The method of claim 16, wherein said stent is removed through
open surgery.
28. The method of claim 16, wherein said stent is removed
endoscopically.
29. The method of claim 16, wherein multiple of said magnets are
used to fix said stent in position.
30. The method of claim 16, wherein said magnetic force is adjusted
by the size, strength, and location of said magnet.
31. A medical system for fixing a stent in position within an
anatomical lumen of a subject, the medical system comprising: an
intra-luminal stent; a magnet wherein said magnet is configured to
be disposed on the subject disposed on a cutaneous location; and
wherein a magnetic force between said intra-luminal stent and said
magnet is configured to fix said stent in position.
32. The medical system of claim 31, wherein said stent is composed
of a material selected from the group consisting of a magnet, a
magnetizable material, and a magnetic metal.
33. The medical system of claim 31, wherein said magnet is composed
of a material selected from the group consisting of a magnet, a
magnetizable material, and a magnetic metal.
34. The medical system of claim 31, wherein said stent is
expandable.
35. The medical system of claim 31, wherein said stent is designed
to be flexible to follow the contours of said anatomical lumen.
36. The medical system of claim 31, wherein said stent is located
in the respiratory tract.
37. The medical system of claim 31, wherein said stent is located
in the gastrointestinal tract.
38. The medical system of claim 31, wherein said stent is inserted
endoscopically.
39. The medical system of claim 31, wherein said stent is
configured to be advanced by peristaltic contractions.
40. The medical system of claim 31, wherein said stent is removed
through open surgery.
41. The medical system of claim 31, wherein said stent is removed
endoscopically.
42. The method of claim 31, wherein said stent is removed by
advancing through the lumen naturally.
43. The method of claim 42, wherein said stent is configured to be
advanced by peristaltic contractions.
44. The medical system of claim 31, wherein multiple of said
magnets are used to fix said stent in position.
45. The medical system of claim 31, wherein said magnetic force is
adjusted by the size, strength, and location of said magnet.
46. A method for fixing a medical stent in position of a subject,
said method comprising: inserting a stent in an anatomical lumen;
configuring a magnet on the subject disposed on a cutaneous
location; and employing a magnetic force between said stent and
said magnet to fix said stent in position.
47. The method of claim 46, wherein said stent is composed of a
material selected from the group consisting of a magnet, a
magnetizable material, and a magnetic metal.
48. The method of claim 46, wherein said magnet is composed of a
material selected from the group consisting of a magnet, a
magnetizable material, and a magnetic metal.
49. The method of claim 46, wherein said stent is expandable.
50. The medical system of claim 46, wherein said stent is designed
to be flexible to follow the contours of said anatomical lumen.
51. The method of claim 46, wherein said stent is located in the
respiratory tract.
52. The method of claim 46, wherein said stent is located in the
gastrointestinal tract.
53. The method of claim 46, wherein said stent is inserted
endoscopically.
54. The method of claim 46, wherein said stent is configured to be
advanced by peristaltic contractions.
55. The method of claim 46, wherein said stent is removed through
open surgery.
56. The method of claim 46, wherein said stent is removed
endoscopically.
57. The method of claim 46, wherein said stent is removed by
advancing through the lumen naturally.
58. The method of claim 57, wherein said stent is removed by
advancing through the gastrointestinal tract through peristaltic
contractions.
59. The method of claim 46, wherein multiple of said magnets are
used to fix said stent in position.
60. The method of claim 46, wherein said magnetic force is adjusted
by the size, strength, and location of said magnet.
61. A medical system for fixing a stent in position within a first
anatomical lumen of a subject, the medical system comprising: an
intra-luminal stent, said intra-luminal stent configured to be
disposed in the first anatomical lumen; a magnet wherein said
magnet is configured to be disposed in a second anatomical lumen or
remote location of the first anatomical lumen; and wherein a
magnetic force between said intra-luminal stent and said magnet is
configured to fix said stent in position with the first anatomical
lumen of a subject.
62. The medical system of claim 61, wherein said stent is composed
of a material selected from the group consisting of a magnet, a
magnetizable material, and a magnetic metal.
63. The medical system of claim 61, wherein said magnet is composed
of a material selected from the group consisting of a magnet, a
magnetizable material, and a magnetic metal.
64. The medical system of claim 61, wherein said stent and/or said
magnet is expandable.
65. The medical system of claim 61, wherein said stent is designed
to be flexible to follow the contours of said anatomical lumen.
66. The medical system of claim 61, wherein said stent and/or said
magnet is inserted endoscopically.
67. The medical system of claim 61, wherein said stent and/or said
magnet is removed endoscopically.
68. The medical system of claim 61, wherein multiple of said
magnets are used to fix said stent in position.
69. The medical system of claim 61, wherein said magnetic force is
adjusted by the size, strength, and location of said magnet.
70. A method for fixing a medical stent in position within a first
anatomical lumen of a subject, the method comprising: disposing a
stent in said first anatomical lumen; disposing a magnet in a
second anatomical lumen or a remote location of said first
anatomical lumen; and wherein a magnetic force between said
intra-luminal stent and said magnet is configured to fix said stent
in position within said first anatomical lumen of said subject.
71. The method of claim 70, wherein said stent is composed of a
material selected from the group consisting of a magnet, a
magnetizable material, and a magnetic metal.
72. The method of claim 70, wherein said magnet is composed of a
material selected from the group consisting of a magnet, a
magnetizable material, and a magnetic metal.
73. The method of claim 70, wherein said stent and/or said magnet
is expandable.
74. The method of claim 70, wherein said stent is designed to be
flexible to follow the contours of said anatomical lumen.
75. The method of claim 70, wherein said stent and/or said magnet
is inserted endoscopically.
76. The method of claim 70, wherein said stent is removed
endoscopically.
77. The method of claim 70, wherein multiple of said magnets are
used to fix said stent in position.
78. The method of claim 70, wherein said magnetic force is adjusted
by the size, strength, and location of said magnet.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present invention claims priority under 35 U.S.C .sctn.
119(e) from U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/331,571, filed
May 4, 2016, entitled "Magnetic Based System to Prevent Migration
of Intra-Luminal Medical and Related Method Thereof"; of which is
incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention generally relates to stents used in
anatomical lumens, such as the gastrointestinal and respiratory
tracts, and more particularly relates to minimally invasive stents
and methods for delivering said stents to and removing said stents
from a body.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Stents used within anatomical lumens, such as
gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts, are generally tubular
support structures. Stents are typically composed of a metallic or
polymeric mesh and are flexible, capable of expansion, and
biocompatible. Delivery of these stents is typically achieved
through the use of catheters, whereby a collapsed stent is inserted
into the lumen of an organ and then allowed to expand. Retrieval is
usually accomplished through an endoscopic or bronchoscopic
procedure. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,821,291 to Bolea et al.
describes a stent that is retrievable by an endoscopic tool once
the stent is collapsed within the lumen. This patent does not
disclose the use of magnetic forces or any method of the fixation
of the stent. Another example of stent retrieval is U.S. Pat. No.
