Systems and methods of tissue closure

Abstract

Apparatus, systems, and methods are described for closing the base of a left atrial appendage or other tissue structure. A tissue closure device comprises a pair of legs having compliant surfaces for engaging against opposite sides of the tissue structure. A plurality of axially spaced-apart tissue-penetrating fasteners are delivered from one leg to the other to pierce the intervening tissue and hold the closure device in place on the tissue structure.

Claims

1. A system for closing a tissue structure, wherein the system includes a closure device in combination with a closure device applicator, wherein the closure device comprises a compression body provided with at least two compliant opposing tissue-engaging surfaces capable of engaging opposite sides of a tissue structure, the compression body including a scaffold; and wherein the closure device applicator comprises a jaw mechanism that includes two jaws, wherein each jaw is adapted to detachably engage the compression body so as to arrange the two compliant opposing tissue-engaging surfaces to engage opposite sides of the tissue structure.

2. The system as in claim 1, wherein the tissue structure is a left atrial appendage.

3. The system as in claim 1, wherein the tissue-engaging surfaces of the compression body are comprised of a soft, biologically compatible polymer.

4. The system as in claim 3, wherein the tissue-engaging surfaces possess a three-dimensional compliance that permits the soft tissue-engaging surfaces to conform to a three-dimensional topography of the tissue structure when the jaw mechanism compresses the compression body on the tissue structure.

5. The system as in claim 1, wherein the compression body has a port formed therein for each jaw of the closure device applicator so that the compression body is detachably engageable with the closure device applicator via these ports.

6. The system as in claim 1, wherein the two jaws of the closure device applicator are operably connected to one another so as to be spreadable when a trigger is activated.

7. The system as in claim 1, wherein the at least two compliant opposing tissue-engaging surfaces each form a portion of a single continuous surface.

8. The system as in claim 7, wherein the at least two compliant opposing tissue-engaging surfaces are connected via a third compliant surface.

9. The system as in claim 8, wherein the at least two compliant opposing tissue-engaging surfaces are parallel surfaces.

10. The system as in claim 1, wherein the at least two compliant opposing tissue-engaging surfaces are non-parallel surfaces.

11. The system as in claim 10, wherein the at least two compliant opposing tissue-engaging surfaces are curved surfaces.

12. The system as in claim 11, wherein the at least two compliant opposing tissue-engaging surfaces are concave surfaces.

13. A closure device configured to close a tissue structure, wherein the closure device comprises: a compression body provided with at least two compliant opposing tissue-engaging surfaces capable of engaging opposite sides of a tissue structure, wherein the compression body includes a scaffold.

14. The closure device as in claim 13, wherein the tissue structure is a left atrial appendage.

15. The closure device as in claim 13, wherein the tissue-engaging surfaces of the compression body are comprised of a soft, biologically compatible polymer.

16. The closure device as in claim 13, wherein the tissue-engaging surfaces possess a three-dimensional compliance that permits the soft tissue-engaging surfaces to conform to a three-dimensional topography of the tissue structure when a jaw mechanism compresses the compression body on the tissue structure.

17. The closure device as in claim 13, wherein the at least two compliant opposing tissue-engaging surfaces each form a portion of a single continuous surface.

18. The closure device as in claim 17, wherein the at least two compliant opposing tissue-engaging surfaces are connected via a third compliant surface.

19. The closure device as in claim 13, wherein the at least two compliant opposing tissue-engaging surfaces are non-parallel surfaces.

20. The closure device as in claim 19, wherein the at least two compliant opposing tissue-engaging surfaces are curved surfaces.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

(1) FIG. 1 is an isometric view of one embodiment of a tissue closure applicator constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention. An exemplary tissue closure device is shown in broken line mounted on the distal end of the tissue closure applicator.

(2) FIG. 2 is an isometric view of one embodiment of a tissue closure device constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention, shown with a middle section broken away.

(3) FIG. 3 is a top plan view of the tissue of closure device of FIG. 2.

(4) FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 4-4 of FIG. 3.

(5) FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate the fastener structures of the tissue closure device of FIGS. 2-4, shown in an unengaged configuration (FIG. 5A) and in an engaged configuration (FIG. 5B).

(6) FIG. 5C shows a female fastener which is able to accommodate different tissue thicknesses.

(7) FIG. 6 is a top plan view of another embodiment of a tissue closure device constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention.

(8) FIG. 7 is a top plan view of another embodiment of a tissue closure device constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention.

(9) FIG. 8 is a top plan view of another embodiment of a tissue closure device constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention.

(10) FIG. 9 is a detail of the distal end of the tissue applicator device of FIG. 1.

(11) FIG. 10 is a detailed view of the distal end of the tissue closure device of FIG. 1, shown with a portion broken away and with the actuation mechanism exposed.

(12) FIG. 11 is a detailed view of the device actuation mechanism taken along line 11-11 of FIG. 10.

(13) FIG. 12 illustrates another actuation mechanism for the tissue applicator of the present invention.

(14) FIG. 13 is a top plan view of the embodiment of FIG. 12, shown with the open configuration in full line and in a closed configuration in broken line.

(15) FIGS. 14, 15, 16, and 17 illustrate use of the apparatus of the present invention for implanting a tissue closure device about the base of a left atrial appendage in accordance with the principles of the present invention.

(16) FIG. 18 is an isometric view of one embodiment of a tissue closure device constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention.

(17) FIG. 19 is an elevation view of the tissue closure device of FIG. 18.

(18) FIG. 20 is cross-sectional view of the tissue closure device along line A-A of FIG. 19.

