ANCHOR DELIVERY SYSTEM

Abstract

A system and associated method for manipulating tissues and anatomical or other structures in medical applications for the purpose of treating diseases or disorders or other purposes. In one aspect, the system includes a delivery device configured to deploy and implant anchor devices for such purposes.

Claims

1. A system for treatment of body tissue, comprising: an anchor assembly, the anchor assembly including a first component attached to a connector and a second component; a delivery device, the delivery device including a handle, an elongate portion extending from the handle, the elongate portion including a leading end, a needle tube, and a scope assembly, a needle assembly extending through the needle tube and configured to be ejected from the leading end, and the connector extending through the needle assembly; wherein the elongate portion includes connector manipulating element configured to facilitate presenting the connector to the second component for a robust connection.

2. The system of claim 1, further comprising a cutter assembly, the cutter assembly including a slot having a length of greater than 0.045 inches and includes one or more reflection surfaces.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein the slot is sized and shaped to receive the connector, wherein the connector is placed into engagement with the proximal anchor.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein a bore extending through the needle and the connector diameter are sized so that the connector is supported about its circumference when within the needle bore.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein a portion of the connector includes an over jacket.

6. The system of claim 3, wherein a connector indicating feature is added to the keyhole to identify the position of the connector.

7. The system of claim 1, further comprising a cutter assembly, the cutter assembly including a window.

8. The system of claim 7, wherein reflection surfaces are provided on the window.

9. The system of claim 1, further comprising a cutter assembly, the cutter assembly configured to move and stop prior to engaging a connector.

10. The system of claim 7, wherein the cutter assembly further includes a guide to center a connector.

11. The system of claim 1, further comprising a guide configured to displace the connector perpendicularly with respect to the elongate portion.

12. The system of claim 11, wherein the guide is sliding and spring biased.

13. The system of claim 11, wherein the guide embodies a looped wire.

14. The system of claim 11, wherein the guide embodies an elongate pusher including a recess for the connector.

15. The system of claim 1, further comprising a pusher including a spring configured to engage the second component.

16. The system of claim 1, further comprising a pusher including a recess sized to receive the second component.

17. The system of claim 1, further comprising a backstop against which the second component is advanced when it is being engaged with the connector.

18. The system of claim 1, further comprising a temporary restraint positioned to engage the second component and launch the second component from the delivery device.

19. The system of claim 1, further comprising a cutter including a cutter tail.

20. The system of claim 1, further comprising a cutter assembly configured to be advanced toward a leading end of a spring biased proximal anchor.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0033] FIG. 1 is a left side view, depicting one embodiment of an anchor delivery system;

[0034] FIG. 2 is a perspective view, depicting the anchor delivery system of FIG. 1;

[0035] FIG. 3 is a right side view, depicting the anchor delivery system of FIG. 1;

[0036] FIG. 4 is a side view, depicting the anchor delivery system of FIG. 3 with a portion of the casing removed and including a scope;

[0037] FIG. 5 is a left side view, depicting the anchor delivery device of FIG. 1 with a portion of the casing removed and including a scope;

[0038] FIG. 6 is an exploded view, depicting components of a distal anchor delivery assembly;

[0039] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view, depicting a first step involving an interventional procedure;

[0040] FIG. 8A is a perspective view depicting a distal terminal end of a delivery device;

[0041] FIG. 8B is a schematic representation approximately in coronel plane, illustrating the angling of the anchor delivery tool within anatomy;

[0042] FIG. 8C is an enlarged view, depicting proper placement of treatment structure against tissue anatomy;

[0043] FIG. 9 is a perspective view in partial cross-section, depicting advancement of a needle assembly;

[0044] FIG. 10 is a perspective view in partial cross-section, depicting advancement of a needle assembly;

[0045] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view, depicting advancement of a needle assembly at an interventional site;

[0046] FIGS. 12-15 are cross-sectional views, depicting a distal end of the delivery device;

[0047] FIG. 16 is a perspective view, depicting withdrawal of a needle assembly leaving a connector element;

[0048] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view, depicting delivery of a first component of an anchor assembly at an interventional site;

[0049] FIGS. 18 A-B are perspective and exploded views, depicting various components of a shaft assembly of the delivery device;

[0050] FIGS. 19-22 are perspective views, depicting components of one embodiment of a shaft assembly;

[0051] FIGS. 23A is a cross-sectional view, depicting positional relationships of components of a delivery device;

[0052] FIGS. 23B-E are side views, depicting various alternative arrangements of delivery device components;

[0053] FIG. 24 is an enlarged view, depicting a visual aid for a delivery device;

[0054] FIGS. 25A-B are side views, depicting alternative ends of a delivery device;

[0055] FIGS. 26-27 are perspective views, depicting features of one embodiment of a cutter assembly of the delivery device;

[0056] FIGS. 28A-C are top views, depicting alternative approaches to a cutter assembly;

[0057] FIGS. 29A-C are perspective and top views, depicting further alternatives to cutter assemblies;

[0058] FIGS. 30A-C are top views, depicting structure for suture guides;

[0059] FIGS. 31A-D are enlarged views, depicting further approaches to target indicators;

[0060] FIGS. 32-33 are perspective views, depicting features of a suture guide;

[0061] FIGS. 34-37 are various views, depicting guide structure for a suture;

[0062] FIGS. 38-40 are various views, depicting another approach to a suture guide;

[0063] FIGS. 41-44 are various views, depicting further approaches to suture control;

[0064] FIGS. 45-47 are perspective views, depicting features of a pusher assembly;

[0065] FIGS. 48-49 are side and top views, depicting structure facilitating anchor assembly;

[0066] FIG. 50 is a cross-sectional view, depicting release of a second anchor component within an interventional site;

[0067] FIGS. 51-56 are cross-sectional views, depicting alternatives to approaches to structure for assembling an anchor;

[0068] FIG. 57 is a cross-sectional view, depicting an alternative approach to structure for anchor assembly;

[0069] FIG. 58 is a cross-sectional view, depicting yet another alternative approach to structure for anchor assembly;