6,258,098 to Taylor et al., which describes retrieval of a stent
with a magnetic tipped catheter. '098 to Taylor et al. does utilize
magnetic forces, however the magnetic forces are utilized solely to
couple a stent with a retrieval of a catheter, not to fix a stent
in position. In some instances, removal or retrieval of a stent
requires open surgery.
[0004] Since movement within the gastrointestinal and respiratory
tracts is constant, the use of stents, while effective, is plagued
by the problem of stent migration, where the stent moves within the
lumen of the stented organ. Currently, stents rely on friction
between them and the organ in which they are placed or attachment
to the wall of the organ itself in order to maintain their
position. Designs that increase friction incorporate small spikes,
ridges, or interstices. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,309,411 to
Lashinski et al. describes a stent having an increased coefficient
of friction between the exterior surface of the stent and the wall
of a blood vessel through the use of an adhesive bond or a series
of peaks and valleys. '411 to Lashinski et al. does not disclose
the use of magnetic forces for fixation of a stent.
[0005] Unfortunately, the use of designs that rely on increasing
the friction between the device and the organ cause damage to the
organ tissue and are also associated with a higher risk of a
life-threatening complication: the erosion of the stent through the
wall of the stented organ. Accordingly, there exists a need for
systems and methods to maintain the position of the stent without
relying on friction.
[0006] Attachment to the wall of the organ itself is achieved
through the use of structures (such as burrs, stitches, and ridges)
that penetrate or puncture the wall of the organ. For example, U.S.
Pat. No. 6,071,292 to Makower et al. describes using a suture to
attach an implant, such as a stent, to an anatomical vessel or
hollow organ wall. European Patent No. 0,983,024 to Swanstrom
describes a method of attaching a stent to the wall of a hollow
organ through a clamping mechanism that passes completely through
the wall of the organ.
[0007] Unfortunately, the use of designs that rely on attaching the
stent to the wall of the organ itself causes damage to the organ
tissue. There exists a need for systems and methods to maintain the
position of the stent without relying on friction or
attachment.
[0008] None of the patents and patent applications described above
provide the important advantages of fixing an intra-luminal stent
through the use of magnetic forces. The stents described above are
such that the stents rely on frictional forces or attachment to
maintain the position of the stent. None of these stents utilize
magnetic forces for fixation.
[0009] Magnetic forces have been used in medical devices and
systems. The insertion of magnets into a body is not problematic.
Magnets have been inserted into the human body for the foreseen
medical benefits of magnetism alone. For example, International
Pat. Application Publication No. WO 02/080815 to Barry describes a
stent that is composed of magnetic material for the utilization of
the therapeutic benefits of magnets. Other devices which are
magnetic or include magnetic properties are described in U.S. Pat.
No. 6,126,589 to Brooks; U.S. Pat. No. 6,066,088 to Davis; U.S.
Pat. No. 5,782,743 to Russell; U.S. Pat. No. 5,304,111 to Mitsuno
et al.; and U.S. Pat. No. 5,336,498 to Snider. Magnetic forces have
also been used in intra-luminal stents (but not for fixation of a
stent). For example, CN Pat. No. 204379493 uses magnetic forces to
shrink the stent in order to prevent damage to the wall of the
lumen when the stent is retrieved. Other devices, systems, and
methods which utilize magnetic forces for the retrieval,
dislocation or removal of a stent or other medical implantation are
described in U.S. Pat. No. 8,066,715 to Ducharme and U.S. Pat. No.
6,652,569 to Taylor et al.
[0010] None of the patents and patent applications described above
provide the important advantages of fixing an intra-luminal stent
through the use of magnetic forces. The devices, systems, and
methods described above utilize magnetic forces for purposes other
than fixation of a stent, for example, the use magnetism for the
retrieval of a stent. Magnetic forces have, however, been utilized
in medical devices, systems, and methods to anchor some component
of such device, system, or method to an organ. For example, in U.S.
Pat. No. 8,282,598 to Belhe et al. and U.S. Patent Application
Publication No. US 2011/0009690 A1 to Belhe et al., an implant in
the gastrointestinal tract is anchored to an organ in the
gastrointestinal tract by magnetic forces. The implant is
essentially an intra-luminal stent, inserted into the
gastrointestinal tract to treat metabolic disorders. The hollow,
cylindrical implant is anchored to an organ in the gastrointestinal
tract through magnetic coupling to another band, attached to the
outside of the gastrointestinal tract. Similarly, U.S. Pat. No.
6,656,194 to Gannoe et al. describes a system that utilizes
magnetic forces to anchor an inflatable stomach implant to the wall
of the stomach. The implant is intended to reduce the available
space in the stomach in order to control the volume of food
consumed. The inflatable implant has a magnetic portion that is
magnetically coupled to a magnetic material attached to the outside
of the stomach wall. The external magnet is attached to the stomach
with an adhesive or is surgically inserted into the organ
tissue.
[0011] The devices described above that include magnetic fixation
both rely on attaching the magnet to the organ. Moreover, the
magnetic components are located inside the abdomen. Attaching the
magnet to the organ tissue itself causes damage to the organ
tissue, including erosion through the organ wall over time. None of
these devices, systems, or methods utilize a less invasive
subcutaneous magnetic implant to hold another component of the
device, system, or method in place.
[0012] The aforementioned patents present two important challenges
with respect to medical stents: 1) fixing a stent in position while
avoiding the use of tissue-damaging frictional forces and
attachment to the organ wall and 2) implanting a magnet in a
minimally invasive way such as to avoid damage to bodily organs.
Both are resolved by various aspects of embodiments of the
invention contained within this application.
Overview
[0013] An aspect of an embodiment of the present invention is
directed to, among other things, an improved intra-luminal stent
which is configured to be fixed in position through the use of
magnetic forces.
[0014] The use of metallic stents in the management of diseases of
the gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts where movement is
constant, although effective, continues to be plagued by the
problem of stent migration, where the stent moves further down the
lumen of the stented organ. The migrated stent then loses its
effectiveness and potentially poses significant risk to the subject
in terms of obstruction of the lumen or erosion into or through the
organ tissue. An aspect of an embodiment of the present invention
may comprise, but not limited thereto, a two-part system and method
to fix the position of a stent in the anatomical lumens of the
gastrointestinal, respiratory, or other organ systems. For example,
one component may be the intra-luminal stent itself that will have
magnetic properties, for example, a ferrous composition. The second
component may be a modest-sized magnet that can be implanted into
the subject relative to the stent location, for example in the
easily accessible, adjacent subcutaneous space. In this way, an
aspect of an embodiment of the present invention uses magnetic
forces to achieve the fixation of the stent in an anatomical lumen.
The positioning and strength of the magnet, as well as the number
of magnets required, may be determined based on the location and
position of the stent.
[0015] One of the advantages of an aspect of an embodiment of the
present invention is preventing intra-luminal stent migration while
avoiding the use of tissue-damaging frictional forces and
attachment to the wall of the relevant organ. Currently, stents
rely on attachment to the wall of the organ itself or friction
between them and the organ in which they are placed to maintain
their position. Unfortunately, attachment to the wall of the organ
itself causes damage to the organ tissue. Similarly, designs that
increase the friction between the stent and the stented organ, for
example through the use of small spikes, ridges, or interstices,
are associated with tissue damage in addition to a higher risk of a
life-threatening complication: the erosion of the stent through the
wall of the stented organ.