(19) FIG. 21 is an isometric rear view of the male fastener.

(20) FIG. 22 is an isometric front view of the male fastener.

(21) FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view of the male fastener.

(22) FIG. 24 is an isometric rear view of the female fastener.

(23) FIG. 25 is an isometric front view of the female fastener.

(24) FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view of the female fastener.

(25) FIG. 27 is an isometric view of the alignment comb constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention.

(26) FIG. 28 is a detailed view of the comb stud.

(27) FIG. 29 is an isometric view showing the alignment comb engaged with the male fasteners of a closure device.

(28) FIG. 30 is an isometric view showing the alignment comb disengaged from the male fasteners of a closure device.

(29) FIG. 31A is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the tissue closure device constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention.

(30) FIG. 31B is a top plan view of the tissue closure device of FIG. 31A.

(31) FIG. 31C is a top plan view of another embodiment of the tissue closure device constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention.

(32) FIG. 31D is a top plan view of another embodiment of the tissue closure device constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention.

(33) FIG. 32 is an elevation view of another embodiment of a closure device applicator constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention.

(34) FIG. 33A is an elevation view showing the jaws of the applicator open to receive the closure device.

(35) FIG. 33B is an elevation view showing the jaws of the applicator closed to install the closure device.

(36) FIG. 33C is an elevation view showing the inner jaws moving apart independently of the outer jaws to disengage the comb studs from the installed closure device.

(37) FIG. 34A is an elevation view showing the handle of the applicator in an open state.

(38) FIG. 34B is an elevation view showing the handle of the applicator in an intermediate state.

(39) FIG. 34C is an elevation view showing the handle of the applicator in a final state, in which the jaws are first closed to install the closure device, and then the inner jaws are moved independently to disengage the comb studs from the closure device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

(40) The present invention provides alternative and improved apparatus, systems, and methods for closing a tissue structure of a patient, for example, a left atrial appendage in a patient at risk of stroke or other adverse events resulting from emboli released into circulation from the left atrial appendage. Patients benefiting from the procedures of the present invention will often be those suffering from atrial fibrillation which can cause clot and thrombus formation in the left atrial appendage, thus increasing the chance of emboli release.

(41) The present invention provides a tissue closure device which is an implant introduced over the base of the tissue structure and left in place to close the tissue structure at the base. The portion of the tissue structure which is over the base may then be excised or otherwise removed, although this may be left be left to the physician's preference. The tissue closure device comprises a compression body having at least two opposed, compliant tissue-engaging surfaces which will be placed over opposite sides of the tissue structure. The tissue-engaging surfaces will be held together by a plurality of axially spaced-apart tissue-penetrating fasteners which extend from one of the surfaces, through the intermediate tissue, and into the other surface to both hold the compression body in place and to apply a desired level of compression force, which is determined by both the softness of the compression body and the distance between the surfaces when they are fully attached. A well may be provided in the compression body around the tissue-penetrating barb of the fastener such that a gasket seal is formed by the compression body around the puncture site in the tissue. A stabilizing lip may be provided in one leg of the compression body to prevent a rolling motion of one leg with respect to another leg of the compression body.

(42) The compression force applied by the closure device can be varied, for example, by controlling the distance between the surfaces and/or by providing one or more barbs, detents, or other spaced-apart attachment points which permit the tissue-engaging surfaces to be “ratcheted” together. In this way, the tissue-engaging surfaces can be closed with a predetermined closure force, as described below, with the resulting spacing between the tissue-engaging surfaces varying to accommodate tissue structures having different widths. That is, tissue-engaging surfaces of the closure device will be closed with the predetermined force until such point that the tissue is deformed with a counter force that holds the tissue-engaging surfaces apart. The fasteners will then lock in at the attachment point which most closely approximates this spacing between the tissue-engaging surfaces. Typically, there may be from 1 to 20 attachment points along the length of the fastener, typically from 2 to 8 attachment points, although in special cases, more than 20 attachment points will be affixed. Other, non-linear arrangements of fasteners can also be used. A particular advantage of the fastener structure is that the fasteners will preferably never extend beyond the exterior perimeter of the compression body after deployment. While the penetrating fasteners will be able to penetrate tissue, they will not be able to penetrate outside of the compression body to place adjacent tissue structures at risk.

(43) A particular advantage of the compression body of the present invention is that it provides an “interrupted” attachment of the conformable surfaces on either side of the appendage or other tissue structure, which is similar to closure with “interrupted suture.” Prior closure devices, such as loops, lassoes, staples, and the like, can provide a very tight and hemostatic seal, but the seal is often too tight and traumatic and will cause tissue necrosis at the closure region at the base of the structure. The use of the tissue fasteners which are spaced-apart and bridged only by a soft compliant tissue-engaging surface will provide an adequate hemostatic seal while at the same time significantly reducing the risk of tissue necrosis within the sealed region, applying the same closure effectively as “interrupted suture.” The soft compliant tissue engaging surface functions to tack down the layers of tissue between the seal, as well as to provide the spacing required between male and female fasteners. The combination of the soft compliant tissue engaging surface and the properly spaced apart fasteners result in little or no necrosis and erosion in the compressed tissue and its surrounding tissue areas, even in the dynamic environment of a beating heart.

(44) In some embodiments, however, tissue necrosis may actually be desirable distal to the closure device, and it is possible to control tissue necrosis by varying the durometer of the compliant material used in the body of the device or by baffling the body material itself to allow hollow or open areas to add to its softness. Also, the amount of tissue necrosis may be controlled by increasing or decreasing the spacing between the fasteners on each side of the device, and by increasing or decreasing the installed distance between the male and female fasteners.

