Abstract: The methods, devices and systems described herein relate to accessing a hollow organ with increased accuracy and safety. In one example, they relate to transseptal crossings of the atrial septal wall, preferably from the right atrium into the left atrium. Numerous different devices are described for performing access methods, each of which can be used with a piercing stylet that transitions to an atraumatic configuration after piercing the intervening tissue.

Abstract: The methods, devices and systems described herein relate to accessing a hollow organ with increased accuracy and safety. In one example, they relate to transseptal crossings of the atrial septal wall, preferably from the right atrium into the left atrium. Numerous different devices are described for performing access methods, each of which can be used with a piercing stylet that transitions to an atraumatic configuration after piercing the intervening tissue.

Abstract: A method for treating both sessile and mobile aortic atheroma is described. A radially expanding device, such as a stent or compliant cast, comprising a generally cylindrical member expandable between a compressed state and an enlarged state is provided. The cylindrical member has a proximal opening, a distal opening, a lumen therebetween, and at least one side opening in the wall of the generally cylindrical member. The methods comprise imaging the aorta to identify position and extent of atheroma. The stent is then advanced into the aortic arch and positioned so that the at least one side-opening is aligned with the takeoff of one or more of the right brachiocephalic artery, the left common carotid artery, or the left subclavian artery. The stent is expanded into contact with the endoluminal surface of the aorta and atheroma is trapped between the stent and the endoluminal surface of the aorta.

Abstract: A method for treating both sessile and mobile aortic atheroma is described. A radially expanding device, such as a stent or compliant cast, comprising a generally cylindrical member expandable between a compressed state and an enlarged state is provided. The cylindrical member has a proximal opening, a distal opening, a lumen therebetween, and at least one side opening in the wall of the generally cylindrical member. The methods comprise imaging the aorta to identify position and extent of atheroma. The stent is then advanced into the aortic arch and positioned so that the at least one side-opening is aligned with the takeoff of one or more of the right brachiocephalic artery, the left common carotid artery, or the left subclavian artery. The stent is expanded into contact with the endoluminal surface of the aorta and atheroma is trapped between the stent and the endoluminal surface of the aorta.