US20080269774A1 - Intracorporeal Grasping Device - Google Patents

Abstract

An intracorporeal grasping device includes a tubular member for entering a lumen of a human body and the tube member having a distal end portion. An elongated core member is disposed with the interior cavity of the tubular member for rotational or slidably movement within the tubular member and the elongated core member having a proximal end portion and a distal end portion. The elongated core member comprises a uniform diameter tube having some flexibility at the proximal end portion and greater flexibility while along a longitudinal axis in a direction towards the distal end portion; and a grasping configuration is provided for capturing an object (e.g., clot or debris) therein and the assembly may have a proximal end secured to the distal end of the elongated core member. The configuration has an expanded and contracted configuration, and distal sections configured to grasp an object. The grasping configuration may be formed by at least one movable jaw attached to the distal end portion of the elongated core member and a length portion of the distal end portion of the tube member. The grasping configuration may include unitarily formed plurality of movable jaws attached to the distal end portion of the elongated core member. Further, the grasping configuration may be formed by a plurality of loop members attached to the distal end portion of the elongated core member. Further, the grasping configuration may be formed by at least one spiral member having a distal tip for penetrating an object to be removed from a human body lumen. The device has the spiral member provided at the distal end portion of the elongated core member. The grasping configuration can be formed by at least one web member for retaining an object to be removed from a human body lumen, the web member being provided at the distal end portion of the elongated core member.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
• This application claims the benefit of priority to Provisional Application 60/854,439 filed in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office on Oct. 26, 2006. The content of the noted application is incorporated by reference in its entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
• The invention pertains to an intracorporeal device and method for grasping objects within a patient's body and withdrawing the grasped objects from the patient's body. More specifically, the intracorporeal device is a grasping device having an internal shaft for removing an object, such as from a patient's vasculature.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
• Developments in medical technology and associated treatments have been focused on clearing or removing thromboembolisms or “blood clots” from the cervical and cerebral vasculature in order to treat thromboembolic stroke victims. Thromboembolic stroke is a life threatening condition that consists of arrested blood flow to a region of the brain due to a thromboembolism blocking a blood vessel feeding that region. Such thrombi often originate in the left heart chambers, break free into the aorta and flow downstream into the cervical neck arteries e.g. carotid arteries, and then ultimately lodge into a narrowed vessel somewhere down the narrowing vascular tree of the cerebral arteries associated with the brain in the head. Once lodged, the thrombus occludes flow along the vessel downstream of the blockage, thus arresting blood flow to the downstream blood vessel and causing the stroke.
• Several grasping device assemblies and methods have been disclosed specifically for removing thrombi from the cervical and cerebral vessels in order to treat thromboembolic stroke. However, many of these devices have grasping assemblies that are not well adopted for delivery to distal regions of the cerebral vessels where many thromboembolisms are known to cause a debilitating stroke.
• U.S. Pat. No. 6,679,893 describes a grasping device for removing thrombi from the cervical and cerebral vessels in order to treat thromboembolic stroke. This patent describes several grasping assemblies that may be utilized in its device. However, it is desired to have more flexibility in the selection of grasping assemblies depending on the type and location of the thrombi.
• When retrieving a neurovascular clot or foreign body, a device having a distal grasping end with greater flexibility is desired. It is also desired to have a distal grasping end that is easily manufactured based on the desired flexibility.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
• The invention pertains to an intracorporeal device and method for grasping objects within lumen of a human body and withdrawing the grasped objects from the human body.
• In one aspect, an intracorporeal grasping device includes an elongated core having a proximal end portion and a distal end portion. The elongated core includes a tube having a variable flexibility along a length from the proximal end portion to the distal end portion. A grasping configuration is disposed to the distal end portion of the elongated core member for grasping an object from a human body.
• In another aspect, an intracorporeal grasping device includes a movable elongated core having a proximal end and a distal end. The elongated core includes a plurality of flexion regions having different flexions along a length from the proximal end to the distal end portion. A grasping configuration is provided at the distal end of the elongated core for retaining and capturing objects.
• In yet another aspect, an intracorporeal grasping device includes a tubular member for entering a lumen of a human body and the tube member having a distal end portion. An elongated core member is disposed with the interior cavity of the tubular member for rotational or slidably movement within the tubular member and the elongated core member having a proximal end portion and a distal end portion. A grasping configuration is provided for capturing an object (e.g., clot or debris) therein in which the grasping configuration is formed by at least one movable jaw attached to the distal end portion of the elongated core member and a length portion of the distal end portion of the tube member.
• In another aspect, an intracorporeal grasping device includes a tubular member for entering a lumen of a human body and the tubular member having a distal end portion. An elongated core member is disposed with the tubular member and the elongated core member has a proximal end portion and a distal end portion. A grasping configuration captures an object in which the grasping configuration includes unitarily formed plurality of movable jaws attached to the distal end portion of the elongated core member.
• In another aspect, an intracorporeal grasping device includes a tubular member for entering a lumen of a human body and the tubular member has a distal end portion. An elongated core member being disposed with the tubular member and the elongated core member has a proximal end portion and a distal end portion. The device includes a grasping configuration for capturing an object therein, in which the grasping configuration is formed by a plurality of loop members attached to the distal end portion of the elongated core member.
