APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR MANIPULATING OR RETRACTING TISSUE AND ANATOMICAL STRUCTURE
Integrated systems and associated method for manipulating tissues and anatomical or other structures in medical applications for the purpose of treating diseases or disorders or other purposes. In one aspect, the system includes a delivery device configured to deploy and implant anchoring devices for such purposes.
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This application is a continuation-in-part of copending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/318,246, entitled Devices, Systems and Methods for Retracting, Lifting, Compressing, Supporting or Repositioning Tissues or Anatomical Structures, filed on Dec. 22, 2005, which is a continuation-in-part of copending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/134,870 entitled Devices, Systems and Methods for Treating Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia and Other Conditions, filed on May 20, 2005, the entire disclosures of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTIONThe present invention relates generally to medical devices and methods, and more particularly to integrated systems and associated methods for manipulating or retracting tissues and anatomical or other structures within the body of human or animal subjects for the purpose of treating diseases or disorders and/or for cosmetic or reconstructive or other purposes.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONThere are a wide variety of situations in which it is desirable to lift, compress or otherwise reposition normal or aberrant tissues or anatomical structures (e.g., organs, ligaments, tendons, muscles, tumors, cysts, fat pads, etc.) within the body of a human or animal subject. Such procedures are often carried out for the purpose of treating or palliating the effects of diseases or disorders (e.g., hyperplasic conditions, hypertrophic conditions, neoplasias, prolapses, herniations, stenoses, constrictions, compressions, transpositions, congenital malformations, etc.) and/or for cosmetic purposes (e.g., face lifts, breast lifts, brow lifts, etc.) and/or for research and development purposes (e.g., to create animal models that mimic various pathological conditions). In many of these procedures, surgical incisions are made in the body and laborious surgical dissection is performed to access and expose the affected tissues or anatomical structures. Thereafter, in some cases, the affected tissues or anatomical structures are removed or excised. In other cases, various natural or man made materials are used to lift, sling, reposition or compress the affected tissues.
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
One example of a condition where it is desirable to lift, compress or otherwise remove a pathologically enlarged tissue is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). BPH is one of the most common medical conditions that affect men, especially elderly men. It has been reported that, in the United States, more than half of all men have histopathologic evidence of BPH by age 60 and, by age 85, approximately 9 out of 10 men suffer from the condition. Moreover, the incidence and prevalence of BPH are expected to increase as the average age of the population in developed countries increases.
The prostate gland enlarges throughout a man's life. In some men, the prostatic capsule around the prostate gland may prevent the prostate gland from enlarging further. This causes the inner region of the prostate gland to squeeze the urethra. This pressure on the urethra increases resistance to urine flow through the region of the urethra enclosed by the prostate. Thus the urinary bladder has to exert more pressure to force urine through the increased resistance of the urethra. Chronic over-exertion causes the muscular walls of the urinary bladder to remodel and become stiffer. This combination of increased urethral resistance to urine flow and stiffness and hypertrophy of urinary bladder walls leads to a variety of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) that may severely reduce the patient's quality of life. These symptoms include weak or intermittent urine flow while urinating, straining when urinating, hesitation before urine flow starts, feeling that the bladder has not emptied completely even after urination, dribbling at the end of urination or leakage afterward, increased frequency of urination particularly at night, urgent need to urinate etc.
In addition to patients with BPH, LUTS may also be present in patients with prostate cancer, prostate infections, and chronic use of certain medications (e.g. ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, phenylpropanolamine, antihistamines such as diphenhydramine, chlorpheniramine etc.) that cause urinary retention especially in men with prostate enlargement.
Although BPH is rarely life threatening, it can lead to numerous clinical conditions including urinary retention, renal insufficiency, recurrent urinary tract infection, incontinence, hematuria, and bladder stones.
In developed countries, a large percentage of the patient population undergoes treatment for BPH symptoms. It has been estimated that by the age of 80 years, approximately 25% of the male population of the United States will have undergone some form of BPH treatment. At present, the available treatment options for BPH include watchful waiting, medications (phytotherapy and prescription medications), surgery and minimally invasive procedures.
For patients who choose the watchful waiting option, no immediate treatment is provided to the patient, but the patient undergoes regular exams to monitor progression of the disease. This is usually done on patients that have minimal symptoms that are not especially bothersome.
Medications for treating BPH symptoms include phytotherapy and prescription medications. In phytotherapy, plant products such as Saw Palmetto, African Pygeum, Serenoa Repens (sago palm) and South African star grass are administered to the patient. Prescription medications are prescribed as first line therapy in patients with symptoms that are interfering with their daily activities. Two main classes of prescription medications are alpha-1a-adrenergic receptors blockers and 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors. Alpha-1a-adrenergic receptors blockers block that activity of alpha-1a-adrenergic receptors that are responsible for causing constriction of smooth muscle cells in the prostate. Thus, blocking the activity of alpha-1a-adrenergic receptors causes prostatic smooth muscle relaxation. This in turn reduces urethral resistance thereby reducing the severity of the symptoms. 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors block the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone. Dihydrotestosterone causes growth of epithelial cells in the prostate gland. Thus 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors cause regression of epithelial cells in the prostate gland and hence reduce the volume of the prostate gland which in turn reduces the severity of the symptoms.
Surgical procedures for treating BPH symptoms include Transurethal Resection of Prostate (TURP), Transurethral Electrovaporization of Prostate (TVP), Transurethral Incision of the Prostate (TUIP), Laser Prostatectomy and Open Prostatectomy.
Transurethal Resection of Prostate (TURP) is the most commonly practiced surgical procedure implemented for the treatment of BPH. In this procedure, prostatic urethral obstruction is reduced by removing most of the prostatic urethra and a sizeable volume of the surrounding prostate gland. This is carried out under general or spinal anesthesia. In this procedure, a urologist visualizes the urethra by inserting a resectoscope, that houses an optical lens in communication with a video camera, into the urethra such that the distal region of the resectoscope is in the region of the urethra surrounded by the prostate gland. The distal region of the resectoscope consists of an electric cutting loop that can cut prostatic tissue when an electric current is applied to the device. An electric return pad is placed on the patient to close the cutting circuit. The electric cutting loop is used to scrape away tissue from the inside of the prostate gland. The tissue that is scraped away is flushed out of the urinary system using an irrigation fluid. Using a coagulation energy setting, the loop is also used to cauterize transected vessels during the operation.
