US20060253143A1 - Endovascular stapler - Google Patents

Abstract

An endovascular stapler for securing an endograft to a vessel is disclosed. The stapler includes a staple housing adapted for storing at least one staple therein, the staple housing having an exit area for discharge of the at least one staple therethrough, an actuating assembly adapted for discharging the at least one staple through the exit area, and a displacement mechanism in operative association with the staple housing near the exit area. The displacement member is operative for pushing the exit area against the endograft when discharging the at least one staple therethrough. The discharged staple forms a plurality of opposed loops connected by a central element upon discharge. Also disclosed are staples and displacement mechanisms adapted for use with surgical instruments such as the present endovascular staplers. The staples may be formed from memory metal or other metal. The displacement mechanisms disclosed include balloons and rigid offsetting devices.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
• The present Utility patent application is a divisional application of U.S. Utility patent application Ser. No. 10/837,827, filed May 3, 2004, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Utility patent application Ser. No. 10/737,466 filed Dec. 16, 2003, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/433,692 filed Dec. 16, 2002, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/501,060 filed Sep. 8, 2003, the disclosures of the foregoing applications are hereby incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
• The present invention relates to a stapling device for use in the fixation of endovascular grafts to the walls of vessels. Fixation of grafts utilizing the present invention may be conducted during initial implantation. In addition, the present invention may also be utilized to arrest the vexing complication of proximal or distal migrations following the prior implantation of such grafts. Fixation may also be conducted to repair Type 1 endoleaks not caused by migration.
• It is well known that endovascular grafts may be inserted into the human body during numerous medical procedures. Grafts are typically inserted into vessels and held in place by friction, such as with self-expanding or balloon expandable stents. The grafts may also be affixed to vessels with hooks or barbs.
• The grafts may be formed from synthetic materials, such as polyester, expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (“ePTFE”), or others. The grafts may also be formed of natural vessels harvested from other areas of the body or from a donor mammal. Notwithstanding the various materials utilized, migration of the grafts over time remains a problem.
• Caudad device migration is known to lead to a Type 1 endoleak with aneurysm sac reperfusion, enlargement and rupture. Cephalad device migration may lead to coverage of the renal artery orifices and renal insufficiency.
• Such device migration is caused by many factors. One known factor is poor patient selection. Patients with cone shaped aortic necks, severe neck tortuosity, short necks or who have a laminated thrombus present at the landing site are generally susceptible to device migration problems. Other device migration issues are caused by changing aortic morphology following device implantation. Finally, migration may be caused by device structural fatigue and device design related issues. Even absent these conditions, device migration has been found.
• Treatment of caudad migrations have traditionally been conducted by the addition of “sleeves” to the proximal end of the graft in an effort to regain purchase between the graft and the vessel it is attached to in order to maintain a seal between the two. More drastic options include resorting to conventional surgery. These late conversions are, unfortunately, associated with a high mortality rate.
• Treatment options for the cephalad migrations are even less attractive. In the face of continued migration, resignation may be the only option as such migration may lead to renal insufficiency requiring hemodialysis. To permit device removal, a typical conversion in this case involves supra-celiac aortic cross-clamping, and its associated problems.
• Prior attempts at fixation of migrating devices, including additions of hooks, barbs, tackers, and other fastening devices have proven to be insufficient or impractical. It would therefore be advantageous to provide an endovascular stapling device which may be used to adequately arrest existing migrations, as well as secure new grafts in a manner likely to eliminate future migration. Actual fixation of the graft to the aortic neck at multiple points will also prevent the aorta itself from enlarging.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
• The endovascular stapler of the present invention is designed to overcome the deficiencies of the prior art. In one embodiment, an endovascular stapler for securing an endograft to a vessel comprises a staple housing adapted for storing at least one staple therein, the staple housing having an exit area for discharge of the at least one staple therethrough, an actuating assembly adapted for discharging the at least one staple through the exit area, and a displacement mechanism in operative association with the staple housing near the exit area, the displacement member operative for pushing the exit area against the endograft when discharging the at least one staple therethrough, wherein the discharged staple forms a plurality of opposed loops connected by a central element.
• The displacement mechanism may comprise a balloon positioned near the exit area, the balloon adapted to be selectively inflated and deflated. The balloon may be offset from the staple housing by spokes, the spokes adapted to permit blood flow therebetween.
• The staple may be deformed into two parallel straight legs connected by a central element while stored in the stapler housing.
• The actuating assembly may comprise a pusher and a trigger, the pusher adapted to be advanced by the trigger to discharge the at least one staple.
• The central element may be adapted to compress the endograft against the vessel after being discharged from the endovascular stapler.
• In another embodiment, an endovascular stapler for securing an endograft to a vessel comprises a trigger housing comprising a trigger mechanism within the housing, a staple housing having a proximal end and a distal end, the staple housing coupled at the proximal end of the staple housing to the trigger housing, the staple housing adapted to store a staple, the staple housing having a staple exit area formed therein near the distal end thereof, a balloon exterior to the staple housing near the distal end thereof, the balloon adapted to be selectively inflated and deflated to push the staple exit area against the endograft, wherein the trigger mechanism may be actuated to drive a staple from the staple housing through the staple exit area into the endograft and the vessel, the staple returning approximately to its natural condition of having a plurality of opposed loops connected by a central element upon discharge.
• The balloon may be noncompliant.
• The staple may be deformed into two parallel straight legs connected by a central element while stored in the stapler housing. The discharged staple may comprise a pair of leading points adapted to penetrate the endograft and the vessel.
• The balloon may be positioned opposite to the staple exit area.
• The endovascular stapler may further comprise an output boss penetrating the trigger housing, a guide wire exit port near the distal end of the staple housing, a guide wire channel extending from the guide wire exit port to the output boss, and a guide wire extending within the guide wire channel, wherein the staple housing may be guided to a particular location within the vessel by sliding the staple housing along the guide wire.
• The staple housing may be flexible.
• The trigger assembly may further comprise a pusher operatively engaged with a trigger, the pusher extending from within the trigger housing to the staple exit area, wherein the pusher is adapted to advance through the staple housing to push the staple from the staple exit area.
• The pusher may further comprise a first portion adjacent to the staple and a second portion behind the first portion, the second portion including a series of toothed elements.
• The toothed elements may include angled portions angled away from the first portion.
• The trigger assembly may further comprise a trigger having a grip exterior to the housing and an inner section interior to the housing, an outer section slideable about a portion of the inner section of the trigger, the outer section having a surface with toothed elements adapted to engage the toothed elements of the second section of the pusher, a spring situated between the outer section and the inner section of the trigger, and a pin about which the trigger, the outer section, and the spring may rotate, wherein the trigger housing may further comprise a handle and the toothed elements of the outer section advance the pusher to an advanced position toward the distal end of the staple housing when the trigger is rotated toward the handle.
• The spring may permit the outer section to ratchet about the inner section of the trigger when the trigger is moved away from the handle, such that the pusher remains in the advanced position.
• In a still further embodiment, an endovascular stapler for securing an endograft to a vessel may comprise a trigger housing comprising a trigger mechanism, a staple housing having a proximal end at the trigger housing and a distal end remote from the trigger housing, the staple housing comprising a staple channel adapted to store a plurality of staples in tandem, the staples each having a pair of parallel legs connected by a central portion, the staple channel extending from the proximal end of the staple housing to a staple exit area near the distal end of the staple housing, and a pusher extending into the staple channel from within the trigger housing, wherein the pusher is adapted to advance through the staple channel upon actuation of the trigger mechanism to advance the plurality of staples stored in tandem in the staple channel such that a first staple may be discharged through the staple exit area.
• The staple channel may further comprise a curved portion adjacent the staple exit area, the curved portion configured to permit the staples to return to their natural condition as they are discharged from the staple exit area.
• The discharged staples may penetrate the endograft and the vessel.
• The discharged staples may include rings capable of penetrating the endograft and the vessel.
• The endovascular stapler may further comprise a balloon inflation port penetrating the trigger housing, a balloon inflation channel extending within the staple housing and in fluid communication with the balloon inflation port, and a balloon exterior to the staple housing and in fluid communication with the balloon inflation channel, wherein the balloon may be selectively inflated and deflated to push the staple exit area against the endograft.
• The balloon may be positioned opposite to the staple exit area.
• The endovascular stapler may further comprise an output boss penetrating the trigger housing, a guide wire exit port near the distal end of the staple housing, a guide wire channel extending within the staple housing from the output boss to the guide wire exit port, and a guide wire extending within the guide wire channel, wherein the staple housing may be guided to a vessel by sliding the staple housing along the guide wire.
• The guide wire channel may be substantially parallel to the staple channel.
• The guide wire channel may extend beyond the staple exit area.
• The guide wire channel may be adjacent to the staple exit area.
• The endovascular stapler may further comprise a balloon inflation port penetrating the trigger housing, a balloon inflation channel extending within the staple housing and in fluid communication with the balloon inflation port, a balloon exterior to the staple housing and in fluid communication with the balloon inflation channel, an output boss penetrating the housing, a guide wire exit port near the distal end of the staple housing, a guide wire channel extending within the staple housing from the output boss to the guide wire exit port, and a guide wire extending within the guide wire channel, wherein the balloon may be selectively inflated and deflated to push the staple exit area against the endograft and the staple housing may be guided to a vessel by sliding the staple housing along the guide wire.
• The pusher may further comprise a first portion and a second portion, the first portion being situated between the second portion and the staples, the second portion being predominantly flat in profile with a plurality of toothed elements.
• The toothed elements may comprise ramped portions angled away from the first portion.
• The trigger assembly may further comprise a trigger having a grip exterior to the trigger housing and an inner section interior to the housing, an outer section covering and slideable about the inner section of the trigger, the outer section having a surface with toothed elements having configurations such that the toothed elements of the outer section abut the toothed elements of the pusher, a spring situated between the outer section and the inner section of the trigger, and a pin about which the trigger, the outer section, and the spring may rotate, wherein the housing further comprises a handle and the toothed elements of the outer section advance the pusher toward the distal end of the staple housing when the trigger is moved toward the handle.