[0016] Another advantage of an aspect of an embodiment of the
present invention is that the surgical procedure required for the
implantation of the magnet is minimally invasive. One embodiment of
the present invention is that the magnet or magnets can be
implanted into the subcutaneous, intramuscular, or sub-fascial
layer of the subject. In another embodiment of the present
invention, the magnet or magnets can be positioned on or in the
cutaneous layer of the subject. Thus, the teachings of aspects of
various embodiments of the present invention overcome the
limitations of prior art modes of intra-luminal stents by fixing
the stent in position while minimizing tissue damage and using a
minimally invasive procedure.
[0017] In short, an aspect of an embodiment of the present
invention provides a heretofore unappreciated system and method for
fixing a stent in position within an anatomical lumen.
[0018] The invention itself, together with the further objects and
attendant advantages, will best be understood by reference to the
following detailed descriptions taken in conjunction with the
accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0019] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated into and
form a part of the instant specification, illustrate several
aspects and embodiments of the present invention and, together with
the description herein, serve to explain the principles of the
invention. The drawings are provided only for the purpose of
illustrating select embodiments of the invention and are not to be
construed as limiting the invention.
[0020] The foregoing and other objects, features and advantages of
the present invention, as well as the invention itself, will be
more fully understood from the following description of preferred
embodiments, when read together with the accompanying drawings.
[0021] FIG. 1 is a diagrammatical anterior view illustrating the
positioning of several embodiments of a stent in the respiratory
tract, specifically the positioning of a stent in the tracheal and
bronchial fistulae.
[0022] FIG. 2 is a diagrammatical anterior view illustrating the
position of several embodiments of a stent in the gastrointestinal
tract, specifically the esophagus, duodenum, right colon, and left
colon.
[0023] FIG. 3 is an abstract cross-sectional view of the
positioning of both a stent and a corresponding magnet depicting
the stent located in an anatomical lumen and the magnet located in
the subcutaneous, muscular, or sub-fascial tissue or located in or
on the cutaneous layer of the subject after a stent delivery tool
has inserted the stent into the anatomical lumen.
[0024] FIG. 4 is a diagrammatical anterior view illustrating one
possible location of the magnet that could be used to fix a stent
in the esophagus after the stent has been inserted through a
conventional endoscopic method.
[0025] FIG. 5 is a diagrammatical anterior view illustrating one
possible location of the magnet that could be used to fix a stent
in the duodenum after the stent has been inserted through a
conventional endoscopic method.
[0026] FIG. 6 is an abstract posterior view of possible locations
of magnets to fix the corresponding stent, including stents in the
trachea, bronchi, esophagus, duodenum, left colon, and right
colon.
[0027] FIG. 7 is an abstract anterior view of possible locations of
magnets to fix the corresponding stent, including stents in the
trachea, bronchi, esophagus, duodenum, left colon, and right
colon.
[0028] FIG. 8 is a diagrammatical anterior view illustrating one
possible location of the magnet on a gastronomy tube in the stomach
so as to fix a stent in the duodenum after the stent has been
inserted through a conventional endoscopic method.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS
[0029] An aspect of an embodiment of the present invention
provides, among other things, the analytical tools and method to
fix an intra-luminal stent in position using magnetic forces. An
aspect of an embodiment of the present invention provides, but not
limited thereto, guidance that shall facilitate the use of a
minimally invasive medical system and method to fix an
intra-luminal stent in position that minimizes the possibility of
tissue and organ damage. Although the systems and methods disclosed
herein describe stents located in the respiratory and
gastrointestinal tract, as depicted in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the
stents may be located in any anatomical lumen or organ of the
subject. For example, the stents could be positioned in the biliary
or pancreatic ducts. Additionally, although the systems and methods
disclosed herein describe a magnet 16 positioned in the
subcutaneous tissue 12 of the subject 1, as depicted in FIG. 3.
Still referring to FIG. 3, the magnet 416 may be positioned in the
intra-muscular layer 6 (i.e., the magnet is positioned in the
muscle, as depicted by the cross-hatch lines referenced as 416) or
the magnet 516 may be positioned sub-fascial layer 13 (i.e., the
magnet is positioned below the muscle, and above the body cavity,
as depicted by the slanted lines referenced as 516) of the subject
1. In an embodiment, the magnet 16 is implanted in the respective
layer of the subject 1.
[0030] In another embodiment, the magnet 316 may be positioned on
the cutaneous layer 9 of the subject 1 (e.g., disposed on the
surface of the subject or exterior to the surface of the subject,
as depicted by the dashed lines referenced as 316). For
implementation on the cutaneous layer 9 (e.g., disposed on the
surface of the subject 1 or exterior to the surface of the subject
1) the magnet 316 may be affixed to the epidermis 10 of the subject
1 through the use of an adhesive or may be incorporated into a
wearable garment.
[0031] In another embodiment, the magnet may be positioned in the
cutaneous layer 9 of the subject 1, which includes the epidermis 10
and dermis 2, as depicted by the dotted lines referenced as 116 in
FIG. 3. For implementation in the cutaneous layer 9 of the subject
1 the magnet 116 may be implanted in the cutaneous layer 9, which
includes the epidermis 10 and dermis 2 of the subject.
[0032] In order to more clearly and concisely describe the subject
matter of the claims, the following definition is intended to
provide guidance as to the meaning of a specific term used in the
following written description, examples, and appended claims. As
used herein, the term anatomical lumen means a lumen corresponding
to an organ of the subject. The term anatomical lumen includes, but
is not limited to, the inside of the duodenum, the inside of the
colon, the inside of the esophagus, and the inside of the trachea
and bronchi.
[0033] Practice of the invention will be still more fully
understood from the following examples, which are presented herein
for illustration only and should not be construed as limiting the
invention in any way.
[0034] FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 depict possible locations of stents
utilizing an embodiment of the present invention, including the
aforementioned examples of an esophageal stent 211 and a duodenal
stent 511, both of which are depicted in FIG. 2; and whereby FIG. 1
depicts possible locations of stents in the respiratory tract of
the subject 1. For example, FIG. 1 depicts a tracheal stent 131 in
the trachea 3 as well as a bronchial stent 161 in each bronchi 4 of
the subject 1. It is to be appreciated that the stents may be
positioned in any anatomical lumen 15 of the respiratory system not
included in FIG. 1. FIG. 2 depicts possible locations of stents in
the gastrointestinal tract of the subject 1. FIG. 2 depicts an
esophageal stent 211 in the esophagus 19, a duodenal stent 511 in
the duodenum 35, a right colon stent 241 in the right, ascending
colon 7, and a left colon stent 251 in the left, descending colon
8. It is to be appreciated that multiple stents in multiple
anatomical lumens or multiple anatomical systems can be fixed
simultaneously using an embodiment of the present invention.
