Abstract: A method for preventing a restenosis within a vessel wall requires a medicament be delivered at predetermined locations into the vessel wall and allowed to subsequently disperse in a predetermined pattern. To deliver the medicament, a catheter with an expanding member is advanced into the vasculature of a patient until the expanding member is located as desired. The expanding member is then expanded to force dispensers into the vessel wall to the proper depth. A medicament is then pumped through the dispensers to create a plurality of equally spaced, localized medicinal deliveries which subsequently disperse to medicate an annulus shaped volume within the vessel wall.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for preventing air embolisms during surgical procedures which involves providing a fluid source in communication with an aperture extending into an anatomical cavity such that fluid may be delivered into the cavity when a condition of negative pressure exists in the cavity, thereby preventing the introduction of air into the cavity.

Abstract: A dihydroxyphenyl cross-linked macromolecular network is provided that is useful in artificial tissue and tissue engineering applications, particularly to provide a synthetic macromolecular network for a wide variety of tissue types. In particular, artificial or synthetic cartilage, vocal cord material, vitreous material, soft tissue material and mitral valve material are described. In an embodiment, the network is composed of tyramine-substituted and cross-linked hyaluronan molecules, wherein cross-linking is achieved via peroxidase-mediated dityramine-linkages that can be performed in vivo. The dityramine bonds provide a stable, coherent hyaluronan-based hydrogel with desired physical properties.

Abstract: The invention provides methods for stabilizing the femoral artery.

Abstract: Systems for injecting fluids and/or other materials into a targeted anatomical location, in particular, an intra-articular space, include a handpiece assembly having a proximal end and a distal end, a needle extending from the distal end of the handpiece assembly, a fluid delivery module comprising a cassette and a fluid transfer device. A conduit is generally configured to place the fluid delivery module in fluid communication with the handpiece assembly. Medications, formulations and/or other fluids or materials contained within vials that are secured to the fluid delivery module can be selectively delivered into an anatomy through a needle located at the distal end of the handpiece assembly. In some embodiments, ultrasound or other imaging technologies can be used to locate a joint or other targeted anatomical location.

Abstract: Methods are provided for partial aortic occlusion for cerebral perfusion augmentation in patients suffering from global or focal cerebral ischemia. The descending aorta is accessed. A device is then located downstream from the takeoff of the brachiocephalic artery. The device is operated to at least partially obstruct blood flow in the aorta during systole and diastole. A physiologic parameter can be measured. The device can then be adjusted to modify the degree of obstruction based on the measured physiologic parameter.

Abstract: An occlusion device for vascular surgery, suitable for clogging treatments of vascular entry sites and for endovascular interventions such as embolizations of blood vessels, treatment of arteriovenous malformations or small aneurysms, arterial dissections and the like, by releasing in an operation region a quick setting surgical glue or haemostatic fluid, through an outlet mouth of a duct. The device prevents the surgical glue from contacting within the duct a patient's biological fluids, in particular blood, which would close the duct. In the case of clogging treatments of vascular entry sites, a backflow preventing device may be provided, preferably provided by a coupling device between the duct and an introducer sheath by which an outlet mouth is kept in contact to keep in a one-way fluid tight contact against the outer surface of the introducer sheath until an injection pressure P2 is applied to cause release of the surgical glue.

Abstract: A method of treating a stiffened blood vessel (2) is disclosed. The method comprises at least substantially encasing a portion of the blood vessel (2) with an elastic membrane (6) formed of biocompatible material such the membrane (6) engages the blood vessel (2) to thereby reduce the diameter of the blood vessel (2).

Abstract: It has been determined that gamma sterilization of biodegradable polymer stents does not cause significant polymer cross-linking and collapse. Using sufficient spacing can lead to stents that display little if any detrimental effects from the procedure. In certain embodiments, using structures in the general region of about 100 micron spacing between the struts leads to highly functional stents that do not fuse. Further, the resulting stent has radially homogenous mechanical properties. Therefore, the stent has a uniform expansion within the lumen.