• The spring may permit the outer section to ratchet about the inner section of the trigger when the trigger is moved away from the handle, such that the pusher remains in a fixed position.
• The trigger mechanism may further comprise a spring associated with the trigger, the spring biasing the trigger away from the handle.
• The second portion of the pusher may be stored in a staging area within the trigger housing.
• The second portion of the pusher may be adapted to spiral within the staging area.
• In another embodiment, an endovascular stapler for connecting a stent graft to a vessel may comprise a trigger housing having an elongate staple housing extending therefrom, the elongate staple housing having a staple exit area adapted to be inserted into a vessel, the elongate staple housing adapted to store a staple having parallel legs connected by a central portion, a pusher extending within the staple housing from the trigger housing, a trigger mechanism within the housing, the trigger mechanism adapted to advance the pusher within the staple housing to push a staple stored in the elongate staple housing through the staple exit area to connect the stent graft to the vessel, and a balloon adjacent the staple housing, the balloon inflatable to force the staple exit area against the stent graft.
• The staple exit area may be adapted to permit the staple to return to its natural condition upon exiting the staple exit area.
• The natural condition may comprise a pair of opposed loops connected by a central portion.
• A still further embodiment of the present invention discloses a method of repairing an endograft in a vessel with an endovascular stapler having a distal end and a biasing mechanism associated therewith, the method comprising inserting the distal end of the endovascular stapler into the endograft, advancing the biasing mechanism so as to push the distal end of the endovascular stapler against the endograft without completely inhibiting blood flow, discharging a staple from the endovascular stapler into the endograft such that the staple forms a pair of curved legs connected by a central portion.
• The method may also include the steps of partially retracting the biasing mechanism to permit rotation of the distal end of the endovascular stapler, rotating the distal end of the endovascular staple, advancing the biasing mechanism so as to push the distal end of the endovascular stapler against the endograft without completely inhibiting blood flow, discharging a staple from the endovascular stapler into the endograft such that the staple forms a pair of curved legs connected by a central portion.
• A further embodiment discloses a method of repairing an endograft in a vessel with an endovascular stapler having a distal end forming a staple exit area, a trigger for deploying staples, and a balloon near the staple exit area, the method comprising inserting the distal end of the endovascular stapler into the endograft, inflating the balloon to push the staple exit area against the endograft, and deploying a staple from the staple exit area into the endograft and the vessel such that the staple forms a pair of curved legs connected by a central portion.
• The method of repairing a vessel may further comprise partially deflating the balloon, rotating the endovascular stapler, reinflating the balloon so as to push the stapler exit area against the endograft in a location adjacent to the first staple, and deploying a second staple from the staple exit area into the endograft and the vessel, the second staple forming a pair of curved legs connected by a central portion upon deployment.
• In yet another method of the present invention, surgery may be performed on a vessel having an endograft therein, the method comprising providing a plurality of staplers, each stapler having a stapler housing storing a U-shaped staple having a pair of legs connected by a central portion and a balloon capable of being inflated and deflated, inserting the stapler housing of the first of the plurality of staplers into the endograft, inflating the balloon of the first of the plurality of staplers so as to push the stapler housing against the endograft, advancing the first staple from within the stapler housing such that the legs of the first staple form loops piercing the endograft and the vessel wall.
• The method may further comprise deflating the balloon, removing the stapler housing of the first of the plurality of staplers from the endograft, inserting the second of the plurality of stapler housings into the endograft, inflating the balloon so as to push the second of the plurality of stapler housings against the endograft in an area other than at the location of the first staple, advancing the staple of the second of the plurality of staplers from within the stapler housing such that the legs of the second staple form loops piercing the endograft.
• In another embodiment of the present invention, an endovascular stapler for securing an endograft to a vessel may comprise a staple housing adapted for storing a plurality of staples having a pair of legs connected by a central portion therein, the staple housing having a plurality of exit areas for discharge of the plurality of staples therethrough, an actuating assembly adapted for discharging the plurality of staples through the plurality of exit areas, the actuating assembly comprising a plurality of staple pushers adapted to advance the plurality of staples through the plurality of exit areas and a trigger adapted to advance the plurality of staple pushers, and a displacement mechanism in operative association with the staple housing near the exit areas, the displacement mechanism operative for pushing the exit areas against the endograft when discharging the plurality of staples therethrough, wherein the plurality of staples each form a pair of loops connected by a central portion upon discharge.
• The plurality of staples may be arranged radially about a longitudinal centerline of the staple housing.
• The plurality of staples may be arranged linearly within the staple housing.
• The displacement mechanism may comprise a first rod and a second rod pivotally connected by a pin, the first rod and the second rod having a first relation where the rods are substantially parallel and a second relation where the rods are angled with respect to each other, the rods pushing the exit areas against the endograft when in the angled relation.
• In another embodiment of the present invention, a staple for connecting an endograft to a vessel may comprise a first condition in which the staple is U-shaped with a pair of straight legs connected by a central portion and a second condition in which the straight legs are formed into loops.
• The central portion may form a tongue adapted to apply pressure upon material contained between the loops and the tongue.
• Each of the loops may include an upper portion nearest the central portion, and the central portion may be at approximately the same elevation as the upper portions of each of the loops.
• The staple may be made from a memory alloy.
• The staple may be made from Nitinol.
• The second condition may be the staple's natural condition.
• In still another embodiment of the present invention, a balloon for use with a surgical device may comprise an inflatable section adapted to be inflated and an offsetting section, the offsetting section adapted to offset the balloon from the surgical device while permitting fluid flow between the inflatable section and the surgical device.
• The offsetting section may comprise at least one spoke.
• One of the at least one spoke may be metal or rigid biocompatible plastic.
• One of the at least one spoke may be in fluid communication with the balloon such that the balloon may be selectively inflated and deflated through the spoke.
• In another embodiment of the present invention, a biasing mechanism for use with a surgical instrument adapted for use within the lumen of a vessel may comprise a balloon adapted to be selectively inflated and deflated, at least one spoke tethering the balloon to the surgical instrument, the biasing mechanism having a first condition in which the balloon is deflated such that the surgical instrument is free to rotate within the lumen of the vessel, and the biasing mechanism having a second condition in which the balloon is inflated and offset from the surgical instrument such that fluid may flow between the balloon and the surgical instrument, the surgical instrument being inhibited from rotating within the lumen of the vessel in the second condition.
• One of the at least one spokes may be in fluid communication with the balloon.
• One of the at least one spokes may be metal.
• In another embodiment of the present invention, a biasing mechanism for use with a surgical instrument adapted for use within the lumen of a vessel may comprise a first rod and a second rod pivotally connected by a pin, the first rod and the second rod having a first relation where the rods are substantially parallel and a second relation where the rods are angled with respect to each other, the rods pushing the surgical instrument against the endograft when in the second relation.
• Blood may be permitted to flow around the biasing mechanism in the first relation and the second relation.
• The biasing member may further comprise a third relation between the first relation and the second relation, the third relation permitting rotation of the surgical instrument within the lumen of the vessel.
• In accordance with still further embodiments of the present invention, a method of attaching an endograft to a vessel wall with an endovascular stapler having a distal end and a proximal end with a biasing mechanism associated therewith, the method comprising inserting the distal end of the endovascular stapler into the endograft, activating the biasing mechanism so as to push the distal end of the endovascular stapler against the endograft, and discharging a first staple having a pair of legs connected by a central portion from the endovascular stapler into the endograft and vessel such that the staple legs form a pair of circular loops connected by the central portion.
• The method may further comprise the steps of partially deactivating the biasing mechanism to permit rotation of the distal end of the endovascular stapler, rotating the distal end of the endovascular stapler, reactivating the biasing mechanism so as to push the distal end of the endovascular stapler against the endograft, and discharging a second staple having a pair of legs connected by a central portion from the endovascular stapler into the endograft and vessel such that the staple legs form a pair of circular loops connected by the central portion.
• The first staple may be constructed from a memory alloy. The legs of the first staple may be predominantly straight while within the stapler prior to the step of discharging. The natural condition of the first staple may be where the legs form circular loops. The step of discharging may permit the first staple to return to its natural condition.
• The step of discharging may serve to advance a staple pusher within the stapler for discharging the first staple. The first staple may advance along a staple guide, the staple guide retarding the return of the first staple to its natural condition. The staple pusher may include a pivoting portion and the step of discharging may rotate the pivoting portion into the central portion of the first staple such that the central portion of the first staple abuts the endograft.
• The straight legs may be substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the endograft during the step of inserting.
• The endovascular stapler may include a removable cartridge containing a plurality of staples, each of the staples having a pair of legs connected by a central portion. The legs of the plurality of staples may be predominantly straight while within the stapler cartridge. The natural condition of the plurality of staples may be where the legs form circular loops, and the step of discharging may permit the first staple to return to its natural condition.
• The cartridge may be replaceable.
• The vessel may flow blood from a heart and the step of discharging may drive the first staple toward the heart against the direction of blood flow.
• The step of discharging may be conducted by a trigger mechanism that pushes a staple pusher.
• The vessel may flow blood from a heart and the step of discharging may drives the first staple away from the heart in the direction of blood flow.
• The step of discharging may be conducted by a trigger mechanism that pulls a staple pusher.
• The legs of the discharged first staple may form a plane extending parallel to the longitudinal axis of the endograft following the step of discharging.
• The step of discharging may advance the staple through a staple exit area, the staple exit area being radio opaque.
• The vessel may flow blood and the step of activating the biasing mechanism may not completely inhibit blood flow.
• The vessel may flow blood and the steps of activating the biasing mechanism and reactivating the biasing mechanism may not completely inhibit blood flow.
• The pair of circular loops may be closed.
• The circular loops may be partial circular loops.
