Abstract: An arterial closure system includes an arterial closure device (“ACD”) and a deployment tool. The arterial closure device includes a first member forming an enlargement around the circumference of the arterial closure device and being configured to be received against an outer surface of a vessel, a connecting member having a smaller outer diameter than the first member, extending from the first member, and being configured to be positioned within an arteriotomy of a vessel, and a longitudinal channel configured to receive a tube and passing between the first member and the connecting member. The deployment tool includes a handle, a contacting section, and an extension that extends between the handle and the contacting section. The contacting section is designed to mate with the arterial closure device to advance the arterial closure device over the tube and deploy the arterial closure device within the vessel.

Abstract: The invention relates to applying a patch to a tissue surface within a mammalian body that includes retaining the patch to a deployment device, advancing the deployment device to the tissue surface, pressing the patch against the tissue surface, and manipulating the deployment device to separate the deployment device from the patch and leave the patch against the tissue surface. The patch includes at least one layer of a biocompatible polymer, at least one layer of a biocompatible superelastic/shape memory material, and at least one layer of a biocompatible adherent material. The deployment device includes a handle section and a deployment section, and the deployment section is configured to retain the patch for delivery of the patch to the tissue surface.

Abstract: An atherectomy device includes a catheter with a window at its distal tip for admitting tissue into a catheter compartment. A cylindrical cartridge in the compartment has a cutting edge that supports an electrically conductive cutting element, e.g. a band or wire. The cutting element and adjacent tissue can be heated to a selected temperature by generating an electrical current through the cutting element. The catheter is maneuverable to position its distal end near a lesion in an artery. The catheter incorporates a dilatation balloon or other feature to urge the catheter against the lesion, so that at least part of the lesion enters the compartment through the window. Then, the cartridge is manipulated from the catheter's proximal end to move the cutting edge across the window, severing the acquired tissue. According to alternative embodiments, the cartridge is either rotated or moved axially relative to the catheter, in either event closing the catheter window when the cut is complete.