• In one aspect, an intracorporeal grasping device includes a tubular member for entering a lumen of a human body and the tubular member having a distal end portion. An elongated core member being disposed with the tubular member and the elongated core member having a proximal end portion and a distal end portion. A grasping configuration is provided for capturing an object therein, in which the grasping configuration is formed by at least one spiral member having a distal tip for penetrating an object to be removed from a human body lumen. In the device has the spiral member provided at the distal end portion of the elongated core member.
• An intracorporeal grasping device includes a tubular member for entering a lumen of a human body and the tubular member having a distal end portion. An elongated core member is disposed with the tubular member and the elongated core member has a proximal end portion and a distal end portion. A grasping configuration captures an object therein, in which the grasping configuration is formed by at least one web member for retaining an object to be removed from a human body lumen, the web member being provided at the distal end portion of the elongated core member.
• In various other aspects, at least one of the jaws may include an engaging surface and an opposing surface, the engaging surface including a plurality of engaging elements provided along a longitudinal length thereof and the engaging elements. In another aspect, wherein the engaging elements are provided as ribs inwardly extending for capturing an object. In another aspect, at least one of the jaws is perforated at the location of the ribs.
• In another aspect, at least one of the jaws has a distal end with an aperture and the jaw includes a lumen along a length enabling a fluid communications pathway to a distal end of the jaw.
• The above and other aspects, features and advantages of the present invention will be readily apparent and fully understood from the following detailed description illustrative embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which are included by way of example, and not by way of limitation with regard to the claimed invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
• FIG. 1 is a perspective view of schematic representation of an intracorporeal grasping system according to the teaching of present invention.
• FIG. 2 is an elevational view of the grasping device shown inFIG. 1.
• FIG. 3 is an enlarged section view of an elongated core member taken along the line3-3 ofFIG. 2.
• FIG. 4 shows a side elevational view, partially in section, of the grasping device shown inFIG. 2 in a closed configuration within the inner lumen of the delivery catheter.
• FIG. 5 depicts the grasping device disposed within the delivery catheter with the grasping assembly of the device extending out the port in the distal end of a delivery catheter into a body lumen adjacent to a thrombus and being in an expanded configuration therein.
• FIG. 6 illustrates an elevational view of the grasping device within a delivery catheter having the grasping assembly on the distal end of the device being in a partially contracted configuration about a thromboembolism.
• FIG. 7 is a schematic illustration of the grasping system shown inFIG. 1 operatively disposed in a left side internal carotid artery location in position to perform an exemplary thrombectomy procedure within the middle cerebral artery.
• FIGS. 8A-8C illustrate an alternative embodiment of a grasping system according to the teaching of the present invention.
• FIGS. 9A-9C illustrate an alternative embodiment of a grasping system according to the teaching of the present invention.
• FIGS. 10A-10F illustrate an alternative embodiments of grasping device components according to the teaching of the present invention.
• FIG. 11 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a grasping device component according to the teaching of the present invention.
• FIGS. 12A-12E illustrate alternative embodiments of grasping device components according to the teaching of the present invention.
• FIGS. 13A-13F illustrate another embodiment of a grasping system according to the teaching of the present invention.
• FIGS. 14A-14D illustrate an alternative embodiment of a grasping system according to the teaching of the present invention.
• FIGS. 15A-15B illustrate an alternative embodiment of a grasping system according to the teaching of the present invention.
• FIGS. 16A-16C illustrate an alternative embodiment of a grasping device according to the teaching of the present invention.
• FIGS. 17A-17D illustrate an alternative embodiment of a grasping device according to the teaching of the present invention.FIG. 17A is an elevational view of the grasping device;FIG. 17B is a front axial view of the grasping device; andFIG. 17C is a sectional view taken alongline17C-17C inFIG. 17A.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
• The following embodiments and aspects thereof are described and illustrated in systems and methods which are meant to exemplary and illustrative and non-limiting in scope.
• FIGS. 1-6 schematically illustrate an intracorporeal graspingsystem10. In one embodiment by way of example, the graspingsystem10 includes a graspingdevice11, adelivery catheter12 and aguide catheter13. In some instances only the graspingdevice11 and either thedelivery catheter12 or theguide catheter13 are used, but not both.
• As shown inFIG. 1 and in greater detail inFIG. 2, the graspingdevice11 includes anelongated core member14 having aproximal end15 and adistal end16. The graspingdevice11 further includes a graspingconfiguration17 attached to the distal end of thecore member14. Thecore member14 can have a number of arrangements. In one embodiment by way of example,core member14 is provided with variable bending flexibility along a predetermined length. Hence, this configuration of thecore member14 allows for improved transluminal manipulation of the graspingdevice11 in a human body. In one construction,core member14 is flexible in nature so as to traverse the potentially tortuous and/or angled geometry of the cervical vascular tree.
• With reference toFIG. 3,elongated core member14 includes acylindrical tube25 having a generally uniform diameter. A generally solidcylindrical core wire26 is concentrically disposed within thecylindrical tube25. A circumferential gap between thetube25 andwire26 may be filled with solder, for example. The solid cylindrical core wire prevents uniformcylindrical tube25 from excessive longitudinal elongating along its length.
• In one embodiment by way of example, the flexibility of the uniformcylindrical tube25 can be provided by a plurality of spacedcircumferential slots70 extending through the wall thickness (SeeFIG. 2). For ease of explanation, the term “density” with reference to cuts or slots of the core member, generally refers to the number of slots or cuts per a unit of length or area. Non limiting examples of a unit of length are a centimeter, an inch or smaller linear units. Likewise, a unit of area may be square inches or square centimeters and the like.