Another example of a surgical procedure for treating BPH symptoms is Transurethral Electrovaporization of the Prostate (TVP). In this procedure, a part of prostatic tissue squeezing the urethra is desiccated or vaporized. This is carried out under general or spinal anesthesia. In this procedure, a resectoscope is inserted transurethrally such that the distal region of the resectoscope is in the region of the urethra surrounded by the prostate gland. The distal region of the resectoscope consists of a rollerball or a grooved roller electrode. A controlled amount of electric current is passed through the electrode. The surrounding tissue is rapidly heated up and vaporized to create a vaporized space. Thus the region of urethra that is blocked by the surrounding prostate gland is opened up.
Another example of a surgical procedure for treating BPH symptoms is Transurethral Incision of the Prostate (TUIP). In this procedure, the resistance to urine flow is reduced by making one or more incisions in the prostate gland in the region where the urethra meets the urinary bladder. This procedure is performed under general or spinal anesthesia. In this procedure, one or more incisions are made in the muscle of the bladder neck, which is the region where the urethra meets the urinary bladder. The incisions are in most cases are deep enough to cut the surrounding prostate gland tissue including the prostatic capsule. This releases any compression on the bladder neck and causes the bladder neck to spring apart. The incisions can be made using a resectoscope, laser beam etc.
Another example of a surgical procedure for treating BPH symptoms is Laser Prostatectomy. Two common techniques used for Laser Prostatectomy are Visual Laser Ablation of the Prostate (VLAP) and the Holmium Laser Resection/Enucleation of the Prostate (HoLEP). In VLAP, a neodymium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Nd:YAG) laser is used to ablate tissue by causing coagulation necrosis. The procedure is performed under visual guidance. In HoLEP, a holmium: Yttrium-aluminum-garnet laser is used for direct contact ablation of tissue. Both these techniques are used to remove tissue obstructing the urethral passage to reduce the severity of BPH symptoms.
Another example of a surgical procedure for treating BPH symptoms is Photoselective Vaporization of the Prostate (PVP). In this procedure, laser energy is used to vaporize prostatic tissue to relieve obstruction to urine flow in the urethra. The type of laser used is the Potassium-Titanyl-Phosphate (KTP) laser. The wavelength of this laser is highly absorbed by oxyhemoglobin. This laser vaporizes cellular water and hence is used to remove tissue that is obstructing the urethra.
Another example of a surgical procedure for treating BPH symptoms is Open Prostatectomy. In this procedure, the prostate gland is surgically removed by an open surgery. This is done under general anesthesia. The prostate gland is removed through an incision in the lower abdomen or the perineum. The procedure is used mostly in patients that have a large (greater than approximately 100 grams) prostate gland.
Minimally invasive procedures for treating BPH symptoms include Transurethral Microwave Thermotherapy (TUMT), Transurethral Needle Ablation (TUNA), Interstitial Laser Coagulation (ILC), and Prostatic Stents.
In Transurethral Microwave Thermotherapy (TUMT), microwave energy is used to generate heat that destroys hyperplastic prostate tissue. This procedure is performed under local anesthesia. In this procedure, a microwave antenna is inserted in the urethra. A rectal thermosensing unit is inserted into the rectum to measure rectal temperature. Rectal temperature measurements are used to prevent overheating of the anatomical region. The microwave antenna is then used to deliver microwaves to lateral lobes of the prostate gland. The microwaves are absorbed as they pass through prostate tissue. This generates heat which in turn destroys the prostate tissue. The destruction of prostate tissue reduces the degree of squeezing of the urethra by the prostate gland thus reducing the severity of BPH symptoms.
Another example of a minimally invasive procedure for treating BPH symptoms is Transurethral Needle Ablation (TUNA). In this procedure, heat induced coagulation necrosis of prostate tissue regions causes the prostate gland to shrink. It is performed using local anesthetic and intravenous or oral sedation. In this procedure, a delivery catheter is inserted into the urethra. The delivery catheter comprises two radiofrequency needles that emerge at an angle of 90 degrees from the delivery catheter. The two radiofrequency needles are aligned at an angle of 40 degrees to each other so that they penetrate the lateral lobes of the prostate. A radiofrequency current is delivered through the radiofrequency needles to heat the tissue of the lateral lobes to 70-100 degree Celsius at a radiofrequency power of approximately 456 KHz for approximately 4 minutes per lesion. This creates coagulation defects in the lateral lobes. The coagulation defects cause shrinkage of prostatic tissue which in turn reduces the degree of squeezing of the urethra by the prostate gland thus reducing the severity of BPH symptoms.
Another example of a minimally invasive procedure for treating BPH symptoms is Interstitial Laser Coagulation (ILC). In this procedure, laser induced necrosis of prostate tissue regions causes the prostate gland to shrink. It is performed using regional anesthesia, spinal or epidural anesthesia or local anesthesia (periprostatic block). In this procedure, a cystoscope sheath is inserted into the urethra and the region of the urethra surrounded by the prostate gland is inspected. A laser fiber is inserted into the urethra. The laser fiber has a sharp distal tip to facilitate the penetration of the laser scope into prostatic tissue. The distal tip of the laser fiber has a distal-diffusing region that distributes laser energy 360° along the terminal 3 mm of the laser fiber. The distal tip is inserted into the middle lobe of the prostate gland and laser energy is delivered through the distal tip for a desired time. This heats the middle lobe and causes laser induced necrosis of the tissue around the distal tip. Thereafter, the distal tip is withdrawn from the middle lobe. The same procedure of inserting the distal tip into a lobe and delivering laser energy is repeated with the lateral lobes. This causes tissue necrosis in several regions of the prostate gland which in turn causes the prostate gland to shrink. Shrinkage of the prostate gland reduces the degree of squeezing of the urethra by the prostate thus reducing the severity of BPH symptoms.
Another example of a minimally invasive procedure for treating BPH symptoms is implanting Prostatic Stents. In this procedure, the region of urethra surrounded by the prostate is mechanically supported to reduce the constriction caused by an enlarged prostate. Prostatic stents are flexible devices that are expanded after their insertion in the urethra. They mechanically support the urethra by pushing the obstructing prostatic tissue away from the urethra. This reduces the constriction of the urethra and improves urine flow past the prostate gland thereby reducing the severity of BPH symptoms.
