Abstract: Systems and methods related to polymer foams are generally described. Some embodiments relate to compositions and methods for the preparation of polymer foams, and methods for using the polymer foams. The polymer foams can be applied to a body cavity and placed in contact with, for example, tissue, injured tissue, internal organs, etc. In some embodiments, the polymer foams can be formed within a body cavity (i.e., in situ foam formation). In addition, the foamed polymers may be capable of exerting a pressure on an internal surface of a body cavity and preventing or limiting movement of a bodily fluid (e.g., blood, etc.).

Abstract: A bioabsorbable composite stent structure, comprising bioabsorbable polymeric ring structures which retain a molecular weight and mechanical strength of a starting substrate and one or more interconnecting struts which extend between and couple adjacent ring structures. The ring structures can have a formed first diameter and being radially compressible to a smaller second diameter and re-expandable to the first diameter. The ring structures can comprise a base polymeric layer. The interconnecting struts can be formed from a polymer blend or co-polymer of poly-L-lactide (PLLA) and an elastomeric polymer. The interconnecting struts each can have a width that is less than a circumference of one of the ring structures. The adjacent ring structures can be axially and rotationally movable relative to one another via the interconnecting struts. The interconnecting struts can also be bioabsorbable.

Abstract: Disclosed are devices and methods for providing simple, fast, effective, and repeatable anastomotic graft connections, which can reduce (or eliminate) risks associated with graft anastomoses, thus improving patient outcomes. An example embodiment is an anastomotic graft connection device that includes a connector and a cuff. The connector includes a first flared end and a second flared end. The first flared end is configured to be inserted into a vessel (e.g., blood vessel). At least the second flared end is configured to be attached to a graft. The cuff includes an inner ring and an outer ring. The inner ring is configured to secure the graft to at least the second flared end of the connector, and the outer ring is configured to exert force on the vessel to seal the first flared end of the connector against an inner wall of the vessel.

Abstract: According to some embodiments of the invention, an anchoring system includes a sleeve having an inner surface defining a first lumen, a first annular sealing mechanism disposed at a proximal end of the sleeve, and a second annular sealing mechanism disposed at a distal end of the sleeve. The anchoring system further includes a pressure tube in fluid connection with an outer surface of the sleeve, a sheath in mechanical connection with the sleeve, the sheath forming a second lumen, the second lumen being in fluid connection with the first lumen, and open-cell foam disposed on the outer surface of the sleeve. Application of negative pressure to the pressure tube causes a seal to form between the first and second annular sealing mechanisms and an inner surface of a tissue cavity. Application of negative pressure to the pressure tube also creates a frictional force that resists displacement of the sleeve.

Abstract: An apparatus for anastomosis of tubular structures includes two annular bodies. Each annular body has a first side, a second side, a central axis extending between the first and second sides, an inner wall defining a passageway that is open to the first and second sides for passing a tubular structure therethrough, and a plurality of spikes each extending from a base connected to the second side of the annular body to a pointed free end configured to pierce the tubular structure. The spikes are angled relative to the central axis such that for each of the spikes, the free end is positioned farther from the central axis in a radial direction than the base is to the central axis.

Abstract: Systems, apparatuses and methods for bone fusion are disclosed. In particular, a fixation screw assembly is provided that comprises a bone engagement portion including a shaft and a head member. The assembly also includes a flexible washer member that can be operably attached and secured around the head member of the bone engagement portion. The washer member is polyaxial relative to the bone engagement portion, such that it can assume a variety of angles. The washer member can help prevent back out of the bone engagement portion when the bone engagement portion is implanted into a bone member. The design of the fixation screw assembly can be used in different fusion procedures, including fusion of the sacroiliac joint.

Abstract: Implementations of the present disclosure relate to apparatuses, systems, and methods for anastomosing vascular systems in medical procedures. A pair of similar or identical coupling devices may be disposed at the ends of two vessels, either natural or synthetic. The coupling devices may be capable of hermaphroditically connecting to one another to provide a simple and secure connection which promotes growth of the vessels between the bio-absorbable coupling devices.