• In accordance with an embodiment of the grasping device, the amount or magnitude of flexibility is proportional to the number of slots per unit of measure. For example, a high density of slots provides higher flexibility, than a lower density of slots. By changing the density and/or pattern of the circumferential slots, the flexibility of theelongated core member14 can be changed.
• Core member14 may have a multi-flexion configuration that has separate regions of different flexions that each correspond to the flexibility, or lack thereof, for improved transluminal manipulation. This multi-flexion regional configuration provides adaptability for a practitioner to reduce steps for accessing or grasping an object or customize the access in body lumens to increase patient comfort. In one exemplary construction, thecore member14 may have three flex regions to accommodate to transluminal access. Afirst flexion region29 may extend from thedistal end16 to a firstintermediate position29aalong the length of theelongated core member14. Thefirst flexion region29 is substantially flexible for improved comfort, for example. An adjacentsecond flexion region28 may extend to anotherintermediate position28aaway from firstintermediate position29aalong the length of theelongated core member14. Thesecond flexion region28 may be less flexible than afirst flex region29 so as to allow theelongated core member14 to traverse the vascular geometry in an improved fashion. Athird flex region27 may be provided adjacent to thesecond flexion region28. Thethird flexion region27 may be less flexible than the second flexion region and the first flexion region.
• ReferencingFIG. 2, in one construction, theuniform diameter tube25 has adistal section29,middle section28 andproximal section27 generally corresponding to the multi-flexion configuration in which each section has a different flexibility with respect to each other. For example, thedistal section29 may have a high flexibility, themiddle section28 may have a medium flexibility, and theproximal section27 has a low or minimal flexibility. Hence,distal section29 has the greatest flexibility of thesections28,27. These sections are all part of the same uniformcylindrical tube25 having three distinct stiffness or flexion sections. In one embodiment, thedistal section29 of thecore member14 can be at least inpart 10%-25% more flexible than theproximal section27 of thecore member14. Themiddle section28 can be at least in part 5%-20% more flexible than theproximal section27. Thedistal section29 can be 5%-20% more flexible than themiddle section28. In alternative embodiment, thedistal section29 of the core member can be at least inpart 35%-50% more flexible than theproximal section27 of the core member. Themiddle section28 can be at least inpart 30%-45% more flexible than theproximal section27. Thedistal section29 can be 30%-45% more flexible than themiddle section28. Nevertheless, other flexibility relative values are possible.
• Any suitable number of stiffness/flexible sections could be used on thecore member14. In a specific non-limiting example, the dimensions of the first flexion region maybe 3.0 cm from the distal end; second flexion region may have a length of 5.0 to 15.0 cm; and the third flexion region may have a length of 20.0 to 40.0 cm. Nevertheless, the length of the regions maybe configured as desired by the practitioner. In an alternative embodiment, the density of the slots can be increased uniformly for a continuous transition from proximal low flexibility to distal high flexibility for thecore member14.
• The solidcylindrical core wire26 spans the length of the uniformcylindrical tube25 and is affixed to the tube by any suitable method by soldering e.g. with silver or gold solder. brazing, welding, adhesives, mechanical connections or other suitable techniques. The solidcylindrical core wire26 is preferably attached to the tube at least at both ends of the core wire.
• The circumferential slots or cuts can be made by any suitable manufacturing technique, such as, for example, computer numerically controlled (CNC) microsawing, EDM wire cutting, or laser cutting.
• The uniformcylindrical tube25 is generally formed of a high strength material such as stainless steel, superelastic nickel-titanium alloy, cobalt-chromium-molybdenum alloys such as MP35N and Elgiloy or other material having suitable strength, stiffness, and other attributes for allowing percutaneous transluminal manipulation of the graspingdevice11 as described herein. Suitable materials include but are not limited to 304SS or NITINOL.
• As used herein, the term “superelastic shape memory material” refers to a class of metal alloys that have a stress-induced phase change from austenite to martensite and upon stress release, the material springs back to this original phase and shape. The material structure of a superelastic shape memory material regarding austenite and martensite is well-known to one of ordinary skill in the metallurgy art. A NiTi material or NiTi alloy may be used as an alloy material for theflex control member21. As used herein, a NiTi superelastic shape memory material refers to an alloy that is an intermetallic compound of nickel and titanium having nearly equal mixtures as measured by weight. One composition of a NiTi superelastic shape memory material generally has a greater percentage of nickel by weight than titanium, such as 51%-56% of nickel, and preferably 54-55% nickel. The specific percentages of nickel and titanium can be adjusted by one of ordinary skill in the art. It should be recognized that additional metals, such as copper, iron, chromium, and cobalt, can be added to fine tune various properties of a NiTi superelastic shape set material.
• One embodiment,core member14 is preferably constructed from a superelastic shape set material commonly called NITINOL® depending upon the alloy composition. NITINOL® is a brand name which refers to Nickel Titanium Naval Ordinance Laboratory, a commercially available family of nickel titanium alloys. Among the suppliers, NITINOL® material can be obtained from NDC of Fremont, Calif. Nevertheless, there are numerous other suppliers of NiTi materials and NiTi superelastic shape set materials.