[0070] FIG. 59 is a perspective view, depicting an alternative approach to a cutter assembly;

[0071] FIGS. 60-61 are side and top views, depicting alternative approaches to anchor structure;

[0072] FIG. 62 is a cross-sectional view, depicting release of an assembled anchor assembly within an interventional site;

[0073] FIG. 63 is a cross-sectional view looking along the axis of the urethra within an enlarged prostate, depicting an untreated interventional site;

[0074] FIG. 64 is a cross-sectional view looking along the axis of the urethra within an enlarged prostate, depicting implantation of two anchor assemblies at an interventional site;

[0075] FIG. 65 is an enlarged view of a portion of FIG. 64; and

[0076] FIG. 66 is a cross-sectional view, depicting another view of two anchor assemblies implanted at an interventional site.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0077] Turning now to the figures, which are provided by way of example and not limitation, the present disclosure is directed to a device configured to deliver an anchor assembly within a patient's body. As stated, the disclosed apparatus can be employed for various medical purposes including but not limited to retracting, lifting, compressing, approximating, supporting or repositioning tissues, organs, anatomical structures, grafts or other material found within a patient's body. Such tissue manipulation is intended to facilitate the treatment of diseases or disorders. Moreover, the disclosure has applications in cosmetic or reconstruction purposes or in areas relating the development or research of medical treatments. The present disclosure relates to U.S. Pat. No. 8,333,776, the contents of which are incorporated by reference.

[0078] In an aspect of the present disclosure, one portion of an anchor assembly or implant is positioned and implanted against a first section of anatomy. A second portion of the anchor assembly or implant is then positioned and implanted adjacent a second section of anatomy for the purpose of retracting, lifting, compressing, approximating, supporting or repositioning the second section of anatomy with respect to the first section of anatomy as well as for the purpose of retracting, lifting, compressing, approximating, supporting or repositioning the first section of anatomy with respect to the second section of anatomy. In some embodiments, both a first and second portion of the anchor assembly can be configured to accomplish the desired retracting, lifting, compressing, approximating, supporting or repositioning of anatomy due to tension supplied during delivery via a connector assembly affixed to the first and second components of the anchor assembly or implant. In some embodiments, both a first and second portion of the anchor assembly can be configured to maintain the desired retracting, lifting, compressing, approximating, supporting or repositioning of anatomy that has been accomplished using another device, such as the delivery device.

[0079] Referring now to FIGS. 1-3, there is shown one embodiment of a delivery device 100. This device is configured to include structure that is capable of both gaining access to an interventional site as well as assembling and implanting one or more anchor assemblies or implants within a patient's body. In one embodiment, the device 100 is configured to assemble and implant a single anchor assembly or implant, but the device can be configured to implant a plurality of anchor assemblies. The device is further contemplated to be compatible for use with a 19F or 20F sheath. The device additionally includes structure configured to receive a conventional remote viewing device (e.g., an endoscope) so that the steps being performed at the interventional site can be observed.

[0080] Prior to use of the present device 100, a patient typically undergoes a five day regiment of antibiotics. A local anesthesia can be employed for the interventional procedure. A combination of an oral analgesic with a sedative or hypnotic component can be ingested by the patient. Moreover, topical anesthesia such as lidocaine liquids or gel can be applied to the bladder and urethra.

[0081] The anchor delivery device 100 includes a handle assembly 102 connected to an elongate tissue access assembly 104. The elongate tissue access assembly 104 houses components employed to construct an anchor assembly and is sized to fit into a 19F or 20F cystoscopic sheath for patient tolerance during a procedure in which the patient is awake rather than under general anesthesia. The tissue access assembly is stiff to allow manual compression of tissue at an interventional site by leveraging or pushing the handle assembly 102.

[0082] The anchor delivery device 100 further includes a number of subassemblies. A handle case assembly 106 including mating handle parts which form part of the handle assembly 102. The handle assembly 102 is sized and shaped to fit comfortably within an operator's hand and can be formed from conventional materials. Windows can be formed in the handle case assembly 106 to provide access to internal mechanisms of the device so that a manual override is available to the operator in the event the interventional procedure needs to be abandoned.

[0083] In one embodiment, the delivery device 100 is equipped with various activatable members which facilitate assembly and delivery of an anchor assembly at an interventional site. A needle actuator 108 is provided and as described in detail below, effectuates the advancement of a needle assembly (loaded with a first component of an anchor assembly) to an interventional site. In a preferred embodiment, the needle assembly has a needle that moves through a curved trajectory and exits the needle housing in alignment with a handle element, and in particular embodiments, in alignment with the grip. In various other embodiments, the needle housing is oriented such that the needles exits the housing at either the two o'clock or ten o'clock positions relative to a handle grip that is vertical. A needle retraction lever assembly 110 is also provided and when actuated causes the needle assembly to be withdrawn and expose the first anchor component. This action and the structure involved is also described in detail below. Finally, the delivery device 100 is equipped with a rear or proximal anchor actuator assembly 112 which as fully described below, upon actuation, accomplishes assembly of a second component to the anchor assembly and release of the anchor assembly at the interventional site.

[0084] Turning now to FIGS. 4-5 in addition to FIGS. 1-3, a number of the subassemblies of the delivery device 100 are introduced. In the embodiment depicted, the case assembly 106 has three mating parts, a left top case 114, a left bottom case 116, and a right case 118. It is within the scope of the present disclosure that the case assembly be made of a variety of numbers of parts. In addition to mating to enclose subassemblies, the case parts also include structural features for providing rigidity and support for the enclosed components.

[0085] Housed within the case assembly 106 are a distal anchor delivery mechanism 119 including a needle spool assembly 120 and a suture spool assembly 122 (referred to interchangeably herein as connector spool assembly 122). The rotational axes of the needle spool assembly and suture spool assembly are the same. A shaft assembly 124 includes a portion residing within the case assembly 106 and a portion extending from a forward end of the case assembly. Attached to and operatively associated with the shaft assembly 124 is a proximal anchor drive assembly 126. The drive assembly 126 is also housed within the case assembly 106. FIGS. 4 and 5 illustrate the juxtapositional relationships of the various subassemblies.