Although existing treatments provide some relief to the patient from symptoms of BPH, they have disadvantages. Alpha-1a-adrenergic receptors blockers have side effects such as dizziness, postural hypotension, lightheadedness, asthenia and nasal stuffiness. Retrograde ejaculation can also occur. 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors have minimal side effects, but only a modest effect on BPH symptoms and the flow rate of urine. In addition, anti-androgens, such as 5-alpha-reductase, require months of therapy before LUTS improvements are observed. Surgical treatments of BPH carry a risk of complications including erectile dysfunction; retrograde ejaculation; urinary incontinence; complications related to anesthesia; damage to the penis or urethra, need for a repeat surgery etc. Even TURP, which is the gold standard in treatment of BPH, carries a high risk of complications. Adverse events associated with this procedure are reported to include retrograde ejaculation (65% of patients), post-operative irritation (15%), erectile dysfunction (10%), need for transfusion (8%), bladder neck constriction (7%), infection (6%), significant hematuria (6%), acute urinary retention (5%), need for secondary procedure (5%), and incontinence (3%) Typical recovery from TURP involves several days of inpatient hospital treatment with an indwelling urethral catheter, followed by several weeks in which obstructive symptoms are relieved but there is pain or discomfort during micturition.
The reduction in the symptom score after minimally invasive procedures is not as large as the reduction in symptom score after TURP. Up to 25% of patients who receive these minimally invasive procedures ultimately undergo a TURP within 2 years. The improvement in the symptom score generally does not occur immediately after the procedure. For example, it takes an average of one month for a patient to notice improvement in symptoms after TUMT and 1.5 months to notice improvement after ILC. In fact, symptoms are typically worse for these therapies that heat or cook tissue, because of the swelling and necrosis that occurs in the initial weeks following the procedures. Prostatic stents often offer more immediate relief from obstruction but are now rarely used because of high adverse effect rates. Stents have the risk of migration from the original implant site (up to 12.5% of patients), encrustation (up to 27.5%), incontinence (up to 3%), and recurrent pain and discomfort. In published studies, these adverse effects necessitated 8% to 47% of stents to be explanted. Overgrowth of tissue through the stent and complex stent geometries have made their removal quite difficult and invasive.
Thus the most effective current methods of treating BPH carry a high risk of adverse effects. These methods and devices either require general or spinal anesthesia or have potential adverse effects that dictate that the procedures be performed in a surgical operating room, followed by a hospital stay for the patient. The methods of treating BPH that carry a lower risk of adverse effects are also associated with a lower reduction in the symptom score. While several of these procedures can be conducted with local analgesia in an office setting, the patient does not experience immediate relief and in fact often experiences worse symptoms for weeks after the procedure until the body begins to heal. Additionally all device approaches require a urethral catheter placed in the bladder, in some cases for weeks. In some cases catheterization is indicated because the therapy actually causes obstruction during a period of time post operatively, and in other cases it is indicated because of post-operative bleeding and potentially occlusive clot formation. While drug therapies are easy to administer, the results are suboptimal, take significant time to take effect, and often entail undesired side effects.
Urinary Incontinence (UI)
Many women experience loss of bladder control following childbirth or in old age. This condition is broadly referred to as urinary incontinence (UI). The severity of UI varies and, in severe cases, the disorder can be totally debilitating, keeping the patient largely homebound. It is usually associated with a cystocele, which results from sagging of the neck of the urinary bladder into or even outside the vagina
The treatments for UI include behavioral therapy, muscle strengthening exercises (e.g., Kegel exercises), drug therapy, electrical stimulation of the pelvic nerves, use of intravaginal devices and surgery.
In severe cases of UI, surgery is generally the best treatment option. In general, the surgical procedures used to treat UI attempt to lift and support the bladder so that the bladder and urethra are returned to their normal positions within the pelvic cavity. The two most common ways of performing these surgeries is through incisions formed in the abdominal wall or though the wall of the vagina.
A number of different surgical procedures have been used to treat UI. The names for these procedures include the Birch Procedure, Marshall-Marchetti Operation, MMK, Pubo-Vaginal Sling, Trans-Vaginal Tape Procedure, Urethral Suspension, Vesicourethral Suspension. These procedures generally fall into two categories, namely a) retropubic suspension procedures and b) sling procedures.
In retropubic suspension procedures, an incision is typically made in the abdominal wall a few inches below the navel and a network of sutures are placed to support the bladder neck. The sutures are anchored to the pubic bone and to other structures within the pelvis, essentially forming a cradle which supports the urinary bladder.
In sling procedures, an incision is typically made in the wall of the vagina and a sling is crafted of either natural tissue or synthetic (man-made) material to support the bladder neck. Both ends of the sling may be attached to the pubic bone or tied in front of the abdomen just above the pubic bone. In some sling procedures a synthetic tape is used to form the sling and the ends of the synthetic tape are not tied but rather pulled up above the pubic bone.
The surgeries used to treat UI are generally associated with significant discomfort as the incisions heal and may require a Foley or supra-pubic urinary catheter to remain in place for at least several days following the surgery. Thus, there exists a need in the art for the development of minimally invasive (e.g., non-incisional) procedures for the treatment of UI with less postoperative discomfort and less requirement for post-surgical urinary catheterization.
Cosmetic or Reconstructive Tissue Lifting and Repositioning
Many cosmetic or reconstructive surgical procedures involve lifting, compressing or repositioning of natural tissue, natural tissue or artificial grafts or aberrant tissue. For example, surgical procedures such as face lifts, brow lifts, neck lifts, tummy tucks, etc. have become commonplace. In many cases, these procedures are performed by creating incisions through the skin, dissecting to a plane beneath muscles and fascia, freeing the muscles, fascia and overlying skin from underlying structures (e.g., bone or other muscles), lifting or repositioning the freed muscles, fascia and overlying skin and then attaching the repositioned tissues to underlying or nearby structures (e.g., bone, periostium, other muscles) to hold the repositioned tissues in their new (e.g., lifted) position. In some cases excess skin may also be removed during the procedure.
There have been attempts to develop minimally invasive devices and methods for cosmetic lifting and repositioning of tissues. For example, suture suspension lifts have been developed where one end of a standard or modified suture thread is attached to muscle and the other end is anchored to bone, periostium or another structure to lift and reposition the tissues as desired. Some of these suture suspension techniques have been performed through cannulas or needles inserted though relatively small incisions of puncture wounds.