[0035] FIG. 3 is an abstract depiction of the concept behind an
embodiment of the invention. A stent 11 is inserted into an
anatomical lumen 15 of the subject 1 via an available system
delivery tool 5 (for example, endoscope or the like). A magnet 16
is then inserted into the subcutaneous layer 12 of the subject 1
such that the magnetic coupling between the magnet 16 and the stent
11 fixes the stent 11 in position within the anatomical lumen 15.
FIG. 3 also depicts other possible locations for the magnet 16. As
described above, the magnet can also be positioned in on the
cutaneous layer of the subject 1 exterior to the surface of the
subject, as depicted by the dashed lines referenced as 316. The
magnet can also be positioned in the subcutaneous layer 9, for
example, positioned in the dermis 2 as depicted by the dotted lines
referenced as 116. The magnet can also be positioned in the
muscular layer 6, as depicted by the cross-hatch lines referenced
as 416. The magnet can also be positioned in the sub-fascial layer
13 below the muscle, and above the body cavity, as depicted by the
slanted lines referenced as 516.
[0036] An example of one potential use of an aspect of an
embodiment of the system is represented in FIG. 4. In order to help
seal a perforation in the esophagus 19, a stent is desired.
However, the motility of the esophagus 19 makes movement of the
stent likely. Additionally, the delicate nature of the esophageal
wall makes the use of large externally-oriented radial forces,
friction, or the use of fasteners to the esophageal mucosa less
than ideal. Reliance on such forces is associated with tissue
damage. Instead, turning to an aspect of an embodiment of the
present invention, information from cross-sectional imaging of the
chest is used to determine the best location of the esophageal
stent 411 as well as the area of subcutaneous tissue 12 (as shown
in FIG. 3, for example) close to the proposed stenting area to be
used for the esophagus magnet 406 placement. Technology such as
computerized tomography is suitable for such cross-sectional
imaging. Other equivalent imaging technologies would also be
suitable. Identification of imaging equivalents are within the
skill of the ordinary practitioner and would require no more than
routine experimentation
[0037] Still referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the esophageal stent 411
would then be inserted into the esophagus 19 through, for example,
a procedure such as an endoscopic procedure. FIG. 4 illustrates the
use of an endoscope 17 for the placement of an esophageal stent
411. In an endoscopic procedure, the subject is sedated through
general anesthesia and undergoes endoscopic placement of the stent.
Procedurally, when a stent is inserted endoscopically, the stent
may begin in a collapsed state. Once the endoscope 17 reaches the
desired location for stent placement, the stent is then allowed to
expand through a self-expanding mechanism (as well as other
available stent expandable mechanisms or materials). It is to be
appreciated that other equivalent procedures for stent placement
would also be suitable. It is to be appreciated that other
equivalent procedures for expanding the stent would also be
suitable. Identification of stent placement procedures are within
the skill of the ordinary practitioner and would require no more
than routine experimentation. During the same session, a magnet 16
or 406 is implanted in the subcutaneous tissue 9 of the subject 1
through available procedures similar to procedures for port or
pacemaker placement. For example, a small incision is made and
pocket created in the subcutaneous layer 12. An appropriately
chosen magnet 16 is then placed into the pocket and the skin
closed.
[0038] FIG. 6 and FIG. 7 depict examples of magnet placements
relative to the corresponding stent in order for some embodiments
of the invention in order to fix said stent in position. FIG. 6 is
a posterior view of the subject 1 providing an example of a
possible position for a tracheal magnet 136 to fix a tracheal stent
131 in position. As described above, in one embodiment of the
invention the tracheal magnet 136 will be implanted in the
cutaneous layer 12 of the subject 1 as demonstrated in FIG. 3. With
respect to that embodiment of the invention, the tracheal magnet
136 in FIG. 6 represents a possible position of the tracheal magnet
136 within the cutaneous layer 12 in FIG. 3 of the subject 1.
Similarly, FIG. 6 provides examples of possible positions for a
bronchial magnet 166 to fix a bronchial stent 161 in position, an
esophageal magnet 406 to fix an esophageal stent 411 in position, a
duodenal magnet 506 to fix a duodenal stent 511 in position, a
right, ascending colon magnet 246 to fix a right, ascending colon
stent 241 in position, and a left, descending colon magnet 256 to
fix a left, descending colon stent 251 in position. FIG. 7 depicts
the same stents and magnets, for example, as FIG. 6 but from the
anterior view of the subject 1.
[0039] To determine the size, shape, and strength of the magnet, an
aspect includes examining the characteristics of the stent itself,
including the size, shape, material, and magnetic attraction, as
well as the distance and location of the corresponding magnet.
Compounds such as metals, ferrous materials, or magnetizable
materials are suitable for the stent. Other equivalent substances
for the stent would also be suitable. Identification of equivalents
is within the skill of the ordinary practitioner and would require
no more than routine experimentation. It is to be appreciated that
the stent may be composed of such compounds in part or in whole. In
an embodiment the stent may be composed entirely of a metal or some
other non-ferrous material that can be magnetically coupled to a
magnet. In an embodiment the stent may be made of a biocompatible
material or coated with a material, e.g. silicone, to achieve
biocompatibility. The stent may also be designed to be flexible
and/or expandable. In an embodiment, the stent is flexible in order
to be able to follow the contours of the anatomical lumen into
which it is inserted. In another embodiment, the stent is
expandable such that when the stent is inserted, the stent may
begin in a collapsed state. Once the stent reaches the desired
location for stent placement, the stent is then allowed to expand.
An aspect of an embodiment may comprise a stent or magnet that may
include using a balloon or any other suitable implantation method
to expand the stent, as well as a self-expanding mechanism.
[0040] The insertion of a duodenal stent 511 into the duodenum 35
through the use of an endoscope 17 as depicted in FIG. 5 is a good
example of when a stent that is both expandable and flexible is
preferable. As depicted in FIG. 5, in an embodiment of the
invention the stent is able to follow the contours of the duodenum.
FIG. 5 is another example of one potential use of an aspect of an
embodiment of the system. Similarly to the embodiment depicted in
FIG. 4, in order to help seal a perforation in the duodenum 35, a
stent is desired. Just as in the esophagus 19 depicted in FIG. 4,
motility of the duodenum 35 makes movement of the duodenal stent
511 likely. The duodenum wall is also delicate, which makes the use
of a duodenum magnet 506 for fixation of the duodenal stent 511 a
desirable aspect of an embodiment of the present invention. As
described in the above description of an embodiment depicted in
FIG. 4, the stent can be inserted with an endoscope 17.
Procedurally, when a stent is inserted endoscopically, the stent
may begin in a collapsed state. Once the endoscope reaches the
desired location for stent placement, the stent is then allowed to
expand. The benefits of flexibility are twofold: the stent must be
able to bend with the endoscope 17 through the gastrointestinal
tract, as depicted in FIG. 5, and the duodenal stent 511 must be
able to fit the curvature of the duodenum 35, as depicted in FIG.
5.
[0041] With respect to the magnet, compounds such as metals,
ferrous materials, or magnetizable materials are likewise suitable.
Other equivalent substances for the magnet would also be suitable.