[0086] With reference to FIG. 6, details concerning an embodiment of the structure of a distal anchor delivery mechanism 119 are presented. As described further below, the needle spool assembly 120 cooperates with the needle actuator 108 and needle retraction lever 110 to advance and then withdraw a needle assembly at an interventional site.

[0087] The needle spool assembly 120 is a generally disc-shaped structure having a number of landings and projections for engaging and receiving various structures of the distal anchor delivery mechanism 119.

[0088] A needle deploy spring 206 functions to rotate the needle spool 120 (referred to interchangeable herein as connector spool 120) and to project a tip of the needle through tissue with force and speed. One end of the deploy spring 206 is attached to the device casing and the opposite end is engaged with a shuttle 215. The shuttle 215, in turn, is operatively and releasably associated with the needle spool assembly 120. In one approach, it is contemplated that the device 100 be configured so that the needle is deployed to a single depth to pierce through a predominant population of urethral-prostatic distances in patients having an enlarged prostate.

[0089] The assembly further includes a needle deploy pawl 222 which is operatively associated with the needle actuator 108. As shown and described below, the needle actuator pivots the needle deploy pawl 222 away from engagement with the needle spool assembly 120, thereby permitting rotation of the same. The rotation of the needle spool assembly 120 is accomplished by forces generated by the deploy spring 206.

[0090] An unsheathing pawl 224 is also provided and configured at one end to engage the needle spool 120. At another end of the unsheathing pawl 224 there is structure configured to engage the suture spool assembly 122 (described below) to thereby fix its rotational position while the needle spool assembly 120 rotates. A tension spring 226 is positioned within a center bore of the suture spool 122 to provide tension to a connector or suture projecting from the suture spool 122. A lever lock and tape 228 is also provided to lock the lever 110 until after actuation of the needle actuator 108. The lever lock and tape 228 has a central axis or rotating point which is common with that of the needle spool 120 and suture spool 122 assemblies and also functions to retract a needle assembly upon depression of the lever 110. Also shown in FIG. 6 is the needle assembly 230.

[0091] In one particular, non-limiting use in treating a prostate (See FIG. 7), the elongate tissue access portion 104 of a delivery device is placed within a urethra (UT) leading to a urinary bladder (UB) of a patient. In one approach, the delivery device can be placed within an introducer sheath (not shown) previously positioned in the urethra or alternatively, the delivery device can be inserted directly within the urethra. When employing an introducer sheath, the sheath can be attached to a sheath mount assembly (described below). The patient is positioned in lithotomy. The elongate portion 104 is advanced within the patient until a leading end 400 thereof reaches a prostate gland (PG). In a specific approach, the side(s) (i.e., lobe(s)) of the prostate to be treated is chosen while the device extends through the bladder and the device is turned accordingly. The device is first positioned at the bladder neck and then retracted approximately 1 cm while keeping the device parallel to the prostatic fossa and preserving mucosa. As shown in FIG. 8A, when so placed, the distal end 240 of the needle assembly is withdrawn within the leading end 400 of the device. The distal end of the elongate portion can be used to push the urethra into the prostate gland. The inside of the prostate gland (i.e., adenoma) is spongy and compressible and the outer surface (i.e., capsule) of the prostate gland is firm. By the physician viewing with the endoscope, he/she can push the urethra into the prostate gland compressing the adenoma and creating the desired opening through the urethra. To accomplish this, the physician rotates the tool anterior between 9 and 10 o'clock for the patient's side left lobe and between 2 and 3 o'clock for the patient's side left lobe. The physician then pivots the tool laterally about the pubic symphysis PS, generally about 20 to 30 degrees relative to the patient's midline (See FIG. 8B which depicts an image approximately in coronal plane). Viewing through the endoscope, the physician wants to have about the same amount of tissue protruding on both sides of the elongate shaft (See FIG. 8C).

[0092] At the leading end 400 of the delivery device, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the needle assembly is intended to be advanced from within the elongate member 104. As is to be appreciated, the needle is ejected in a direction commensurate with the direction the handle assembly extends. Moreover, the needle assembly can be configured so that it curves back toward the handle as it is ejected. In use in a prostate intervention (See FIG. 11), the needle assembly 230 is advanced through and beyond a prostate gland (PG). To facilitate the same, the device can be pivoted 20° to 30° laterally (pivoting about pubic symphisis). Alternatively, or additionally, the leading end 400 of the delivery device can be configured to articulate to thereby provide angles from which the needle can be ejected. In one approach, the elongate portion could be held in a straight configuration during advancement to within the prostatic capsule, and then articulated to direct the ejection of the needle for a particular application. Additionally, the device can be rotated anteriorly to lift a prostatic lobe (as described previously). The spring deployment helps to ensure the needle tip passes swiftly through the tough outer capsule of the prostate without “tenting” the capsule or failing to pierce the capsule. In an alternate embodiment, the needle could be manually deployed by the user. In one approach, the needle 230 is made from Nitinol tubing and can be coated with Parylene N. Such a coating helps compensate for frictional or environmental losses (i.e. wetness) which may degrade effectiveness of needle penetration.

[0093] Further, it is contemplated that the delivery device can be configured to include structure (trigger or lever) which advances the needle a fixed distance, stopping before it contacts the urethra wall. This will allow the physician to see exactly where the needle will exit the device and help with implant placement. An additional pull of the trigger, for example, could then deploy the needle through tissue. Various alternative energy sources can be employed to advance the needle, such as pneumatic or electrical based systems.

[0094] Further, as shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, the delivery system can be configured to include visual or geometric clues to aid in targeting needle trajectory. One approach (FIG. 12) is to change a start position of the needle 230. Rather than being completely housed within the needle enveloping structures of the leading end 400, a start position of the needle 230 can be such that a tip of the needle is visible through a scope lumen 506 prior to activation of the trigger or handle assembly. Another approach (FIG. 13) could involve changing leading end 400 geometry to facilitate direct viewing of the needle 230 by the user. A guide 232 can be added to the leading end 400 to constrain the needle to exit the leading end 400 in a generally perpendicular manner. With needle so traveling, its trajectory could be more intuitive to the user.