• The outer diameter ofcylindrical tube25 should be selected for slidable advancement within theinner lumen36 of the delivery catheter (SeeFIGS. 1 and 4). Generally, outer diameter ofcylindrical tube25 is about 0.015 inch to about 0.040 inch, and preferably about 0.010 to about 0.038 inch. An outer lubricous coating (not shown) may be provided on the exterior of thecylindrical tube25 at least alongdistal portion27. Suitable coatings include fluoropolymers such as polytetrafluoroethylene (TEFLON) or hydrophilic materials.
• The inner diameter ofcylindrical tube25 is provided in suitable diameter to enclose solidcylindrical core wire26 therein. Generally, inner diameter ofcylindrical tube25 is about 0.005 inch to about 0.036 inch. A typical dimension of uniformcylindrical tube25 is 0.016″OD×0.009″ID. Nevertheless, other dimensions may be used.
• The graspingassembly17 may be any suitable grasping assembly. As depicted inFIGS. 1 and 2, the graspingassembly17 has a plurality ofarms20 disposed about thelongitudinal axis21 of thedevice11 withproximal arm sections22 secured to thedistal end16 of thecore member14 anddistal arm sections23 which extend essentially parallel to thelongitudinal axis21 e.g. not more than 5° from a line parallel to longitudinal axis when the graspingassembly17 is in an expanded configuration as shown. Thedistal arm sections23 have inwardly extending,object engaging elements24 at their distal ends. The bluntness of theobject engaging element17 provides a non-traumatic feature to the distal end of thearms20. Theproximal portion25 of the graspingdevice11 is usually of uniform outer diameter and is of sufficient length so that theproximal end15 extends out of thedelivery catheter12 when the graspingassembly17 extends out the distal end of the delivery catheter.
• As shown inFIG. 1 thedelivery catheter12 has atubular body30 with anadapter31 on theproximal end32, aport33 in theadapter31, adistal end34, aport35 in the distal end and aninner lumen36 extending between and in fluid communication withproximal port33 in theadapter31 and thedistal port35. Aradiopaque marker37 is provided on thedistal end34 to facilitate fluoroscopic observation of the distal end of thedelivery catheter12 during a procedure within a patient's body, such as a thrombectomy. Theinner lumen36 is configured to slidably receive the graspingdevice11 with the graspingassembly17 in the contracted configuration as shown inFIG. 4. Theadapter31 is preferably provided with a hemostatic valve (not shown).
• Delivery catheter12 is generally constructed to track over a conventional guidewire beyond theguide catheter13 in the cervical anatomy and into the cerebral vessels associated with the brain and may also be chosen according to several standard, “microcatheter” designs that are generally available. Accordingly,delivery catheter12 has a length that is at least 125 cm long, and more particularly may be between about 125 cm and about 175 cm long. Typically, thedelivery catheter12 is about 155 cm long. Theinner lumen36 of the delivery catheter generally has an inner diameter between about 0.01 inch and about 0.08 inch (0.25-2.03 mm). Commercially available microcatheters are generally suitable for use as delivery catheters.
• Also shown inFIG. 1 isguide catheter13 has atubular body40, aproximal end41, adistal end42, and aninner lumen43 extending between aproximal port44 in the proximal end and adistal port45 in the distal end of the guide catheter. Theproximal end41 ofguide catheter13 may be provided with an adapter (not shown) having a hemostatic valve.Guide catheter13 is generally constructed to bridge between a femoral artery access site and a cervical region of the carotid or vertebral artery and may be chosen according to several standard designs that are generally available.
• Accordingly, guidecatheter13 is generally at least 85 cm long, and more particularly may be between about 95 cm and about 105 cm long. Further to conventional and available designs, theinner lumen43 ofguide catheter13 generally has an inner diameter that is between about 0.038 inch and 0.090 inch (0.88-2.29 mm), and more particularly may be between about 0.052 inch and about 0.065 inch (1.32-1.65 mm).
• Graspingdevice11 is configured to slidably fit within theinner lumen36 ofdelivery catheter12. For procedures involving distal locations of thromboembolic neurovascular occlusions, the graspingdevice11 is configured to be delivered through theinner lumen36 of thedelivery catheter12 with a diameter that is equal to or less than about 0.042 inches (1.07 mm), preferably less than about 0.022 inches (0.559 mm). In the case of use in a more distal, tortuous, and smaller vessel anatomy, configuration for delivery through a delivery catheter inner lumen less than 0.018 inch (0.457 mm) diameter may be used. For most neurovascular occlusions, the graspingdevice11 is about 135 cm to about 300 cm long, and more particularly may be about 150 cm to about 200 cm long. Generally, the graspingdevice11 is about 175 cm long and is adapted to be used in adelivery catheter12 that is about 150 cm long. Nevertheless, other values for diameters and lengths are possible.
• The device as described does not include a tapered core mandrel as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,679,893. Instead, the grasping elements are attached to the distal end of a generally uniform cylindrical tube in one embodiment.
• Graspingassembly17 is adjustable between different configurations, namely, a completely contracted configuration or nearly contracted configuration as generally shown inFIG. 4 to facilitate disposition within theinner lumen36 ofdelivery catheter12. In another arrangement grasping assembly has a completely expanded configuration or nearly expanded configuration as generally shown inFIGS. 1,2 and to facilitate advancement of the expanded graspingassembly17 within the body lumen about the object to be captured. In yet another arrangement,assembly17 has a partially contracted configuration to hold onto or capture the object as generally shown inFIG. 7. Graspingassembly17 is shown inFIGS. 1,2 and5 in the expanded configuration which is generally defined by each of thearms20 in a completely expanded position and thedistal arm sections23 being generally parallel or nearly parallel tolongitudinal axis21, which in a preferred embodiment is the relaxed memory state for thearms20.