Abstract: A stent apparatus for use in surgical applications having a hollow tubular section with a proximal end and a distal end. Additionally, the stent apparatus can have at least one anchor point connected to the hollow tubular section. The hollow tubular section may also have a modifiable member, and a magnetic connection node. The stent may also be wrapped in a material that has magnetic properties. The delivery of the stent can include a stent delivery tool for inserting a stent into a vessel.

Abstract: A surgical implant (20) comprises a flexible, areal basic structure (22) having a first face and a second face and being provided with pores (26) extending from the first face to the second face. A barrier layer (24) having a first face and a second face is placed, with its second face, at the first face of the basic structure (2) and attached to the basic structure (22). The barrier layer (24) is deformed into at least part of the pores (26) where it forms, in a respective pore (10), a barrier region (28).

Abstract: A method of joining together two tissue layers includes positioning a tissue anchor over a first tissue layer. The tissue anchor includes a plate having top and bottom surfaces, an array of first pins projecting from the bottom surface of the plate that oppose the first tissue layer, and an array of second pins projecting from the top surface of the plate that face away from the first tissue layer. A second tissue layer is placed over the first tissue layer and the tissue anchor so that the second pins oppose the second tissue layer. The second tissue layer is pressed onto the tissue anchor and toward the first tissue layer so that the first pins advance into the first tissue layer and the second pins advance into the second tissue layer for joining together the first and second tissue layers. The plate has second pin apertures and the second pins are free to slide and move independently of one another within the second pin apertures.

Abstract: According to an aspect, a bodily implant includes a connector configured to connect a first tube member and a second tube member such that fluid can be transferred through the first tube member and the second tube member. The connector includes a first clip member having an inner surface, a second clip member having an inner surface, a hinge member coupled to the first clip member and the second clip member, a retaining member coupled to the inner surface of the second clip member, and an inner connector coupled to the retaining member.

Abstract: Apparatuses, devices, and methods for performing endoscopic tissue resectioning in the gastrointestinal tract are disclosed. In some embodiments, a tissue resectioning device may include first and second scaffolds each arranged in a tubular configuration. The tissue resectioning device may further include a hook tool engageable with the first scaffold and/or the second scaffold to bias the scaffolds to engage a target section of tissue between the first scaffold and the second scaffold. The hook tool may also engage the section of tissue to pull the section of tissue into the path of a cutting edge of each of the first and second scaffolds. In some embodiments, the tissue resectioning device is provided over a scope, which extends within a lumen of an overtube.

Abstract: An end effector for use with a circular stapling instrument incorporates an anvil assembly having features which enhance the coring or cutting of organ tissue internal of the annular array of staples thereby creating a tubular passage free of tissue obstructions.

Abstract: An absorbable and unidirectionally compressible intestinal anastomosis device, including a first through pipe portion and a second through pipe portion respectively including large ends and small ends; the large ends are used for fixing an intestinal canal; and the small end of the second through pipe portion is inserted into the small end of the first through pipe portion. The two large ends are drawn close to each other to achieve an intestine-intestine anastomosis. The outer sides of circular rings at the ends of the small ends of the first through pipe portion and the second through pipe portion are provided with gradually-expanded elastic horn-shaped openings. The device can make two stapled intestinal canals rest relatively, thereby avoiding adjustments required in other assembling modes.

Abstract: According to some embodiments of the invention, an anchoring system includes a sleeve having an inner surface defining a first lumen, a first annular sealing mechanism disposed at a proximal end of the sleeve, and a second annular sealing mechanism disposed at a distal end of the sleeve. The anchoring system further includes a pressure tube in fluid connection with an outer surface of the sleeve, a sheath in mechanical connection with the sleeve, the sheath forming a second lumen, the second lumen being in fluid connection with the first lumen, and open-cell foam disposed on the outer surface of the sleeve. Application of negative pressure to the pressure tube causes a seal to form between the first and second annular sealing mechanisms and an inner surface of a tissue cavity. Application of negative pressure to the pressure tube also creates a frictional force that resists displacement of the sleeve.