[0095] With reference to FIGS. 14 and 15, additional features can be incorporated into the delivery device to advance unwanted interference to proper device function. The start position of the needle 230 can be modified such as by adding a feature to the needle spool so that the needle tip starts in the path of a proximal anchor 555, thus removing a concern that the anchor 555 might strike the needle 230 during needle deployment (FIG. 14). In this approach, a finger projection 573 (See FIGS. 9 and 10) can be removed from the delivery device. Here, the proximal anchor 555 start position can be moved closer to the needle exit window which removes a tendency for the anchor to float when it is advanced for assembly. The stroking action to move the anchor 555 into place can be reduced. Furthermore, the needle orientation can be rotated 180° so that the needle tip is on an inside radius of the curve directing the ejection of the needle (FIG. 15). This approach may be desirable where there is a concern that the needle bevel 233 might not pass through the anchor path within the cover of the elongate portion 104, and still allows the anchor 555 to block the needle exit when sliding forward.

[0096] After complete depression of the needle actuator 108 and the unlocking of the needle retraction lever 110, the needle retraction lever 110 can be actuated. When so actuated, there is a withdrawal of the needle assembly 230, leaving the connector 352 of an anchor assembly in an extended position (See FIG. 16). In one particular approach, it is contemplated that the connector 352 can be a suture or other elongate structure sized to be slidably received in the needle 230. Further, the diameter or profile of the connector can be made to be supported by the needle 230 lumen inside diameter rather than other device structure (i.e. hollow tip of device). This arrangement can facilitate more connector control when it is presented to a proximal anchor. Further it is contemplated that the connector 352 can include an over jacket (not shown) to reduce elasticity of the connector along a proximal section thereof. In one embodiment, the needle 230 is withdrawn further than its original position within the device pre-deployment. When extended, the connector 352 extends through the needle window and is centered by suture guide structure. As shown in FIG. 17, in a prostatic interventional procedure, the same results in delivering a first or distal anchor component attached to the connector 352 beyond an outer surface of a prostate gland (PG) with the connector 352 within a penetration tract in the prostate gland extending toward the terminal end 400 of a delivery device.

[0097] A tensioning spring provides the tension forces which helps to ensure the distal anchor is pulled back into firm contact with a desired tissue plane such as, for example, the outer capsular surface of the prostate gland. Notably, the spring in a preferred embodiment provides a force such as up to 1-2 pounds or more of tension. In another embodiment, a spring can be used to automatically retract the needle assembly.

[0098] The timing of the needle retraction and tensioning can be accomplished through the interaction of an unsheathing pawl and a suture spool. The tensioning spring is then left to automatically provide a consistent tensioning force on a connector of an anchor assembly. Such tensioning results in seating a distal or first anchor component 350 as desired within an interventional site such as shown in FIG. 17 as well as to minimize a distance between two anchor members of an implanted anchor assembly. The tension generated after seating the anchor component 350 can be different from that during delivery of the connector of the anchor assembly.

[0099] A more detailed description of the shaft assembly now follows as does a description of the operation of the structure achieving assembly of a second or proximal anchor component to a connector of an anchor assembly and release of a complete anchor assembly at the interventional site.

[0100] With reference to FIGS. 18A-B, there is shown an embodiment of a shaft assembly 124. Components of the shaft reside within the device case assembly 106 and include structure attached to and cooperating with proximal anchor delivery and assembly structure. A terminal end portion 400 of the shaft assembly 124 includes an atraumatic distal tip 502. Proximally located to the tip 502 is a tubular shaft assembly 504 which is sized and shaped to slidably receive the needle assembly. An internal portion of the tip 502 is curved so that a needle projecting therefrom extends in a direction generally corresponding to that of a handle element of the delivery device. Configured longitudinally adjacent the tubular shaft assembly is a scope tube 506 which is sized and shaped to receive a scope as described previously. Configured below and longitudinally adjacent the scope tube 506 is an elongate cover 507 which is sized to receive elongate portions of the cutter and pusher assemblies.

[0101] As shown in FIGS. 19-22, the shaft assembly 124 can alternatively be formed from modular pieces. For example, a telescope tube 506 can be employed as a backbone about which a molded tip 502 and a shaft extension 509 are configured. An atraumatic tip sleeve 591 can be placed over the tip 502 and an elongate cover 507 can be placed longitudinally along the shaft extension 509. This modular shaft assembly permits the use of injection molded components to form the shaft. Injection molded components are less expensive and can lead themselves to easy and quick assembly. Moreover, different materials can be chosen for the various shaft components to thereby provide desired shaft stiffness. Further, in one contemplated approach, a clear sheath hood 515 can be configured about the distal tip 502 so that a matching of a sheath and a distal portion of the device can be better accomplished.

[0102] Various other juxtapositional relationships between the needle tube 504, telescope tube 506 and cover 507 are contemplated. As shown in FIG. 23A, the scope 506 can be laterally offset from a centerline of the cover 502 and needle tube 504. Separate devices with opposite offsets may in fact be useful for treating patient right and patient left. This approach can be implemented in a static design or a translating mechanism could be incorporated into the delivery system to move the scope tube 506 laterally.

[0103] Further, as shown in FIG. 23B, a nominal position of the scope 506 relative to a needle exit could be increased to provide additional viewable area along the sides of the device shaft. Again, a translating mechanism which moves the scope axially could be employed to locate the scope as needed. Moreover, the positions of the scope tube 506 and needle tube 504 (FIG. 23C) or that of the cover 502 and scope tube 506 (FIG. 23D) could be swapped to create additional viewing areas. To make these modifications, a tighter radius needle may be required as well as changes to the terminal end 502 of the leading end 400, such as removing the curved lumen. As shown in FIG. 23E, removing the curved lumen of the top 502 could open up additional space 517 and scope visibility along a side of the device. Here also, a tighter radius needle shape set might be required to direct the needle orthogonally.

