Abstract: A PFO closing device for bringing the septum primum and the septum secundum into contact with each other and joining them together includes a clamping mechanism and energy supplying device. The clamping mechanism includes a needle part for puncturing the septum primum, and a clamping member for cooperating with the needle part in clamping therebetween tissue of the septum primum and the septum secundum. The energy supplying device supplies energy for joining the tissues clamped by the needle part and the clamping member. The clamping mechanism is mounted in a catheter so as to be protrudable from and retractable into the catheter.

Abstract: The present invention provides a cell transplantation device which is capable of inserting cells for transplantation into a cell-deficient site without application of direct external force to the cells. The present invention discloses a cell transplantation device provided with a plate-type carrier with at least one pass-through hole formed on its side surface, a linear member to be threaded through the pass-through hole, and a pusher member which engages with the linear member that comes out from each exit of the pass-through holes.

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 concerns a device comprising: a packaging box for the flexible material part, dimensioned to hold said part flat; folding means for folding said part without direct handling; and a reception tube for receiving said folded flexible material part. The invention is characterized in that the folding means comprise; a traction suture connected to the flexible material part, which passes through the tube, and, walls forming a funnel whereof the base emerges proximate to the opening of the tube through which the flexible material part is designed to be inserted into said tube, said funnel being designed, when a traction is exerted on the traction suture, to gradually fold down the zones of the part located laterally relative to the tube towards the zone of the part located opposite the opening of said tube, to enable the part to be inserted into the tube.

Abstract: An apparatus for delivering a closure element can include a splittable carrier tube and a splitter to split the tube. The carrier tube can have an outer surface retaining a closure element in a tubular configuration and can be split into radially-expandable flaps. A closure element has can have shape-memory body having a relaxed configuration with a planar-annular body defining a lumen with tines directed inwardly from the body. The clip can be held in a retaining configuration having a substantially asymmetrically-elongated tubular shape with a trapezoidal longitudinal cross-sectional profile and a proximal end having the tines being longitudinally directed with a first tine being more distally oriented compared to a substantially opposite second tine being more proximal, and retracting to a deploying configuration having a tubular shape with a rectangular longitudinal cross-sectional profile with the first tine being even with the second tine when being delivered.

Abstract: A system for treating a septal defect having an implantable treatment apparatus and devices for delivering the implantable treatment apparatus, devices for controlling delivery of the treatment apparatus and methods for treating a septal defect are provided. The implantable treatment apparatus is preferably implantable through a septal wall or portion thereof. The treatment system can include a flexible elongate body member, a delivery device configured to deliver the implantable apparatus, and a proximal control device for controlling delivery of the implantable apparatus, among others.

Abstract: A wound (50) is closed using a first adhesive shoe (10) adhesively affixed adjacent to a first edge (51) of the wound, a second adhesive shoe (20) adhesively affixed adjacent to a second opposite edge (52) of the wound, a forceps device (100) comprising a first leg (101) adapted to couple with the first adhesive shoe and a second leg (102) adapted to couple with the second adhesive shoe; and a locking mechanism (150) adapted to draw the first and second forcep legs together and hold legs in the desired closed position after they are drawn together.

Abstract: Tissue lacerations are closed using a vacuum cup applied to the tissue surface having a tissue-abutting, optically transparent mesh surface that under vacuum conforms with the tissue surface, apposing edges of the wound, and is optionally loaded with a bandage comprising a chitosan film and a collagen backing. An eye tissue surface wound is closed without sutures by closing the wound with a bioadhesive, biocompatible sclera or cornea wound patch comprising a chitosan film and a collagen backing, wherein the backing is bonded to the film without adhesive and protects the film against dissociation when the patch is exposed to a physiological fluid, and the film adheres to the sclera sufficient to retain apposed edges of the wound.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for closing a vascular wound includes an apparatus that can be threaded over a guidewire into place at or adjacent the wound. The apparatus includes a chamber that encloses a hemostatic material therein. When the apparatus is positioned adjacent the wound as desired, the hemostatic material is deployed from the chamber. A blocking member distal of the hemostatic material functions as a barrier to prevent the hemostatic material from entering the wound. Blood contacts the hemostatic material, and blood clotting preferably is facilitated by a hemostatic agent within the material. Thus, the vascular puncture wound is sealed by blood clot formation.