For example, barbed threads known as Aptos threads may be inserted through a hollow trocar and used to lift tissues of the face in a procedure that is performed commercially under the name Featherlift™ (KMI, Inc. 2550 West Rowland Anaheim, Calif. 92804).
Another barbed thread that is useable for minimally invasive cosmetic lifting procedures is marketed under the name Contour Threads™ (Surgical Specialties Corporation, 100 Dennis Drive Reading, Pa. 19606).
There remains a need for the development of new devices and methods that may be used for various procedures where it is desired to lift, compress, support or reposition tissues or organs within the body with less intraoperative trauma, less post-operative discomfort and/or shorter recovery times. Moreover, there is an opportunity to take advantage of aspects of anatomy and to employ structures configured to cooperate with such anatomy. In this way, an interventional site within a patient's body can be more easily accessed as well as heal more easily and completely and the body can more readily return to normal operation.
The present invention addresses these and other needs.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTIONBriefly and in general terms, the present invention is directed towards an apparatus and method for deploying an anchoring assembly within a patient's body. The anchoring assembly can be configured to accomplish retracting, lifting, compressing, supporting or repositioning tissue within the body of a human or animal subject. Moreover, the apparatus configured to deploy the anchoring assembly as well as the anchoring assembly itself are configured to complement and cooperate with body anatomy. Further, the anchoring assembly may be coated or imbedded with therapeutic or diagnostic substances or such substances can be introduced into or near an interventional site by the anchor deployment device or other structure.
In a particular aspect, the present invention includes an integrated anchor delivery device that is capable of deploying at an interventional site an anchoring assembly including a first anchoring member attached by a connector to a second anchoring member. The anchor delivery device further includes an extendable and retractable needle assembly as well as structure to accomplish the deployment of the first anchoring member longitudinally through the needle assembly. The anchor delivery device additionally includes structure to attach the second anchoring member to the connector as well as cut the connector to a desired length.
In another aspect, structure of the anchoring assembly is designed to invaginate within or complement tissue anatomy to thereby facilitate healing and minimize infection risk. Moreover, the anchor delivery device includes structure to form desired angles between an extended position of the needle assembly relative to the device. Additionally, it is contemplated that a distal end portion of the anchor delivery device be configured to facilitate the testing of the effectiveness of positioning of an anchoring assembly. In this regard, the distal end portion is configured in a manner to mimic the effect a second anchoring member will have prior to its implantation.
In one embodiment, the anchor delivery device includes a handle assembly with a plurality of actuators or triggers attached thereto. A first actuator is associated with a body of the handle assembly and is operatively attached to the needle assembly and structure that advances the first anchoring member. A second actuator attached to the handle assembly is operatively associated with structure that accomplishes assembling first and second parts of the second anchoring member to each other and to the connector member. Also, the handle assembly is equipped with a third actuator that is configured in one contemplated embodiment, to effect the cutting of the anchoring assembly to a desired length and deployment of the structure at an interventional site.
In a specific embodiment, the anchor delivery device includes a generally elongate tubular housing assembly member extending distally from a handle assembly including a plurality of actuators. The proximal end of the handle assembly is equipped with mounting structure configured to receive a telescope or other endoscopic viewing instrument. A bore sized to receive the telescope extends distally through a body of the handle assembly and continues through an outer tubular cover member forming the generally elongate member. Housed within the tubular housing assembly are a telescope tube having an interior defining a distal section of the bore sized to receive the telescope, an upper tubular member assembly sized to receive a plurality of first components of the second anchor member and a needle housing configured to receive the needle assembly. Moreover, the generally elongate tubular housing includes a terminal end portion defined by a nose assembly which retains a plurality of second components of the second anchoring members.
Moreover, in a preferred embodiment the first anchor member includes a body having a generally tubular portion from which a first partial cylinder portion extends proximally. Attached to a midpoint of the body is a spring in the form of a second partial cylinder portion that is complementary to the first partial cylinder portion. Extending from the opposite end of the spring is a generally tubular collar. In a compressed configuration, the first anchor member defines a generally straight member and when unconstrained, the first anchor member forms a T-structure with the body defining the cross-member of the T-structure.
Further, in the preferred embodiment, the first part of the second anchoring member is embodied in a pin having a first distal end equipped with a pair of spaced arms and a second proximal end including grooves facilitating pushability. The arms of the first distal end are designed to receive the connector structure and to be placed into locking engagement with the second part of the second anchoring member. The second part has a generally tubular configuration and an internal bore sized to receive the first component.
The present invention also contemplates a number of alternative designs for the first and second anchoring members and connectors as well as structures for advancing and deploying the anchoring members and cutting the connector. Additionally, it is contemplated that various embodiments can incorporate one or more sensors into the deployment device to facilitate proper positioning of the device and anchor deployment.
Moreover, various alternative methods of use are also contemplated. That is, in some applications of the invention, the invention may be used to facilitate volitional or non-volitional flow of a body fluid through a body lumen, modify the size or shape of a body lumen or cavity, treat prostate enlargement, treat urinary incontinence, support or maintain positioning of a tissue, organ or graft, perform a cosmetic lifting or repositioning procedure, form anastomotic connections, and/or treat various other disorders where a natural or pathologic tissue or organ is pressing on or interfering with an adjacent anatomical structure. Also, the invention has a myriad of other potential surgical, therapeutic, cosmetic or reconstructive applications, such as where a tissue, organ, graft or other material requires retracting, lifting, repositioning, compression or support.
Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIGS. I and J are cross-sectional views, depicting further steps of a method of treating a prostate gland using the present invention;
FIGS. 10A-B are cross-sectional views, depicting yet further steps involved in treating a prostate gland using the present invention;
Turning now to the figures, which are provided by way of example and not limitation, the present invention is embodied in a device configured to deliver anchor assemblies within a patient's body. As stated, the present invention can be employed for various medical purposes including but not limited to retracting, lifting, compressing, supporting or repositioning tissues, organs, anatomical structures, grafts or other material found within a patient's body. Such tissue manipulation is intended to facilitate the treatment of diseases or disorders. Moreover, the disclosed invention has applications in cosmetic or reconstruction purposes or in areas relating the development or research of medical treatments.