• Graspingassembly17 is adjustable from the expanded configuration as generally shown inFIG. 5 to the contracted or partially contracted configuration by the application of force against the inclinedproximal arm sections22 by advancing thedistal end35 of thedelivery catheter12 as shown by thearrow38 inFIG. 6 against the inclined proximal arm sections.
• Arms20 may be constructed of various materials having suitable strength, elasticity and memory for use in engaging and removing an object such as thrombus from a body lumen, particularly a cerebral vessel. However,arms20 are generally constructed from a metal which may be for example platinum (or alloys thereof), stainless steel, superelastic shape memory material, or high strength cobalt-chromium-molybdenum alloys. Platinum or alloys thereof are preferred because they provide a particular beneficial combination of a non-traumatic distal tip for thearms20 and radiopacity for fluoroscopic observation of the arms in an intracorporeal procedure.
• There are any number of alternative arrangement for practicing techniques and aspects of the graspingdevice11. More specific features of the use of the device and system in capturing and removing, for example, thromboembolic occlusions from the distal cerebral vessels are described in the foregoing. Nevertheless, the inventive aspects of the graspingdevice11 can be used for any number of alternative arrangements. Hence, the following example is illustrative of a method of using the graspingdevice11.
• First, an access site is prepared as either a puncture wound (i.e. Seldinger technique) or as a surgical cut-down, typically in the femoral artery although in rare circumstances vascular access may be made at other peripheral vessels such as a brachial artery. An introducer (not shown) may be used to provide hemostatic access at the access site via an incorporated hemostatic valve.Guide catheter13 is than advanced through the introducer untildistal end42 is positioned withdistal port45 at a region of acervical vessel50, thereby providing transluminal access to the cervical vascular tree as shown inFIG. 7.Delivery catheter12 is advanced through theinner lumen43 ofguide catheter13 and out thedistal port45 thereof until thedistal end34 of the delivery catheter is positioned adjacent to thethromboembolism50 located in the middlecerebral artery51.
• In the case where the distal location of the thromboembolism is beyond a bifurcated vessel or otherwise tortuous cerebral vessels, thedelivery catheter12 may be advanced over a conventional guide wire (not shown). Once thedelivery catheter12 is positioned adjacent to thethromboembolism50, the guide wire is removed from the patient and is then replaced with graspingdevice11. Graspingdevice11 is advanced through theinner lumen36 of the delivery catheter in the contracted configuration as shown inFIG. 5, until it exits throughdistal port35 into theblood vessel51 where the graspingassembly17 self-adjusts to the expanded configuration witharms20 in a radially expanded position. Graspingassembly17 is then advanced, as indicated by thearrow52, in the expanded configuration distally so thatarms20 advance around thethromboembolism50 as shown inFIG. 5. Then,delivery catheter12 is advanced distally to press againstproximal arm sections22 to forcedistal arm sections23 to rotate radially inwardly to a partially contracted configuration so that theobject engaging members24 engage thethromboembolism50 as shown inFIG. 7. Thereafter, the graspingdevice11,delivery catheter12, andthromboembolism50 may be removed from the location and further from the body, either throughguide catheter13 or together in combination with guide catheter.
• FIGS. 8A-8C schematically illustrate an alternative intracorporealgrasping system610.Intracorporeal grasping system610 includes at least onejaw70 and ascoop71 used to extract the object to be captured between thejaw70 andscoop71. The scoop may be arigid member72 that extends fromtube30 as shown inFIG. 8A, or a catheter scoop73 formed by cutting away the tip oftube30 to form a scoop as shown inFIG. 8B andFIG. 8C. A single jaw is depicted in these figures; however, more than one jaw may be used. The cutting operation to form the scoop73 can be a suitable method such as laser cutting.
• Thejaw70 is generally disposed along thelongitudinal axis74 and has aproximal arm section75 secured to thedistal end16 of theelongate core member14. Theproximal arm section75 is inclined from thedistal end16 of theelongate core member14. The inclinedproximal arm section75 functions to aid in placing thejaw70 of the graspingassembly17 into a contracted or partially contracted configuration about thelongitudinal axis74 by the force applied to the inclined section by advancement of the distal end of thedelivery catheter12 and has a length selected to provide the desired radial spacing between thedistal arm section76 and thescoop71. An inwardly extendingobject engaging element77 is disposed at the distal end ofjaw70. Thejaw70 typically extends beyond the length of the scoop as shown inFIG. 8A.
• In one operation, thescoop71 is forced, wedged, or placed under the object to be captured. Thejaw70 extends beyond the length of the scoop and is retracted by moving theelongate core member14 inward distally. As thejaw70 is being retracted, it is forced to bite down on the object towards thelongitudinal axis74. Whenjaw70 engages the object it then pulls the object along the length of thescoop71 intotubular body30 for removal.