• In accordance with a still further aspect of the present invention, a method of attaching an endograft to a vessel wall with an endovascular stapler having a distal end forming a staple exit area along a side thereof, a proximal end with a trigger for deploying staples, and a balloon near the staple exit area, may comprise inserting the distal end of the endovascular stapler into the endograft, inflating the balloon to push the staple exit area against the endograft, and deploying a first staple from the staple exit area into the endograft and the vessel wall such that the first staple forms a pair circular loops connected by a central portion.
• The circular loops may be partial circular loops.
• The circular loops may be closed.
• The method may further comprise partially deflating the balloon, rotating the endovascular stapler, reinflating the balloon so as to push the staple exit area against the endograft in a location different from but adjacent to the deployed first staple, and deploying a second staple from the staple exit area through the endograft and the vessel wall, the second staple forming a pair of loops connected by a central portion upon deployment.
• The first staple may be constructed from a memory alloy.
• The natural condition of the first staple may be where the legs form circular loops.
• The step of deploying may be conducted by activating the trigger to manipulate a staple pusher, the staple pusher pushing the first staple.
• The staple pusher may include a pivoting portion and the step of deploying may rotate the pivoting portion into the staple such that the central portion of the staple abuts the endograft.
• The vessel may flow blood from a heart and the step of deploying may drive the first staple toward the heart against the direction of blood flow.
• The vessel may flow blood from a heart and the step of deploying may drive the first staple away from the heart in the direction of blood flow.
• The circular legs of the first staple may form planes extending parallel to the longitudinal axis of the endograft following the step of discharging.
• The staple exit area may be radio opaque.
• The endovascular stapler may include a removable cartridge containing a plurality of staples, each of the staples having a pair of legs connected by a central portion.
• The removable cartridge may be replaceable.
• The step of deploying may serve to advance a staple pusher within the stapler for deploying the first staple.
• The first staple may be formed from a memory alloy and the natural condition of the first staple may be where the legs form circular loops, the first staple legs being predominantly straight while within the stapler, the first staple advancing along a staple guide during the step of deploying, the staple guide retarding the return of the first staple to its natural condition.
• In accordance with additional aspects of the present invention, a method of performing surgery on a vessel having an endograft therein, may comprise providing a plurality of staplers, each stapler having a stapler housing storing a U-shaped staple having a pair of legs connected by a central portion and a balloon capable of being inflated and deflated, inserting the stapler housing of the first of the plurality of staplers into the endograft, inflating the balloon of the first of the plurality of staplers so as to push the stapler housing against the endograft, and advancing the first staple from within the stapler housing such that the legs of the first staple form loops piercing the endograft and the vessel.
• The method may further comprise deflating the balloon, removing the stapler housing of the first of the plurality of staplers from the endograft, inserting the second of the plurality of stapler housings into the endograft, inflating the balloon so as to push the second of the plurality of stapler housings against the endograft in an area other than at the location of the first staple, and advancing the staple of the second of the plurality of staplers from within the stapler housing such that the legs of the second staple form loops piercing the endograft and the vessel.
• The loops may be closed loops.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
• The subject matter regarded as the invention is particularly pointed out and distinctly claimed in the concluding portion of the specification. The invention, however, both as to organization and method of operation, together with features, objects, and advantages thereof will be or become apparent to one with skill in the art upon reference to the following detailed description when read with the accompanying drawings. It is intended that any additional organizations, methods of operation, features, objects or advantages ascertained by one skilled in the art be included within this description, be within the scope of the present invention, and be protected by the accompanying claims.
• In regard to the drawings,FIG. 1 is plan view of the handle portion of a stapler in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
• FIG. 2 is a sectional view of the stapler ofFIG. 1 showing the internal components thereof;
• FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a pusher forming a portion of the stapler ofFIG. 1;
• FIG. 4 is a longitudinal sectional view of the distal end of the staple housing forming a portion of the stapler ofFIG. 1 showing the internal components thereof;
• FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the distal end of the staple housing shown inFIG. 4 taken along section lines A-A;
• FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the distal end of the staple housing shown inFIG. 4 taken along section lines B-B;
• FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the distal end of the staple housing shown inFIG. 4 taken along section lines C-C;
• FIG. 8 is a longitudinal section of the distal end of the staple housing shown inFIG. 4 taken along section lines D-D;
• FIG. 9 is a cut-away view of the abdominal cavity of a patient depicting the general orientation of the staple housing forming a portion of the stapler utilized in a method of arresting graft migration in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
• FIG. 10 is a second cut-away view of the abdominal cavity of a patient depicting the general orientation of the staple housing forming a portion of the stapler utilized in the method of arresting graft migration in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
• FIG. 11 is a cut-away view of the abdominal cavity of a patient depicting an initial step of the method of affixing a graft into an aortic aneurysm in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
• FIG. 12 is a cut-away view of the abdominal cavity of a patient depicting a further step of the method of affixing a graft into an aortic aneurysm ofFIG. 11;
• FIG. 13 is a sectional view of a portion of an endovascular stapler in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention inserted into an aortic wall;
• FIG. 14 depicts a cross-sectional view of the distal end of the staple housing of the stapler in accordance with the second embodiment of the present invention in an initial position;
• FIG. 15 depicts a longitudinal section view of the distal end of the staple housing of the stapler in accordance with the second embodiment of the present invention in the initial position shown inFIG. 14;
• FIG. 16 depicts a longitudinal section view of the distal end of the staple housing of the stapler in accordance with the second embodiment of the present invention in an advanced position;
• FIG. 17 depicts a cross-sectional view of the distal end of the staple housing of the stapler in accordance with the second embodiment of the present invention in the advanced position shown inFIG. 16;
• FIG. 18 depicts a longitudinal section view of the distal end of the staple housing of the stapler in accordance with the second embodiment of the present invention in an further advanced position;
• FIG. 19 depicts a cross-sectional view of the distal end of the staple housing of the stapler in accordance with the second embodiment of the present invention in the further advanced position ofFIG. 18;
• FIG. 20 depicts a perspective view of several internal components forming a portion of the stapler in accordance with the second embodiment of the present invention;
• FIG. 21 depicts a cross-sectional view of the distal end of the stapler of the present invention in accordance with a third embodiment;
• FIGS. 22aand22bdepict a triangular apparatus forming a portion of the staple housing which may be utilized in accordance with certain embodiments of the present invention,FIG. 22bdepicting the triangular apparatus in a parallel relation andFIG. 22adepicting the triangular apparatus in an angled relation;
• FIG. 23adepicts a perspective view of a staple capable of being utilized with a stapler in accordance with a further embodiment of the present invention;
• FIG. 23bdepicts a perspective view of the staple shown inFIG. 23afollowing firing by the endovascular stapler;
• FIG. 24 depicts a cut-away view of a stapler housing firing the staple ofFIG. 23aduring an initial step of one embodiment of the present invention;
• FIG. 25 depicts a cut-away view of a stapler housing during a further step of firing the staple ofFIG. 23a ;
• FIG. 26 depicts a cut-away view of a stapler housing during a still further step of firing the staple ofFIG. 23a ;
• FIG. 27 depicts a cut-away view of a stapler housing during a still further step of firing the staple ofFIG. 23a ;
• FIG. 28 depicts a cut-away view of a the staple ofFIG. 23afired into and endograft and an aortic wall;
• FIG. 29adepicts a perspective view of a staple capable of being utilized with a stapler in accordance with a still further embodiment of the present invention;
• FIG. 29bdepicts a perspective view of the staple shown inFIG. 29afollowing firing by the endovascular stapler;
• FIG. 30 depicts a cut-away view of a stapler housing firing the staple ofFIG. 29aduring an initial step of one embodiment of the present invention;
• FIG. 31 depicts a cut-away view of a stapler housing during a further step of firing the staple ofFIG. 29a;
• FIG. 32 depicts a cut-away view of a stapler housing during a still further step of firing the staple ofFIG. 29a;
• FIG. 33 depicts a cut-away view of a the staple ofFIG. 29afired into and endograft and an aortic wall;
• FIG. 34 depicts a perspective view of a deformed staple following firing by the endovascular stapler in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
• FIG. 35 depicts a perspective view of several deformed staples following firing by endovascular staplers in accordance with several embodiments of the present invention;
• FIG. 36adepicts a perspective view of the distal end of an endovascular stapler in accordance with another emobodiment of the present invention;
• FIG. 36bdepicts a cross-sectional view of the distal end of the endovascular stapler shown inFIG. 36ainserted within a vessel;
• FIG. 37adepicts a perspective view of the distal end of the endovascular stapler shown inFIG. 36a, with its associated biasing mechanism partially deployed;
• FIG. 37bdepicts a cross-sectional view of the distal end of the endovascular stapler shown inFIG. 37ainserted within a vessel;
• FIG. 38adepicts a perspective view of the distal end of the endovascular stapler shown inFIG. 36a, with its associated biasing mechanism fully deployed; and,
• FIG. 38bdepicts a cross-sectional view of the distal end of the endovascular stapler shown inFIG. 38ainserted within a vessel.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
• In the following is described the preferred embodiments of the endovascular stapler of the present invention. In describing the embodiments illustrated in the drawings, specific terminology will be used for the sake of clarity. However, the invention is not intended to be limited to the specific terms so selected, and it is to be understood that each specific term includes all technical equivalents that operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar purpose.
• In general, the endovascular stapler is a device which includes a stapling portion, or staple housing, intended to be inserted into the human body of a patient through an artery and apposed against a vessel wall, such as an aortic wall, or a graft. In order to maintain this position, a displacement device, such as a balloon, may be inflated near the stapling portion to push the stapling portion against the aortic wall or graft. Preferably, the displacement device is a noncompliant balloon. However, compliant balloons may also be utilized. Other displacement devices comprising webbed elements or multiple rods may also be utilized. A staple may then be advanced through the aortic wall and graft by actuating a trigger located on the body of the endovascular stapler, which remains outside of the patient's body. The staple may be either preformed with the some initial curvature or it may be flat. Either way, the stapling portion typically includes a conforming element to curve the staple as it advances. The staple will then penetrate the aortic wall and the graft and will curve in a predictable path such that its leading edge loops back, possibly repenetrating the exterior of the aortic wall and graft, thus holding the aortic wall and the graft against each other.
• In embodiments where multiple staples may be inserted, the noncompliant balloon may be deflated and the stapler may be rotated to a second position, wherein another staple may be driven. The process may be repeated numerous times over the full 360° until a sufficient number of staples have been driven to adequately secure the graft to the aortic wall. Typically, this will entail driving up to eight staples.