Abstract: The present embodiments provide methods for facilitating closure of a bodily opening. In one exemplary method, at least a portion of a first tacking device is disposed through at least a portion of tissue at a first location in a vicinity of an opening in the tissue. Then, at least a portion of a second tacking device is disposed through at least a portion of tissue at a second location in the vicinity of an opening in the tissue. A closure member having at least one loop portion is advanced towards the first and second tacking devices, and the loop portion is positioned around at least a portion of the first tacking device and at least a portion of the second tacking device. The closure member then is actuated to urge the first tacking device towards the second tacking device to provide a compressive force upon the opening.

Abstract: Reinforcing lumen rings are configured and adapted for use in conjunction with a circular endoscopic stapling instrument having a staple cartridge assembly and an anvil assembly. The reinforcing lumen rings maintain anastomotic lumen, e.g. as formed by the circular endoscopic stapling apparatus, in an open condition. The reinforcing lumen rings can include an annular ring having an outer terminal edge and an inner terminal edge, the outer terminal edge having a diameter which is substantially equal to an outer diameter of the staple cartridge assembly and the inner terminal edge having a diameter which is substantially equal to an inner diameter of the staple cartridge assembly.

Abstract: A closure device to be inserted at least partially through a blood vessel wall aperture in a blood vessel wall, having at least two metal petals that can be inserted through the blood vessel wall aperture and into the lumen of the blood vessel. The petals are structured to prevent withdrawal through the blood vessel wall aperture when the length of the petal is generally aligned with the blood vessel wall. The metal petals have alignment features that tend to urge them into alignment relative to each other. The closure device includes a metal expansion member that is alterable from an unexpanded state to an expanded state. A bioabsorbable tensioning member interconnects the petals and the metal expansion member and is securable to the metal expansion member.

Abstract: Methods and systems for medializing a turbinate. Exemplary embodiments comprise methods and systems for repositioning a turbinate proximal to a septum. Certain embodiments comprise an implant and a flexible member coupled to the implant. Embodiments may also comprise an insertion device to install the implant in a desired location.

Abstract: The methods, devices, and systems are provided for performing endovascular repair of atrioventricular and other cardiac valves in the heart. Regurgitation of an atrioventricular valve, particularly a mitral valve, can be repaired by modifying a tissue structure selected from the valve leaflets, the valve annulus, the valve chordae, and the papillary muscles. These structures may be modified by suturing, stapling, snaring, or shortening, using interventional tools which are introduced to a heart chamber. Preferably, the tissue structures will be temporarily modified prior to permanent modification. For example, opposed valve leaflets may be temporarily grasped and held into position prior to permanent attachment.

Abstract: A method for repairing pulmonary air leaks in a lung residing in a chest cavity and having an intake air stream and an outer surface is disclosed. An exemplary method comprises: introducing a first component of a biphasic sealant component as a liquid into the intake air stream of the damaged lung; ensuring that there is a pressure differential between the intake air stream and the outer surface of the lung; and introducing a second component of a biphasic sealant component into the chest cavity. The first sealant component collects at the air leak site and forms a sealant in combination with the second sealant component.

Abstract: A PFO closing device for bringing the septum primum and the septum secundum into contact with each other and joining them together includes a clamping mechanism and energy supplying device. The clamping mechanism includes a needle part for puncturing the septum primum, and a clamping member for cooperating with the needle part in clamping therebetween tissue of the septum primum and the septum secundum. The energy supplying device supplies energy for joining the tissues clamped by the needle part and the clamping member. The clamping mechanism is mounted in a catheter so as to be protrudable from and retractable into the catheter.

Abstract: A device (1) for closing an opening (2) in a septum (4) of a heart (3) comprises: at least two closure elements (12) with threads (8) for closing the opening (2), a feed catheter (5) for insertion of the closure element (12) into the heart (3), a puncture cannula (6), a stylet (7) for pushing the closure element (12) out of the puncture cannula (6), and a screw catheter (10) having a coil (11) for penetration the edge of the opening (2). The puncture cannula (6) and the elements (12) can be moved through the screw catheter (10) and the coil (11). If the edges of the opening (2) overlap, a lobe (15) away from the feed catheter (5) can be kept in place with a second coil (111), or a suction tube (16) during placement of the anchor (12).