Abstract: An electrosurgical apparatus for coagulating tissue used in combination with an endoscope which includes an elongated flexible tube having a plurality of side-ports located therethrough. The tube extends through a working channel of the endoscope and an ionizable gas is supplied to the tube at or near the proximal end of the tube. A diffusing member directs the ionizable gas from the proximal end of the tube through each of the side-ports towards the tissue. An electrode is used for ionizing the gas prior to the gas exiting the side-ports.

Abstract: A therapeutic medical article is provided which comprises a medical article, a precursor compound and an activator compound. The medical article is adapted, upon administration to a patient, to release the precursor compound and the activator compound such that the activator compound interacts with the precursor compound and converts the precursor compound into activated form for local delivery. Specific examples of precursor and activator compound pairs include: (a) a nitrosothiol precursor and a nitric oxide donor, (b) plasminogen and plasminogen activator, and (c) fibrinogen and thrombin.

Abstract: Sympathetic nerves run through the adventitia surrounding renal arteries and are critical in the modulation of systemic hypertension. Hyperactivity of these nerves can cause renal hypertension, a disease prevalent in 30-40% of the adult population. Hypertension can be treated with neuromodulating agents (such as angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors, angiotensin II inhibitors, or aldosterone receptor blockers), but requires adherence to strict regimens and often does not reach target blood pressure threshold to reduce risk of major cardiovascular events. A minimally invasive solution is presented here to reduce the activity of the sympathetic nerves surrounding the renal artery by locally delivering neurotoxic or sympathetic nerve-blocking agents into the adventitia. Extended elution of these agents may also be accomplished in order to tailor the therapy to the patient.

Abstract: Structurally supportive material is implanted or injected into cardiac veins as discrete masses at various sites in the cardiac venous system to reinforce the myocardium for the purpose of preventing, moderating, stopping or reversing negative cardiac remodeling due to various adverse cardiac conditions, both acute and chronic, or for the purpose of treating localize anomalies of the heart, or for both purposes. The sites may be arranged in a pattern about one or more chambers of the heart such that the masses cooperatively reduce stress in the chamber wall and reduce chamber size. Some patterns also cause a beneficial global reshaping of the chamber. These changes occur quickly and are sustainable, and have a rapid and sustainable therapeutic effect on cardiac function.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of delivering drugs having e.g., anti-proliferative activity in the vascular, preferably, the cardiovascular, system locally or systematically using an at least partially drug-coated guidewire. The drug-coated guidewire, particularly an expansion member or portion thereof, is brought into contact with the target tissue or in circulation and the drugs are quickly released into the area surrounding the device in a short time after the contact step. Once the therapeutic drugs are released, they are quickly and effectively absorbed by the surrounding cells or circulation.

Abstract: Methods, apparatus and compositions are provided for treatment of cancer of a selected organ by intraluminal delivery of oncolytic agents through a blood vessel or duct leading to the cancer tissue. During the time the oncolytic agents are being applied to the targeted tissue downstream, the designated vessel or duct can be selectively occluded to increase concentration and pressure of the applied agents at the target site. Oncolytic compositions including oncolytic viruses formulated with delivery visualization markers are provided.

Abstract: An IV infusion bag carrier pack is arranged as a substantially hollow, flexible bag having an interior that is divided into two interior compartments by a flexible, heat permeable divider panel, one interior compartment being arranged to receive and confine an IV fluids bag and the other interior compartment arranged to receive and confine the inflatable pressure cuff member of a blood pressure apparatus, whereby an IV fluids bag contained in the first pocket may be selectively pressurized by inflation of the blood pressure cuff contained in the second pocket whereby selectively controlled infusion delivery of IV fluids contained in the carrier pack apparatus may be continuously maintained irrespective of the relative disposition of the carrier pack apparatus and patient during treatment, extrication and rescue in the field, and transport to a medical facility.

Abstract: A particle including a matrix-forming agent and a polyelectrolyte-amphiphilic agent adduct wherein the polyelectrolyte-amphiphilic agent adduct is in physical communication with the matrix-forming agent. The particle further includes a coated magnetic field-responsive agent and a biomaterial. Methods of making the particle are provided. Also provided are methods of delivery of the biomaterial to a target cell or a target tissue including administering the particle having the matrix-forming agent, polyelectrolyte-amphiphilic agent adduct, the coated magnetic field-responsive agent and the biomaterial; providing a magnetic device associated with the target cell or the target tissue; applying a magnetic force to the particle; and guiding the particle toward the magnetic device by the magnetic force.