• In embodiments where the endovascular stapler houses only a single staple, the central portion of the stapler may be removed, reloaded and reinserted numerous times in order to drive multiple staples. Alternatively, several pre-loaded staplers may be provided. After discharging the staple from the first stapler, the stapler may be removed and discarded, wherein a second stapler may be inserted. This process may be repeated until a sufficient number of staples have been driven. Thus, the surgical staff will generally be ready with up to eight pre-loaded staplers per procedure, each stapler being utilized successively.
• The endovascular stapler of the present invention may be an “over the wire” device designed to fit through a typical sheath for aortic and iliac arterial use, such as a 10 French sheath. It is also possible that the stapler may be miniaturized to fit through smaller sheaths for fixation of endografts in smaller caliber vessels.
• In some embodiments, the stapler fires multiple staples sequentially. In such cases, the staples may consist of special precuts of alloy, such as Phynox, with sufficient column strength to be stacked in tandem within the staple channel and to be sequentially pushed therethrough. The staples must also be sufficiently pliable to easily track the curved internal staple guide, for some embodiments of the invention. In other embodiments, the staples must be loaded individually. In still further embodiments, the staples may be loaded automatically from a cartridge, but are not stacked in tandem. Rather, they may reside side-by-side in the cartridge.
• The stapler is generally introduced through a groin sheath or other suitable access into the lumen of an endograft. Its leading elements are advanced to the proximal end of the endograft which should be accurately identified. Such identification may be by utilizing an ultrasonic probe. For future endografts, the ends of the graft fabric may be boldly marked with radio opaque thread. For older devices, radiologic techniques such as road mapping may be used to locate the ends of the graft. As is known in the art, multiple guide wires may be used during surgery.
• When the stapling portion of the stapler is aligned with the proximal end of the endograft, the stapler head may be forcibly abutted against the endograft and vessel wall by inflation of a preferably noncompliant balloon. In this position, a single stroke of the stapler trigger preferably causes forward displacement of the staple pusher sufficient to advance a single staple through the graft and vessel wall.
• In some embodiments, the curve of the staple guide causes the staple to form a circle or spiral, with a single piercing point on the leading portion of the staple. In other embodiments, the staple may form an exaggerated W. In this case, each end of the staple will pierce the endograft and the vessel wall as the staple is deformed by a staple detente.
• In the case of an automatically loading stapler with staples aligned in tandem, the trigger of the stapler handle is then ratcheted back and cocked for the next firing. The specialized ratcheted design of this pusher and trigger is such that when fully cocked, a single trigger pull causes exactly the pusher excursion required to deploy the lead staple fully and bring the trailing staple segment into position at the tip of the curved staple guide for the firing of the next staple. For single staple designs, the stapler may be retracted and reloaded prior to the firing of a second staple. Alternately, additional staplers may be utilized during a single procedure, each firing only a single staple. Where multiple staples are fired from a cartridge holding staples side-by-side, the ratcheting mechanism of the trigger may include a feature permitting the pusher to be withdrawn back toward the body of the stapler, such that it is positioned for the firing of subsequent staples after the firing of a previous staple.
• Inflation and deflation of the preferably noncompliant balloon may be performed manually or with any of the many available devices used for inflation and deflation of angioplasty balloons. A liquid such as dilute contrast or saline may also be used to distend the balloon.
• Following each staple deployment, the balloon may be partially deflated, the stapler rotated, and the process repeated to deploy the next staple. For embodiments where staples are aligned in tandem, one limiting factor to the number of staples per device, and thus the length of the device, is the column strength of the staple alloy as the staples aligned in a row are each driven by the trailing staples, and ultimately by the excursion of the staple pusher. It will be readily apparent that the staples should be of sufficient column strength so as not to become deformed within the stapler prior to being applied. It will also be apparent that a single staple may be required to push several proceeding staples.
• In embodiments where the staples are stored in tandem, the staples may be cut such that the diamond shaped tip of each trailing staple fits into a diamond shaped cavity formed at the end of each leading staple. For devices employing a single staple or employing a cartridge of side-by-side staples, the column strength of the individual staple is less of a concern. Of course, it should be sufficient to adequately secure the stent graft, however. In other embodiments, the individual staples may each be pushed by individual staple pushers.
• Referring to the figures,FIG. 1 depicts anendovascular stapler100 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. As is shown, thestapler100 may generally be shaped like a gun. Thestapler100 may comprise ahousing102 having ahandle104 and atrigger106 extending therefrom. The housing may also include abarrel101 having anoutput aperture110. Aninput boss108 may be located at the rear103 of thehousing102. Aguide wire112 may extend into the input boss. Extending from theoutput aperture110 may be astaple housing114. Thestapler100 may also include aballoon inflation port116.
• FIG. 2 depicts a cut-away view of thestapler100 ofFIG. 1. As shown, thetrigger106 may comprise aninner section105 and anouter section107. The inner section15 may also include agrip109, exterior to thehousing102. Theinner section105 may include apin128 attaching thetrigger106 to thehousing102, and about which the trigger may rotate. Thetrigger106 may also include a spring mechanism (not shown) to bias thetrigger106 away from thehandle104. Theouter section107 of thetrigger106 may be attached to the inner section by aspring132. Advantageously, theouter section107 is permitted to shift relative to theinner section105, to compress thespring132. Atoothed element126 of theouter section107 includesteeth109 having slopedsections138 and edges, orlips140. Each of the slopedsections138 of theteeth109 assist with ratcheting action of thetrigger106, as will be discussed hereinafter.
• A ratchetedstapler pusher120 may curve between thetrigger106 and a path created by theinternal cavity118 formed from thehousing102. Thepusher120 may include a ratchetedportion122 at its trailing portion and acylindrical portion124 at its leading portion. The ratchetedportion122 includes slopedsections138 which may engage thetoothed elements126 of thestapler trigger106. Upon actuation of thestapler trigger106, which initiates rotation of thetoothed elements126 aboutpin128, thepusher120 may be displaced through thebarrel101 toward the distal end130 (FIG. 4) of thestapler100. As thetrigger106 is returned to its initial position,spring132 permits ratcheting of thetoothed elements126 such that thepusher120 remains in this advanced position. Portions of the ratchetedportion122 of thepusher120 may be stored in a spiral configuration withinstaging area134, located within thehandle104 of thestapler100.
• Also shown inFIG. 2 are the internal components of theinput boss108. Theinput boss108 comprises aflange111 formed from thehousing102. The flange includes acavity113 extending into theinternal cavity118 of thehousing102. Within thecavity113 near theflange111 may be a pair of rubberized elements115 having aboundary117 therebetween. The guide wire112 (FIG. 1) may be permitted to pass along this boundary from the exterior of thehousing102 to theinternal cavity118. Once inside theinternal cavity118, the guide wire may be permitted to extend through thebarrel101 into the guide wire channel144 (FIG. 4) of thestaple housing114, as will be discussed.
• FIG. 3 depicts a perspective view of thepusher120. This figure clearly depicts thecylindrical portion124 at the front of thepusher120 and the ratchetedportion122 at the rear of the pusher. The ratchetedportion122 may comprise a series oframps136 having slopedsections138 ending inlips140. As discussed, thetoothed element126 of thestapler trigger106 incorporatesteeth109 which may be sized and configured similarly to the slopedsections138. The engagement of each of these elements facilitates displacement of thepusher120 when thetrigger106 is activated, but permits ratcheting of the trigger upon the return stroke.
• Also shown inFIG. 3 is thefront face119 ofpusher120. As will be discussed, thefront face119 of the pusher may be adapted to contact and advance a series of staples148 (FIG. 4).
• FIG. 4 depicts a longitudinal sectional view of thedistal end130 of thestaple housing114. As shown, thestaple housing114 may incorporate astaple channel142, aguide wire channel144, and aballoon inflation channel146. Each of the channels may be generally cylindrical and typically run the entire length of thestaple housing114 from theoutlet aperture110 of thehousing102 to thedistal end130 of thestaple channel146.
• Thestaple channel142 typically houses a series ofstaples148 placed consecutively in tandem including a first staple148aand a second staple148b. Preferably, each staple has a pointedproximal end150 and adistal end152 with acavity154 or recess matching the pointed proximal end. The cavity of the leading staple, such as the first staple148a, therefore may be filled by the pointedproximal end150 of the subsequent staple, such as the second staple148b.
• As will be discussed, thestapler100 is generally employed to fire a multiplicity ofstaples148 sequentially to secure a graft to a vessel. Thestaples148 preferably consist of special precuts of alloy, such as Phynox, with sufficient column strength to be placed in tandem within thestaple channel142 so as to be pushed ahead by the trailing staples. Each of thestaples148 is also preferably sufficiently pliable to easily track the curved internalstaple guide151.
• For example, the first staple148amay be pushed by the second staple148b, as well as the subsequent staples, by thepusher120 upon actuation of thetrigger106. As the first staple travels along thestaple channel142, it will begin to be bent by a bendingportion153 of thestaple channel142, toward thedistal end130 of thestaple housing114. It will be appreciated that the bendingportion153 of the staple housing curves such that the staple148 exiting the bending portion will be pre-curved as it enters theinternal staple guide151. As will be discussed hereinafter, as the staple148 passes thestaple guide151, it will continue to be shaped such that the staple will form a loop capable of penetrating each of a graft and a vessel in at least two locations.
• Theguide wire channel144 extends along the entire length of thestaple housing114 parallel and adjacent to thestaple channel142. The guide wire channel provides a housing for theguide wire112, which is used to advance thedistal end130 of thestapler100 to the location where the stapling is to be conducted.
• Generally, advancement of theendovascular stapler100 is considered to be via an “over the wire” type system. As an “over the wire” device, thestaple housing114 portion of thestapler100 is designed to be guided through vessels following the path of a previously installedguide wire112. For example, aguide wire112 may be placed in an artery in a surgical procedure. Thedistal end130 of thestaple housing114 may then be pushed along the length of theguide wire112, which travels from a guidewire exit point155 at thedistal end130, through theguide wire channel144 and out theinput boss108 of thehousing102. Once thedistal end130 reaches its destination, advancement may cease and thestapler100 is ready deploy astaple148. It will be appreciated that thestaple housing114 may be constructed of flexible materials such that it may bend as necessary along the path toward the area in which astaple148 is to be deployed.
• Preferably, the endovascular stapler of the present invention is designed to fit through a 10 French sheath or 16 French sheath for aortic and iliac arterial use. However, it is also foreseeable that the stapler may be miniaturized to fit through smaller sheaths for fixation of endografts in smaller caliber vessels. Where deemed appropriate, larger sheaths may also be utilized.
• Also shown inFIG. 4 is theballoon inflation channel146 of thestaple housing114. Extending from theballoon inflation channel146 is anoncompliant balloon156. In the view shown inFIG. 4, it will be appreciated that thenoncompliant balloon156 is shown inflated. In a deflated condition, the noncompliant balloon is generally quite thin, and typically fits neatly against theballoon inflation channel146.
• Thenoncompliant balloon156 may be inflated prior to the firing of astaple148. One purpose of inflating thenoncompliant balloon156 is to force thestaple exit area158 of thestaple housing114 against the area where thestaple148 is to be fired. This not only places the staple148 immediately adjacent to the receiving area, but it assists with preventing thestaple housing114 from being moved, linearly or rotationally, during the firing of thestaple148.