Abstract: Methods, apparatus, and systems for occluding a defective occlusion. Methods, apparatus, and systems include the use of an occlusion device having occluder pads. The distance between the occluder pads can be adjusted so as to compress tissue between the occluder pads to anchor the occlusion device to the tissue and to block the defective occlusion.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to tissue closure devices for closing a tissue opening, including one or more closure components, each closure component having a first member and a second member, each of the first and second members having a first surface that adheres to a tissue surface proximate to the tissue opening, each of the first and second members having a second surface substantially orthogonal to the first surface, and each of the first and second members having a transitional region between the first surface and the second surface which is contoured to evert an edge of the tissue opening upon the drawing together of the first and second members. The present invention is also directed to systems and kits, dressing systems, and methods for tissue repair and closure.

Abstract: Devices and methods for sealing an opening in a blood vessel are disclosed. A device can include: an elongate, tubular non-stick outer sheath, the non-stick outer sheath having a distal end that is insertable into a vessel of a patient through the opening in the vessel wall, and having a proximal end remaining outside the patient; an elongate, tubular non-stick inner sheath disposed within the non-stick outer sheath; and an elongate, tubular adhesive film disposed between the non-stick outer sheath and the non-stick inner sheath, the adhesive film having both inward-facing and outward-facing adhesive surfaces and being supportable by the non-stick inner sheath during insertion into the vessel of the patient.

Abstract: Apparatus is provided for sealing a puncture within a vessel or tissue to provide hemostasis, comprising a first disk coupled to either a second disk or a spring, and sealingly engaged to the vessel or tissue surrounding the puncture. At least the first disk is preferably configured to substantially conform to the profile of the vessel or tissue when deployed. In one embodiment, the disks may be released from engagement with the vessel or tissue to reposition the disks after deployment.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to medical devices and methods for sealing and closing passages formed through tissue. More specifically, the present invention relates to devices for sealing or closing an opening formed through biological tissue comprising a distal or outside margin or surface, and a proximal or inside margin or surface (i.e., a wall thickness), and to apparatuses and methods for delivering such devices, to control (or prevent or stop) bleeding (or the flow of other biological fluid or tissue). The openings comprise percutaneously formed punctures, incisions, or other openings formed through biological tissue, such as in blood vessels, organs, and the like.

Abstract: A hypobaric wound space is provided for prophylactic and diagnostic purposes in surgical wounds of the abdomen deliberately left open. The hypobaric wound space provided is established by a combination of an impermeable folio sheet or thin flexible membrane, tissue fluid absorbing gauze or sponge, a drain tube, and a suction device to create hypobaric conditions and prevent wound contamination and infection, and to collect wound fluid to diagnose protein, fluid and other substrate losses on a quantity and quality basis.

Abstract: Apparatus is provided for sealing a puncture within a vessel or tissue to provide hemostasis, comprising a first disk coupled to either a second disk or a spring, and sealingly engaged to the vessel or tissue surrounding the puncture. At least the first disk is preferably configured to substantially conform to the profile of the vessel or tissue when deployed. In one embodiment, the disks may be released from engagement with the vessel or tissue to reposition the disks after deployment.

Abstract: Apparatus is provided for sealing a puncture within a vessel or tissue to provide hemostasis, comprising a first disk coupled to either a second disk or a spring, and sealingly engaged to the vessel or tissue surrounding the puncture. At least the first disk is preferably configured to substantially conform to the profile of the vessel or tissue when deployed. In one embodiment, the disks may be released from engagement with the vessel or tissue to reposition the disks after deployment.

Abstract: Surgical bolts are useful for solid visceral wound hemostasis. The devices utilize flexible, variable depth transfixing bolts that penetrate the viscera. These bolts bring the tissue into apposition and hold said tissue in apposition while the wound heals. These bolts, or soft tissue rivets, overcome the limitations of sutures that are currently used for the same purposes. The devices are flexible, bendable, and conformable in their wet or dry state. The bolts include pressure plates that are capable of exerting compressive pressure over broad areas of visceral wounds without causing tearing of the friable parenchyma. The bolts are placed and removed by open surgery or laparoscopic access. The bolts can be placed into tissue where both sides of the bolt are exposed, or they can be placed blindly into tissue where the bolt does not protrude out of the tissue at its distal end.