In such applications, one portion of an anchor assembly is positioned and implanted against a first section of anatomy. A second portion of the anchor assembly is then positioned and implanted adjacent a second section of anatomy for the purpose of retracting, lifting, compressing, supporting or repositioning the second section of anatomy with respect to the first section of anatomy. It is also to be recognized that both a first and second portion of the anchor assembly can be configured to accomplish the desired retracting, lifting, compressing, supporting or repositioning of anatomy due to tension supplied thereto via a connector assembly affixed to the first and second portions of the anchor assembly.
Referring now to
The integrated anchor delivery device 20 includes a handle assembly 22 and a tubular housing assembly 24 extending from the handle assembly 22. The handle assembly 22 is sized and shaped to fit comfortably within an operator's hand and can be formed from conventional materials.
The proximal end of the delivery device 20 includes a mount 26 for receiving an endoscope or telescope 28 or other imaging device. The mount 26 includes an internal bore (not shown) sized and shaped to receive the telescope 28. As indicated, the telescope 28 is intended to provide the operator with the ability to view the operation of the delivery device 20 at an interventional site.
The handle assembly 22 of the delivery device 20 also includes a plurality of activators or triggers associated with the handle assembly 22. The body 30 includes a first or upper portion 32 extending generally perpendicularly with respect to a second or lower portion 34. The second portion is intended to be sized and shaped to fit within the palm of an operator's hand. Pivotably affixed to the second portion 34 is a first actuator 36. Although it can come in a myriad of forms, the first actuator 36 includes a hooped portion sized and shaped to receive one or more fingers of the operator's hand. The hooped portion extends from an arm which is pivotably connected to the handle 22, the arm and hooped portion defining an acute angle with respect to the second portion 34 of the handle assembly 22 when inactivated. As will be described in more detail below, the first actuator 36 is operatively associated with a needle assembly and structure configured to advance and place a first component of an anchoring assembly at an interventional site.
A second trigger or actuator 38 is pivotably connected adjacent the first body portion 32. Although it can come in a myriad of forms, the second actuator 38 defines a generally finger-like projection and is positioned longitudinally distally from the body 30 with respect to the first actuator 36. The second actuator 38 also defines an acute angle respecting the second portion 34 of the handle assembly 22 and is sized and shaped to comfortably receive one or more fingers of the operator. Upon actuation, the second actuator 38 is configured to accomplish the assembly of an anchoring device by attaching a second anchor component to a connector affixed to the first anchor component.
A third trigger or actuator 40 is connected and configured to pivotably rotate with respect to a top side of upper body portion 30. Although it can come in a myriad of forms, in one embodiment, the third actuator 40 defines a relatively straight member with a rounded substructure formed at its free terminal end. In this way, the third actuator 40 is easily manipulated by a free digit of the operator's hand. The third actuator 40 rotates from a forward position where it forms an acute angle with the tubular housing assembly 24 to a rearward position where the member defines an obtuse angle with respect to the tubular housing assembly 24. In one embodiment, the third actuator 40 is intended to retract portions of the tubular housing assembly 24 as well as accomplish cutting the connector of the anchoring assembly and deploying the anchoring assembly at an interventional site.
As stated, the tubular housing assembly 24 extends from the handle assembly 22. In one aspect, the tubular housing assembly 24 is mounted to a front face of the upper portion 32 of the handle assembly 22 and extends parallel to a longitudinal axis of the upper portion 32. At its proximal end, the tubular housing assembly 24 includes a mount 42 from which an outer sheath 44 extends in a distal direction. The mount 42 includes one or more conventional stop cock assemblies 46 which provide fluid communication with an interior of the tubular housing assembly. One stop cock assembly 46 is intended to provide the anchor delivery device 20 with a continuous flow irrigation. Another stop cock 46 is contemplated to be used to accomplish a suction function through the device. Either of these assemblies can further be employed to deliver therapeutic or diagnostic substances to the interventional site. For example, in a procedure to treat a prostate gland, substances that cause the prostate to decrease in size such as 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors can be introduced at the treatment site. Other substances but not limited thereto, which may be introduced at the site include various phytochemicals, alpha-1a-adrenergic receptor blocking agents, smooth muscle relaxants and other agents that inhibit the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone.
A terminal end portion 48 of the tubular housing assembly 24 of the anchor deployment device 20 includes a nose assembly 50 shaped to provide an atraumatic surface as well as one which facilitates desired positioning of components of an anchoring assembly (See
Once implanted, the anchoring assembly 51 (See
Furthermore, in addition to an intention to cooperate with natural tissue anatomy, the present invention also contemplates approaches to accelerate healing or induce scarring. Manners in which healing can be promoted can include employing abrasive materials, textured sutures, biologics and drugs.
It has been observed that placing the anchors at various desired positions within anatomy can extract the best results. For example, when treating a prostate, one portion of an anchor can be placed within an urethra. It has been found that configuring such anchors so that ten o'clock and two o'clock positions are supported or retained effectively holds the anatomy open and also can facilitate invagination of the anchor portion within natural tissue. This is particularly true in the regions of anatomy near the bladder and the juncture at which the ejaculatory duct connects to the urethra.
Additionally, the terminal end portion 48 (
As can be seen from
Turning now to
The needle assembly advancement and retraction subassembly 66 includes an outer collar 70 configured about an inner collar 72. Configured between the outer collar 70 and an internal front surface 74 of the handle assembly 22 is a first compressor spring 75. Placed within the outer collar 68 and between the inner collar 72 and an internal front surface 76 is a second compression spring 77. Additionally, attached to the outer collar 70 is a lock assembly 78 which rotates between locked and unlocked positions.
While the first actuator is in an open position (See
One preferred embodiment of a first or distal component 82 is shown in
As shown, the first component 82 includes a first portion 84 which at one end defines a cylindrical structure and at the other a partial cylindrical structure. When unconstrained, this first portion 84 forms a T-bar or top of the first component 82. A complementary partial cylindrical structure forms a mid-section or second portion 86 of the first component 82 and operates as a spring to accomplish the flipping of the first portion 84 between constrained and unconstrained configurations. When the component is in its constrained, straight form, the second portion is positioned adjacent the first portion 84. A third portion 88 is also cylindrical in shape and extends from the second portion 86 away from the first portion 84 of the first anchor component 82. The third portion 88 slides freely with respect to a connector, the connector being attached to the first portion 84 and a second anchor component as will be described below.