• Selective inflation and deflation of thenoncompliant balloon156 is completed through theballoon inflation port116 of thehousing102. It will be appreciated that theballoon inflation port116 may include a valve (not shown) upon which a liquid source (not shown) may be attached. The liquid source may be permitted to flow into theballoon inflation port116 to inflate thenoncompliant balloon156. Deflation of thenoncompliant balloon156 may be accomplished at theballoon inflation port116 by releasing liquid therefrom, such as by opening the valve or by sucking liquid out of thenoncompliant balloon156 through use of the liquid source, which may have the capability of reversing direction of flow to form a vacuum. It will be appreciated that theballoon inflation port116 is in fluid communication with thenoncompliant balloon156 via theballoon inflation channel146. Inflation and deflation may also be conducted with any of the available devices used for inflation and deflation of angioplasty balloons. Typically, the liquid used for inflating and deflating the balloon will be dilute contrast or saline.
• Upon firing of thestaple148, thenoncompliant balloon156 may then be deflated so thestaple housing114 may be rotated to a second position in preparation for the firing of asecond staple148. Prior to firing thesecond staple148, thenoncompliant balloon156 may be re-inflated to place thestaple exit area158 of thestapler100 in position in preparation for firing.
• FIG. 5 depicts a cross sectional view of thestaple housing114 taken along section line A-A ofFIG. 4. As withFIG. 4, thenoncompliant balloon156 is shown inflated. As shown inFIG. 5, theguide wire channel144 may be offset within thestaple housing114 around the staple exit area158 (also shown inFIG. 4). This offset allows for the formation of thecurved area153 of thestaple channel142, as well as thestaple guide151 along the longitudinal centerline of thestaple housing114.
• FIG. 6 depicts a cross sectional view of thestaple housing114 taken along section line B-B ofFIG. 4. As shown inFIG. 4, section line B-B is taken closer to thehousing102 than section line A-A. In this cross-section, thestaple exit area158 is not yet visible. Yet, astaple148 within thestaple channel142 and theguide wire112 within theguide wire channel144 clearly are. In addition, thenoncompliant balloon156 is shown in the inflated condition.
• FIG. 7 depicts a cross sectional view of thestaple housing114 taken along section line C-C ofFIG. 4. In this upstream section, it is clearly shown that the stapledchannel142,guide wire channel144 andballoon inflation channel146 may all be stacked on a single vertical axis within thestaple housing114. This orientation constitutes the orientation of thevarious channels142,144,146 for most of the length of thestaple housing114.
• FIG. 8 depicts a longitudinal section view of thedistal end130 ofstaple housing114 shown inFIG. 4 taken along section lines D-D. In this view, thestaple exit area158 is clearly depicted with theproximal end150 of the staple148 nearest thedistal end130 of thestaple housing114. Also shown in theguide wire channel144 with theguide wire112 offset to permit formation of thestaple exit area158.
• FIG. 9 depicts astaple housing114 inserted into a sheath within the human body. Thestaple housing114 is typically introduced into the groin or other suitable access area where it follows the previously insertedguide wire112 into the lumen of the endograft to be sutured. Also shown inFIG. 9 is thenoncompliant balloon156 in a fully inflated condition. As previously discussed, thedistal end130 of thestaple housing114 will be pushed against the aortic sidewall by thenoncompliant balloon156. When so pushed, a first staple148amay be fired.Subsequent staples148 may be fired after deflation of thenoncompliant balloon156, rotation of thestaple housing114 and inflation of the noncompliant balloon such that thestaple exit area158 is aligned at the intended deployment location.
• FIG. 10 depicts a close-up cut-away view of thedistal end130 of theendovascular stapler100 in use. As discussed, thedistal end130 of thestapler100 may be inserted into theaorta160 through a sheath (not shown) along aguide wire112. Theproximal end130 may then be positioned so as to cover theaortic aneurysm162 intended to be cured. As previously discussed, thenoncompliant balloon156 may then be enlarged such that thestaple exit area158 of thestapler100 will be pushed up against theendograft164 and theaortic sidewall160, as shown inFIG. 10.
• FIG. 11 depicts a longitudinal section view of this arrangement showing the internal components of thestaple housing114. In this view, it is clearly shown that the first staple148ais being pushed by the second staple148bthrough thecurved area153 of thestaple channel142. Such curvature of the staple channel deforms the first staple148apermitting the staple to curve around the curved internalstaple guide151 toward thestaple exit area158. Again, thestaple exit area158 is shown adjacent to the area in which thestaple148 is to be deployed. Secure placement of thestaple exit area158 is achieved via inflation of thenoncompliant balloon156.
• FIG. 12 depicts the longitudinal section view ofFIG. 11 after the firing of astaple148. As shown,internal staple guide151 has formed the staple148 into a ring or loop engaging theendograft164 and theaortic sidewall160 from the interior of theaorta160 and then returning back around to again engage theaortic sidewall160 and theendograft164 from the exterior of the aorta. As previously discussed, thenoncompliant balloon156 may then be temporarily deflated such that thestaple housing114 may be rotated and placed in a position for the firing of a second staple148b.
• The stapler is typically introduced into the patient through a groin sheath or other suitable access into the lumen of the endograft. It is advanced to the proximal end of the endograft which should be accurately identified. For future endografts, the ends of the graft fabric is boldly marked with radio opaque thread. For older devices, radiologic techniques such as road mapping may be used to locate the ends of the graft. As is known in the art, multiple guide wires may be used during surgery.
• As will be discussed, the staples may be driven in the direction of blood flow or against the direction of blood flow, depending on the embodiment of endovascular stapler utilized. These two directions may depend on the configuration of the particular staple utilized, as will be discussed. Other factors may also contribute to the determination of an installment direction.
• When the stapling end of the stapler is aligned with the end of the endograft, the stapler head is forcibly abutted against the endograft and vessel wall by inflation of a balloon. In this position, pulling of the stapler trigger causes forward displacement of the staple pusher sufficient to advance a single staple through the graft and vessel wall. The curve of the staple guide causes the staple to form a circle. The trigger of the stapler handle is then cocked for the next firing. The specialized ratcheted design of this pusher and trigger is such that when fully cocked, the trigger pull causes exactly the pusher excursion needed to deploy the lead staple fully and bring the trailing staple segment into position at the tip of the curved staple guide.
• Inflation of the preferably noncompliant balloon may be performed manually or with any of the many available devices used for inflation of angioplasty balloons. A liquid such as dilute contrast or saline may be used to distend the balloon.
• Following each staple deployment, the balloon is deflated, the stapler is rotated and the process is repeated to deploy the next staple. The only limiting factor to the number of staples per device, and thus the length of the device, is the column strength of the staple alloy as the staples aligned in a row are driven each by the trailing staple and ultimately by the excursion of the staple pusher.
• The staples may be cut such that the diamond shaped tip of the trailing staple fits into the diamond shaped cavity formed at the end of the lead staple. In other embodiments, individual staple pushers may push each staple.
• FIG. 14 depicts a cross-sectional view of a portion of thestaple housing214 of an endovascular stapler (not shown) in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, asingle staple248, formed in the shape of an elongated W may be applied to secure agraft264 against a vessel, shown inFIG. 14 as anaortic wall260. Typically, the chief function of a stapler in accordance with this embodiment is for use to arrest device migration of a previously placed endograft. Other embodiments employing multiple elongated W-shaped staples may also be used to arrest device migration of a previously implanted endograft or to affix a new endograft. Still further embodiments permit the withdrawal of portions of the stapler which may then be replaced with other portions pre-loaded with a staple for a subsequent firing.
• FIG. 13 depicts a partially cut-away perspective view of astapler housing214 and anoncompliant balloon256 inserted within anaortic wall260 in preparation for attachment of astent graft264. As shown inFIG. 13, thestapler housing214 may be placed into position by being strung along aguide wire212 in an “over the wire” type system, as previously discussed. Once positioned properly, such that thestaple exit area258 is adjacent to the intended deployment area, thenoncompliant balloon256 may be inflated, as shown inFIG. 13, to push the staple exit area against thestent graft264, which in turn is pushed against theaortic wall260. The staple248 may then be fired and thestapler housing214 removed. Firing of the staple248 may be achieved utilizing a housing with a ratcheted trigger, as with other embodiments of the invention.
• As shown inFIG. 14, thestaple housing214 may include anexterior casing300 having astaple exit area258 at its distal end230 (FIG. 15). Apusher220 may extend the full length of theexterior casing300, from stapler to thestaple exit area258. As shown inFIG. 15, thepusher220 includes a taperedsection302 adjacent thestaple exit area258. The taperedsection302 includes aninclined surface304. Adjacent theinclined surface304 is anactuator306. Theactuator306 includes aninclined surface308 adjacent theinclined surface304 of the taperedsection302.
• Referring back toFIG. 14, there is shown astaple détente310 shown within theexterior casing300. Although not shown in the figures, thestapler détente310 is connected at one end to theexterior housing300 by a rotatable connection, such as ahinge312 mounted to the housing or to protruding portions of the housing. Two such protruding portions may also support a rod about which thedétente310 may be rotated and to which thedétente310 may be connected. The rod may span the protruding portions or may be connected to them at internal intervals of the rod.
• Thesecond end314 of thestaple détente310 may extend toward thestaple exit area258, to divide the staple exit area into a first staple exit area258A and a second staple exit area258B, as shown inFIG. 15. Aspring313 may be mounted between theexterior casing300 and thestaple détente310 such that the détente is biased into the position shown inFIG. 14, where the spring is shown in its fully extended position. As will be discussed, thedétente310 may be rotated from this position upon application of a compressive force upon thespring313.
• As with the first embodiment, aguide wire channel244 is also located within thestaple housing214. Theguide wire channel244 permits the use of aguide wire212 in an “over the wire” system, to properly place thestaple exit area258.
• FIG. 14 also depicts a portion of anoncompliant balloon256. Thenoncompliant balloon256 of the second embodiment may be completely exterior of thestaple housing214. Thenoncompliant balloon256 is intended to be inflated such that thestaple housing214 will be pushed against thestent graft264 such that the stent graft may be firmly apposed against theaortic wall260.
• Also included within thestaple housing214 is an elongated W-shapedstaple248. As shown inFIG. 15, thestaple248 includes twoU-shaped sections316 connected by abridge318. Each of theU-shaped sections316 of thestaple248 sits against thefront surface320 of theactuator306. At the extreme ends of thestaple248, thefront surface320 extends out to formflanges324 which act to capture the staple and secure it in place. In addition, thefront surface320 of the actuator is curved, as shown inFIG. 14, to assist with securing the staple248 in place.
• As the trigger of the stapler is actuated, the ratchetedstapler pusher220 is advanced toward thedistal end230 of thestaple housing214. As shown inFIG. 16, advancement of thepusher220 toward thedistal end230 of thestaple housing214 causes theinclined surface304 of the pusher to contact theinclined surface308 of theactuator306. As thepusher220 is advanced, thefront surface320 of theactuator306 will be pushed perpendicularly toward thestaple exit area258 due to the interaction between theinclined surfaces304,308. Advancement of theactuator306 will push thebridge318 of the staple248 against thesecond end314 of thestaple détente310, as shown inFIGS. 16 and 17. This advancement causes portions of theU-shaped sections316 of the staple248 to flatten along the axis of thebridge318 andfront surface320 of theactuator306. Other portions of theU-shaped sections316 extend from within thestaple housing214 such that the pointed ends251 of the staple may penetrate theendograft264 and theaortic wall260.