Abstract: The present invention provides devices for closing septal defects, such as a patent foramen ovale (PFO). The closure devices include a proximal anchor member, a distal anchor member, and at least one flexible center joint connecting the two anchor members. According to some embodiments, the proximal and/or distal anchor members may include a generally cylindrical member split along the central portion of its length to form an elongate oval. The proximal and/or distal anchor members may further include a tissue scaffold. At least some of the closure devices according to the present invention are repositionable and retrievable.

Abstract: A medical sealing device for the sealing of a puncture hole in a vessel wall includes an inner member, which is adapted to be positioned at an interior surface of the vessel wall, and an outer member, which is adapted to be positioned outside the vessel wall, the inner member and the outer member being held together by a retaining member. The sealing device further includes a sealing element, which is adapted to be positioned between the vessel wall and the outer member to improve the sealing performance of the sealing device.

Abstract: The present invention includes a first and a second interlaced component, each having a permeable adhesive-backed wound edge pad for attachment to the skin of a patient adjacent to a laceration or incision to be closed. Each of the permeable wound edge pads is attached to an opposing tension adjusting pad that also has an adhesive backing. The wound edge pads are connected to the respective tension adjusting pads by elongate connecting elements that may be flat or tubular in shape. The present invention also includes an adhesive that may be applied in liquid form to the permeable wound edge pads. Adhesion of the adhesive on and within the permeable wound edge pads seals the wound site and adds structural rigidity to the interlaced components.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to surgical fasteners and more particularly to surgical fasteners coated with wound treatment materials. According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a surgical fastener for use in combination with a surgical fastener applying apparatus is provided. The surgical fastener includes a pair of legs; a crown interconnecting the pair of legs; and a wound treatment material coating at least a portion of the legs and crown.

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 present invention relates to thermoresponsive adhesives. The invention further relates to methods for the reversible attachment of retinal implants, other implants, and drug delivery devices.

Abstract: Multilayer structures including a porous layer and a non-porous layer are useful as buttresses when associated with a surgical stapling apparatus.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for treatment of patent foramen ovale (PFO) generally involve use of a catheter having at least one closure device at its distal end. In some embodiments, the catheter also includes one or more energy transmission members for delivering energy to the closure device(s) and to the tissue adjacent the PFO to induce closure of the PFO. Closure devices may comprise, for example, a bioresorbable matrix or a non-resorbable matrix. In some embodiments, the closure device contains particles dispersed within the closure device to increase conductance and/or to reduce resistance and/or impedance. An exemplary method involves advancing a catheter to position its distal end into the tunnel of the PFO and fixing the closure device within the tunnel of the patent foramen PFO.

Abstract: A device and methods for maintaining the alignment of the edges of a wound in the fascia and associated layers are disclosed. The device includes a biodegradable implantable device, an insertion tool and a compression tool. The biodegradable implantable device includes a biodegradable compressible structure of such size and shape that it is capable of maintaining the alignment of the edges of the wound. One or more embodiments of the biodegradable compressible structure include a structure with a surface to make contact with the inner surface of a wound, another structure with a surface to contact with the outer surface of a wound, a means for connecting the two bases such as a screw or snap fitting, and a means for detachably connecting the compressible structure to an insertion tool such as grooves or a slotted ring.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides compositions which may be utilized as adhesives or sealants in medical and surgical applications. The compositions may, in embodiments, be formed from the cycloaddition reaction of a first component possessing at least one azide group with a second component possessing at least one alkyne group.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for treatment of layered tissue defects having a majority of the surfaces of the defect layers in contact generally involve use of a catheter having at least one energy transmission member at its distal end. The distal end of the apparatus also typically has a force applying member which can apply a force to the tissue defect. Often this force is a lateral force or vacuum which helps the tissue to appose itself. An exemplary method of closing a patent foramen ovale (PFO) involves positioning a closure device between layers of the PFO. Energy is then applied to the layered tissue defect with the closure device so as to substantially close the tissue defect. The energy is often monopolar or bipolar radiofrequency energy. A force may also be applied by the closure device to the layered tissue defect so as to bring the layered tissue defect together.