Abstract: A method including introducing a treatment device via a transluminal route within a blood vessel to a treatment site including a vulnerable plaque; and dispensing a treatment agent including a compound having a property that tends to modify a property of a content of the vulnerable plaque. A kit including a first treatment agent including a property capable of modifying a property of a content of a vulnerable plaque; and a different second treatment agent. A composition including a treatment agent capable of modifying the mobility of a content of a vulnerable plaque in a form and concentration suitable for dispensing through a catheter into a blood vessel.

Abstract: Methods and kits for delivering pharmaceutical agents to the adventitia and other regions outside the external elastic lamina (EEL) surrounding a blood vessel utilize a catheter having a needle. The needle is positioned in up to 5 mm beyond the EEL and delivers an amount of pharmaceutical agent sufficient to circumferentially permeate around the blood vessel and, in many cases, extend longitudinally and radially along the blood vessel. Confirmation that a delivery aperture of the needle lies beyond the EEL may be required before delivering the pharmaceutical agent.

Abstract: A safety needle device and method of supplying fluid to a vascular access port is described. The device may include a base member, a handle member, and a compressible member positioned between the handle member and a compression plate. The compressible member is coupled to a proximal end of a needle. Following the delivery of fluid to a vascular access port, the needle is removed by moving the handle member away from the base member, which collapses the compressible member, flushing fluid into the vascular access port to substantially replace a volume of the needle.

Abstract: A subcutaneous needle conduit attaches directly to a blood vessel or other biological boundary structure. The subcutaneous needle conduit is tapered such that a proximal end is wider than a distal end. A body of the subcutaneous needle conduit guides the tip of a needle or other canula from the proximal end to the distal end. The subcutaneous needle conduit may be funnel-shaped. An elongated funnel shape may be used to selectively provide access to a plurality of desired access sites along an axis of a blood vessel. Other shapes, such as sluice-shaped, may also be used. The subcutaneous needle conduit may be located beneath the skin surface using, for example, tactile sensation, magnetism, metal detection, detection of a signal emitted from a minute transponder, detection of light emission, or through other detection methods.

Abstract: System for detecting and removing gas bubbles from a vascular infusion line, including a cassette adapted for disposition intermediate the fluid line, the cassette including a flexible tube having an inlet port for connection to a supply side of the fluid line, an outlet port configured for connection to a patient side of the fluid line, and a purge port intermediate the inlet and outlet ports, and a base unit adapted to receive the cassette and monitor fluid flow through the tube, the base unit including a sensor to detect the presence of a gas bubble in the fluid flow, a pinch valve adapted to stop the flow of fluid, and a control unit adapted to operate the base unit so that (i) fluid is permitted to flow past the pinch valve when no gas bubble is detected; and (ii) fluid flow is arrested when a gas bubble is detected.

Abstract: System for detecting and removing gas bubbles from a vascular infusion line, including a cassette adapted for disposition intermediate the fluid line, the cassette including a flexible tube having an inlet port for connection to a supply side of the fluid line, an outlet port configured for connection to a patient side of the fluid line, and a purge port intermediate the inlet and outlet ports, and a base unit adapted to receive the cassette and monitor fluid flow through the tube, the base unit including a sensor to detect the presence of a gas bubble in the fluid flow, a pinch valve adapted to stop the flow of fluid, and a control unit adapted to operate the base unit so that (i) fluid is permitted to flow past the pinch valve when no gas bubble is detected; and (ii) fluid flow is arrested when a gas bubble is detected.

Abstract: This is a method and an apparatus for the treatment or introduction of contrast fluids into tissue, particularly cardiac tissue. The apparatus includes a catheter having an elongated flexible body and a tissue infusion apparatus including a hollow infusion needle configured to secure the needle into the tissue when the needle is at least partially inserted into the tissue to help prevent inadvertent removal of the needle from the tissue. This permits the selected treatment or contrast fluid to be confined to a specific site. The catheter may also include a visualization assembly including a transducer at the distal end of the body.