• Referring briefly toFIG. 20, thepusher220, in accordance with the second embodiment of the present invention, is shown with anelevated portion324 on itsside326. Theelevated portion324 includes atransition area328 ramping down toward the flat surface of theside326 of thepusher220. As thepusher220 is displaced, theelevated portion324 moves toward themiddle portion313 of thestaple détente310. Once thetransition area328 comes in contact with themiddle portion313 of thestaple détente310, the staple détente will be rotated about itsfirst end311 athinge312 to compress thespring313 such that itssecond end314 is no longer in contact with thestaple248.
• FIG. 19 depicts a cross-sectional view of a portion of thestaple housing214 of an endovascular stapler where thepusher220 has been advanced such that theelevated portion324 is in contact with thestaple détente310. It will be appreciated that advance of thepusher220 and deflection of thestaple détente310 is conducted against the biasing force of thespring313.
• FIG. 18 depicts apusher220 in its fully advanced position such that thestaple détente310 is no longer in contact with thestaple248. As shown inFIG. 18, it will be appreciated that prior to thestaple détente310 being rotated away from thestaple248, theU-shaped sections316 of the staple248 will have curved around such that the pointed ends251 of the staple extend back into theaortic wall260, and thebridge318 is extended to include portions of the U-shaped sections, thus forming a closed staple.
• The endovascular stapler disclosed with respect to the second embodiment of the present invention is intended to fire asingle staple248. As disclosed, if asubsequent staple248 was required, the entirestaple housing214, possibly including thenoncompliant balloon256, would be removed from within the body so a second staple may be loaded. Once loaded, thestaple housing214 and, if necessary, thenoncompliant balloon256 may then be reinserted into the body such that asecond staple248 may be fired. This procedure may be repeated as necessary to arrest the migration of the endovascular graft or fully affix a new graft. Rather than reloading the endovascular stapler, a surgeon may choose to be provided with a plurality of endovascular staplers such that each may be utilized in succession without having to be reloaded. It will be appreciated that provision of numerous endovascular staplers saves time in the operating arena, where the duration of an operation is preferably minimized.
• In a further embodiment, depicted inFIG. 21, ahousing330 may be disposed between thestaple housing214 and thenoncompliant balloon256. Such ahousing330 permits withdrawal of thestaple housing214, while leaving a cavity within thehousing330 wherein the staple housing may be returned after being reloaded with a subsequent staple (or where the housing of the second or subsequent stapler, may be inserted). Thenoncompliant balloon256 may then be partially deflated to permit thestaple exit area258 to be rotated to a subsequent position for the firing of asubsequent staple248. In this regard,additional staples248 beyond the initial staple may be inserted in a relatively quick manner, as compared to other embodiments where thenoncompliant balloon258 may be removed and reinserted.
• In further embodiments, additional staples may be mounted on a cartridge within thestaple housing214 to permit the automatic reloading of the device with additional staples. If so provided, a mechanism is included within the housing of the stapler to override the ratcheting function of the stapler trigger, such that the pusher may be retracted to the position shown inFIG. 15 from the position shown inFIG. 18. Once retracted into the position shown inFIG. 15, it is anticipated that a spring loaded stapler feed mechanism may re-load the actuator with an additional staple automatically. Preferably, the automatic loading device would be capable of feeding up to seven staples, such that a total of eight staples may be fired without removal of the staple housing. It will be appreciated that eight staples are generally sufficient to connect the graft to a vessel. Of course, a loading device capable of supplying a greater number of staples may also be provided.
• In further embodiments, multiple staples may be fired simultaneously from a singlestaple housing214. In such embodiments, thestaple housing214 may includemultiple staples316 arranged radially about a centerline of the staple housing. Thestaples316 may also be side-by-side in a linear relationship. Each of thestaples316 may be deployed simultaneously through interaction of thepusher220 and theactuator306. In such embodiments, thestaple housing214 preferably includes astaple détente310 for each staple to be deployed. For example, in one embodiment employing twostaples316, astaple détente310 may be mounted on each side of thepusher220 byseparate hinges312. Each of thedétentes310 may be on opposite sides of thepusher220, such that they can freely rotate without interfering with each other.
• In addition to utilizing a balloon, such as the noncompliant balloon, to abut the staple exit area of the staple housing against the vessel wall or graft, other means may be employed. For example, as shown inFIGS. 22aand22b, a simple triangularshaped apparatus400 may be utilized. Theapparatus400 may comprise twoelongate rods402,404. Thefirst end406 of thefirst rod402 may be pivotally attached to thedistal end130 of thestaple housing114 by apin408. Thesecond end410 of thefirst rod402 may be pivotally attached to thefirst end412 of thesecond rod404 by apin414. Finally, thesecond end416 of thesecond rod404 may be slideingly engaged to thestaple housing114 This sliding engagement may be achieved by utilizing apin420 slideable within agroove422 created in the staple housing. Ahandle418 may extend the length of thestaple housing114 to thehousing102 of thestapler100.
• Typically, if therods402,404 are parallel to the longitudinal axis of the staple housing, such as shown inFIG. 22b, they will be adjacent to thestaple housing114, tight against its exterior wall. If thehandle418 is pushed forward toward thedistal end130 of thestapler100, it will be appreciated that the pivot point between thefirst rod402 and thesecond rod404, located atpin414, will be forced to extend from the exterior wall of thestaple housing114, as shown inFIG. 22a. If thatpivot point414 contacts the inner wall of a vessel, it will force the opposite side of the staple housing to move away from the portion of the inner wall contacting the pivot portion. Thus, the apparatus may be mounted opposite thestaple exit158 area to appose the staple exit area against the vessel wall in a predetermined area. Of course, multiple such triangular apparatuses, or parallelograms of greater than three sides comprising additional components, may also be utilized. In certain applications this type of displacement device may be preferred as it will not completely block or occlude the vessel, such that blood flow may continue.
• In addition, although not shown, it will be appreciated that in other embodiments, thehandle418 may be positioned within a channel extending through the interior of the staple housing, similar to the balloon inflation channel previously discussed.
• The staples utilized throughout this invention may also be constructed of memory alloys, such as Nitinol. For example, staple148ashown inFIG. 4 may be formed so as to create a loop, as shown inFIG. 12, in its natural condition. If so formed, the staple148ashould therefore be straightened prior to insertion into the endovascular stapler. Upon exiting the stapler, the staple148amay then return to its natural condition owing particularly to the function of the memory metal, and not through bending or other shaping induced by the endovascular stapler. In the case of a memory metal, the internal staple guide serves to control the return of the staple to its default or natural condition such that the desired layers of endograft and vessel, as the case may be, are penetrated and repenetrated to achieve the desired fixation.
• FIG. 23adepicts a staple1400 which may be utilized in conjunction with an endovascular stapler in accordance with a further embodiment of the present invention. The condition shown inFIG. 23ais the staple's1400 natural condition. Preferably, thestaple1400 is constructed of a memory alloy such as Nitinol, as is commonly used in the art. Within the staple housing of an endovascular stapler, thestaple1400 will typically be deformed into the condition shown inFIG. 23b.
• As shown inFIG. 23b, thestaple1400 may be predominantly U-shaped in its deformed condition and may comprise a pair oflegs1402,1404 connected by acentral portion406. Each of the pair oflegs1402,1404 may terminate withspiked ends1408,1410.
• Upon application into the endograft and vessel utilizing the techniques to be discussed, thestaple1400 may be permitted to return back to its natural condition into the shape shown inFIG. 23a. As shown, thelegs1402,1404 may be bent intoloops1403,1405 such that the spiked ends1408,1410 are adjacent to thecentral portion1406. During the application process, the spiked ends1408,1410 may pierce the endograft and vessel so as to securely attach the two together.
• FIG. 24 depicts a cut-away view of the distal end of one embodiment of astapler housing1412 which may be utilized to deploy the staple1400 shown inFIG. 23a. It will be appreciated that the orientation of thestapler housing412 positioned inFIG. 24 is such that the patient's heart is located toward the side labeled B while an artery is located toward the side labeled A. Thestaple housing1412 is preferably inserted into the body from the side labeled A, toward the heart.
• As shown inFIG. 24, thestaple housing1412 may be placed such that itsstaple exit area1414 is adjacent to anendograft1416 intended to be connected to anaortic wall1418. As discussed with respect to other embodiments of the present invention, a non-compliant balloon or other structure may be utilized to maintain this position.
• Staples1400,1400′ may be pre-placed in tandem within thestaple housing1412, prior to entry into the patient. It will be appreciated that thestaples1400,1400′ should be stretched from their natural condition prior to loading within thestaple housing1412 for certain embodiments of the present invention. Ratcheting the trigger of the stapler may pull thestaple pusher1419 toward the stapler body, rather than away from the stapler body as discussed with respect to previous embodiments.
• As thestaple1400 is pushed toward the stapler body by thestaple pusher1419 in conjunction with the ratcheting trigger, thestaple1400 may travel along the arcuate path of theinternal staple guide1422 bounded partially byflanges1420 and the limits of the internal staple guide.
• FIG. 25 depicts a further step in this process. As shown inFIG. 25, thestraight legs1402,1404 of the staple1400 may be permitted to form back intoloops1403,1405 as the staple is pushed forward toward thestaple exit area1414. The leading spiked ends1408,1410 may therefore penetrate theendograft1416 and theaortic wall1418 as theloops1403,1405 are formed. Formation ofsuch loops1403,1405 preferably secures theendograft1416 to theaortic wall1418. As with previous embodiments, it will be appreciated that a non-compliant balloon or other device may be utilized to ensure that thestaple exit area1414 is directly adjacent to theendograft1416 to be stapled, and that the endograft is pressed against theaortic wall1418.
• Sizing of theloops1403,1405 may be advantageously controlled by selection of anappropriate staple1400. Accordingly, astaple1400 with a given loop diameter in its natural condition should return to that loop diameter upon discharge from thestaple exit area1414, regardless of the geometry of theinternal staple guide1422. In this regard, several sized staples may be utilized with a single endovascular stapler. Typically,staple loops1403,1405 range in size from approximately 2 mm to 6 mm, with 3 mm or 4 mm being a common size for fixation with the aorta. For smaller or thinner vessels, 2 mm preformed loops are typical. Under normal conditions, the diameter or caliber of thevarious staples1400 remains constant though theirloops1403,1405 may vary in diameter. If required, the diameter or caliber of the staple1400 may also be varied.
• A further step in the method of deployingstaple1400 is shown inFIG. 26. As shown inFIG. 26, thestaple pusher1419 may be permitted to pivot about its heel1424 into the open space1425 provided in theinternal staple guide1422 near thestaple exit area1414 such that it preferably pushes thecentral portion1406 of the staple1400 completely against theendograft1416 while theloops1403,1405 are formed. The natural action of the staple1400 in forming theloops1403,1405 may also assist with securing the staple in place. The length of the pivoting portion1426 of thestaple pusher1419 may be strategically designed to approximately equal the height of theinternal staple guide1422 such that upon rotation of approximately 90 degrees, the rotating portion1426 of the staple pusher will fill the height of the internal staple guide to push thecentral portion1406 of the staple completely against theendograft1416.
• Upon initiation of rotation of the rotating portion1426 of thestaple pusher1419, the rotation portion may contact afixed block1428 provided for that purpose. The fixedblock1428 serves to further rotate the rotating portion1426 of thestaple pusher1419 to angles beyond 90 degrees, such as is shown inFIG. 27 depicting a still further step in the method of deployingstaple1400.