Abstract: Implementations of the present disclosure relate to apparatuses, systems, and methods for anastomosing vascular systems in medical procedures. A pair of similar or identical coupling devices may be disposed at the ends of two vessels, either natural or synthetic. The coupling devices may be capable of hermaphroditically connecting to one another to provide a simple and secure connection which promotes growth of the vessels between the bio-absorbable coupling devices.

Abstract: Described are stent graft devices and methods for their preparation and use. Expandable stent graft devices of the invention include inner and/or outer coverings uniquely applied and associated with surfaces of the stent. In certain described embodiments, bioremodelable materials such as ECM materials are vacuum pressed onto and/or around elements of a stent in the manufacture of a stent graft device.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device suitable for application of a curable fluid composition to encircle a bodily organ. The device comprises a monolithic piece of a flexible material having a length dimension with an inner surface and an outer surface, a first end and a second end, a width dimension, and two spaced-apart sides, wherein a portion of the length dimension proximal to the first end is configured to contact a portion of the length dimension proximal to the second end, the inner surface defining a hollow area between the two spaced-apart sides; and at least one inlet providing fluid communication between the outer surface and the inner surface, for introduction of the fluid into the hollow area.

Abstract: Methods and devices are provided for anastomosing tissue in the body. In one exemplary embodiment, an anastomotic device is provided having an elongate tubular body that is disposable through a body lumen and that includes proximal and distal portions. The proximal and distal portions can each include a plurality of asymmetrical s-shaped slits and can each be adapted to expand upon rotation to form proximal and distal wings. The proximal and distal wings can extend toward one another to engage tissue therebetween and thereby form a passageway through the tissue.

Abstract: An anastomotic connector includes a tubular shell and a porous biocompatible liner configured to connect two or more natural and/or artificial lumens, such as blood vessels and/or grafts. The tubular shell may be bioabsorbable, ultimately dissolving in the body, while the biocompatible liner can remain in the body and connected to the lumens.

Abstract: The present invention provides a drug-eluting stent graft for preventing stent graft-related complications as well as treating aneurysm. Specifically, the present invention relates to a drug-eluting stent graft comprising a drug, a drug-retaining agent and a stent graft, and a method for therapy of aneurysm including the use of the drug-eluting stent graft.

Abstract: A system and method for joining an end of a tubular prosthesis to the wall of a vessel wherein an anvil is inserted into the vessel through an opening in the vessel wall produced by a cutting surface on the anvil. The anvil is operated via an anvil handle which may extend through the tubular prosthesis. The tubular prosthesis is guided to the opening in the vessel wall whereupon jaws clamp the prosthesis around the anvil. Staples mounted on the jaws engage the anvil and are bent to thereby staple the end of the tubular prosthesis to the vessel wall. A cutting edge may be mounted to the anvil and utilized to create an enlarged hole to permit blood flow into the tubular prosthesis and to permit removal of the anvil from the vessel.

Abstract: According to some embodiments of the invention, an anchoring system includes a sleeve having an inner surface defining a first lumen, a first annular sealing mechanism disposed at a proximal end of the sleeve, and a second annular sealing mechanism disposed at a distal end of the sleeve. The anchoring system further includes a pressure tube in fluid connection with an outer surface of the sleeve, a sheath in mechanical connection with the sleeve, the sheath forming a second lumen, the second lumen being in fluid connection with the first lumen, and open-cell foam disposed on the outer surface of the sleeve. Application of negative pressure to the pressure tube causes a seal to form between the first and second annular sealing mechanisms and an inner surface of a tissue cavity. Application of negative pressure to the pressure tube also creates a frictional force that resists displacement of the sleeve.

Abstract: Techniques for sutureless vascular anastomosis are described, including an incision seal including a base configured to partially house an outer surface of a main vessel, the base being formed using a material that is configured to be penetrated by a barb disposed on a connector the main vessel being secured to the base when the base is at least partially pierced by the barb, an upper lumen configured to guide a graft vessel, and a housing opening configured to receive the graft vessel.