• Jaw70 may be constructed from a flat ribbon or wire.Jaw70 may be constructed of various materials having suitable strength, elasticity and memory for use in engaging and removing an object such as thrombus from a body lumen, particularly a cerebral vessel. In one embodiment,jaw70 may be generally constructed from a metal which may be for example platinum (or alloys thereof), stainless steel, super-elastic nickel-titanium alloy, or high strength cobalt-chromium-molybdenum alloys.
• Rigid member72 may be constructed of various materials having suitable strength and is generally constructed from a metal which may be for example platinum (or alloys thereof), stainless steel, super-elastic nickel-titanium alloy, or high strength cobalt-chromium-molybdenum alloys.
• FIGS. 9A-9C schematically illustrate an alternative intracorporealgrasping system210. A graspingconfiguration217 is provided for capturing an object (e.g., clot or debris) therein, in which the grasping configuration comprises unitarily formed plurality of movable jaws90 attached to the distal end portion of theelongated core member214. It is noted thatcore member214 can have the construction ofcore member14 as well as other constructions.
• In another embodiment, jaws90 are formed fromthin tubing96 which is cut, e.g. with a laser, to form narrow jaws90. (SeeFIG. 9A). Each jaw90 has aproximal arm section91 extending fromtubing96. As shown inFIG. 9B, theproximal arm section91 is inclined from thetubing96. The inclinedproximal arm section92 functions to aid in placing the jaws90 of the graspingconfiguration217 into a contracted or partially contracted configuration about thelongitudinal axis94 by the force applied to the inclined section by advancement of the distal end of the delivery catheter12 (FIGS. 1-2) and has a length selected to provide the desired radial spacing between thedistal arm sections92. Inwardly extendingobject engaging elements93 are disposed at the distal end of jaws90.
• Tube96 is disposed onto the distal end of theelongate core member214, as shown inFIG. 9B and adhered into place or fastened or otherwise attached thereto. In operation, the jaws90 extend along a length of the object to be removed and are retracted by retractingelongate core member14. As the jaws are being retracted, they are forced to bite down on the object and then pull the object intotubular body30.
• As with various jaws disclosed herein, jaws90 may be constructed of various materials having suitable strength, elasticity and memory for use in engaging and removing an object such as thrombus from a body lumen, particularly a cerebral vessel. However, jaws90 are generally constructed from a metal which may be for example platinum (or alloys thereof), stainless steel, super-elastic nickel-titanium alloy, or high strength cobalt-chromium-molybdenum alloys.
• It is noted that jaw assemblies generally have an inwardly extending object engaging elements disposed at the distal end of jaws. This is shown in the embodiments ofFIGS. 8-9 above, for example. In further embodiments, the jaws may contain engaging elements. The jaws may be suitable jaws as any embodiments described herein.FIGS. 10A-10F illustrates alternative arrangement of jaws with various engaging elements for removing a thrombus, for example.
• Engaging elements allow the jaw to grip the object to be removed. In addition to engagingelements24 inFIG. 10A, a plurality of engaging elements can be applied toarm segment22 and/or arm segment23 (e.g.,FIGS. 1-4). Theengaging elements101 extend towards the object to be removed and may be applied as a separate member for the arm segments, such as by soldering as shown inFIG. 10A. Alternatively, the engaging elements may be formed by cuttingtabs102 in the arm segments and bending inward as shown inFIG. 10B, or by pressing grooves orribs103 onto the inside surface of the ribbon forming a jaw as shown inFIG. 10C.
• In one arrangement, thearm segment23 with engaging elements may include a distalblunt edge105 as shown inFIG. 10D orarm segment23′ with a distal sharp edge or distal “bladed”edge107 as shown inFIGS. 10E-F. A distalblunt edge105 is useful for grabbing the debris and pulling into thetubular member30. As shown inFIG. 10D, the distal portion can be angled inward more than 90 degrees from the horizontal as denoted by angle “A”. For example, the angle may be 91-97 degrees or 93-95 degrees. Additionally, the distalsharp edge107 is useful for grabbing the debris and pulling into thetubular member13, but also useful for cutting or biting off chunks of the debris (clot), for example, if the debris is too large to remove in as a single unit.
• As shown inFIG. 1, jaws can be formed of a unitary piece of ribbon or wire, such as platinum ribbon or wire, which is bent into a U or V shape. Nevertheless, other shapes are possible. The two edges of the ribbon or wire form two jaws which include twoarm segments22,23 and twoengaging elements24. The ribbon or wire is attached to elongatecore member14 such as viacoil19.
• FIGS. 12A-12E schematically illustrate an alternative embodiment for a grasping assembly component. As shown inFIGS. 12A-12E, thejaws300 may be formed from tubing having a desired cross-section, such as a circular301, rectangular303, triangular305, oval310 or other shape to provide benefits of grasping objects in a human body or surgical benefits. The hollow interior of the tube forms alumen307 which can be used to inject or deliver fluidic substances or medicament to the object to be removed at thedistal end309. In one embodiment, thedistal end309 of thejaws300 has an aperture for delivering fluids. In one example, a substance might be injected though thejaws300 in order to soften the object to be removed. Nevertheless, different type of substances can be provided. Alternatively, a vacuum may be applied to the tube to remove fluids or to provide a negative pressure region at thedistal end309 of thejaws300 to remove portions of the object designated for removal or other debris.
• FIGS. 13A-13E illustrate an alternative intracorporeal grasping system400. At least one jaw member collectively defines aloop configuration405 to advantageously increase the coverage/grasping area of the objects to be grabbed and removed from the human body. Further, the loops retains the object specifically between the contact other loops. Hence, the graspingelement17 can be formed from a plurality of loops405 (such as two loops) which engaged each to capture or clamp objects therein.