[0104] As shown in FIG. 24, an atraumatic protrusion 519 can be added to the cover 507 to act as a visual indicator to where the needle will exit the leading end of the delivery device. Such protrusions 519 can be employed to displace tissue in order to produce an indentation or landmark on prostate lobes. A visual landmark is also provided in determining a location of suture deployment. The protrusions could also be formed by atraumatic tape or can be formed into a molded component and attached to or formed part of the cover 507.

[0105] Other approaches to locate the needle upon deployment are addressed in FIGS. 25A and 25B, and to facilitate precise needle targeting. Edges can be beveled along the path where the needle is deployed to reflect light thereby highlighting the area. The suture connector could be used as a light pipe by shining light through the needle lumen or tube 504. The light would be amplified and scattered by the suture (which would be translucent) facilitating lighting up the area before and after the needle is deployed or retracted. A hole 521 can further be cut through the top of the needle lumen so that light shines through indicating the location of the needle. Further (FIG. 25B), the tip 502 can be formed from translucent material and include a nontransparent or reflective surface 523 defining a target area. It is also contemplated that a laser (not shown) or other light sources could be incorporated into the device, in combination with such reflective surface or other mirrored surfaces to direct light in a direction in which the needle is to travel.

[0106] During use of the present device, viewing of the interventional site is accomplished through a telescope which can involve a foreshortening effect in the field of view. In addition, because of the speed of the needle and the end of the tool being pressed into the tissue and the lobes protruding on each side, the operator may not know or see where the needle assembly will exit the device and/or engage tissue.

[0107] Other reflections are also contemplated so that light can be reflected back onto the connector to thus light up the area and improve visualization of the connector when the area is dark. A circular, elliptical, parabolic or straight cut can be made and provided with a reflective surface. These features can alternatively be incorporated into a cover assembly as a separate part or adhered to the cover with atraumatic tape or be part of the tape itself. The features in some embodiments take advantage of a light source associated with the viewing apparatus being employed and reflect light back providing a bright appearance. The relatively perpendicular angle of the indicators with respect to the light source results in significant contrast. In one embodiment, a small fiber optic resides in the shaft assembly, such as parallel to the cover on the outside or inside the cover parallel to the cutter, using the same light source as the endoscope/telescope. The fiber can have a right angle output so that the light shines onto the tissue. Thus, the cover can also include indicators on faces generally perpendicular to the viewing orientation. It is to be noted that such indicators can assume various shapes such as rectangles and arrows.

[0108] As best shown in FIGS. 26 and 27, an embodiment of the cutter assembly 514 includes elongate cutter tube 562. A distal end 568 of the cutter tube 562 is configured with a blade 569 so that once the cutter assembly 514 is withdrawn, the blade can sever as desired a connector of an anchor assembly. In one particular embodiment, the cutter 514 can be formed from ground 17-4PH stainless steel blank. Various structures are contemplated for incorporation into the cutter assembly to facilitate a clean severing of a connector as well as to aid in assembling a proximal component of an anchor assembly to the connector. For example, as best seen in FIG. 45, the cutter blade 569 includes a coined out underside that is intended to be offset from a bottom side of a proximal anchor by about 0.0035+0.0010 inches to cut a nominal 0.015 inch diameter connector. In this way, the proximal anchor can exit a cutter without deforming or compressing a suture or connector tag, and the strength of the connector to anchor connection is maintained.

[0109] The cutter 514 can define a generally rectangular elongate single body that can be formed by stamping and bending. An interior of the body is sized and shaped to receive a proximal anchor component 550. A proximal end portion of the cutter 564 can further include anti-buckling tabs and extensions intended to snap fit to a cutter block (not shown).

[0110] Alternative approaches to the cutter 514 are addressed in FIGS. 28A-C in order to ensure that the proximal anchor captures suture with a high tensile strength. In one approach a suture keyhole 567 can be increased in length from 0.030 inches to 0.060 inches, for example to assist clinicians with proper suture position for successful proximal anchor deployment. With the suture positioned at the inception of the keyhole site 567, the proximal anchor will capture the suture once the anchor is deployed. A suture indicating feature 574 can further be added to the keyhole 567 to indicate when the suture is in the correct, pre-urethral activation position.

[0111] Turning to FIGS. 29A-C, there is shown a cutter 514 design incorporating additional structure for aiding in needle targeting. A reflective edge 576 can be added to a pill-shaped window 578 formed in the cutter 514 (See FIG. 29A). The edge 576 lies in line of site with the scope tube 506 to the needle penetration location. Operators can use this to target the needle by moving the tool anatomically proximal of the desired targeting location until the target is visible in the window 578. At that point, the operator can slowly slide the tool distally until the target just disappears below the reflective edge 576. The window 578 also provides direct visualization of more tissue adjacent the cutter. As shown in FIG. 29B, the window 578 can be extended to the suture guiding slot 567. A break in the reflection surface 576 creates an area which can be used for targeting by lining the target within the spaced reflective surfaces. Further, as shown in FIG. 29C, the suture centering slot 567 could be extended to allow direct visualization of a distal edge of the needle edge furthest from the scope. Here, beveled edges of the slot can provide useful reflective surfaces.

[0112] It is also contemplated that the delivery device can be configured so that the cutter 514 moves part-way and stop prior to engaging the connector and deployment of a proximal anchor (See FIGS. 30A-C). Top portions 578 of the cutter 514 can be configured to guide the suture or connector 352 to a position which ensures capture by the proximal anchor upon deployment (See FIG. 30B). Lead-in structure 580 can further be provided to guide the connector to center and tool proximal. Alternatively, the cutter 514 could also be positioned such that the proximal anchor motion would allow the connector 352 to cut on path and release the anchor assembly (FIG. 30C). It is further contemplated that flexible guide features (not shown) could additionally be added to a surface of the cutter, such features moving out of the way of the needle on needle deployment and then flexing back to contain the connector laterally and perhaps into a proximal portion.