(45) The compliant surfaces of the compression body will typically have a durometer in the range from 3 shore A to 15 shore A, more preferably from 3 shore A to 5 shore A. Suitable materials for the compliant tissue engaging surface portions of the compression body include silicone, polyurethane, and other soft, biologically compatible polymers. The use of such soft materials provides a three-dimensional compliance so that the tissue-engaging surfaces will conform to the three-dimensional topography of the tissue after it has been compressed as described above, and averts the potential to cause significant damage to the patient's tissue due to compliance mismatch. It is preferred that the compliance of the compression body, or at least the tissue engaging surfaces of the compression body, matches the compliance of the tissue to which the closure device is applied. Moreover, the installed closure device will preferably behave dynamically in the same manner as the patient's tissue surrounding the device. For example, the density and flexibility of the compression body material, the amount of material used for the compression body as compared to the number of rigid fasteners, the geometric configuration of the fasteners within the compression body, the installed distance between male and female fasteners (affecting the amount of compression placed on the intervening tissue), and the existence of any framework material interconnecting the fasteners in the compression body may all contribute to the dynamic performance of the device.

(46) In the exemplary embodiments described hereinafter, the compression bodies may be composed entirely of the soft polymeric body material and the fastener components which are described below may be composed entirely of rigid materials. It will be appreciated, however, that the compression body could also have rigid frame, scaffold, or other components forming a portion of the body which is left in place as the implant. It is necessary only that the tissue-engaging surface of the compression body be formed from a compliant material which allows local conformance of the compression body to the tissue surface being engaged.

(47) In some instances, it may be desirable to form all or a portion of the compression body from a biodegradable material. Certain biodegradable polymers, such as polylactic acids (PLA's), polyethyl glycol (PEG's), and polyglycolic acids (PGLA's) can be formulated to have both suitable durometers and to also to degrade in the thoracic or other body environment into which they are being implanted. Usually, it will be desirable to have the implant remain in a structurally competent form for a period of at least several weeks before significant degradation would occur. After that time, healing of the punctured tissue (e.g., the left atrial wall) will occur and the presence of the implant may no longer be necessary. When employing such a biodegradable compression body, it will also be desirable to have the tissue-penetrating fasteners formed from a biodegradable material, such as a suitable biodegradable polymer or possibly a biodegradable metal, such as an iron or steel fastener which will oxidize over a pre-selected time period.

(48) The compliant and flexible compression body will usually comprise a pair of parallel, opposed legs having the tissue-engaging surface (usually planar) on a side of each leg. Parallel opposed legs may be joined at both ends, to form a continuous ring structure, at only one end, or at neither end, where they would be joined only after deployment of the tissue-penetrating fasteners after the member has been placed around the appendage or other tissue structure. In other instances, however, the opposed tissue-engaging surfaces could have non-parallel and/or non-planar surfaces. For example, the tissue-engaging surfaces could be curved, usually being concave so that there is an open space surrounded by the surfaces when the legs are brought together. Alternatively, the surfaces could be curved and convex so that the legs of the closure device will apply a greater force in the center than at the ends. In one alternative embodiment, the surface could employ an “ice cream scoop” 3D configuration in which the tissue engaging surfaces grab a spherical volume of tissue. Still further alternatively, the surfaces could be irregular or have any one of a variety of other particular geometries.

(49) In another aspect of the present invention, the compression body further comprises a vacuum plenum, preferably within each leg of the compression body. The vacuum plenum will typically open up into a plurality of ports which will be engaged against tissue prior to deployment of the tissue-penetrating fasteners. The applied vacuum will help hold the closure in place and conform tissue in a desired manner relative to the compliant tissue body prior to final attachment of the compression body. Usually, the vacuum ports will be formed along a lower set face of the parallel legs, where the lower face is oriented at an angle relative to the vacuum ports. Typically, the lower face may be oriented perpendicularly relative to the direction of actuation of the tissue-penetrating fasteners. In other instances, however, the vacuum ports could be aligned in parallel with the direction of actuation of the fasteners, or could be aligned at virtually any other relative angle. In this way, the lower face of the compression body may be engaged against the base of the left atrial appendage or other tissue structure and held in place by the vacuum. Once the proper positioning of the compression body is confirmed, the vacuum will continue to hold the compression body in place while the tissue fasteners are deployed through tissue and permanently affix the legs of the compression body together.

(50) The tissue-penetrating fasteners typically comprise male and female connectors aligned along the opposed tissue-engaging surfaces. Alternatively, the fasteners may comprise barbed needles which are aligned upon at least one of the tissue-engaging surfaces. The tissue-penetrating fasteners will, after deployment, preferably be spaced-apart by a distance of at least about 1 mm, preferably at least about 1.3 mm, and more preferably in the range from about 1.3 mm to 5 mm, and most preferably in the range from about 1.3 mm to 2.6 mm. Usually, there will be only one line of tissue-penetrating fasteners deployed from the compression body. In other instances two or more parallel lines of fasteners might be employed. The line of fasteners can include 1 to 20 fasteners, more usually 2 to 8 fasteners. Also, the fasteners could be aligned along either or both faces of the tissue-engaging surfaces in a zig-zag or other non-linear manner, appreciating however that they must extend over an axial length on each face, typically being at least about 2 mm, preferably at least about 5 mm, more preferably at least about 10 mm, and most preferably in the range from about 10 mm to 40 mm. Materials for the tissue penetrating fasteners include but are not limited to a titanium grade 5 or a stainless steel 316 LVM fastener or nitinol or ULTEM (which may be injection molded).