• As the rotating portion1426 of thestaple pusher1419 is further rotated and positioned away from thestaple exit area1414, asecond staple1400′ may be brought toward the staple exit area by asecond staple pusher1419′ as shown inFIG. 27. The non-compliant balloon or similar device may then be manipulated to permit rotation of thestaple housing1412 such that thestaple exit area1414 is rotated or otherwise moved to a position adjacent to the previously deployedstaple1400. The non-compliant balloon or similar device may then be manipulated to push thestaple exit area1414 against theendograft1416 and the endograft against theaortic wall1418 in preparation of the firing of thesecond staple1400′.
• A partially cut-away view of staple1400 completely installed into anendograft1416 and aaortic wall1418 is shown inFIG. 28. It will be appreciated that a series ofstaples1400 installed side by side may be utilized to completely attach theendograft1416 to theaortic wall1418, around the circumference of the endograft. Typically, a series of six to eightstaples1400 may be utilized. As such, a single staple housing may house six to eight staples so the device need only be inserted into the patient once, while still being capable of driving the requisite number ofstaples1400.
• Referring back toFIG. 24, it will be appreciated that thestaple1400 is depicted as being driven away from the patient's heart, the heart being toward the direction labeled B in the figure. In other embodiments, theidentical staple1400 may be driven toward the heart. In such case, the ratcheting trigger will serve to push thestaple pusher1419, rather than pull the staple pusher. Installation of the endovascular driver is typically conducted in a direction toward the heart, regardless of the direction in which thestaple1400 is driven.
• FIG. 29adepicts a staple1450 which may be utilized in conjunction with an endovascular stapler in accordance with a still further embodiment of the present invention. The condition shown inFIG. 29ais the staple's1450 natural condition. Preferably, thestaple1450 is constructed of a memory alloy such as Nitinol, as is commonly used in the art. Within the staple housing of an endovascular stapler, thestaple1450 will typically be deformed into the condition shown inFIG. 29b.
• As shown inFIG. 29b, thestaple1450 may be deformed to be predominantly U-shaped with a tongue area1452 between twolegs1454,1456. Each of the pair oflegs1454,1456 preferably terminates with spiked ends1458,1460.
• The tongue area1452 of staple1450 generally comprises an innerU-shaped tongue1462 formed between two outerU-shaped curves1464,1466 partially forming thelegs1454,1456, as depicted inFIG. 29b.
• As shown inFIG. 29a, in the staple's1450 natural condition, thestaple legs1454,1456form loops1468,1470, the loops being bound between the spiked ends1458,1460 and the outerU-shaped curves1464,1466. As will be discussed, thetongue1462 may be biased by the outerU-shaped curves1464,1466 to apply pressure to tissue and other material held between the tongue and theloops1468,1470.
• FIG. 30 depicts a cut-away view of the distal end of another embodiment of astapler housing1472 which may be utilized to deploy the staple1450 shown inFIG. 29b. It will be appreciated that the orientation of thestapler housing1472 positioned inFIG. 30 is such that the patient's heart is located toward the side labeled B while an artery is located toward the side labeled A. Thestaple housing1472 is preferably inserted into the body from the side labeled A, toward the direction of the heart. In addition, it will be appreciated that thestaples1450 are fired in a direction toward the heart, although they may also be fired in the opposite direction in other embodiments.
• As shown inFIG. 30, thestaple housing1472 may be placed such that thestaple exit area1474 is adjacent to anendograft1416 intended to be connected to anaortic wall1418. As discussed with respect to other embodiments of the present invention, a non-compliant balloon or other structure may be utilized to maintain this position.
• Staples1450 may be pre-placed in tandem within thestaple housing1472, prior to entry into the patient. Ratcheting the trigger of the stapler may therefore act to push thestaple pusher1476 away from the stapler body to fire thestaple1450 through thestaple exit area1474. As thestaple1450 is pushed away from the stapler body by thestaple pusher1476 in conjunction with the ratcheting trigger, thestaple1450 may travel along the arcuate path of theinternal staple guide1478 bounded partially byflanges1480 and the limits of the internal staple guide.
• Thestaple pusher1476 in this embodiment preferably comprises anupper plate1482 and alower extension member1484 extending downward therefrom. As shown inFIG. 30, the lower extension member is preferably sized and configured to fit within thetongue1462 of thestaple1450, between theU-shaped curves1464,1466.
• FIG. 31 depicts a further step in the process of firing staple1450 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. As shown inFIG. 31, thestraight legs1454,1456 of the staple1450 may be permitted by the geometry of theinternal staple guide1478 to form back intoloops1468,1470 as the staple is pushed away from the stapler body and into thestaple exit area1474. The leading spiked ends1458,1460 may penetrate theendograft1416 and theaortic wall1418 as theloops1468,1470 are formed. Formation ofsuch loops1468,1470 preferably secures theendograft1416 to theaortic wall1418. As with previous embodiments, it will be appreciated that a non-compliant balloon or other device may be utilized to ensure that thestaple exit area1474 is directly adjacent to theendograft1416 to be stapled, and that the endograft is pressed against theaortic wall1418.
• A further step in the method of deployingstaple1450 is shown inFIG. 32. As shown inFIG. 32, thestaple pusher1476 extends into thestaple exit area1474, releasing thetongue1462 of thestaple1450. Thestaple1450 is therefore left securing theendograft1416 to theaortic wall1418, as shown inFIG. 33.
• As with other embodiments, the diameter of theloops1468,1470 may vary.Staples1450 preselected with a chosen loop diameter may be loaded into the endovascular stapler prior to the surgical procedure.Staples1450 having various sized loops may be utilized with a single endovascular stapler. The varying loop sizes may affect the excursion required by thepusher1476 to deploy astaple1450, but that is easily remedied by the surgeon in practice. In this regard, each staple length may be associated with a predetermined number of trigger strokes for deployment so the surgeon becomes aware of when the staple is released. Otherwise, visual indication may be provided such as by ultrasound, x-ray, or other known methods.
• One feature of staple1450, and those like it having cantilevered tongues, is that the placement of the staple in relation to the edge1417 of theendograft1416 need not be precise. It will be appreciated that deviations from ideal placements may be accommodated by thetongue1462. For example, thetongue1462 includes a length L. Typically, length L is on the order of approximately 1-10 mm, preferably 5 mm. So long as the edge1417 of theendograft1416 is beneath thetongue1462, the placement of the staple1450 should be considered successful. In this regard, the edge1417 of theendograft1416 may be secured beneath thetongue1462, and will not freely open. Thetongue1462 will therefore secure any “flapping,” or otherwise unsecured portions of the endograft.
• FIG. 34 depicts a perspective view of yet another embodiment of a staple1486 in its natural condition.Staple1486 exhibits many of the advantageous of staple1450 depicted inFIG. 29a, by virtue of its having a pair oftongues1488,1489. Accordingly,staple1486 is capable of applying greater pressure to material trapped between thetongues1488,1489 and theloops1490,1492 by virtue of the added material.
• FIG. 35 depicts an array of various embodiments of staples connecting anendograft1416 to anaortic wall1418, includingstaples1400 as shown inFIG. 23b,staple1450 as shown inFIG. 29b, and staple1486 as shown inFIG. 34. It will be appreciated that the staples shown have been fired from different directions, the two inner staples being fired from a direction corresponding to letter A, near the heart, and the two outer staples being driven from a direction corresponding to letter B, farthest from the heart. Nevertheless, each staple is capable of achieving the desired result in an effective manner.
• It will be appreciated that the staples shown and otherwise described throughout this may have a varied number of spiked piercing points in their various embodiments. For example, the staple148ashown inFIG. 4 includes a singlepointed end150 while thestaple1400 shown inFIG. 23aincludes a pair of pointed ends1408,1410. Other embodiments of staples may include additional pointed ends, such as three or more. Each of these ends may be connected by acentral portion1406. Accordingly, and as an example, a single staple may include a fist leg having a pointed end connected to a first central member, a second leg having a pointed end connected on one side to the first central member and on another side to a second central member, and a third leg having a pointed end connected to the second central member, such that the staple forms a W shape with three pointed ends, similar to that found on the head of a trident. It will also be appreciated that the staple legs need not be along the same plane, and may be curved or otherwise angled with respect to each other to conform more closely to the shape of the vessel in which they are intended to be applied. The most limiting factor in determining the number of piercing points, and the curvature of the staple, is practicality of the application.
• As previously discussed, the various embodiments of the endovascular staplers described in accordance with the present invention typically include a non-compliant balloon or other biasing mechanism to ensure that the staple exit area of the endovascular staple is secure against the endograft or vessel wall. Another embodiment of a biasing device which may be utilized for this purpose is shown inFIGS. 36athrough38b.
• As shown inFIG. 36a, the distal end500 of an endovascular stapler may include a recessedhousing504 containing acollapsed biasing mechanism508 there within. Optimally, the biasing mechanism may be completely contained within the endovascular stapler assembly so as to not increase the overall profile of the endovascular stapler.FIG. 36bdepicts a cross-sectional view of an aorta or other vessel with thedistal end502 of an endovascular stapler there within.
• An initial stage of deployment of thebiasing mechanism508 is shown inFIG. 37a. In order to deploy thebiasing mechanism508, the endovascular stapler may include a suitable activation mechanism, such as a rotating knob, sliding pusher, spring loaded trigger, or other device. The biasing mechanism shown comprises anon-compliant balloon510 tethered to thedistal end502 of an endovascular stapler byspokes512. Upon deployment of thebiasing mechanism508, thenon-compliant balloon510 will begin to extend away from thedistal end502 of the endovascular stapler, as shown in the cross-sectional view ofFIG. 37b. Typically, one or more of thespokes512 will be hollow and will be in fluid communication with thenon-compliant balloon510, such that filling of the balloon may be achieved through the spoke. The spokes are also preferably rigid so as to offset the balloon from thedistal end502 of the endovascular stapler.Spokes512 may be constructed of various biocompatible materials, including metals and plastics.
• FIG. 38adepicts a fully deployedballoon512. It will be appreciated that thespokes512 create a web514 therebetween when fully deployed such that blood or other fluid may flow therethrough. As shown inFIG. 38b, theballoon510 and associatedspokes512 serve to ensure that the staple exit area of the endovascular stapler abuts the vessel and/or endograft. Preferably, the staple exit area is positioned directly opposite to thebiasing mechanism508, to maximize the pressure available.
• It will be appreciated that the deployment mechanism (not shown) of theballoon510 is preferably sensitive enough to expand the balloon fully, and then partially deflate the balloon so as to enable the endovascular stapler to rotate. Following rotation, theballoon510 should then again be capable of inflation, such that a subsequent staple may be fired.
• Although the invention herein has been described with reference to particular embodiments, it is to be understood that these embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles and applications of the present invention. It is therefore to be understood that numerous modifications may be made to the illustrative embodiments and that other arrangements may be devised without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.
• In this regard, elements such as the trigger have been described in a particular manner. It is to be understood that the trigger mechanism and others like it, may be manufactured differently. For example, in lieu of a trigger, a simple dial advancement mechanism may be utilized to displace the pusher within the stapler cavity. If so provided, the gear ratio of the dial may be designed such that a given number of turns of the dial will advance the staple pusher a distance coordinated with the length of a single staple.