Abstract: System for detecting and removing gas bubbles from a vascular infusion line, including a cassette adapted for disposition intermediate the fluid line, the cassette including a flexible tube having an inlet port for connection to a supply side of the fluid line, an outlet port configured for connection to a patient side of the fluid line, and a purge port intermediate the inlet and outlet ports, and a base unit adapted to receive the cassette and monitor fluid flow through the tube, the base unit including a sensor to detect the presence of a gas bubble in the fluid flow, a pinch valve adapted to stop the flow of fluid, and a control unit adapted to operate the base unit so that (i) fluid is permitted to flow past the pinch valve when no gas bubble is detected; and (ii) fluid flow is arrested when a gas bubble is detected.

Abstract: A magnetically controlled pump is implanted into the brain of a patient and delivers a plurality of medicating agents at a controlled rate corresponding to the specific needs of the patient. The current invention comprises a flexible double walled pouch that is formed from two layers of polymer. The pouch is alternately expanded and contracting by magnetic solenoid. When contracted, a medicating agent is pushed out of the pouch through a plurality of needles. When the pouch is expanded, surrounding cerebral fluid is drawn into the space between the double walls of the pouch from which it is drawn through a catheter to an analyzer. Cerebral fluid drawn from the patient is analyzed. The operation of the apparatus and hence the treatment is remotely controlled based on these measurements and displayed through an external controller.

Abstract: The present invention relates to articles and methods of treating vascular conditions with a thixotropic, turbid, bioactive agent-containing gel material capable of being essentially removed from an implantation site upon re-establishment of fluid flow at the implantation site.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for recording two-dimensional images on the interior of a perfused blood vessel by means of optical coherence tomography using a catheter with an integrated imaging device, via which light is radiated and light reflected from the vascular wall is recorded, whereby a fluid containing a medium having a higher refractive index than blood plasma and/or cytoplasm is injected, via the catheter, into the vascular area to be recorded, to enable imaging to be carried out, whereby said fluid is a mixture of autologous blood and the medium.

Abstract: A method of delivering therapy to a target site. The method includes (a) obtaining a base image of the target site, (b) injecting a dose of a mix of a therapeutic agent and a contrast agent into a first injection location at the target site via a needle passing through a catheter, (c) collecting sequential fluoroscopic images of a contrast agent dispersion cloud at the first injection location, (d) determining a contrast agent dispersion area from the sequential fluoroscopic images, (e) determining a therapeutic agent dispersion area from the contrast agent dispersion area, (f) marking the therapeutic agent dispersion area on the base image of the target site, and (g) repeating (b) through (f) until the target site is substantially covered with overlapping therapeutic agent dispersion areas corresponding to a plurality of injections at a plurality of injection locations at the target site.

Abstract: A method of delivering embolic particles to an aneurysm includes inserting a delivery catheter into the vasculature of a patient and directing the distal end of the delivery catheter to a pre-selected deployment site. Embolic particles are loaded into the delivery catheter, and hydraulic pressure is applied to move the embolic particles through the delivery catheter. The hydraulic pressure is adjusted to control the velocity of the embolic particles and to reduce jetting.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an arterial flashback confirmation chamber. Generally, the confirmation chamber is used with a vascular access device to allow an operator to see active arterial flashback confirmation for a period of time that is long enough to permit the operator to properly place the cannula of the vascular access device within a patient's artery. In some instances, the confirmation chamber comprises a flashback compartment, means for prolonging active arterial flashback confirmation, and a vent. Some examples of suitable prolonging means comprise a flashback compartment with a relatively large internal volume, circuitous tubing, an absorbent material, an orifice and/or tubing with a smaller inner diameter than the inner diameter of the cannula, and the like. Where the vascular access device comprises a catheter assembly, the catheter assembly and confirmation camber are optionally used with a guide wire and/or a blood sensor.

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.

Abstract: A tri-functional cannula combines the functions of tissue Plasminogen Activator (tPA) solution delivery, illumination and venous pressure measurement. The cannula utilizes a tapered hollow-core optical fiber having an inlet for tPA solution, an attached fiber optic splitter configured to receive illumination light from an optical source such and a LED. A window in the cannula transmits the light to and from a central retinal vein. The return light is coupled to an optical detector to measure the pressure within the vein and determine whether an occlusion has been removed.