(51) In another aspect of the present invention, systems for closing a tissue structure include a closure device in combination with a closure device applicator. The closure device applicator detachably secures and opens the closure device in order to place the closure device over or around the tissue structure. The closure device also includes a plurality of fasteners as generally described above. The closure device applicator may be inserted into a port or lumen of the fasteners or may be used with an alignment comb that engages the fasteners of the closure device. The closure device applicator may include a vacuum path which connects to the vacuum plenum within the closure device or applying a vacuum the closure device and the tissue structure when the device is over the tissue structure.

(52) The closure device applicator generally includes an jaw mechanism which includes two probes or jaws. Each probe is adapted to detachably engage one leg of the compliant compression body, using either an alignment comb received by the probe or by inserting the probe into a port or lumen which opens into the vacuum plenum of the compression body. Thus, probes of the jaw mechanism can serve to physically support and hold open the closure device during deployment and to close the closure device and securely install the device into the tissue. The probes may also provide a vacuum to the compression body when it is desired to adhere the compression body to tissue prior to deployment of the fasteners.

(53) The fasteners of the closure device will typically “float” within the compression body, with the probes or jaws of the closure device applicator providing the force necessary to push the fasteners together. In some instances, however, the fasteners may be linked by frames, wires, tethers, chains, or other interconnections in order to help control or limit movement of the fasteners before, during, or after deployment by the applicator. For example, the links could control spacing between adjacent fasteners or control the horizontal and/or vertical alignment of the fasteners. In one method of manufacturing the closure device, the fasteners may be injection molded from a harder thermoplastic such as ULTEM to a set spacing and length, for example, 6 fasteners that are 0.26 mm apart. Subsequently, the soft compression body could be injection molded over two sets of the 6 injection molded ULTEM fasteners to form a C shaped closure device connected at one end and free at the opposite end.

(54) In another aspect of the present invention, a method for closing a left atrial appendage or other tissue structure comprises positioning a compression body over the tissue structure with at least two compliant tissue-engaging surfaces engaging opposite sides of the structure. Preferably, the surfaces will be closed over the appendage or other tissue structure with a pressure sufficient to provide hemostasis and sealing but without causing tissue necrosis, typically being in the range from 0.25 psi to 20 psi, preferably in the range between 0.25 psi and 1.5 psi. The compression body may be initially held in place by applying a vacuum through the compression body to adhere the tissue-engaging surfaces to the tissue structure, preferably to tissue surrounding the base of the tissue structure. After proper positioning of the compression body is confirmed, the fasteners are deployed from at least one of the tissue-engaging surfaces, through the tissue, and into the other of the surfaces to close the tissue structure.

(55) Positioning the compression body typically comprises advancing the compression member via an open procedure or intercostally, i.e., between ribs, preferably between the ribs 3 and 4. Usually, the compression member will be held on the applicator described above, with the applicator first spreading the tissue-engaging surfaces so that the compression body may be placed over or around the tissue structure and positioned at the base of the tissue structure. After the positioning is completed, the legs of the compression body will be closed over the tissue (at a spacing to accommodate the thickness of the tissue therebetween). Optionally, the vacuum may be applied while the compression body is manipulated in order to assure proper positioning of the compression body and spreading of the tissue between the opposed tissue-engaging surfaces so that the pressure applied to the tissue is generally uniform along the length to be fastened.

(56) The compression bodies will typically be positioned and/or attached using fasteners while the physician views a tissue structure through an optical scope during at least a portion of the procedure. Alternatively, the physician could directly view the tissue structure through a percutaneous opening, typically the same percutaneous opening that can be used to introduce the device applicator. The tissue closure device is delivered via a clamping tool or device application that has a set of probes or jaws that come together in either a scissor action or in parallel motion. The jaws are activated by an external force applied by the operator, which can be as a squeezing action, trigger action, push-pull action, or the like, on a handle of the device applicator. The jaws may also incorporate mechanical advantages such as a cam or arc that effectuates a linear “all at once” force that snaps all of the fasteners together simultaneously or in sequence.

(57) Optionally, the vacuum applicators and plenums may be used to deliver substances to the tissue structure through the compression body. For example, after the fasteners have been delivered, the vacuum can be turned off and a therapeutic or other agent delivered through the lumens and plenums so that it is released from the compression body in the region of the base of the tissue structure. Exemplary substances which could be delivered include antibiotics, antiseptics, anti-inflammatories, anti-bacterial, and the like.

(58) After all steps of the present invention have been generally completed, as described above, it is left to the medical professional whether to excise the left atrial appendage or other tissue structure at a location above the compression body. Additional uses for the present invention include efficient intravascular or extra-vascular clipping of an aneurysm sac or extra flesh during a tummy tuck, a stomach stapling procedure, a lung reduction procedure, or a bowel resection procedure. A pronged formation or star shaped deployment of the compression bodies may be used to encourage efficient bunching of tissue. Another approach utilizes a single-fastener closure device, which consists of one fastener surrounded by a soft compression material in a pillow-like structure. The single-tissue compression body may be utilized in procedures where a single point closure device is needed, such as in a femoral closure procedure or in a fallopian tube or a bile duct closure procedure. This single-fastener closure device effectively clamps off flow or shuts the tubular structure with out causing traumatic necrosis. A detailed description of the embodiments of the present invention with respect to the figures is set forth below.