Identification of equivalents is within the skill of the ordinary
practitioner and would require no more than routine
experimentation. It is to be appreciated that the magnet may be
composed of such compounds in part or in whole. In an embodiment,
the magnet may be composed entirely of a ferrous material. Such
material may be biocompatible, or may be coated with a material,
e.g. silicone, to achieve biocompatibility. While it is to be
appreciated that the magnet may be any size or shape appropriate
for the fixation of a corresponding stent, an embodiment may
include a thin, round magnet. The round nature is beneficial for
implants generally in order to minimize tissue damage. The thinness
is beneficial with respect to the embodiment of the invention
wherein, as depicted in FIG. 3 the magnet 16 is implanted into the
subcutaneous tissue 12, as the tissue layer may be thin.
Identification of equivalents is within the skill of the ordinary
practitioner and would require no more than routine
experimentation. It is to be appreciated that the placement of two
or more magnets might be desirable to minimize mal-positioning,
eccentric placement, or migration of the stent. For example, one
magnet may be positioned on either side of the anatomical lumen
such as one at the posterior and one at the anterior of the subject
relative to the intra-luminal stent.
[0042] When the stent is no longer needed, in an embodiment it is
removed endoscopically and the magnet or magnets may be removed
under local anesthesia. It is to be appreciated that the stent may
also be removed through natural peristalsis. Such an embodiment
would be used, for example, for a duodenal stent 35, as depicted in
FIG. 5. In that embodiment of the invention, the duodenal magnet
506 or magnets may be removed under local anesthesia and the stent
would remain in place. Over time, the stent would advance through
the gastrointestinal tract due to peristalsis and exit the
gastro-intestinal tract naturally. Additionally, it is to be
appreciated that the stent could be removed through open
surgery.
[0043] Another example of one potential use of an aspect of an
embodiment of the system is represented in FIG. 8. In this
embodiment of the invention, a duodenal stent 811 may be inserted
endoscopically. Procedurally, when a stent is inserted
endoscopically, the stent may begin in a collapsed state. Once the
endoscope 17 reaches the desired location for stent placement,
which in this case is the duodenum 35, the stent is then allowed to
expand through a self-expanding mechanism. Identification of stent
placement procedures are within the skill of the ordinary
practitioner and would require no more than routine
experimentation. During the same session, a magnet may be placed on
a gastronomy tube 22 that is inserted into the stomach 20 of the
subject 1 through conventional procedures. In this embodiment, the
gastronomy tube magnet 806 remains attached solely to the
gastronomy tube 22, which is held in position by virtue of the
gastronomy tube placement.
[0044] In an embodiment, such as shown in FIG. 8, to fix a duodenal
stent 811 in position the magnet 806 may be located in the stomach
20, affixed to the end of a gastronomy tube 22 without requiring
attachment to or implantation in the organ tissue. In this
embodiment, the gastronomy tube magnet 806 remains attached solely
to the gastronomy tube 22, which is held in position by virtue of
the gastronomy tube placement. In another embodiment, as discussed
regarding FIG. 5, the duodenal magnet 506 may be inserted
endoscopically (via the endoscope 17) within the gastrointestinal
tract such as within the duodenum 35 itself, held in position by
virtue of the of the endoscope 17 placement.
[0045] Still referring to FIG. 8, for example, to determine the
size, shape, and strength of the magnet, one skilled in the art
will examine the characteristics of the stent itself, including the
size, shape, material, and magnetic attraction, as well as the
distance and location of the corresponding magnet. Compounds such
as metals, ferrous materials, or magnetizable materials are
suitable for the stent. Other equivalent substances for the stent
would also be suitable. Identification of equivalents is well
within the skill of the ordinary practitioner and would require no
more than routine experimentation. It is to be appreciated that the
stent may be composed of such compounds in part or in whole. In an
embodiment the stent may be composed entirely of a metal or some
other non-ferrous material that can be magnetically coupled to a
magnet. In an embodiment the stent may be made of a biocompatible
material or coated with a material, e.g. silicone, to achieve
biocompatibility. The stent may also be designed to be flexible
and/or expandable. In an embodiment of the invention, the stent is
flexible to follow the contours of the anatomical lumen. In another
embodiment, the stent is expandable such that when the stent is
inserted, the stent may begin in a collapsed state. Once the stent
reaches the desired location for stent placement, the stent is then
allowed to expand. Still referring to FIG. 8, for example, with
respect to the magnet, compounds such as metals, ferrous materials,
or magnetizable materials are likewise suitable. Other equivalent
substances for the magnet would also be suitable. Identification of
equivalents is well within the skill of the ordinary practitioner
and would require no more than routine experimentation. It is to be
appreciated that the magnet may be composed of such compounds in
part or in whole. In an embodiment, the magnet may be composed
entirely of a ferrous material. Such material may be biocompatible,
or may be coated with a material, e.g. silicone, to achieve
biocompatibility. It is to be appreciated that the magnet may be
any shape or size appropriate for the fixation of a corresponding
stent. It is to be appreciated that the placement of two magnets
might be desirable to minimize mal-positioning, eccentric
placement, or migration of the stent. For example, one magnet may
be positioned on the end of a gastronomy tube 22 in the stomach 20
(or on a first endoscope 817 in the gastronomy tube 22) and another
may be positioned on the end of a second endoscope, such as the
endoscope 17 running in the esophagus 19 in part, or positioned on
another endoscope (not shown) in the duodenum 35.
[0046] When the stent is no longer needed, in an embodiment it is
removed endoscopically and the magnet is removed through removal of
the gastronomy tube 22. It is to be appreciated that the stent may
also be removed through natural peristalsis. Such an embodiment
would be used, for example, for a duodenal stent 811, as depicted
in FIG. 8. In that embodiment of the invention, the magnet or
magnets may be removed through removal of the gastronomy tube 22 or
in an embodiment, an endoscope 817 running through the gastronomy
tube 22. Alternatively, the magnet or magnets may be removed
through endoscope 17 running through the gastrointestinal tract.
Over time, the stent would advance through the gastrointestinal
tract due to peristalsis and exit the gastro-intestinal tract
naturally. Additionally, it is to be appreciated that the stent
could be removed through open surgery.
[0047] Generally referring to aspects of FIGS. 1-4, for instance,
in another embodiment, the magnet 16 may be located remotely within
the anatomical lumen in which the stent 1 is positioned, or in
another, second anatomical lumen. For example, to fix an esophageal
stent 411 as shown in FIG. 4, a magnet may be affixed to an
endoscope 17 and positioned in a portion of the esophagus 19 at a
position distant from the stent 411 itself. This positioning of the
magnet occurs without attachment to or implantation in the organ
tissue. Rather, the magnet remains attached solely to the endoscope
17, which is held in position mechanically.