Abstract: Devices, systems and methods facilitate positioning of a cardiac valve annulus treatment device, thus enhancing treatment of the annulus. Methods generally involve advancing an anchor delivery device through vasculature of the patient to a location in the heart for treating the valve annulus, contacting the anchor delivery device with a length of the valve annulus, delivering a plurality of coupled anchors from the anchor delivery device to secure the anchors to the annulus, and drawing the anchors together to circumferentially tighten the valve annulus. Devices generally include an elongate catheter having at least one tensioning member and at least one tensioning actuator for deforming a distal portion of the catheter to help it conform to a valve annulus. The catheter device may be used to navigate a subannular space below a mitral valve to facilitate positioning of an anchor delivery device.

Abstract: Embolic coil implant systems and methods whereby coils are mechanically detachable are disclosed. The coils include a retention element that may be releasably retained within the distal end of an implant tool. The implant tool may include a fulcrum configured to engage a first filament and prevent the release of the coil when the first filament is engaged. Alternatively, an urging means and aperture may be disposed within the sidewall of the implant tool, and a first filament may, in conjunction with the aperture and sidewall, releasably retain the coil until the first filament is withdrawn. The implant tool may also include an alignment member for aligning the first filament.

Abstract: A method for delivering a cell to a heart of a patient comprises the steps of providing an apparatus for intracardiac drug administration comprising a catheter wherein the catheter has at least one position sensor which generates signals responsive to the position of a catheter and a drug delivery device for delivering the cell. The catheter is inserted into a chamber of the heart at a site and the cell is delivered to the site with the drug delivery device in response to the signals from the position sensor. Typical cells useful for delivery are either myoblasts or myocytes. These cells may be utilized as either an expression vector for promoting angiogenesis or for cell transplantation and fusion through myogenesis.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for treating a wall of an aneurysm formed in a vessel includes introducing a tubular member into the body lumen until a distal end of the tubular member is located within the aneurysm. A fluid is delivered via a lumen of the tubular member into the aneurysm to at least partially de-endothelialize the wall of the aneurysm, thereby causing an endothelium of the wall to generate fibrous tissue to strengthen the wall of the aneurysm.

Abstract: Herein disclosed is a system for applying shear stress ex-situ to a fluid. In some embodiments, the system comprises a shear device; and at least one device configured for intravenous administration of the fluid to a patient, the devices defining a fluid passage configured to be sterilized and maintained sterile during use, the fluid comprising at least one therapeutic fluid, blood, or a combination thereof. The shear device of the system is in fluid communication with the at least one device configured for intravenous administration of the fluid to a patient. Herein also disclosed is a method of preparing a fluid for intravenous administration to a patient.

Abstract: In a method of analyzing a quantity having temporal and spatial variations a multidimensional output data array is formed. The multidimensional output data array comprises array positions arranged along at least a first data-axis and a second data-axis, such as a spatial axis and a temporal axis. Values of the quantity are entered in the multidimensional output data array. Values of the quantity at substantially the same instant are entered at respective positions in the multidimensional output data array at equal positions along the first data-axis. Values of the quantity at substantially the same spatial position are entered at respective positions in the multidimensional output data array at equal positions along the second data-axis.

Abstract: A catheter-based deployment system for deploying cellular material (22) into the heart muscle (25). The deployment system includes a guiding catheter (19) and a needle assembly (31) capable of sliding within the guiding catheter. The needle assembly (31) terminates in a tip (34) having at least one side with an opening (43) in communication with a lumen (20) disposed within the needle assembly (31). Once the guiding catheter (19) is positioned the needle assembly (31) is advanced until the tip (34) penetrates the muscle wall (25). At a predetermined depth the cellular material (22) may be deployed into the muscle wall (25) via a push rod (46) disposed through the lumen of the needle assembly (31).