• While the loop configuration is preferably a circle, it could be in the form of a myriad of different closed loops including without limitation ovals, squares and irregular shapes. Nevertheless, other shapes can be used. The loop should simply define a substantially closed configuration to retain the object therein. The loops can be of different shapes and forms and various cross-sections as is suitable for the particular type and shape of object to be removed. For example the loops may have a spatula shape as shown inFIG. 13A or a spoon shape as shown inFIG. 13B.
• The loops are attached to theelongate core member14 such as a core wire or, as shown inFIG. 13D,coil19. The outertubular member30 moves forward to bring the loops together and apart as shown inFIG. 13C. The grasping assembly can also combine loops with jaws as shown inFIG. 13C. The loop would encircle a larger surface area of the object to be removed whereas the jaws would clamp onto the object to be removed. The arrangement of loops and jaws provides an increase of total surface area than jaws alone, but allows the object to be grabbed into and held. It should be noted that the embodiment ofFIGS. 13A-D may be constructed with tubing having a wall with perforations for releasing a fluid within the tubing as disclosed in the embodiments ofFIGS. 12A-12E.
• Loops405 may be formed from ribbon or wire.Loops405 may be constructed of various materials having suitable strength, elasticity and memory for use in engaging and removing an object such as thrombus from a body lumen, particularly a cerebral vessel. However, loops are generally constructed from a metal which may be for example platinum (or alloys thereof), stainless steel, super-elastic nickel-titanium alloy, or high strength cobalt-chromium-molybdenum alloys.
• FIGS. 14A-14D illustrate an alternative intracorporealgrasping system500. A grasping assembly501 may be formed in a web configuration such with webbed jaws. Webbed jaws provide stronger and increased coverage or encapsulation of the object to be removed than jaws without webs. The web may be constructed by attaching fiber or welding metallic strands to the individual grasping mechanism.
• The webs may be formed from ribbon as shown inFIGS. 14A-14C or wire as shown inFIG. 14D. The webs connect between jaws in a concave or convex manner as shown inFIG. 14B or14C as are flexible to bend or stretch based on the movement ofelongate member14 into and out oftube30.
• Webs110 can be attached during jaw formation, or they can be formed from the same piece of the jaws. The jaws can be made in a manner similar to a laser cut stent, so webs and jaws are one piece (cut tubing).Webs110 may be constructed of various materials having suitable strength, elasticity and memory for use in engaging and removing an object such as thrombus from a body lumen, particularly a cerebral vessel. However, loops are generally constructed from a metal which may be for example platinum (or alloys thereof), stainless steel, super-elastic nickel-titanium alloy, or high strength cobalt-chromium-molybdenum alloys.
• FIGS. 15A-15B illustrate an alternative intracorporealgrasping system100. The proximal arm sections and distal arm sections may have different lengths and can be offset for different specific intended procedures. As shown inFIG. 15A, opposing pairs ofjaws111 comprisingproximal arm115 section anddistal arm section116 having a longer longitudinal length (as measured from thedistal end16 of core member14) than the longitudinal length opposing pairs ofjaws112 comprisingproximal arm117 section anddistal arm section118. Hence, thejaws111 and112 are offset from each other a longitudinal distance denoted as “delta X” or simply “X”. Thejaws111 and112 are offset from each other such that whentube30 slidably engages the periphery of the jaws, thelonger jaws111 will contract before theshorter jaws112. The offsetting feature of the jaws enables thejaws111,112 to clamp down at different times during longitudinal movement of thelumen30 towards to thejaws111,112. Each jaw may be offset relative to the other jaws or pairs of jaws may be offset relative to other pairs of jaws. Nevertheless, other configurations are possible for the graspingsystem100.
• FIGS. 16A-16C illustrate an alternative intracorporeal grasping system.Elongate core member14 comprises anelongate tube120 positioned withintube30.Jaws121 are attached to or formed at the distal end ofelongate tube120 as shown inFIG. 16A such that whencore member14 is withdrawn intotube30, the jaws clamp down on an object to be removed. Referring toFIG. 16C, theelongated tube120 may have a multi-flexion configuration that has separate regions of different flexions that each correspond to the flexibility, or lack thereof, for improved transluminal manipulation. This multi-flexion regional configuration provides adaptability for a practitioner to reduce steps for accessing or grasping an object or customize the access in body lumens to increase patient comfort. This feature incorporates the features of graspingsystem10 as discussed in the foregoing.
• Generally concentrically located withinelongate tube120 is elongatecylindrical member123 having a spiral-shaped member122 (e.g., corkscrew-like member) attached to a distal end thereof. The elongatecylindrical tube120 may be tapered in one embodiment. Themember123 may have various dimensional characteristics. In one example, the outer diameter (“OD”) at the distal end of thecylindrical member123 may be 0.012 inches. The spiral-shapedmember122 may be formed with a wire having an OD about may be 0.008 inches to 0.010 inches. Nevertheless, other configurations and dimensions are possible within the scope of the invention. The spiral shapedmember122 may be formed integrally with the distal end of thecylindrical member123.