[0048] In an embodiment, delivery of magnets may also be achieved
through the use of catheters or other medical devices, equipment,
tools or instruments, whereby a collapsed magnet is inserted into
the intended location or anatomical lumen or region. Once the
magnet reaches the desired location or anatomical lumen or region
for magnet placement, the magnet is then allowed to expand through
a self-expanding mechanism (as well as other available expansion or
deployment mechanisms or materials). In an embodiment, the magnet
may also be designed to be flexible. In an embodiment, the magnet
may be flexible in order to be able to follow the contours of the
anatomical region or lumen (or other location) into which it is
inserted, placed or disposed. Any of the components (or
sub-components) disclosed herein may have similar expansion and
flexibility design characteristics and performance.
[0049] Any of the components or modules referred to with regards to
any of the present invention embodiments of the device discussed
herein, may be integrally or separately formed with one another.
Further, redundant functions or structures of the components or
modules may be implemented.
[0050] Any of the components or modules may be a variety of widths
and lengths as desired or required for operational purposes.
[0051] It should be appreciated that various sizes, dimensions,
contours, rigidity, shapes, flexibility and materials of any of the
components or portions of components in the various embodiments of
the device discussed throughout may be varied and utilized as
desired or required. Similarly, locations and alignments of the
various components may vary as desired or required. Moreover, modes
and mechanisms for connectivity or interchangeability may vary.
[0052] It should be appreciated that the device (and system) and
related components of the device (and system) discussed herein may
take on all shapes along the entire continual geometric spectrum of
manipulation of x, y, and z planes to provide and meet the
anatomical, environmental, and structural demands and operational
requirements. Moreover, locations and alignments of the various
components may vary as desired or required.
[0053] It should be appreciated that as discussed herein, a subject
may be a human or any animal. It should be appreciated that an
animal may be a variety of any applicable type, including, but not
limited thereto, mammal, veterinarian animal, livestock animal or
pet type animal, etc. As an example, the animal may be a laboratory
animal specifically selected to have certain characteristics
similar to human (e.g. rat, dog, pig, monkey), etc. It should be
appreciated that the subject may be any applicable human patient,
for example.
[0054] Although illustrative variations of the present invention
are described above, it will be evident to one skilled in the art
that various changes and modifications may be made without
departing from the invention. It is intended in the following
claims to cover all such changes and modifications that fall within
the true spirit and scope of the invention.
EXAMPLES
[0055] Practice of an aspect of an embodiment (or embodiments) of
the invention will be still more fully understood from the
following examples and experimental results, which are presented
herein for illustration only and should not be construed as
limiting the invention in any way.
Example 1
[0056] A medical system for fixing a stent in position within an
anatomical lumen of a subject. The medical system may comprise: an
intra-luminal stent; and a magnet wherein said magnet is configured
to be implanted in the subject in one or more of the following
locations: the subcutaneous layer of the subject, the
intra-muscular layer of the subject, or the sub-fascial layer of
the subject. And wherein a magnetic force between said
intra-luminal stent and said magnet is configured to fix said stent
in position.
Example 2
[0057] The medical system of example 1, wherein said stent is
composed of a material selected from the group consisting of a
magnet, a magnetizable material, and a magnetic metal.
Example 3
[0058] The medical system of example 1 (as well as subject matter
in whole or in part of example 2), wherein said magnet is composed
of a material selected from the group consisting of a magnet, a
magnetizable material, and a magnetic metal.
Example 4
[0059] The medical system of example 1 (as well as subject matter
of one or more of any combination of examples 2-3, in whole or in
part), wherein said stent is expandable.
Example 5
[0060] The medical system of example 1 (as well as subject matter
of one or more of any combination of examples 2-4, in whole or in
part), wherein said stent is designed to be flexible to follow the
contours of said anatomical lumen.
Example 6
[0061] The medical system of example 1 (as well as subject matter
of one or more of any combination of examples 2-5, in whole or in
part), wherein said stent is located in the respiratory tract.
Example 7
[0062] The medical system of example 1 (as well as subject matter
of one or more of any combination of examples 2-6, in whole or in
part), wherein said stent is located in the gastrointestinal
tract.
Example 8
[0063] The medical system of example 1 (as well as subject matter
of one or more of any combination of examples 2-7, in whole or in
part), wherein said stent is inserted endoscopically.
Example 9
[0064] The medical system of example 1 (as well as subject matter
of one or more of any combination of examples 2-8, in whole or in
part), wherein said stent is configured to be advanced by
peristaltic contractions.
Example 10
[0065] The medical system of example 1 (as well as subject matter
of one or more of any combination of examples 2-9, in whole or in
part), wherein said stent is removed through open surgery.
Example 11
[0066] The medical system of example 1 (as well as subject matter
of one or more of any combination of examples 2-10, in whole or in
part), wherein said stent is removed endoscopically.
Example 12
[0067] The medical system of example 1 (as well as subject matter
of one or more of any combination of examples 2-11, in whole or in
part), wherein said stent is removed by advancing through the lumen
naturally.
[0068] 13. The medical system of example 12 (as well as subject
matter of one or more of any combination of examples 2-11, in whole
or in part), wherein said stent is configured to be advanced by
peristaltic contractions.
Example 14
[0069] The medical system of example 1 (as well as subject matter
of one or more of any combination of examples 2-13, in whole or in
part), wherein multiple of said magnets are used to fix said stent
in position.
Example 15
[0070] The medical system of example 1 (as well as subject matter
of one or more of any combination of examples 2-14, in whole or in
part), wherein said magnetic force is adjusted by the size,
strength, and location of said magnet.
Example 16
[0071] A method for fixing a medical stent in position of a
subject. The method may comprise: inserting a stent in an
anatomical lumen; implanting a magnet in the subject in one or more
of the following locations: the subcutaneous layer of the subject,
the intra-muscular layer of the subject, or the sub-fascial layer
of the subject; and employing a magnetic force between said stent
and said magnet to fix said stent in position.
Example 17
[0072] The method of example 16, wherein said stent is composed of
a material selected from the group consisting of a magnet, a
magnetizable material, and a magnetic metal.
Example 18
[0073] The method of example 16 (as well as subject matter in whole
or in part of example 17), wherein said magnet is composed of a
material selected from the group consisting of a magnet, a
magnetizable material, and a magnetic metal.
Example 19
[0074] The method of example 16 (as well as subject matter of one
or more of any combination of examples 17-18, in whole or in part),
wherein said stent is expandable.
Example 20
[0075] The method of example 16 (as well as subject matter of one
or more of any combination of examples 17-19, in whole or in part),
wherein said stent is designed to be flexible to follow the
contours of said anatomical lumen.
Example 21
[0076] The method of example 16 (as well as subject matter of one
or more of any combination of examples 17-20, in whole or in part),
wherein said stent is located in the respiratory tract.
Example 22
[0077] The method of example 16 (as well as subject matter of one
or more of any combination of examples 17-21, in whole or in part),
wherein said stent is located in the gastrointestinal tract.
Example 23
[0078] The method of example 16 (as well as subject matter of one
or more of any combination of examples 17-22, in whole or in part),
wherein said stent is inserted endoscopically.
Example 24
[0079] The medical system of example 16 (as well as subject matter
of one or more of any combination of examples 17-23, in whole or in
part), wherein said stent is configured to be advanced by
peristaltic contractions.
Example 25
[0080] The method of example 16 (as well as subject matter of one
or more of any combination of examples 17-24, in whole or in part),
wherein said stent is removed by advancing through the lumen
naturally.