Abstract: The present invention comprises compositions and methods for forming an endovascular occlusion to treat conditions such as aneurysms, arterio-venous malformations, excessive blood supply to tumors, massive vascular hemorrhaging, and other conditions which require an embolization to alleviate the condition. Embodiments of the present invention comprise compositions and methods that use calcium alginate, without or without endovascular coils or similar devices, to form occlusions at a site within the mammalian body targeted for occlusion.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are systems and methods for continuously measuring a physiologic parameter of a patient, and can also include adjusting therapy based upon the physiologic parameter. The system can include a first probe having an elongate body, the probe configured to be inserted into a first location within a patient. At least one sensor can be operably connected to the first probe and configured to continuously provide real-time feedback information on one or more physiologic parameters at the first location within the patient, such as pH, pCO2, pO2, pressure, or temperature. A controller can be connected to the probe and configured to receive the real-time feedback information and to adjust a therapeutic setting on a therapeutic device based at least in part on the feedback information.

Abstract: A transvascular system (10) for delivering a drug to a tissue region from a blood vessel, such as a coronary vein, includes a catheter (12) having a distal portion (26) with puncturing (14), orientation (16), drug delivery (62), and imaging elements (18). The puncturing element (14) is deployable for penetrating the vessel wall to access the tissue region. The orientation element (16), e.g. a “cage” including a plurality of struts (38) (40) and/or a radiopaque marker, has a predetermined relationship with the puncturing element (14), the imaging element (18) detecting the location of the orientation element (16) with respect to the tissue region to orient the puncturing element. The catheter (12) is percutaneously introducing into the vessel, the puncturing element (14) is oriented towards the tissue region, the puncturing element (14) is deployed to access the tissue region, and the drug is delivered to the tissue region.

Abstract: A method of making a fiber-reinforced medical balloon is described herein. The method entails pressurizing a portion of a balloon, and ejecting a fiber precursor fluid from at least one nozzle adjacent to the portion. One or more fibers are formed from the fiber precursor fluid and deposited on an exterior surface of the portion. Preferably, the fibers are polymer nanofibers, and the method is carried out using an electrospinning process.

Abstract: Devices and methods for accessing and closing vascular sites are disclosed. Self-sealing closure devices and methods are disclosed. A device that can make both steeply sloping and flat access paths into a vascular lumen is disclosed. The device can also form arteriotomies with sections cleaved between a vessel's intima and adventitia. Methods for using the device are also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention provides methods for treating an obstructed biological conduit that include administering to the conduit an agent that can degrade extracellular matrix of obstructing tissue. Particular methods include delivery of an enzyme or a mixture of several enzymes to the area or region of obstruction wherein the enzyme(s) have the capability to degrade extracellular matrix components within the obstruction thereby restoring the normal flow of transported fluid through the conduit. The invention also includes prophylactically dilating a section of conduit to minimize the risk of obstruction formation.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for delivering a bioactive agent in a needle track formed in a target tissue mass, following formation of the needle track, by avoiding impingement of the agent against target tissue at high velocity or by using capillary action to draw the bioactive agent out of the needle during needle withdrawal. The apparatus comprises a catheter and a needle disposed within the catheter and configured to be selectively extended into the tissue mass to a predetermined depth, while dispensing the agent simultaneously with retraction of the needle along the needle track. Alternatively, or in addition, the needle may be configured to create a tissue space surrounding a distal or lateral surface of the needle, into which the bioactive agent to be infused.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for injecting liquid, comprising a piece of tubing on which there is situated at least a first liquid occlusion system. According to the invention, a regulation system is situated upstream from the first occlusion system, the two systems defining an intermediate segment in which the pressure, in the absence of injection, is greater than the pressure that exists downstream from the first occlusion system so as to direct any leak of liquid from the first occlusion system downstream. The invention is applicable to a pump used for injecting contrast liquid for medical imaging.

Abstract: A transmyocardial revascularization system including a plurality of inserts formed of a material to elicit a healing response in tissue of the myocardium and deployment instruments and associated components for deploying the inserts into the wall of the myocardium. The inserts are arranged to be disposed within respective lumens or channels in the wall of the myocardium. The inserts can take various forms, e.g., be solid members, tubular members, or porous members, and may be resorbable, partially resorbable or non-resorbable. In some embodiments the inserts are arranged to be left in place within the channels in the wall of the myocardium to result in plural lumens which enable blood to flow therethrough and into contiguous capillaries. The deployment instruments are arranged to pierce the tissue of the myocardium from either the endocardium or the epicardium to insert the inserts into the myocardium, depending on the particular deployment instrument used.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for inhibiting the introduction of air into the body during a percutaneous procedure.