(59) Referring now to FIG. 1, a tissue closure system 10 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention includes a tissue closure device 12 (shown in broken line) and a tissue closure applicator 14. The tissue closure device 12 is removably held on a pair of probes 16 located at the distal end shaft of 18 which is connected to a handle 20 at its proximal end. As will be described in more detail with references to FIG. 9-13, the probes 16 will be spreadable, i.e., either in a parallel fashion or in a pivotal fashion, and will be able to apply a vacuum, or alternatively an infusion source, through the tissue closure device 12. To that end, a port 22 is provided on the handle 20 for connection to the vacuum or infusion source. Additionally, the handle 20 comprises a trigger 24 which may be manually actuated in order to spread the probes 16 to facilitate delivery over the target tissue structure, as will be described in more detail below.

(60) Referring now to FIGS. 2-4, which illustrates an embodiment of the tissue closure device in accordance with the present invention. In particular, tissue closure device 12 comprises a compression body 30, typically formed from silicone or other soft polymer. The compression body 30 comprises a pair of legs 32 and 34 having opposed tissue-engaging surfaces 36 and 38, respectively. Plenums 40 and 42 each terminate at an opening or port 44 and 46, respectively, which port receives one of the probes on the tissue closure applicator used in connection with the present embodiment. A plurality of fasteners will be provided in each of the legs 32 and 34, where the fasteners are adapted so that they will engage and couple each other when the closure device 12 is squeezed over tissue by the tissue closure applicator. As best seen in FIG. 4, a series of spaced-apart male fasteners 50 are aligned in leg 32 so that sharpened tips 52 may be advanced laterally into the opening between surfaces 36 and 38. Similarly, a series of axially spaced-apart female fasteners 54 are arranged in leg 34 to receive the male portions of fasteners 50 when the applicator probes are squeezed together. As best shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, the sharpened tip 52 has an annual groove 56 which is received and locked over a shoulder 58 formed in the female fastener 54. In this way, spacing between the opposed tissue-engaging surfaces 36 and 38 can be carefully controlled at a distance selected to provide proper compression while reducing the risk of tissue necrosis.

(61) As shown in FIG. 5C, the female fasteners 54 may have a plurality of shoulders 58 formed along their lengths in order to accommodate the groove 56 of the male fastener 50 at a variety of depths. Thus, the fasteners 50 and 54 can accommodate tissue having different thicknesses with essentially the same compression force.

(62) As additionally seen in FIGS. 2-4, the tissue compression devices will have a plurality of vacuum ports 60 formed over the lower surface 62 thereof. These vacuum ports 60 communicate with the plenums 40 and 42 so that vacuum applied in the plenums will draw against tissue beneath the tissue closure device 12. In this way, the tissue closure device 12 can be initially adhered to tissue prior to actuation of the fasteners in the device. The physician can manually reposition the closure device using the tissue closure applicator, turning on and off the vacuum as necessary, until the tissue is contacted as close to the base of the left atrial appendage or other tissue structure as possible. Additionally, the tissue can be adjusted so that folds and surface discontinuities are minimized so that when the tissue closure 12 is closed and the fasteners deployed, the tissue between the tissue-engaging surfaces will be relatively smooth and the pressure applied will be relatively constant over the tissue surfaces. In this way, the risk of tissue necrosis is further diminished.

(63) Referring now to FIGS. 6-8, different embodiments of the tissue closure device of the present invention will be described. In FIG. 6, a tissue closure device 2012 comprises first and second legs 2032 and 2034 having ports 2046 which are constructed generally as described above with respect to tissue closure device 12. In contrast to tissue closure device 12, however, the device 2012 will not be formed as a continuous ring, but instead will be two legs 2032 and 2034 which are joined at their base but which are unattached at their distal end 2036. Tissue closure device 2112, illustrated in FIG. 7, also includes first and second legs 2132 and 2134, respectively, which are generally the same as legs 32 and 34 in tissue closure device 12. In contrast to the two previous embodiments, however, tissue closure device 2112 is joined at its distal end 2136 but is not joined at its proximal end 2140. Finally, a fourth embodiment is shown in tissue closure device 2212 in FIG. 8. Tissue closure device 2212 includes a first leg 2232 and a second leg 2234, where the legs are not joined so that the tissue-engaging surfaces 2236 and 2238 are completely free of each other and only joined by the tissue fasteners after deployment through tissue.

(64) Referring now to FIGS. 9-11, a mechanism for laterally actuating parallel probes 16 at the end of shaft 18 of the tissue closure applicator 14 will be described. The proximal end 70 of each probe 16 is formed with an L-shaped structure having gear teeth 72 along each base 70. A rotary gear 74, which is disposed in shaft 18, is disposed between the teeth 72 to form a rack-and-pinion structure, as best seen in FIG. 11. Thus, rotation of the shaft 74 in a first direction causes the probe 16 to move apart in a parallel fashion, while rotation in the opposite direction causes the probe 16 to move together in a parallel fashion. Rotation of the gear 74 can be effected by the trigger 24 on handle 20 in a conventional manner. As also seen in FIG. 10, vacuum passages 80 in each probe 16 are connected through open ends 19 to ports 82 in order to supply a vacuum or provide infusion to the plenums 40 and 42 in the tissue closure device 12. Connecting tubes 17 from the shaft 18 provide the necessary connectors to a lumen in the shaft. Usually, the ports 82 will be aligned with the ports 60 to provide for direction application of the vacuum or infusion.