[0113] As shown in FIGS. 31A-D, the keyhole 567 formed in a cutter can have other various different reflective surfaces. There can be vertical polished edges (FIG. 31A), edged horizontal lines (FIG. 31B), polished rectangular areas (FIG. 31C), or an arrow (FIG. 31D). Again, such features can provide indicators of a needle exit point without adding components to the delivery system.

[0114] In a further aspect (FIGS. 32-33), the present device can include a suture alignment guide 570 configured to slide under a cover 571 and over the cutter 514. The cover 571, in turn, includes the finger projection 573 which is sized and shaped to control and guide the movement of a proximal anchor 555. The alignment slide 570 indexes the connector 352 to a centerline of the cutter 514. It also operates to pull the connector 352 proximally for indexing within the proximal anchor component 555 to thus enhance connector capture by the anchor component 555. In other embodiments, a distal end of the needle housing itself can alternatively or additionally include a slot or notch for properly registering or orienting the connectors during device use and particularly when tension is being applied to the connector.

[0115] With reference to FIGS. 35-37, a suture indexing component 582 can be added to the leading end 400 of the delivery device. The suture indexing component can be spring loaded to assume distal (FIG. 34) and proximal (FIG. 35) positions. Further, as shown in FIG. 34, the indexing component 582 rests against the needle 230 prior to needle deployment. Once the needle is retracted to expose the connector 352, the indexing component 582 drives the connector 352 proximally and vertically into cutter keyhole structure (FIGS. 36-37). In this way, a desired connector orientation is presented to an anchor component 555.

[0116] Another approach to vertically orienting a connector is shown in FIGS. 38-40. Here, a flat wire element 584 can be routed from a delivery device case assembly 106 to the leading end 400 of the device. The wire element 584 is looped about a distal end of the connector exit and includes a proximal end portion connection to a block 585 of activating structures housed in the case assembly 106. Pawl and trip structure 586 are configured to interact with the block 585 to accomplish control of the wire element 584, each of which can be made to be responsive to handle lever activation. The block 585 in turn can be biased by a spring 587 to effect necessary control. Thus, when activated, the wire element 584 is positioned to effect the angle to which the connector exiting the delivery device is placed. In an alternative approach, the wire element 584 can be further equipped with a stamped element 588 configured to slide into contact with a connector 352. The stamped element 588 can be slid distally just prior to ejection of the proximal anchor.

[0117] Another approach to suture angle control is shown in FIGS. 42 and 43. Rather than the wire element, a suture pusher 582 can be provided to engage and control the positioning of a connector 342. Moreover, a suture tensioner 590 can be included to provide tension to a connector 352 to thus orient the connector 352 as desired (See FIG. 44).

[0118] In order to accomplish the attachment of the proximal anchor 555 to the connector 352, a pusher assembly 575 is configured to extend within the cover 571 (See FIGS. 45-47). The pusher assembly 525 can include a proximal portion 577 which extends to the handle of the device (connected to pusher block as described below) and a distal portion 579 which attaches to the proximal portion 577. The distal portion 579 can further include an extension 581 sized to receive the length of a proximal anchor 555. The thickness of the extension 581 is chosen to ensure a 0.004 inch gap between a cutter and a bottom portion of the proximal anchor 555 so that a connector tag remains after its severing by the cutter. The cover 571 can further include an anchor stop 583 which is configured at a distal end of the cover 571. The anchor stop 583 is sized and shaped to protect the proximal anchor 555 from becoming trapped within the cover 571 after its engagement with the proximal anchor 555. Through its connection to the pusher of the pusher block 604, the pusher assembly 575 is advanced distally which, in turn, results in the proximal anchor component 555 engaging the connector 352 (See also FIG. 47). As the cutter block 565 moves proximally, the cutter 214 is withdrawn.

[0119] Alternative features of a pusher assembly 575 are shown in FIGS. 48 and 49. A distal portion of the pusher 575 can include a spring 590 (FIG. 48) for controlling the advancement of a proximal anchor 555 into engagement with a connector 352. Moreover, as shown in FIG. 49, the pusher 575 can be slotted to receive a proximal anchor 555 and can include a distal end with angled guide walls 591 configured to facilitate proper placement of the connector 352 within the anchor 355.

[0120] Release of the pusher assembly advances the second component 555 of an anchor assembly into locking engagement with a connector of an anchor assembly. Such action causes the pusher 575 to advance the anchor component 555 onto a connector (e.g., a suture) while the connector is being held by the tool with sufficient force and the anchor is advanced with sufficient speed and force to seat the anchor 555 with reliable retention force. Within a patient's body, as shown in FIG. 50, the anchor assembly is configured across anatomy within the interventional site. Upon withdrawal of the cutter assembly, the blade portion thereof is brought across the connector 352 thereby severing it close to the second anchor component 555 leaving a short tag.

[0121] Various other approaches to control the engagement of a proximal anchor with a connector are shown in FIGS. 51-58. With reference to FIGS. 51 and 52, a back stop 600 can be configured within a stationary cutter 514 and the anchor 555 is advanced to first engage a connector 352 then present the connector 352 to the cutter 514 for severing. Here, the back stop is positioned, sized and shaped to control when the connector 352 is cut and to control the advancement of the anchor 555. The cutter 514 is then moved from engagement with the anchor 555, and the assembly is permitted to be ejected.

[0122] As shown in FIG. 53, a temporary constraint 602 can be configured within an end portion of a delivery catheter to keep a proximal anchor 352 within the window of capture. The constraint 602 can further facilitate launching the anchor 555 outward and into a robust engagement with the connector 352. In another approach (FIG. 54), there can be provided a stationary cutter 514 against which an anchor 558 and connector 352 can be proximally drawn to cut the connector 352. A cutter tail 604 (See FIG. 55) can be additionally provided on a cutter 514 to provide a useful backstop for a connector, as well as an advancing tip arrangement 606 depicted In FIG. 56. Moreover, a cutting element can be presented in an opposing direction to a spring biased anchor 555 as shown in FIG. 57 or alternatively, the cutter 514 and a spring biased anchor 555 can be configured to engage a connector 352 advanced by a tubular pusher 606 as shown in FIG. 58.