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 a steep and controlled access path into a vascular lumen is disclosed. Methods for using the device are also disclosed.

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 a steep and controlled access path into a vascular lumen is disclosed. Methods for using the device are also disclosed.

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 a steep and controlled access path into a vascular lumen is disclosed. Methods for using the device are also disclosed.

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 a steep and controlled access path into a vascular lumen is disclosed. Methods for using the device are also disclosed.

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 intimae and adventitia. Methods for using the device are also disclosed.

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 a steep and controlled access path into a vascular lumen is disclosed. Methods for using the device are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to surgical clips. A surgical clip comprises a first piece comprising a first base and a first projection extending from the first base, a second piece comprising a second base, a second projection extending from the second base wherein the second projection further comprises a top surface, at least one side surface and a bottom surface, the surfaces defining a reservoir therein, and the first and the second piece are detachably connectable. In a preferred embodiment, the reservoir is self-releasing to deliver therapeutic materials when the first piece and second piece are connected.

Abstract: A medical device for treatment of affection of anatomical ducts, as in particular for anastomosing blood vessels and vascular prosthesis, with end-to-end or end-to-side configuration. The device has outer containing functions and is associated to an intra-prosthetic stent for sandwiching the overlapping segments being anastomosed to each other of the anatomical ducts and of the prosthesis, a segment of which is located in the duct. The outer containing device is formed by a stent of biocompatibile resilient material having memory effect, in a predetermined nominal position, suitable for extending elastically for engaging the outside of the duct, and returning to said nominal position, with containing function, thus preventing the diameter of the duct from increasing and without compressing the duct. The stent must have at least a length not less than half the outside diameter of the duct. Means are provided for putting the prosthesis in the duct and for arranging the containing device out of the duct.

Abstract: The present development includes an elongated flexible base strip having its bottom surface coated with an adhesive material suitable for adherence to skin and constructed with bridging links spaced along the inner edge of the base strip and extending outwardly therefrom. The inner edge of the base strip is intended to be aligned adjacent to a lip of the wound being treated. Each of the bridging links has an adhesive coated section displaced from the inner edge. In the packaged or stored position, prior to engagement, the bridging links are folded over the upper surface of the adhesive strip about a hinge that is at the joint of the bridging link to the base strip.

Abstract: Devices and methods for sealing a passageway formed by a patent foramen ovale (PFO track) in the heart are provided. One method includes providing an abrading device to the PFO track and abrading the tissue within the PFO track. The abraded tissue forming the PFO track is then held together under pressure, either via lowering right atrial pressure or via applying suction to the septum primum to pull it into apposition against the septum secundum. After a sufficient period of time, the pressure is released and the abraded tissue heals to form a robust seal over the PFO track. Additionally, several devices are provided which can be placed into the PFO track to apply adhesive to the walls of the PFO track. The devices may or may not be left within the PFO track. If the devices are not left within the PFO track, the walls of the PFO track, covered with adhesive, are brought into apposition with one another and adhered together.

Abstract: An occlusion device includes a center assembly having a flexible section formed by a spring connector and a safety tether. The flexible spring connector gives the center assembly improved torque and flexure characteristics, which allows the occlusion device to better conform to the contours of the heart. The safety tether serves to further ensure the structural integrity of the center assembly.

Abstract: A method, system and apparatus for augmenting the surgical repair of soft tissue injuries, in which a first end of a bridge member attaches to a first portion of healthy tissue, and a second end of the bridge member attaches to a second portion of healthy tissue. The bridge member (or bridge members) used to augment the soft tissue repair may be interconnected or function independently. Flexibility and elasticity of the bridge member are determined by the situation and may be altered to improve healing. The device may be used in arthroscopic procedures, and may be manufactured in a variety of lengths, or may be manufactured one length and be cut to the desired length, or otherwise altered to provide an optimal length of the bridge member.

Abstract: The present invention provides devices for closing septal defects, such as a patent foramen ovale (PFO). The closure devices include a proximal anchor member, a distal anchor member, and at least one flexible center joint connecting the two anchor members. According to some embodiments, the proximal and/or distal anchor members may include a generally cylindrical member split along the central portion of its length to form an elongate oval. The proximal and/or distal anchor members may further include a tissue scaffold. At least some of the closure devices according to the present invention are repositionable and retrievable.