Systems, apparatus, and methods are described for treatment of varicocele and associated conditions. In some embodiments, systems, apparatus, and methods described herein can include forming one or more fluid connections or fistulas between blood vessels such as a gonadal vein (e.g., spermatic vein, ovarian vein) and surrounding veins. In some embodiments, systems, apparatus, and methods described herein can include occluding one or more blood vessels such as a gonadal vein (e.g., spermatic vein, ovarian vein). In some embodiments, systems, apparatus and methods described herein relate to flow diverters, replacement valves, etc., e.g., for treatment of varicocele and associated conditions.

The invention includes an improved flow graft. The graft has a portion where the radius r expands with length L over the portion, so that r.sup.n/L is a constant in that portion, where n≥4.0, or 1<n<4. It is preferred that the graft has a beginning section that has constant diameter. The invention also includes a method of designing such an expanding graft to suit the application, such as in the venous system, the arterial system, or for dialysis. The invention also includes near constant conductance stents whose radius r can grow with length, so the R.sup.n/L is constant where n>4.

The present invention relates to a joining member for an anastomosis system for realizing anastomosis between first and second hollow structures, such as end-to-side anastomosis. The joining member is annular and is adapted for joining the first and second hollow structures. The joining member includes a plurality of interconnected loops forming the annular body and a plurality of joining elements for joining the hollow structures connected to the annular body at locations where adjacent loops are interconnected to each other, and wherein the loops are configured to permit radial expansion of said annular body to expand said joining member from a first position to a second position having a second, larger diameter than the first position.

Methods and devices that prevent stasis in the LAA by either increasing the flow through the LAA or by closing off or sealing the LAA. Increasing the flow is accomplished through shunts, flow diverters, agitators, or by increasing the size of the ostium. Closing off the LAA is accomplished using seals or by cinching the LAA.

A device includes a first end portion, a second end portion, an intermediate portion, and a graft material. The first end portion has a first end diameter. The second end portion has a second end diameter smaller than the first end diameter. The first end portion comprises a first material. The second end portion comprises a second material different than the first material. The intermediate portion is between the first end portion and the second end portion. The intermediate portion tapers between the first end portion and the second end portion. The graft material is coupled to at least the intermediate portion.

A method of producing an arteriovenous (AV) fistula includes producing an anastomosis between a primary blood vessel (e.g., a vein) and a secondary blood vessel (e.g., an artery). A collateral (or competing) blood vessel in fluid communication with one of the primary blood vessel or the secondary blood vessel is identified. A reversible flow restrictor is then applied to the collateral blood vessel to reduce a blood flow rate through the collateral blood vessel. In some embodiments, the anastomosis can be produced percutaneously. In some embodiments, the reversible flow restriction (or a portion thereof) can be removed from the collateral blood vessel. In other embodiments, the reversible flow restriction (or a portion thereof) can be adjusted to allow increased blood flow therethrough while within the collateral blood vessel.

Methods for creating and maintaining an anastomosis between two adjacent blood vessels using percutaneous techniques, for use in hemodialysis procedures are disclosed and described.

The invention concerns delivering paired magnetic anastomosis devices to either side of tissues to be joined. The magnetic anastomosis devices are coupled to a guide element that facilitates delivery and manipulation of the devices when using minimally-invasive techniques such as endoscopy and laparoscopy. Elongated manipulators and guide tubes ae also disclosed that improve a user's dexterity with the devices during placement.

Implantable medical devices for connecting tissue layers or occluding body conduits and tissue structures include apposition portions, a central region, and a covering material. The methods of using the devices include endoscopic deployment, and the devices may include self-expanding frameworks that facilitate a secure connection between the tissue structures. In some embodiments, one or more tethers are used to longitudinally contract the device in situ.

An embodiment of the invention relates to a method of configuring blood vessels at an anastomosis, the method comprising: ensheathing a segment of a transected first blood vessel in a lumen of a sleeve so that an open end of the segment protrudes from a sleeve end; suturing edges of an incision made in a second blood vessel to the open end of the first blood vessel to create an anastomosis; and sliding the sleeve along the first blood vessel to position the sleeve at the anastomosis.