(65) Referring now to FIGS. 12 and 13, an alternate probe actuation mechanism will be described. Probes 116 will be constructed generally the same as probe 16, as illustrated in FIG. 10, but will be attached at their proximal ends by a pivot assembly 90. The pivot assembly 90 includes a reciprocating rod 92 which is attached by a pivot pin 94 (FIG. 13) to the proximal ends of a pair of wing members 96. The distal ends of the wing members 96, in turn, are pivotally attached to lateral extensions 98 of the probes 116. The probes 116 are pivotally attached at a pivot pin 100 which is disposed on a distal end of the apparatus shaft 118. Thus, by axially reciprocating the rod 92 in a proximal direction, as shown by arrow 102 in FIG. 13, the distal ends of the wing members 96 will be closed inwardly, thus closing the probes 116, as shown in broken line in FIG. 13.

(66) Referring now to FIGS. 14-16, use of the tissue closure system of the present invention is illustrated with respect to a procedure for implanting a tissue closure device about the base of a left atrial appendage LAA. The tissue closure device 2212 illustrated in FIG. 8 mounted on the tissue applicator 14 is illustrated, but it will be appreciated that any of the other tissue closure devices illustrated herein may be used with its respective applicator. For example, closure device 12 may be used with applicator 14. The procedure may be performed thoracoscopically using a thoracoscope (not illustrated) which is introduced in the region above the left atrial appendage LAA after the left lung has been deflated. Alternatively, the procedure can be performed under direct vision through the same incision through which the shaft 18 is introduced or through a separate incision formed over the region of the left atrial appendage. In at least most if all cases, the patient's heart will remain beating during the procedure.

(67) The shaft 18 of the tissue closure applicator 14 is introduced intercostally, typically between the third and fourth ribs and advanced toward the patient's heart. The probes 16 are then spread apart, spreading the legs 2232 and 2234 of the closure device 2212 apart as shown in FIG. 14. After the legs are located on opposite sides of the left atrial appendage LAA, the legs will be pressed downwardly on to the cardiac tissue surrounding the base of the appendage. The vacuum may then be optionally applied through the legs 2232 and 2234, adhering the legs to the cardiac surface. The shaft 18 may still be manipulated in order to assure that the legs 2232 and 2234 are in a proper position. After the proper position is visually confirmed, the probes 16 will be mechanically closed, as illustrated in FIG. 15. The closure of the legs over the base of the left atrial appendage LAA will again be visually assessed. If it appears to be properly closed, with the legs firmly pressed upon the cardiac tissue at the base and the tissue of the base being compressed without excessive folding or other discontinuities, the trigger 14 may be pulled in order to deliver the fasteners 50 into the female receptacles 54, as illustrated in FIG. 5B. At that time, the tissue closure applicator may be withdrawn, pulling the probes from the tissue closure device 2212. The tissue closure device 2212 is then left in place at the base of the left atrial appendage LAA, as best shown in FIG. 16. Usually, the portion of the left atrial appendage above the closure device 2212 will then be excised.

(68) As illustrated in FIG. 17, the tissue closure device 2212 can be introduced from other directions, such as from under the clavicle to approach the left atrial appendage LAA from the top. The apparatus and procedures of the present invention could also be used in open surgical procedures, although many of the benefits associated with least invasive approaches would be lost. The most important elements of the method for closing the LAA using the present system are 1) correct placement of the device at the ostia to ensure a smooth inner closure site inside the left atrium, 2) staying off the wall of the left atrium to avoid occluding the circumflex artery, 3) creating total occlusion of the closure site, 4) eliminating suture line bleeding, and 5) choosing the correct closure device softness and compliance to eliminate erosion of the surrounding tissue.

(69) FIGS. 18-20 illustrate another embodiment of the tissue closure device in accordance with the present invention. Tissue closure device 1800 includes a compression body 1810 formed from silicone or another soft polymer. Compression body 1810 includes opposing legs 1820 and 1830 having opposed tissue engaging surfaces 1822 and 1832. A plurality of fasteners are provided in each of the legs 1820 and 1830. As best seen in FIG. 19, a plurality of spaced-apart male fasteners 1824 are disposed within leg 1820 and corresponding female fasteners 1834 are disposed within leg 1830. As best seen in FIG. 20, leg 1820 includes a stabilizing lip 1826 extending along its entire length that helps to ensure equal pressure at the puncture site and prevent rolling displacement of leg 1820 out of its shared plane with leg 1830.

(70) Referring to FIG. 20, male fastener 1824 includes needle barb 1825 having a sharp tip 1828 configured to pierce through tissue disposed between surfaces 1822 and 1832. Barb 1825 may include an annual groove 1825a that may be used to snap the barb into place inside the female fastener 1834. Around each barb 1825, the compression body of leg 1820 includes a well 1829 surrounding the barb in which the silicon material is removed. The diameter of well 1829 may be slightly larger than the diameter of barb 1825 such that the compression body around the well does not contact barb 1825 in an initial state. Well 1829 enables the barb 1825 to more freely translate in the vertical direction and contributes to the compliance of the surrounding compression body, which is less bound by friction to barb 1825 and more free to deform and move relative to the barb. Male fastener 1824 also includes a recess 1827 at its rear configured to create a snap fit connection with studs of the actuating comb, details of which will be discussed below. Wells 1827a are provided at the top of leg 1820 corresponding to each recess 1827 so as to allow the studs of the actuating comb to be inserted into recess 1827.