Abstract: The invention provides a system (1) and method for manufacturing a stent. A spraying device (14) sprays a polymeric suspension (16) onto a mandrel (4). During spraying of the polymeric suspension (16) onto the mandrel (4), the mandrel (4) is manipulated by a micromanipulator (8) to produce a continuous coating on the mandrel (4) having a nonuniform thickness. The polymeric coating is allowed to cure on the mandrel (4) to form the stent, which is then removed from the mandrel (4). The method can comprise embedding a filament (2) in the polymeric coating and incorporating one or more drugs in the stent.

Abstract: A connection system for creating a vascular cannula for connection to a blood vessel includes a flexible hose element in the form of a graft, a conduit element and, disposed therebetween, a connecting element establishing fluid-tight connections, wherein a retaining element is equipped with a radially outwardly elastically beadable snap ring, which, in the connected state, can be snapped in behind a detent surface of one of the parts of the connection system.

Abstract: The present invention provides for an implantable medical device comprising a hybrid composite material including a first biological component such as an acellular tissue matrix and a second non-biological component for strengthening the device after implantation.

Abstract: A biologic artificial bone includes an artificial fiber material formed from a synthetic polymer with mechanical properties similar to type I collagen. A biocompatible liquid substance is impregnated in the fiber material that hardens and stiffens the fiber material. A bone substitute is impregnated in the hardened and stiffened fiber material forming an artificial bone composite. Vascular channels are formed in the artificial bone composite to facilitate in-growth of vessels and bone forming cells. The construction and methods achieve an artificial composite structure that is similar to natural bone with comparable properties.

Abstract: A splice is described for jointing thermoplastic strips that include steel cords. In the splice a splice polymer is used that is a mixture of a co-polymer and a base polymer, wherein the co-polymer is a grafted co-polymer, a block co-polymer or a random co-polymer functionalized for enabling adhesion to the steel cords. Particular about the inventive splice is that the amount of co-polymer in the base polymer is such that in a test-till-break of a splice, part of the steel cords fracture in the test while the remaining cords are pulled out of the polymer without breaking. Surprisingly, a splice with such a failure behavior results in a better overall splice strength than a splice wherein a too large amount of co-polymer is added. When too much co-polymer is added all steel cords break in the test which strangely enough leads to a lower overall strength of the splice.

Abstract: A urological repair device includes a stent having a diameter that fits within a portion of a urological structure. The stent also has a length to bridge a distance between a first end of the urological structure and a second end of the urological structure. The stent includes at least one tapered end. The tapered end enables placement of the stent within the urological structure. A method of repairing a urological structure includes placing a first end of a substantially tubular urological structure over a first end of a tubular stent, and placing a second end of a substantially tubular urological structure over a second end of a stent, and attaching the first end of the substantially tubular urological structure, the second end of a substantially tubular urological structure, and the tubular stent to form a fluid passageway.

Abstract: A surgical device and method used to assist in the surgical repair and rehabilitation of damaged and/or severed tendons. In one embodiment of the present invention, the device includes a hollow member, preferably shaped as a partial funnel and/or cone, having an inner and outer surface, a flared mouth, a shaft, and an apical end. In another embodiment, the device includes a hollow member, preferably shaped as funnel or barrel cut in half along its longitudinal axis, having an inner and outer surface, two flared mouths, and a shaft.

Abstract: An endovascular anastomotic connector and method of using the same. The endovascular anastomotic connector includes a vascular conduit and a supply conduit. The vascular conduit has proximal and distal ends that reside within a vascular structure. The supply conduit extends at an angle from the vascular conduit. The proximal end of the supply conduit is configured to be attached to an auxiliary device.

Abstract: For fixedly implanting a device for material or signal delivery or acquisition or a part of such a device in a human or animal body, an opening is provided in hard tissue of the body, the opening reaching through a hard tissue layer, e.g. through a cortical bone layer into cancellous bone underneath. The device includes a plug portion (P) and/or a cover portion (C) which includes a ring of a material having thermoplastic properties extending around the plug portion (P) or on a tissue facing surface of the cover portion (C). The opening provided in the hard tissue has a cross section at least in the area of its mouth that is adapted to the plug or cover portion such that the plug portion (P) can be introduced through the mouth of the opening or the cover portion (C) can be positioned over the mouth of the opening such that the ring extends around the opening, along its wall and/or on the hard tissue surface around its mouth.