Example 26
[0081] The method of example 25 (as well as subject matter of one
or more of any combination of examples 17-24, in whole or in part),
wherein said stent is configured to be advanced by peristaltic
contractions.
Example 27
[0082] The method of example 16 (as well as subject matter of one
or more of any combination of examples 17-26, in whole or in part),
wherein said stent is removed through open surgery.
Example 28
[0083] The method of example 16 (as well as subject matter of one
or more of any combination of examples 17-27, in whole or in part),
wherein said stent is removed endoscopically.
Example 29
[0084] The method of example 16 (as well as subject matter of one
or more of any combination of examples 17-28, in whole or in part),
wherein multiple of said magnets are used to fix said stent in
position.
Example 30
[0085] The method of example 16 (as well as subject matter of one
or more of any combination of examples 17-29, in whole or in part),
wherein said magnetic force is adjusted by the size, strength, and
location of said magnet.
Example 31
[0086] A medical system for fixing a stent in position within an
anatomical lumen of a subject. The medical system may comprise: an
intra-luminal stent; a magnet wherein said magnet is configured to
be disposed on the subject disposed on a cutaneous location; and
wherein a magnetic force between said intra-luminal stent and said
magnet is configured to fix said stent in position.
Example 32
[0087] The medical system of example 31, wherein said stent is
composed of a material selected from the group consisting of a
magnet, a magnetizable material, and a magnetic metal.
Example 33
[0088] The medical system of example 31 (as well as subject matter
in whole or in part of example 32), wherein said magnet is composed
of a material selected from the group consisting of a magnet, a
magnetizable material, and a magnetic metal.
Example 34
[0089] The medical system of example 31 (as well as subject matter
of one or more of any combination of examples 32-33, in whole or in
part), wherein said stent is expandable.
Example 35
[0090] The medical system of example 31 (as well as subject matter
of one or more of any combination of examples 32-34, in whole or in
part), wherein said stent is designed to be flexible to follow the
contours of said anatomical lumen.
Example 36
[0091] The medical system of example 31 (as well as subject matter
of one or more of any combination of examples 32-35, in whole or in
part), wherein said stent is located in the respiratory tract.
Example 37
[0092] The medical system of example 31 (as well as subject matter
of one or more of any combination of examples 32-36, in whole or in
part), wherein said stent is located in the gastrointestinal
tract.
Example 38
[0093] The medical system of example 31 (as well as subject matter
of one or more of any combination of examples 32-37, in whole or in
part), wherein said stent is inserted endoscopically.
Example 39
[0094] The medical system of example 31 (as well as subject matter
of one or more of any combination of examples 32-38, in whole or in
part), wherein said stent is configured to be advanced by
peristaltic contractions.
Example 40
[0095] The medical system of example 31 (as well as subject matter
of one or more of any combination of examples 32-39, in whole or in
part), wherein said stent is removed through open surgery.
Example 41
[0096] The medical system of example 31 (as well as subject matter
of one or more of any combination of examples 32-40, in whole or in
part), wherein said stent is removed endoscopically.
Example 42
[0097] The method of example 31 (as well as subject matter of one
or more of any combination of examples 32-41, in whole or in part),
wherein said stent is removed by advancing through the lumen
naturally.
Example 43
[0098] The method of example 42 (as well as subject matter of one
or more of any combination of examples 32-41, in whole or in part),
wherein said stent is configured to be advanced by peristaltic
contractions.
Example 44
[0099] The medical system of example 31 (as well as subject matter
of one or more of any combination of examples 32-43, in whole or in
part), wherein multiple of said magnets are used to fix said stent
in position.
Example 45
[0100] The medical system of example 31 (as well as subject matter
of one or more of any combination of examples 32-44, in whole or in
part), wherein said magnetic force is adjusted by the size,
strength, and location of said magnet.
Example 46
[0101] A method for fixing a medical stent in position of a
subject. The method may comprise: inserting a stent in an
anatomical lumen; configuring a magnet on the subject disposed on a
cutaneous location; and employing a magnetic force between said
stent and said magnet to fix said stent in position.
Example 47
[0102] The method of example 46, wherein said stent is composed of
a material selected from the group consisting of a magnet, a
magnetizable material, and a magnetic metal.
Example 48
[0103] The method of example 46 (as well as subject matter in whole
or in part of example 47), wherein said magnet is composed of a
material selected from the group consisting of a magnet, a
magnetizable material, and a magnetic metal.
Example 49
[0104] The method of example 46 (as well as subject matter of one
or more of any combination of examples 47-48, in whole or in part),
wherein said stent is expandable.
Example 50
[0105] The medical system of example 46 (as well as subject matter
of one or more of any combination of examples 47-49, in whole or in
part), wherein said stent is designed to be flexible to follow the
contours of said anatomical lumen.
Example 51
[0106] The method of example 46 (as well as subject matter of one
or more of any combination of examples 47-50, in whole or in part),
wherein said stent is located in the respiratory tract.
Example 52
[0107] The method of example 46 (as well as subject matter of one
or more of any combination of examples 47-51, in whole or in part),
wherein said stent is located in the gastrointestinal tract.
Example 53
[0108] The method of example 46 (as well as subject matter of one
or more of any combination of examples 47-52, in whole or in part),
wherein said stent is inserted endoscopically.
Example 54
[0109] The method of example 46 (as well as subject matter of one
or more of any combination of examples 47-53, in whole or in part),
wherein said stent is configured to be advanced by peristaltic
contractions.
Example 55
[0110] The method of example 46 (as well as subject matter of one
or more of any combination of examples 47-54, in whole or in part),
wherein said stent is removed through open surgery.
Example 56
[0111] The method of example 46 (as well as subject matter of one
or more of any combination of examples 47-55, in whole or in part),
wherein said stent is removed endoscopically.
Example 57
[0112] The method of example 46 (as well as subject matter of one
or more of any combination of examples 47-56, in whole or in part),
wherein said stent is removed by advancing through the lumen
naturally.
Example 58
[0113] The method of example 57 (as well as subject matter of one
or more of any combination of examples 47-56, in whole or in part),
wherein said stent is removed by advancing through the
gastrointestinal tract through peristaltic contractions.
Example 59
[0114] The method of example 46 (as well as subject matter of one
or more of any combination of examples 47-58, in whole or in part),
wherein multiple of said magnets are used to fix said stent in
position.
Example 60
[0115] The method of example 46 (as well as subject matter of one
or more of any combination of examples 47-59, in whole or in part),
wherein said magnetic force is adjusted by the size, strength, and
location of said magnet.
Example 61
[0116] A medical system for fixing a stent in position within a
first anatomical lumen of a subject. The medical system may
comprise: an intra-luminal stent, said intra-luminal stent
configured to be disposed in the first anatomical lumen; a magnet
wherein said magnet is configured to be disposed in a second
anatomical lumen or remote location of the first anatomical lumen;
and wherein a magnetic force between said intra-luminal stent and
said magnet is configured to fix said stent in position with the
first anatomical lumen of a subject.