(71) Female fastener 1834 includes a cone shaped needle barb acceptor 1836, a neck 1838, and a recess 1837. Acceptor 1836 is shaped so as to guide the tip 1828 of needle barb 1825 into the female fastener. Wells 1836a are provided in the surface 1832 of the compression body corresponding to the location of each acceptor 1836 to enable passage of barb 1825 into the female fastener. Well 1836a may be of the same diameter as well 1829. Well 1836a enables the barb 1825 to pass directly into the female fastener 1834 and improves the compliance of the compression body surrounding the barb after it has been installed. Wells 1836a and 1829 also operate in concert to create a gasket seal around the puncture site of the tissue. Once the fasteners are installed, the puncture site where barb 1825 has punctured the tissue is surrounded by well 1829 on one side and by well 1836a on the opposing side. The gasket seal captures the blood that may be released from the puncture site and prevents the blood from escaping the device. Moreover, the overall amount of bleeding may also be decreased by the pressure placed on the puncture site by the gasket seal.

(72) Neck 1838 of the female fastener may have a diameter that is conducive for creating a snap fit when barb 1825 is inserted into female fastener 1834. For example, sharp tip 1828 of barb 1825 may pass through neck 1838 until a rear shoulder of the tip passes into recess 1837 and retains the barb 1825 in place. Recess 1837 of the female fastener accommodates the actuating comb of the present invention, which will be discussed in more detail below. Access through the compression body to recess 1837 is provided through well 1837a in the compression body that corresponds to each female fastener 1834.

(73) FIG. 21 provides a rear perspective view of male fastener 1824 detailing recess 1827 at its rear and barb 1825 protruding toward the front. Barb 1827 includes sharp tip 1828 and annualized groove 1825a. FIG. 22 provides a front perspective view of fastener 1824 detailing the manner in which barb 1825 protrudes from male fastener 1824. FIG. 23 provides a cross-sectional view of male fastener 1824 showing that barb 1825 may be a separate element embedded into the rear portion of fastener 1824. FIG. 24 provides a front perspective view of female fastener 1834 detailing recess 1837. FIG. 25 provides a rear perspective view detailing barb acceptor 1836 and neck portion 1838. FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view of female fastener 1834 showing its interior construction.

(74) As mentioned previously, an alignment comb may be used with the closure device in an embodiment of the present invention. In particular, the closure device may be loaded onto a pair of opposing alignment combs to facilitate alignment between the male and female fasteners during installation. Referring to FIG. 27, each alignment comb 2700 includes a number of comb studs 2720 disposed on a body 2710. The number of studs 2720 in each comb corresponds to the number of fasteners pairs used in the tissue closure device to be installed. Body 2710 includes a dowel hole 2712 that may be used to secure the comb 2700 into an applicator of the present invention (detailed below). Stud 2720 is configured to be inserted into recesses 1827 and 1837 of the fasteners.

(75) As shown in the detailed view of FIG. 28, each stud 2720 is shaped as an oval in cross section so as to enable uniform orientation of the fasteners when the stud 2720 is inserted into the similarly oval shaped recess 1827/1837. Each stud 2720 is further configured with a taper, such that the cross section of the stud is smaller at the tip than at the base, to facilitate a “snap-fit” connection with the recesses 1827/1837. That is, the taper enables studs 2720 to be easily inserted into recesses 1827/1837 to create a friction fit, and also enable the studs to be more easily disengaged from the recesses once installation of the device is complete. Stud 2720 further includes a hollow interior channel 2722 configured to allow barb 1825 to pass into recess 1837 of the female connector 1834 when the stud 2720 is engaged with the female connector.

(76) FIGS. 29 and 30 illustrate how the “snap-fit” connection is used to install the tissue closure device. FIG. 29 shows a number of spaced apart male fasteners 1824 of a leg 1820 loaded onto an alignment comb 2700 (the compression body of leg 1820 has been omitted for sake of clarity). The friction fit between studs 2720 and recesses 1827 is sufficient to securely hold fasteners 1824 on the comb during the installation procedure. Studs 2720 are used to apply the installation force 2910 to fasteners 1824 so as to press the male fasteners securely into place within the female fasteners. After the installation is complete, FIG. 30 illustrates how the fasteners 1824 are ejected from the comb 2700 using a release force 3010 that does not endanger the secure engagement between installed male and female fasteners.

(77) The foregoing generally relates to a linear embodiment of the tissue closure device in which the opposing pairs of fasteners 1824/1834 are generally disposed along a single line. Other, non-linear embodiments of the tissue closure device are contemplated by the present application and can be used to create flexible solutions to tissue closure problems. As shown in FIGS. 31A and 31B, a closure device 3100 includes a single pair of opposing fasteners 1824/1834 disposed at the geometric center of a compression body 3110. Compression body 3110 has a top portion 3120 and a bottom portion 3130 with opposing surfaces 3122 and 3132. Top and bottom portions 3120 and 3130 may be interconnected or may be independent bodies. Wells 3129 and 3136a are disposed on the top and bottom portions, respectively, to provide for a gasket seal around the puncture site. FIGS. 31C and 31D illustrate other alternative geometries for a tissue closure device. A single device with the correct geometry may be selected or manufactured to provide a customized tissue closure solution, or a combination of devices may be used to accomplish the same.

(78) FIG. 32 illustrates an applicator that may be used to install the tissue closure device in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. As illustrated in the FIG. 32, applicator 3200 is be loaded with closure device 1800 (using alignment combs 2700). The applicator 3200 includes a handle 3250 that is movable relative to base 3252 to actuate jaws 3210. The applicator also includes an orientation hub 3254 and an outer shaft 3260. FIG. 33A shows the applicator jaws 3210 in an open state. In particular, jaws 3210 include a set of inner jaws 3210a that are coupled to cam 3230 and capable of pivoting about the cam 3230 to close in a scissor-like manner. Cam 3230 is disposed within housing 3290 and is coupled to an inner shaft 3262 disposed coaxially within outer shaft 3260. Jaws 3210 further include a set of outer jaws 3210b that pivot at points 3282 on a base portion 3280, which is movable relative to a housing 3290 and may be coupled to the outer shaft (not shown). Outer jaws 3210b fit over inner jaws 3210a and have substantially the same position in the initial, open state of the jaws. Outer jaws 3210b may include cut-away tracks 3214 for receiving a dowel pin 3212 used to secure the alignment comb 2700 within the inner jaw 3210a. As shown in FIG. 33A, an alignment comb 2700 is fitted into each of the inner jaws 3210a.