Claims (43)

1. A method of attaching an endograft to a vessel wall with an endovascular stapler having a distal end and a proximal end with a biasing mechanism associated therewith, said method comprising:

inserting the distal end of the endovascular stapler into the endograft;

activating the biasing mechanism so as to push the distal end of the endovascular stapler against the endograft;

discharging a first staple having a pair of legs connected by a central portion from the endovascular stapler into the endograft and vessel such that the staple legs form a pair of circular loops connected by the central portion.

2. The method ofclaim 1, further comprising the steps of:

partially deactivating the biasing mechanism to permit rotation of the distal end of the endovascular stapler;

rotating the distal end of the endovascular stapler;

reactivating the biasing mechanism so as to push the distal end of the endovascular stapler against the endograft;

discharging a second staple having a pair of legs connected by a central portion from the endovascular stapler into the endograft and vessel such that the staple legs form a pair of circular loops connected by the central portion.

3. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the first staple is constructed from a memory alloy.

4. The method ofclaim 3, wherein the legs of the first staple are predominantly straight while within the stapler prior to said step of discharging.

5. The method ofclaim 4, wherein the natural condition of the first staple is where the legs form circular loops.

6. The method ofclaim 5, wherein the step of discharging permits the first staple to return to its natural condition.

7. The method ofclaim 5, wherein said step of discharging serves to advance a staple pusher within said stapler for discharging the first staple.

8. The method ofclaim 7, wherein the first staple advances along a staple guide, the staple guide retarding the return of the first staple to its natural condition.

9. The method ofclaim 8, wherein the staple pusher includes a pivoting portion and the step of discharging rotates the pivoting portion into the central portion of the first staple such that the central portion of the first staple abuts the endograft.

10. The method ofclaim 4, wherein the straight legs are substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the endograft during said step of inserting.

11. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the endovascular stapler includes a removable cartridge containing a plurality of staples, each of the staples having a pair of legs connected by a central portion.

12. The method ofclaim 11, wherein the legs of the plurality of staples are predominantly straight while within the stapler cartridge.

13. The method ofclaim 12, wherein the natural condition of the plurality of staples is where the legs form circular loops, and said step of discharging permits the first staple to return to its natural condition.

14. The method ofclaim 11, wherein the cartridge is replaceable.

15. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the vessel flows blood from a heart and said step of discharging drives the first staple toward the heart against the direction of blood flow.

16. The method ofclaim 15, wherein said step of discharging is conducted by a trigger mechanism that pushes a staple pusher.

17. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the vessel flows blood from a heart and said step of discharging drives the first staple away from the heart in the direction of blood flow.

18. The method ofclaim 17, wherein said step of discharging is conducted by a trigger mechanism that pulls a staple pusher.

19. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the legs of the discharged first staple form a plane extending parallel to the longitudinal axis of the endograft following said step of discharging.

20. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the step of discharging advances the staple through a staple exit area, the staple exit area being radio opaque.

21. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the vessel flows blood and said step of activating the biasing mechanism does not completely inhibit blood flow.

22. The method ofclaim 2, wherein the vessel flows blood and said steps of activating the biasing mechanism and reactivating the biasing mechanism do not completely inhibit blood flow.

23. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the pair of circular loops are closed.

24. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the circular loops are partial circular loops.

25. A method of attaching an endograft to a vessel wall with an endovascular stapler having a distal end forming a staple exit area along a side thereof, a proximal end with a trigger for deploying staples, and a balloon near the staple exit area, said method comprising:

inserting the distal end of the endovascular stapler into the endograft;

inflating the balloon to push the staple exit area against the endograft; and,

deploying a first staple from the staple exit area into the endograft and the vessel wall such that the first staple forms a pair circular loops connected by a central portion.

26. The method ofclaim 25, wherein the circular loops are partial circular loops.

27. The method ofclaim 25, wherein the circular loops are closed.

28. The method ofclaim 25, further comprising:

partially deflating the balloon;

rotating the endovascular stapler;

inflating the balloon so as to push the staple exit area against the endograft in a location different from but adjacent to the deployed first staple; and,

deploying a second staple from the staple exit area through the endograft and the vessel wall, the second staple forming a pair of loops connected by a central portion upon deployment.

29. The method ofclaim 25, wherein the first staple is constructed from a memory alloy.

30. The method ofclaim 29, wherein the natural condition of the first staple is where the legs form circular loops.

31. The method ofclaim 25, wherein the step of deploying is conducted by activating the trigger to manipulate a staple pusher, the staple pusher pushing the first staple.

32. The method ofclaim 31, wherein the staple pusher includes a pivoting portion and the step of deploying rotates the pivoting portion into the staple such that the central portion of the staple abuts the endograft.

33. The method ofclaim 25, wherein the vessel flows blood from a heart and said step of deploying drives the first staple toward the heart against the direction of blood flow.

34. The method ofclaim 25, wherein the vessel flows blood from a heart and said step of deploying drives the first staple away from the heart in the direction of blood flow.

35. The method ofclaim 25, wherein the circular legs of the first staple form planes extending parallel to the longitudinal axis of the endograft following said step of discharging.

36. The method ofclaim 25, wherein the staple exit area is radio opaque.

37. The method ofclaim 25, wherein the endovascular stapler includes a removable cartridge containing a plurality of staples, each of the staples having a pair of legs connected by a central portion.

38. The method ofclaim 37, wherein the removable cartridge is replaceable.

39. The method ofclaim 25, wherein said step of deploying serves to advance a staple pusher within said stapler for deploying the first staple.

40. The method ofclaim 39, wherein the first staple is formed from a memory alloy and the natural condition of the first staple is where the legs form circular loops, the first staple legs being predominantly straight while within the stapler, the first staple advancing along a staple guide during said step of deploying, the staple guide retarding the return of the first staple to its natural condition.

41. A method of performing surgery on a vessel having an endograft therein, said method comprising:

providing a plurality of staplers, each stapler having a stapler housing storing a U-shaped staple having a pair of legs connected by a central portion and a balloon capable of being inflated and deflated;

inserting the stapler housing of the first of said plurality of staplers into said endograft;

inflating the balloon of said first of said plurality of staplers so as to push the stapler housing against the endograft;

advancing the first staple from within the stapler housing such that the legs of the first staple form loops piercing the endograft and the vessel.

42. The method of performing surgery ofclaim 41, further comprising:

deflating the balloon;

removing the stapler housing of said first of said plurality of staplers from said endograft;

inserting the second of said plurality of stapler housings into said endograft;

inflating the balloon so as to push the second of said plurality of stapler housings against the endograft in an area other than at the location of the first staple;

advancing the staple of the second of said plurality of staplers from within the stapler housing such that the legs of the second staple form loops piercing the endograft and the vessel.

43. The method ofclaim 41, wherein the loops are closed loops.

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