Abstract: The present invention relates to an anchor configured for minimally-invasive implantation and sized to remain securely positioned within at least a portion of the gastrointestinal tract of an animal. The anchor includes a radial spring formed from an elongated resilient member shaped into an annular wave pattern about a central axis. The anchor defines a central lumen and provides an outward radial force, while allowing for substantial flexure about its perimeter. The anchor is generally removable, but can include fasteners, such as barbs, to further secure it to the surrounding anatomy. In some embodiments, the anchor includes a connector coupling a fixed portion to a removable portion. Further, the anchor can be used to secure a medical device within the body, such as a flexible sleeve within the intestine.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for limiting absorption of food products in specific parts of the digestive system is presented. A gastrointestinal implant device is anchored in the stomach and extends beyond the ligament of Treitz. All food exiting the stomach is funneled through the device. The gastrointestinal device includes an anchor for anchoring the device to the stomach and a flexible sleeve to limit absorption of nutrients in the duodenum. The anchor is collapsible for endoscopic delivery and removal.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for limiting absorption of food products in specific parts of the digestive system is presented. A gastrointestinal implant device is anchored in the stomach and extends beyond the ligament of Treitz. All food exiting the stomach is funneled through the device. The gastrointestinal device includes an anchor for anchoring the device to the stomach and a flexible sleeve to limit absorption of nutrients in the duodenum. The anchor is collapsible for endoscopic delivery and removal.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for limiting absorption of food products in specific parts of the digestive system is presented. A gastrointestinal implant device is anchored in the stomach and extends beyond the ligament of Treitz. All food exiting the stomach is funneled through the device. The gastrointestinal device includes an anchor for anchoring the device to the stomach and a flexible sleeve to limit absorption of nutrients in the duodenum. The anchor is collapsible for endoscopic delivery and removal.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for limiting absorption of food products in specific parts of the digestive system is presented. A gastrointestinal implant device is anchored in the stomach and extends beyond the ligament of Treitz. All food exiting the stomach is funneled through the device. The gastrointestinal device includes an anchor for anchoring the device to the stomach and a flexible sleeve to limit absorption of nutrients in the duodenum. The anchor is collapsible for endoscopic delivery and removal.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for limiting absorption of food products in specific parts of the digestive system is presented. A gastrointestinal implant device is anchored in the stomach and extends beyond the ligament of Treitz. All food exiting the stomach is funneled through the device. The gastrointestinal device includes an anchor for anchoring the device to the stomach and a flexible sleeve to limit absorption of nutrients in the duodenum. The anchor is collapsible for endoscopic delivery and removal.

Abstract: An elongated tube is configured to carry digestive enzymes from the point at which they enter the duodenum, and deposit them downstream into a distal portion of the intestine, such as the distal jejunum, several feet down. This delays the breakdown and subsequent digestion of food. The proximal end of the tube can be secured to the hepatopancreatic ampulla, below the common bile duct using an anchor, such as a stent-like device. The tube can include an elongated flexible sleeve coupled at its proximal end to an anchor. The anchor is attached to the hepatopancreatic ampulla and the sleeve is then draped distally, through the intestines. Natural peristalsis carries the enzymes through the tube distally. The enzymes then exit the tube and mix with the chyme further down stream than is normal.

Abstract: A restrictive device implanted in the upper part of the stomach, selectively divides the stomach into two chambers, effectively reducing the size of the stomach immediately available for the uptake of food. The restrictive device also includes an aperture, limiting the rate at which food can pass from the esophagus portion of the stomach into the intestine. Being removable, the device permits a physician to change the size of the opening in a minimally invasive manner by replacing a removable member with another member having an aperture of a different size and/or shape. The restrictive device can also be combined with an elongated tube, or sleeve to selectively bypass the stomach, a portion of the intestine, or a combination of bypassing both the stomach and a portion of the intestine, allowing a physician to endoscopically create an equivalent to the Roux-en-y weight loss procedure.