(79) From the open position shown in FIG. 33A, the user actuates the handle 3250 to cause inner shaft 3262 to retract into housing 3290 (in the downward direction as shown in FIGS. 33A-C). This retraction causes inner jaws 3210a to withdraw into housing 3290 and to abut against the sides of housing 3290, which causes the inner jaws 3210a to close. The movement of the inner jaws 3210a causes a corresponding retraction and closing of outer jaws 3210b, as the motion is transferred through dowel pin 3212 and track 3214. As shown in FIG. 33B, jaws 3210 are retracted into housing 3290 from the open position of FIG. 33A, and base portion 3280 has moved downward relative to housing 3290. Jaws 3210, in the closed state, cause the opposing comb studs 2720 to be disposed a set distance apart, such that male fasteners 1824 and female fasteners 1834 of the closure device 1800 loaded on the combs 2700 are securely engaged together. That is, by moving the jaws 3210 from the open state to the closed state, barb 1825 of the male fastener 1824 is caused to move toward opposing female fastener 1834, pierce the intervening tissue at the puncture site, and become securely engaged with female fastener 1834 (e.g., when sharp tip 1828 passes into recess 1837). Once the opposing male and female fasteners of the closure device have been securely engaged with each other, the successfully installed closure device is left in place when the comb studs 2720 are disengaged from the recesses 1827/1837 of the fasteners.

(80) FIG. 33C illustrates one approach for accomplishing the disengagement motion, in which the inner shaft 3262 is actuated upward to push cam 3230 in the upward direction. Upward movement of cam 3230 causes the inner jaws 3210b to move along track 3214 upward and outward so as to release the comb studs 2720 from the recesses 1827/1837. This movement of inner jaws 3210b is independent of outer jaws 3210a. Movement of combs 2700 in a direction opposite to the direction of installation causes comb studs 2720 to disengage from the recesses 1827/1837 and frees the installed closure device 1800 from the applicator.

(81) In some embodiments, a lasso wire may be deployed from an aperture in the distal end of a first jaw 3210 to be received and secured in a second aperture in the distal end of the other jaw 3210. The lasso wire may be of a hemispherical shape when deployed and serves to constrain the tissue to be secured between jaws 3210. In some instances, as jaws 3210 come together to install the closure device, the intervening tissue may experience a tendency to slip toward the distal end of the jaws and out of the area between the jaws 3210. The lasso wire prevents such movement by the tissue. In some embodiments, jaws 3210 may be disposed in a plane offset from the plane of shaft 3260 by a predetermined rotation. The plane of jaws 3210 may be offset from the plane of shaft 3260 by 10 to 45 degrees, and preferably by 10 to 25 degrees.

(82) FIGS. 34A-C illustrate how the handle portion of the applicator 3200 actuates the jaws 3210. FIG. 34A shows an initial position of the handle portion in which jaws 3210 are open (as shown in FIG. 33A). Outer shaft 3260 is keyed to hub 3254 so as to enable rotation of the jaws about the axis of shaft 3260 when hub 3254 is rotated. Shaft 3260 is, however, slideable relative to hub 3254 along the axis of the shaft. Inner shaft 3262 is disposed coaxially within outer shaft 3260 and is coupled to trunnion 3270, which may be spring-biased to its current position. Handle 3250 is coupled to trunnion 3270 via link 3255. Handle 3250 may also include a spring biased arm 3280 that is biased downward to contact the upper surface of trunnion 3270. When handle 3250 is pulled back and actuated, trunnion 3270 and inner shaft 3262 are caused to retract (to the right in FIG. 34B), and by transferred movement of the inner jaws 3210a to the outer jaws 3210b, outer shaft 3260 (coupled to the outer jaws 3210b) are also caused to retract by a corresponding displacement. As shown in FIG. 34B, spring-biased arm 3280 enters a series of ratchet teeth 3272 disposed on the top surface of trunnion 3270, which prevents the trunnion from returning to its spring-biased position of FIG. 34A. Prior to engaging teeth 3272, displacement of the trunnion 3270 caused by the actuation of handle 3250 are undone when handle 3250 is released. As shown in FIG. 34C, handle 3250 is then pulled to its final position to install the closure device by moving arms 3210 together (as shown in FIG. 33B). In this position, inner shaft 3262 and outer shaft 3260 are at their rearmost position. Locking plate 3264 is used as a one way clutch to secure outer shaft 3260 at its rearmost position. As shown in FIG. 34C, arm 3280 has now exited the ratchet teeth 3272, which enables spring-biased trunnion 3270 to move forward along with coupled inner shaft 3262. This forward movement of the inner shaft 3262 independent of outer shaft 3260 actuates the movement of inner jaws 3210a independent of outer jaws 3210b, as shown in FIG. 33C.

(83) While the above is a description of the preferred embodiments of the invention, various alternatives, modifications, and equivalents may be used. Therefore, the above description should not be taken as limiting the scope of the invention which is defined by the appended claims.