[0123] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 59, it is contemplated that a cutter 514 can be configured to articulate or otherwise rotate to accomplish a cutting function. In one approach, a pair of wires 610 can be mounted to a proximal side of the cutter to controllably rotate the cutter 514 against a connector. Such an approach would eliminate the need for moving parts longitudinally (cutter, anchor) to achieve anchor assembly.

[0124] Referring now to FIGS. 67, 68, and 69 in some embodiments a pusher 575 includes a proximal slot edge 593 that contacts the suture prior to the suture (or other connector) contacting the proximal portion of the slot in proximal anchor 555. The pusher 575 includes a tray feature 595 in which proximal anchor 555 is carried while proximal anchor 555 is being pushed to engage the suture. The proximal slot edge 593 extends further distally than the section of the proximal anchor 555 that ultimately connects to the suture. FIG. 70A depicts a situation where the suture is oriented at an oblique angle to the push direction of the proximal anchor 555. When proximal slot edge 593 contacts the suture prior to the proximal anchor 555 being firmly connected to the suture, the suture can be oriented at a more orthogonal angle (FIG. 70B) or acute angle (70C). In such orthogonal or acute orientations, the suture is more likely to firmly engage the proximal anchor 555.

[0125] Also, variations to structures of a proximal anchor are also contemplated. For example, surfaces of anchor structure presented for locking engagement with a connector can be angled (non-perpendicular) 620 (FIG. 60) to accommodate connector orientation and to provide for secure engagement. Knurled surfaces 622 are also contemplated for facilitating desired engagement of parts, as is the location of the connector capture area 624 of an anchor 555. Finally, it is further contemplated that arms of an anchor can be held open for receiving a connector and permitted to close about the connector to provide a robust lock between parts.

[0126] An implanted anchor assembly 700 is shown in FIGS. 62, 64 and 66. FIG. 64 depicts a partial cross-sectional view of the urethra (UT) widened due to the anchor assembly compressing the surrounding enlarged prostate tissue due to the fact that the outer capsular tissue is rather strong, substantially non-compressible and non-displaceable while the adenoma of the prostate gland is compressible and the urethral wall displaceable.

[0127] The second anchor component can be embodied in a slotted anchor configured to secure to a connector. The slotted proximal anchor can include a flattened-tubular back end that resembles a flattened tube in shape, with a width in lateral cross-section that is greater than its thickness. The slotted proximal anchor also includes a pair of spaced apart prongs extending from the back end of the slotted proximal anchor to the front end of the slotted proximal anchor. The spaced prongs join together at a slot inception. The prongs are shaped and sized of a configuration and of a rigidity to substantially prevent deflection of the prongs. The prongs can include inwardly facing protrusions that are configured to capture and deform the connector between the protrusions and prevent the connector from disengaging from the slotted anchor device once engaged. The mechanism of suture attachment and strength of the assembly is a combination of compression of the suture between the stiff slotted prongs of the anchor as well as disruption of the suture surface by the discreet edges of the slotted, flattened-tubular anchor. The discreet edges provide a lower contact surface area between anchor prongs and suture and focuses the compressive forces in focal points that cause the suture to conform around both internal recesses and external faces. It is also to be recognized that various further embodiments of slotted anchors or anchors forming a clip are also contemplated. In particular, various embodiments of structures which accordingly provide alternative approaches to attach to a connector can be employed. That is, the anchors can be deformable, deflectable, latching, nested, meltable and/or coiled in structure.

[0128] Accordingly, the present disclosure contemplates both pushing directly on anchor portions of an anchor assembly as well as pushing directly upon the connector of the anchor assembly. Moreover, as presented above, the distal or first anchor component is advanced and deployed through a needle assembly and at least one component of the proximal or second anchor component is advanced and deployed from a housing portion of the anchor deployment device. Further, either a single anchor assembly or multiple anchor assemblies can be delivered and deployed at an intervention site by the deployment device. Additionally, a single anchor assembly component can for example, be placed on one side of a prostate or urethra while multiple anchor assembly components can be positioned along an opposite or displaced position of such anatomy. The number and locations of the anchor assemblies can thus be equal and/or symmetrical, different in number and asymmetrical, or simply asymmetrically placed. In the context of prostate treatment, the present disclosure is used for the compression of the prostate gland and the opening of the prostatic urethra, the delivering of an implant at the interventional site, and applying tension between ends of the implant. Moreover, drug delivery is both contemplated and described as a further remedy in BPH and over active bladder treatment as well as treating prostate cancer and prostatitis.

[0129] Once implanted, the anchor assembly of the present disclosure accomplishes desired tissue manipulation, approximation, compression or retraction as well as cooperates with the target anatomy to provide an atraumatic support structure. In one preferred embodiment, the shape and contour of the anchor assembly 700 is configured so that the assembly invaginates within target tissue, such as within natural folds formed in the urethra by the opening of the urethra lumen by the anchor assembly (See FIGS. 64-65). In fact, in situations where the anchor assembly is properly placed, wispy or pillowy tissue in the area collapses around the anchor structure. Eventually, the natural tissue can grow over the anchor assembly 700 and new cell growth occurs over time (see FIG. 62). Such cooperation with target tissue facilitates healing and avoids unwanted side effects such as calcification or infection at the interventional site.

[0130] Subsequent to the interventional procedure, the patient can be directed to take alpha blockers for 2-4 weeks. Anti-inflammatory medicine can also be taken.

[0131] Furthermore, in addition to an intention to cooperate with natural tissue anatomy, the present disclosure also contemplates approaches to accelerate healing or induce scarring. Manners in which healing can be promoted can include employing abrasive materials, textured connectors, biologics and drugs.