One part of the second anchoring component 52 is best seen in
As shown in
The connector 94 (See
One embodiment of a completely assembled anchoring assembly 92 is depicted in
It is also contemplated that the completed anchor assembly is formed from components which are held together magnetically. For example, the first anchor component 82 and the second anchor component 52, 98 can be held in place through magnetism and without the need of a connector. In such an approach, either both or one of the anchor components can be a magnet.
Moreover, as can be seen from
As previously mentioned, a completed anchor assembly 96 can be employed to manipulate tissue and other structure found within a patient's body for various purposes. In order to do so, the first anchoring component 82 is initially positioned in an apposition with a first body structure, such as the outer surface of the prostate capsule, and the second anchoring component assembly (52, 98) is placed against a second body structure, such as the inner surface of the urethra, the connector 94 holding the desired spacing between the two body structures to accomplish the desired manipulation.
Additionally, it is contemplated that all components of the anchor assembly 96 or selected portions thereof (of any of the anchor assemblies described or contemplated), may be coated or embedded with therapeutic or diagnostic substances (e.g. drugs or therapeutic agents). Again, in the context of treating a prostate gland, the anchor assembly 96 can be coated or imbedded with substances such as 5-alpha-reductase which cause the prostate to decrease in size. Other substances contemplated include but are not limited to phytochemicals generally, alpha-1a-adrenergic receptor blocking agents, smooth muscle relaxants, and agents that inhibit the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone. In one particular approach, the connector 95 can for example, be coated with a polymer matrix or gel coating which retains the therapeutic or diagnostic substance and facilitates accomplishing the timed release thereof. Additionally, it is contemplated that bacteriostatic coatings can be applied to various portions of the anchoring assemblies described herein. Such coatings can have various thicknesses or a specific thickness such that it along with the connector itself matches the profile of a cylindrical portion of an anchor member affixed to the connector. Moreover, the co-delivery of a therapeutic or diagnostic gel or other substances through the implant deployment device or another medical device (i.e. catheter), and moreover an anchor assembly including the same, is contemplated. In one such approach, the deployment device includes a reservoir holding the gel substance and through which an anchoring device can be advance to pick up a desired quantity of therapeutic or diagnostic gel substance.
The connector 94 can have associated therewith various structures which facilitate the attachment of anchoring structures. Although intended for the first anchor component 82, such structure can also be used for the second anchor component 52, 98. In one approach (
Turning now to
Moreover, each of the various alternative embodiments can be formed from conventional materials. In one aspect, the components can be formed by laser cutting a nitinol tube. However, it is to be recognized that other materials and manufacturing approaches are also contemplated for example EDM of stainless steel.
For example, the connector shown in
FIGS. 4G-I depict further embodiments of structures that can be employed as first anchoring components 82 or alternatively, can be used solely as structures for advancing the anchoring assembly sub-components within the anchor delivery device or a patient's body. Each of these depicted structures include various forms of tails 110 which can be employed to advance the anchor components 82 through direct engagement with a terminal end of a pusher assembly (not shown) or for registering within slots formed in a pusher assembly. These tails also help to flip, turn or angle the component 82 relative to connector 94. One embodiment of the tail (
With reference now to
In a first step to deliver and deploy an anchoring assembly for the purpose of manipulating tissue or other anatomical structures, the telescope device is employed to view the positioning of the device 20 at the interventional site, for example, the tubular housing assembly 24 of the device is inserted into the penis of a patient and advanced until the distal end 48 is adjacent an interventional site in the urethra (UT) adjacent the bladder (UB; See
Notably, the needle assembly 112 has a generally tubular shape and terminates with a sharp point 114. A lumen extending the length of the needle assembly 112 is sized to receive both components of the anchoring assembly as well as structure for advancing the assembly through and out of the terminal end 114. Although various materials are contemplated, the needle assembly 112 is intended to be formed from resilient material such as nitinol or other materials or polymeric substances. Moreover, although various angles are contemplated, in one approach the needle housing 58 includes a distal section angled such that the needle projects at angles approaching or at 90 degrees with respect to a longitudinal axis of the tubular housing assembly 24.
Once access is made at an interventional site to target tissue or anatomical structure and the first actuator is manipulated to advance the needle assembly 114 to a desired position, the actuator is further manipulated to release the lock assembly 78 as well as to cause the internal compression springs to retract the needle assembly. Note that the position of the first actuator 36 will return to the open position (See
Contemporaneously with the retraction of the needle assembly 112, is the withdrawal of the structure used to advance the first anchoring component 82 and connector structure 94 within the needle housing 58. In one embodiment (See
As shown in
Alternative approaches for advancing anchor components within the anchor delivery device 20 are contemplated. That is, rather than having a pusher assembly which surrounds an anchoring component and relies upon engagement with a tail structure of an anchoring component or other structure projecting from the connector member, other structure can be employed to provide the ability to push and pull an anchor component. In one such approach (See FIGS. 6A-C), the delivery device can be equipped with a pusher member 116 in combination with a pull wire 118. The pusher member 116 in this approach remains proximal an anchor member 82 to be advanced along the delivery device. Such anchor members 82 can be placed in a position distal the pusher, for example, by being released from a cartridge configured distal to the pusher position or the delivery device can be a single use apparatus.
The anchor member 82, in turn, can include a proximal portion characterized by a pair of elastically or plastically deformable arms 120 which in a first configuration are held to the pull wire 118 and in a second configuration, are released from the pull wire 118. Accordingly, the pusher member 116 is advanced with respect to the pull wires 118 to cause the arms 120 to become disengaged from the pull wire. In the embodiment shown in
Further alternative embodiments of pusher members 116 are shown in FIGS. 6D-G. A pusher member 118 having a D-shaped cross-sectional profile is contemplated for certain uses. Such a profile enables the pusher member 116 to be placed along side the anchor component 82 and connector 94 assembly, a distal portion of the D-shaped configuration engaging complementary structure on the connector assembly.
Also contemplated is a pusher assembly 116 which includes a side opening 122 in communication with a lumen extending through the pusher 116 (See
In yet another approach, as shown in
Various measures can be taken to ensure proper loading of a first anchor member 82 within an anchor delivery device. In a first step, the anchor member 82 is loaded within an anchor protection cover 126 (
The delivery device bay 128 can further include a bayonet lock mount 134 that couples a spring loaded cartridge 136 to the delivery device bay 128. Housed within the cartridge is a compression spring 138 configured about the pusher member 116. The spring cartridge 138 can also include a lock-out structure 140 which operates to limit the tension placed on the anchor member 82 and connector 94 until the needle 112 is withdrawn sufficiently from the interventional site to avoid damage from the needle 112 inadvertently engaging the anchor/connector assembly 82,94. That is, the pusher 116 includes a proximal end configured with an anchor deployment tab 142 that engages the lock-out structure 140, prohibiting the compression spring 138 from applying tension to the anchor/connector assembly 82, 94 before the needle assembly 112 is clear of the interventional site.