Example 62
[0117] The medical system of example 61, wherein said stent is
composed of a material selected from the group consisting of a
magnet, a magnetizable material, and a magnetic metal.
Example 63
[0118] The medical system of example 61 (as well as subject matter
in whole or in part of example 62), wherein said magnet is composed
of a material selected from the group consisting of a magnet, a
magnetizable material, and a magnetic metal.
Example 64
[0119] The medical system of example 61 (as well as subject matter
of one or more of any combination of examples 62-63, in whole or in
part), wherein said stent and/or said magnet is expandable.
Example 65
[0120] The medical system of example 61 (as well as subject matter
of one or more of any combination of examples 62-64, in whole or in
part), wherein said stent is designed to be flexible to follow the
contours of said anatomical lumen.
Example 66
[0121] The medical system of example 61 (as well as subject matter
of one or more of any combination of examples 62-65, in whole or in
part), wherein said stent and/or said magnet is inserted
endoscopically.
Example 67
[0122] The medical system of example 61 (as well as subject matter
of one or more of any combination of examples 62-66, in whole or in
part), wherein said stent and/or said magnet is removed
endoscopically.
Example 68
[0123] The medical system of example 61 (as well as subject matter
of one or more of any combination of examples 62-67, in whole or in
part), wherein multiple of said magnets are used to fix said stent
in position.
Example 69
[0124] The medical system of example 61 (as well as subject matter
of one or more of any combination of examples 62-68, in whole or in
part), wherein said magnetic force is adjusted by the size,
strength, and location of said magnet.
Example 70
[0125] A method for fixing a medical stent in position within a
first anatomical lumen of a subject. The method may comprise:
disposing a stent in said first anatomical lumen; disposing a
magnet in a second anatomical lumen or a remote location of said
first anatomical lumen; and wherein a magnetic force between said
intra-luminal stent and said magnet is configured to fix said stent
in position within said first anatomical lumen of said subject.
Example 71
[0126] The method of example 70, wherein said stent is composed of
a material selected from the group consisting of a magnet, a
magnetizable material, and a magnetic metal.
Example 72
[0127] The method of example 70 (as well as subject matter in whole
or in part of example 71), wherein said magnet is composed of a
material selected from the group consisting of a magnet, a
magnetizable material, and a magnetic metal.
Example 73
[0128] The method of example 70 (as well as subject matter of one
or more of any combination of examples 71-72, in whole or in part),
wherein said stent and/or said magnet is expandable.
Example 74
[0129] The method of example 70 (as well as subject matter of one
or more of any combination of examples 71-73, in whole or in part),
wherein said stent is designed to be flexible to follow the
contours of said anatomical lumen.
Example 75
[0130] The method of example 70 (as well as subject matter of one
or more of any combination of examples 71-74, in whole or in part),
wherein said stent and/or said magnet is inserted
endoscopically.
Example 76
[0131] The method of example 70 (as well as subject matter of one
or more of any combination of examples 71-75, in whole or in part),
wherein said stent is removed endoscopically.
Example 77
[0132] The method of example 70 (as well as subject matter of one
or more of any combination of examples 71-76, in whole or in part),
wherein multiple of said magnets are used to fix said stent in
position.
Example 78
[0133] The method of example 70 (as well as subject matter of one
or more of any combination of examples 71-77, in whole or in part),
wherein said magnetic force is adjusted by the size, strength, and
location of said magnet.
Example 79
[0134] The method of using any of the devices, systems, assemblies,
or their components provided in any one or more of examples
1-78.
Example 80
[0135] The method of providing instructions to use or operate of
any of the devices, systems, assemblies, or their components
provided in any one or more of examples 1-78.
Example 81
[0136] The method of manufacturing any of the devices, systems,
assemblies, or their components provided in any one or more of
examples 1-78.
Example 82
[0137] It is noted that the machine readable medium or computer
useable medium may be configured to execute the subject matter
pertaining to system or related methods disclosed in examples 1-78,
as well as Examples 79-81.
REFERENCES
[0138] The devices, systems, apparatuses, materials, compositions,
components, computer readable medium, algorithms, and methods (of
manufacture and use) of various embodiments of the invention
disclosed herein may utilize aspects disclosed in the following
references, applications, publications and patents and which are
hereby incorporated by reference herein in their entirety (and
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[0176] Unless clearly specified to the contrary, there is no
requirement for any particular described or illustrated activity or
element, any particular sequence or such activities, any particular
size, speed, material, duration, contour, dimension or frequency,
or any particularly interrelationship of such elements. Moreover,
any activity can be repeated, any activity can be performed by
multiple entities, and/or any element can be duplicated. Further,
any activity or element can be excluded, the sequence of activities
can vary, and/or the interrelationship of elements can vary. It
should be appreciated that aspects of the present invention may
have a variety of sizes, contours, shapes, compositions and
materials as desired or required.
[0177] In summary, while the present invention has been described
with respect to specific embodiments, many modifications,
variations, alterations, substitutions, and equivalents will be
apparent to those skilled in the art. The present invention is not
to be limited in scope by the specific embodiment described herein.
Indeed, various modifications of the present invention, in addition
to those described herein, will be apparent to those of skill in
the art from the foregoing description and accompanying drawings.
Accordingly, the invention is to be considered as limited only by
the spirit and scope of the following claims, including all
modifications and equivalents.
[0178] Still other embodiments will become readily apparent to
those skilled in this art from reading the above-recited detailed
description and drawings of certain exemplary embodiments. It
should be understood that numerous variations, modifications, and
additional embodiments are possible, and accordingly, all such
variations, modifications, and embodiments are to be regarded as
being within the spirit and scope of this application. For example,
regardless of the content of any portion (e.g., title, field,
background, summary, abstract, drawing figure, etc.) of this
application, unless clearly specified to the contrary, there is no
requirement for the inclusion in any claim herein or of any
application claiming priority hereto of any particular described or
illustrated activity or element, any particular sequence of such
activities, or any particular interrelationship of such elements.
Moreover, any activity can be repeated, any activity can be
performed by multiple entities, and/or any element can be
duplicated. Further, any activity or element can be excluded, the
sequence of activities can vary, and/or the interrelationship of
elements can vary. Unless clearly specified to the contrary, there
is no requirement for any particular described or illustrated
activity or element, any particular sequence or such activities,
any particular size, speed, material, dimension or frequency, or
any particularly interrelationship of such elements. Accordingly,
the descriptions and drawings are to be regarded as illustrative in
nature, and not as restrictive. Moreover, when any number or range
is described herein, unless clearly stated otherwise, that number
or range is approximate. When any range is described herein, unless
clearly stated otherwise, that range includes all values therein
and all sub ranges therein. Any information in any material (e.g.,
a United States/foreign patent, United States/foreign patent
application, book, article, etc.) that has been incorporated by
reference herein, is only incorporated by reference to the extent
that no conflict exists between such information and the other
statements and drawings set forth herein. In the event of such
conflict, including a conflict that would render invalid any claim
herein or seeking priority hereto, then any such conflicting
information in such incorporated by reference material is
specifically not incorporated by reference herein.
* * * * *