[0132] It has been observed that placing the anchors at various desired positions within anatomy can extract the best results. For example, when treating a prostate, one portion of an anchor assembly can be placed within an urethra and a second component beyond the outer surface of the prostate. It has been found that implanting the anchor assemblies by using the distal end of the device to displace the prostate lobe on either side (while the tension spring is taking up slack in the connector after the delivery needle has been retracted) while deploying the second anchor component so that the ten o'clock and two o'clock positions (when looking along the axis of the urethra) are supported or retained, effectively holds the anatomy open and also facilitates invagination of the anchor portion within natural tissue. Typically, one to two pairs of anchor assemblies are implanted to create an anterior channel along the urethra within the prostate gland. This is particularly true in the regions of anatomy near the bladder and the juncture at which the ejaculatory duct connects to the urethra.

[0133] Additionally, it is contemplated that the components of the anchor assembly or selected portions thereof (of any of the anchor assemblies described or contemplated), can be coated or embedded with therapeutic or diagnostic substances (e.g. drugs or therapeutic agents). Again, in the context of treating a prostate gland, the anchor assembly can be coated or imbedded with substances such as 5-alpha-reductase which cause the prostate to decrease in size. Other substances contemplated include but are not limited to phytochemicals generally, alpha-la-adrenergic receptor blocking agents, smooth muscle relaxants, and agents that inhibit the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone. In one particular approach, the connector 95 can for example, be coated with a polymer matrix or gel coating which retains the therapeutic or diagnostic substance and facilitates accomplishing the timed release thereof. Additionally, it is contemplated that bacteriostatic coatings as well as analgesics and antibiotics for prostatitis and other chemical coatings for cancer treatment, can be applied to various portions of the anchor assemblies described herein. Such coatings can have various thicknesses or a specific thickness such that it along with the connector itself matches the profile of a cylindrical portion of an anchor member affixed to the connector. Moreover, the co-delivery of a therapeutic or diagnostic gel or other substances through the implant deployment device or another medical device (i.e. catheter), and moreover an anchor assembly including the same, is within the scope of the present disclosure as is radio-loading devices (such as a capsular or distal ends of implants for cancer or other treatment modalities). In one such approach, the deployment device includes a reservoir holding the gel substance and through which an anchor device can be advance to pick up a desired quantity of therapeutic or diagnostic gel substance.

[0134] It is to be recognized that the timing of the dual advancement of the needle and connector assemblies and subsequent relative motion between the assemblies is coordinated. That is, the needle assembly first provides access to an interventional site and then the connector assembly is left extending beyond a terminal end of the needle assembly through the relative motion of the needle and connector assemblies.

[0135] It is further contemplated that in certain embodiments, the anchor delivery device can include the ability to detect forces being applied thereby or other environmental conditions. Various sections of the device can include such devices and in one contemplated approach sensors can be placed along the needle assembly. In this way, an operator can detect for example, whether the needle has breached the target anatomical structure at the interventional site and the extent to which such breaching has occurred. Other sensors which can detect particular environmental features can also be employed such as blood or other chemical or constituent sensors. Moreover, one or more pressure sensors or sensors providing feedback on the state of deployment of the anchor assembly during delivery or after implantation are contemplated. For example, tension or depth feedback can be monitored by these sensors. Further, such sensors can be incorporated into the anchor assembly itself, other structure of the deployment device or in the anatomy.

[0136] Moreover, it is to be recognized that the foregoing procedure is reversible. In one approach, the connection of an anchor assembly can be severed and a proximal (or second) anchor component removed from the patient's body. For example, the physician can cut the connector and simultaneously remove the second anchor previously implanted for example, in the patient's urethra using electrosurgical, surgical or laser surgical devices used in performing transurethral prostate resection.

[0137] An aspect that the various embodiments of the present disclosure provide is the ability to deliver an anchor assembly having a customizable length, each anchor assembly being implanted at a different location without having to remove the device from the patient. Other aspects of the various embodiments of the present disclosure are load-based delivery, of an anchor assembly, anchor assembly delivery with a device having integrated connector, (e.g. suture), cutting, and anchor assembly delivery with an endoscope in the device. The delivery device is uniquely configured to hold the suture with tension during delivery to help ensure that the first anchor component sits firmly against a tissue plane (e.g., the outer capsule of the prostate) and is held relatively firm as the second anchor component is attached to the connector and the delivery device. In this aspect, the needle assembly acting as a penetrating member is cooperatively connected to a mechanism, which pulls on the anchor while the needle assembly is retracted.

[0138] It is to be recognized that various materials are within the scope of the present disclosure for manufacturing the disclosed devices. Moreover, one or more components such as distal anchor, proximal anchor, and connector, of the one or more anchor devices disclosed herein can be completely or partially biodegradable or biofragmentable.

[0139] Further, as stated, the devices and methods disclosed herein can be used to treat a variety of pathologies in a variety of lumens or organs comprising a cavity or a wall. Examples of such lumens or organs include, but are not limited to urethra, bowel, stomach, esophagus, trachea, bronchii, bronchial passageways, veins (e.g. for treating varicose veins or valvular insufficiency), arteries, lymphatic vessels, ureters, bladder, cardiac atria or ventricles, uterus, fallopian tubes, etc.

[0140] Finally, it is to be appreciated that the disclosure has been described hereabove with reference to certain examples or embodiments of the disclosure but that various additions, deletions, alterations and modifications may be made to those examples and embodiments without departing from the intended spirit and scope of the disclosure. For example, any element or attribute of one embodiment or example may be incorporated into or used with another embodiment or example, unless to do so would render the embodiment or example unpatentable or unsuitable for its intended use. Also, for example, where the steps of a method are described or listed in a particular order, the order of such steps may be changed unless to do so would render the method unpatentable or unsuitable for its intended use. All reasonable additions, deletions, modifications and alterations are to be considered equivalents of the described examples and embodiments and are to be included within the scope of the following claims.

[0141] Thus, it will be apparent from the foregoing that, while particular forms of the disclosure have been illustrated and described, various modifications can be made without parting from the spirit and scope of the disclosure.