In another contemplated variation (
It is further contemplated that in certain embodiments, the anchor delivery device can include the ability to detect forces being applied thereby or other environmental conditions. Although various sections of the device can include such devices, in the depicted structure of
In a next stage of anchor deployment, with reference to FIGS. 8A-E, after the first actuator 36 is completely released thereby effecting the complete withdrawal of both the needle assembly 112 and pusher member 116, the second actuator 36 is pulled proximally to initiate the assembly of the second or proximal anchor member 52,98 (See
As shown in FIGS. 8C-E, depressing the second actuator 38 causes a pusher 157 to advance a second part 98 of the second or proximal anchor member to be advanced towards and into locking engagement with the first part 52 of the second anchor member. As the second part 98 is advanced, it captures the connector structure 94 and retains it in a locking engagement between the first 52 and second 98 parts.
It is at this stage that the connector 94 is severed to thereby accomplish the formation of the complete anchoring assembly (See
The present invention also contemplates a myriad of alternative embodiments of the proximal or second anchoring member. In a majority in the next presented descriptions regarding these embodiments, the second anchoring member is comprised of a first part 52 which is placed into a locking engagement with a second part 98. In doing so, the first 52 and second parts 98 are affixed to the connector 94. It is to be recognized that the first and second parts can be formed of any conventional materials such as metals or polymeric materials.
With reference to FIGS. 9A-C, the second anchoring member includes a generally tubular first part 52 including a slightly flared mouth configured to receive both a portion of the connector 94 and a second part 98. In this embodiment, the second part includes a pair of spaced arms 158 which capture the connector and facilitates advancing the connector within the mouth of the first part. It is contemplated that the arms 158 are spaced to an extent greater than an interior of the tubular first part 52 so that in combination with the area occupied by the connector 94, a locking engagement between the first and second parts is accomplished upon the full insertion of the second part 98 within the first part 52. Thereafter, excess connector 94 length can be cut away to form a complete second anchoring assembly.
In a slightly modified approach (
The approach depicted in
The embodiments depicted in
As shown in
In yet another approach (
The first part 52 can also define a generally tubular member having an oval cross-sectional profile. Such a structure is depicted in
The first part 52 can also be formed form a member having a deformable, enlarged mid-section 184 (See
The second part 98 (See
Turning now to FIGS. 9S-U, further approaches to accomplishing a locking arrangement between first 52 and second 98 parts are presented. The embodiment of
In a similar approach (See FIGS. 9T-U), the generally flat second part 98 includes both the first 180 and second 182 tab structures. As the second part 98 is advanced within the first part 52, the first tabs 180 initially register within lateral openings 178 of the first part 52, which can act as a staging for subsequent advancement and capture of a connector. Upon such subsequent advancement, the first tabs 180 are held within an interior of the first part 52 and the second tabs 182 register within the lateral openings 178 of the first part 52.
As shown in
Moreover, the second part 98 can assume a generally tubular structure including a cutting projection 192 (See
In a number of related approaches (See FIGS. 9Y-9AH), the second anchoring component can be formed of a single integral locking member 194. Certain of these members 194 are intended to be formed of plastically deformable material so that it can first assume a generally open configuration and then be deformed to define a closed position in a locking arrangement about a connector member. Alternatively, these members 194 can be formed of resilient material and be first held open and then allowed to self-collapse about a connector. In one such locking member (
In FIGS. 9AB-AC, there is shown a plastically deformable locking member 194 that is configured with a collapsible aperture 202. In an undeformed configuration, the aperture 202 is formed by walls defining a generally hour glass shape. Applying a longitudinal compression force to the locking member 194 causes the aperture 202 to collapse about and lock with a portion of a connector 94, the walls deforming inwardly and engaging the connector 94.
The locking member 194 can also be embodied in a device including a mid-section characterized by helically arranged members 204 (See FIGS. 9AD-AE). The opening 202 defined by the helical member 204 is sized to receive a connector member. This device can either be formed of plastically or elastically deformable materials such that collapsing the opening 202 about a connector can be accomplished through the application of a force to the locking member 194 or by removing a compression force from the member.
In still yet other approaches (FIGS. 9AF-9AH), the locking member 194 can be embodied in a member including diverging arms 196 projecting from a cylindrical base 204. One arm includes a boss or raised portion 198 sized to fit within a recess 200. A mid-section of the device further includes a generally circular space 206 defined by semi-circular cutouts formed in the opposing arms 196. This space is sized to lockingly engage a connector when the arms 196 are in a closed configuration. The locking member 194 of FIGS. 9AG-AH also includes this circular space 206 defined by semi-circular cutouts formed in the diverging opposing arms 196 as well as the locking projections 198. However, rather than the cylindrical base 204 of the embodiment of
In a related approach (See
Turning now to FIGS. 9AJ-K, further embodiments of a second anchoring member including a first part 52 and a second part 98 are presented.
In these approaches, the second part 98 includes arms 196 which are biased to an open configuration. Using an anvil 210 housing a first part 52 in the interior cavity 214, the second part 98 is caused to be inserted and held within the first part 52. In a first embodiment (
Returning to the concept of a second anchoring member defining a locking member 194 (See FIGS. 9AL-AM), in still yet another approach the capturing of the connector can be accomplished using a clip-like structure. A pair of arms 196 begin at a proximal end of the device in a spaced arrangement. As the arms extend distally, they cross at mid-point 218 beyond which a distal portion of the arms are adjacently arranged in apposition. One or both arms 196 can include a recess providing a space to allow the arms 196 to cross at the mid-point 218. Applying a force to the proximal, spaced portion of the arms 196 causes the distal portion of the arms 196 to open. When opened, the arms 196 can be configured to receive a connector. A closing force between the distal portion of the arms 196 of the locking member 194 accomplish locking the structure on a connector.