Abstract: The present invention relates to devices and methods for creating and securing a tissue fold during an endoluminal medical procedure. The devices and methods may be used for folding and securing, for example, a fundus wall onto an esophagus wall. An aspect of the invention includes a two-piece tissue clip configured to be installed through an endoluminal device to secure a tissue fold. The clip includes a female member and a male member configured to engage one another to secure the tissue fold. Another aspect of the invention includes a clipping device comprising a tissue clip magazine. The magazine is configured to hold a plurality of tissue clips and install the plurality of tissue clips in a single actuation of the magazine. A method for using the clipping device together with the tissue clips of the present invention to create and secure a fold of tissue during an endoluminal procedure also is disclosed.

Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for fixating connective tissue to bone. Some aspects include a carrier member having a length, width, and thickness, wherein the length and width are each at least two times greater than the thickness; attachment members extending from the carrier member and that engage connective tissue of an animal; and a bone engaging member extending from the carrier member and configured to attach to a bone of the animal. In some aspects, when the attachment members are engaged with the connective tissue and the bone engaging member is attached to the bone, the connective tissue and the bone are limited in being pulled apart from one another during physiological use of the connective tissue.

Abstract: A leakage detecting implant can detect leakage of body fluid from an incision, resection, or other internal surgical site in a subject. The leakage detecting implant can include: one or more biodegradable colorant members having a tissue-contacting inner surface and an opposite outer surface; a resilient member having an inner surface coupled to the outer surface of the one or more colorant members; and a cover member having a body with an internal chamber and an opening on a tissue-contacting side, the internal chamber containing the resilient member and at least a portion of the one or more biodegradable colorant members with the tissue-contacting inner surface exposed through the opening, the cover member having an inner surface of the internal chamber coupled to an outer surface of the resilient member, the tissue-contacting side having one or more affixation surfaces adapted to be affixed to tissue of a subject.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for anastomosis of a lumen according to various aspects of the present invention operate in conjunction with an impermeable stent. The impermeable stent may comprise a scaffold and, if needed, a sealant, such as a membrane and/or adhesive. In one embodiment, the scaffold, membrane and/or adhesive comprise biocompatible materials suitable for bio-absorption and/or degradation.

Abstract: The instant invention provides compositions and methods for promoting the repair and/or growth of biological tissue, e.g., tubular biological tissue such as nerves. Specifically, the instant invention provides tissue connection devices and tissue repair devices and methods for using these devices.

Abstract: Methods and devices are provided for enlarging an anastomosis fistula. In general, a surgical clip is applied to tissue surrounding a strictured anastomosis. The clip will exert a pressure on the engaged tissue that causes ischemic necrosis, and as a result the necrotic tissue and the clip will slough off, leaving an anastomosis with a larger diameter fistula.

Abstract: A surgical fastener for use with an anastomosis of two tissues includes a base leg and an upright leg. The base leg is selectively deformable and includes a traumatic tip for piecing tissue. The surgical fastener also includes at least one capillary disposed on the base leg which has a reservoir defined therein for retaining a liquid, e.g., bioadhesive, bonding agent, medicament, etc. Each of the capillaries is ruptureable upon deformation of the surgical fastener to dispense the liquid to the anastomosis site.

Abstract: An apparatus for regulating the functioning of a patient's organ or duct includes an elongated member having a first end and a second end. A fastener is disposed on the first end of the elongated member. The fastener is configured to engage the second end of the elongated member so that the elongated member forms a loop around the organ or duct. A tension element is disposed for movement within the elongated member. A symmetrical drive system including a drive element associated with and engaging the tension element for causing the tension element to control the tension applied by the elongated member against a patient's body organ or duct is further provided. In accordance with an alternate embodiment an apparatus for regulating the functioning of a patient's organ or duct including an elongated member having a first end and a second end. A fastener is disposed on the first end of the elongated member.