The first part 52 of the second anchoring member can also be configured from a flat sheet of material into which a pattern is cut to form various slots and tabs (See FIGS. 9AN-AO). These first parts 52 can be formed of material which is capable of self-forming from the flat configuration into a generally tubular configuration when unconstrained. For example, material such as nitinol which has memory properties can be used to form such structure. A first contemplated flat pattern (See
Irrespective of the specific form of the anchoring assembly, a next step in the context of prostate treatment involves positioning the proximal anchor assembly 52, for example, within a desired section of the urethra (UT) of the patient (See
Accordingly, the present invention contemplates both pushing directly on anchor portions of an anchoring assembly as well as pushing directly upon the connector of the anchor assembly. Moreover, as presented above, the distal or first anchoring component is advanced and deployed through a needle assembly and at least one component of the proximal or second anchoring component is advanced and deployed through a generally tubular portion of the anchor deployment device. Further, both a single anchor assembly or multiple anchor assemblies can be delivered and deployed at an intervention site by the deployment device. Consequently, in the context of prostate treatment, the present invention accomplishes the compression of both the urethra and prostate gland, the delivering of an implant at the interventional site, applying tension between ends of the implant, and the invagination of the implant within natural tissue. Moreover, drug delivery is both contemplated and described as a further remedy in BPH in treatment.
An alternate embodiment of a distal portion of an anchor delivery device is shown in FIGS. 11A-C.
In one particular approach (See FIGS. 12A-B), the delivery device can be equipped with an alignment tube 234 including inwardly directed tabs 236 sized and shaped to be received into complementary recesses formed in second parts 98 of a second or proximal anchoring assembly. Such tabs 230 not only provide structure for advancing the second parts 98 but it also ensures proper rotational alignment of the second part 98 as they are advanced to receive a portion of the connector and to lockingly engage with a first part of the second anchoring assembly.
With reference to FIGS. 13A-C, an integrated anchor 240 including a plurality of anchors 82 attached to each other by a connector 94 can also be used to manipulate anatomical structures. In this approach, a needle assembly 112 is utilized in a sewing motion to place various portions of the integrated anchor 240 on opposite sides of anatomical structures to accomplish the desired manipulation at an interventional site.
The integrated anchor 240 can also be cut from a pattern (
It is to be recognized that various materials are contemplated for manufacturing the disclosed devices. Moreover, one or more components such as distal anchor, proximal anchor, connector, of the one or more anchoring devices disclosed herein may be designed to be completely or partially biodegradable or biofragmentable.
Moreover, as stated, the devices and methods disclosed herein may be used to treat a variety of pathologies in a variety of tubular organs or organs comprising a cavity or a wall. Examples of such organs include, but are not limited to urethra, bowel, stomach, esophagus, trachea, bronchii, bronchial passageways, veins (e.g. for treating varicose veins or valvular insufficiency), arteries, lymphatic vessels, ureters, bladder, cardiac atria or ventricles, uterus, fallopian tubes, etc.
Finally, it is to be appreciated that the invention has been described hereabove with reference to certain examples or embodiments of the invention but that various additions, deletions, alterations and modifications may be made to those examples and embodiments without departing from the intended spirit and scope of the invention. For example, any element or attribute of one embodiment or example may be incorporated into or used with another embodiment or example, unless to do so would render the embodiment or example unpatentable or unsuitable for its intended use. Also, for example, where the steps of a method are described or listed in a particular order, the order of such steps may be changed unless to do so would render the method unpatentable or unsuitable for its intended use. All reasonable additions, deletions, modifications and alterations are to be considered equivalents of the described examples and embodiments and are to be included within the scope of the following claims.
Thus, it will be apparent from the foregoing that, while particular forms of the invention have been illustrated and described, various modifications can be made without parting from the spirit and scope of the invention.
Claims
1-34. (canceled)
35. An anchor assembly for use in tissue retention, comprising:
- a first portion, the first portion including a cylindrical end portion, a semi-cylindrical end portion, and a midpoint;
- a second portion including a first end and a second end, the first end connected to the midpoint of the first portion, the second portion defining a spring member; and
- a third portion connected to the second end of the second portion.
36. The anchor assembly of claim 35, wherein the third portion defines a cylinder.
37. The anchor assembly of claim 35, wherein the second portion defines a semi-cylinder.
38. The anchor assembly of claim 35, wherein the second portion defines a bar arm.
39. The anchor assembly of claim 35, wherein the second portion biases the first portion to assume an angled configuration with respect to the third portion.
40. The anchor assembly of claim 35, wherein the third portion defines a collar.
41. The anchor assembly of claim 35, wherein the anchor assembly has a first generally straight configuration and a second configuration defining a generally T-shape.
42. The anchor assembly of claim 41, wherein the anchor assembly is biased to the T-shape.
43. The anchor assembly of claim 35, further comprising a connector, wherein the first portion, second portion and third portion are configured about or adjacent the connector.
44. The anchor assembly of claim 43, wherein the first, second and third portions define a body, further comprising a plurality of bodies attached to the connector.
45. The anchor assembly of claim 35, further comprising a connector and a plurality of engaging structure attached to the connector, wherein the first portion, second portion and third portion are configured about the anchor assembly or adjacent the connector.
46. The anchor assembly of claim 35, wherein the third portion defines an extension.
47. The anchor assembly of claim 46, wherein the extension is biased away from the connector.
48. The anchor assembly of claim 46, wherein the extension is folded adjacent the connector.
49. The anchor assembly of claim 46, wherein the extension defines a beaver tail structure.
50. The anchor assembly of claim 35, further comprising a diagnostic or therapeutic substance formed on a portion of the anchor assembly.
51. The anchor assembly of claim 50, wherein the substance is a bacteriostatic coating.
52-73. (canceled)
Type: Application
Filed: Aug 3, 2007
Publication Date: Feb 14, 2008
Applicant: NEOTRACT, INC. (Mountain View, CA)
Inventors: Joseph Catanese (San Leandro, CA), Theodore Lamson (Pleasanton, CA), Joshua Makower (Los Altos, CA), Amik Nagpurkar (San Francisco, CA), Daniel Merrick (Dublin, CA), Jacqueline Welch (Pacifica, CA), Richard Vecchiotti (Stanford, CA), Scott West (Livermore, CA), Claude Vidal (Santa Barbara, CA), Russell Redmond (Goleta, CA), Michael Collinson (Goleta, CA)
Application Number: 11/833,331
International Classification: A61B 17/122 (20060101);