Abstract: An apparatus for forming an anastomosis between adjacent intestinal sections of tissue is provided. The apparatus includes a circular surgical stapler having an anvil assembly with an anvil shaft and an anvil, the circular surgical stapler further having a tubular body portion with an annular knife and a body portion shaft selectively attachable to the anvil shaft; and a seal structure for deposition between the intestinal sections of tissue including a hub configured to engage attachment structure on at least one of the anvil shaft and the body portion shaft. The attachment structure is positioned so that the seal structure is located between the intestinal sections of tissue when the circular surgical stapler is disposed within the intestinal sections of tissue.

Abstract: A closure device having evertable arms for capturing and everting tissue and method for its use with an invasive scope, such as an endoscope, for full-thickness closure of perforations and leaks in the walls of an intraluminal bodily space.

Abstract: Methods and devices for modifying the location at which bodily fluids interact with nutrients in a gastrointestinal tract. The methods and devices utilize a conduit configured to divert bodily fluids from an entrance within a gastrointestinal tract to a location downstream from the entrance.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates a device for joining a first body vessel to a second body vessel, including an inner member having a distal end portion and defining a longitudinal axis, an outer member defining a lumen dimensioned to receive the inner member therein, and a radially expandable anchor disposed at the distal end of the inner member, the expandable anchor having an initial condition wherein the expandable anchor is disposed between the outer member and the inner member and an expanded condition wherein the expandable anchor is radially larger than the expandable anchor in the initial condition.

Abstract: Fragmentable compression device for the anastomosis of hollow organs consisting of a pot-shaped body composed of two elements (1, 2), inserted one into the other and consisting of a plurality of composable sectors (5, 6), a third ring-shaped or hollow cylinder-shaped element (3) intended to be inserted into said pot-shaped body to clamp the edges of the organs to be anastomized, and a fourth element (4) also ring-shaped or hollow cylinder-shaped which is pressure-inserted into element (3) to compress said edges. Also elements (3, 4) consist of a plurality of composable sectors (7, 8). The axial dimension of the device is notably short so that, when it is applied in the vicinity of the anal canal of the patient, tenesmus is considerably reduced.

Abstract: The present invention relates to devices and methods for creating and securing a tissue fold during an endoluminal medical procedure. The devices and methods may be used for folding and securing, for example, a fundus wall onto an esophagus wall. An aspect of the invention includes a two-piece tissue clip configured to be installed through an endoluminal device to secure a tissue fold. The clip includes a female member and a male member configured to engage one another to secure the tissue fold. Another aspect of the invention includes a clipping device comprising a tissue clip magazine. The magazine is configured to hold a plurality of tissue clips and install the plurality of tissue clips in a single actuation of the magazine. A method for using the clipping device together with the tissue clips of the present invention to create and secure a fold of tissue during an endoluminal procedure also is disclosed.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for performing surgical anastomotic procedures are disclosed herein. The apparatus for performing the surgical anastomotic procedure includes a tubular sleeve defining an axial lumen therethrough, a positioning tube defining an axial lumen therethrough, an expansion assembly having a tubular body and an expandable tip operatively coupled to a distal end thereof, and an anchoring assembly. The positioning tube is preferably configured and adapted to be slidably received within the axial lumen of the tubular sleeve.

Abstract: A prosthetic device for creating a vascular bypass from an arterial vessel has at least one prosthetic tube joined to an orifice of a flexible collar. The prosthetic tube extends from an outer face of the collar. The collar has an inner face surface for attachment to the arterial vessel. The collar has a connection zone has an annular cavity extending around and away from the orifice. The annular cavity is suitable for receiving an injected glue or bioabsorable haemostatic product so as to attach to the arterial vessel.

Abstract: Vascular access systems for performing hemodialysis are disclosed. The vascular access system contemplates a catheter section adapted for insertion into a vein and a graft section adapted for attachment to an artery. The catheter section may have metal or polymer wall reinforcements that allow the use of thin-walled, small outer diameter conduits for the vascular access system. One or more of the adhered, embedded or bonded conduit reinforcement structures may be removable without significant damage to the conduit sections to facilitate attachment of the sections, or to a connector between the sections. Various self-sealing materials are provided for use in the vascular access system, as well as temporary access sites and flow control/sensor systems.