• The spiral-shapedmember122 engages into an object to be removed (e.g., clot50) via rotational movement about alongitudinal axis125. Thedistal end127 of the spiral-shapedmember122 includes sharpen tip for penetrating into the interior of the clot during the rotational movement. Once the clot is engaged bymember122, then theelongate tube120 is withdrawn intotube30.Elongate tube120 is preferably flexible. Thejaws121 may be attached to the inside or outside of thetube120 or may be formed from the tube itself as disclosed in alternative embodiment herein (e.g.,FIGS. 8A-8C, and9A-9C). Nevertheless, other configurations and arrangements are possible.
• FIGS. 17A-17D illustrate an alternative embodiment of a grasping device according to the teaching of the present invention.Jaws20 are made of wire having a generally circular cross-section. It was discovered that the circular cross-section of the jaws allows the jaws to be easily inserted and aligned evenly in coil19 (SeeFIG. 17A) or other concentric tube or guidewire. The jaws are more flexible than conventional jaws, which allow a better grip on the object to be removed.
• At least six, preferably eight to twelve,wire jaws20 are integrally secured to thedistal end16 of theelongate core member14 and disposed about thelongitudinal axis21. Outer tubular body30 (seeFIG. 1) surrounds thejaws20 andcoil19.
• Eachjaw20 has aproximal arm section22 secured to thedistal end16 of theelongate core member14. Theproximal arm section22 is inclined from thedistal end16 of thecore member14. The inclinedproximal arm section22 functions to aid in placing thejaws20 of the graspingassembly17 into a contracted or partially contracted configuration about thelongitudinal axis21 by the force applied to the inclined section by advancement of the distal end of thedelivery catheter12 and has a length selected to provide the desired radial spacing between thedistal arm sections23.
• In operation, thejaws20 extend along a length of the object to be removed and are retracted by retractingelongate core member14. As the jaws are being retracted, they are forced to bite down on the object and then pull the object intotubular body30.
• Jaws20 may be constructed of various materials having suitable strength, elasticity and memory for use in engaging and removing an object such as thrombus from a body lumen, particularly a cerebral vessel. However,jaws20 are generally constructed from a metal which may be for example platinum (or alloys thereof), stainless steel, super-elastic nickel-titanium alloy, or high strength cobalt-chromium-molybdenum alloys.
• While the arrangements and various embodiments described are believed to be well suited for engaging and removing various objects from various body spaces, the primary basis underlying many of the beneficial features herein described are for the purpose of accessing distal, tortuous cerebral vessels for removal of thromboembolism in the treatment of strokes, as previously described above. Nevertheless, other purposes of devices can be advantageously applied to other biological organisms.
• There are any number of alternative arrangement for practicing techniques and aspects herein. For example, an intracorporeal grasping device may include a tubular member for entering a lumen of a human body and the tube member having a distal end portion. An elongated core member is disposed with the interior cavity of the tubular member for rotational or slidably movement within the tubular member and the elongated core member having a proximal end portion and a distal end portion. A grasping configuration is provided for capturing an object (e.g., clot or debris) therein in which the grasping configuration is formed by at least one movable jaw attached to the distal end portion of the elongated core member and a length portion of the distal end portion of the tube member. The grasping configuration may include unitarily formed plurality of movable jaws attached to the distal end portion of the elongated core member. Further, the grasping configuration may be formed by a plurality of loop members attached to the distal end portion of the elongated core member.
• In another example, an intracorporeal grasping device includes a tubular member for entering a lumen of a human body and the tubular member having a distal end portion. An elongated core member being disposed with the tubular member and the elongated core member having a proximal end portion and a distal end portion. A grasping configuration is provided for capturing an object therein, in which the grasping configuration is formed by at least one spiral member having a distal tip for penetrating an object to be removed from a human body lumen. The device has the spiral member provided at the distal end portion of the elongated core member. The grasping configuration can be formed by at least one web member for retaining an object to be removed from a human body lumen, the web member being provided at the distal end portion of the elongated core member.
• There are any number of alternative combinations for defining the invention, which incorporate one or more elements from the specification, including the description, and drawings and claims, in various combinations or sub combinations. It will be apparent to those skilled in the relevant technology, in light of the present specification, that alternate combinations of aspects of the invention, either alone or in combination with one or more elements or steps defined herein, may be utilized as modifications or alterations of the invention or as part of the invention. It may be intended that the written description of the invention contained herein covers all such modifications and alterations.

Claims (41)

1. An intracorporeal grasping device having a longitudinal axis, comprising:

an elongated core member having a proximal end portion and a distal end portion, the elongated core member comprising a generally uniform diameter tube having variable flexibility along a length from the proximal end portion to the distal end portion; and

a grasping assembly attached to the distal end portion of the elongated core member.

2. The intracorporeal grasping device ofclaim 1, wherein the distal portion of the core member is at least in part 10%-25% more flexible than the proximal portion of the core member.

3. The intracorporeal grasping device ofclaim 1, wherein the wherein the distal portion of the core member is at least in part 35%-50% more flexible than the proximal portion of the core member.

4. The intracorporeal grasping device ofclaim 1, wherein the tube further comprises a series of spaced circumferential slots at the distal end portion to provide variability flexibility of the tube.

5. The intracorporeal grasping device ofclaim 1, wherein the wherein an intermediate portion of the core member is defined between the distal end portion and the proximal end portion, the intermediate portion having greater flexibility than the proximal end portion of the core member, and the intermediate portion having less flexibility than the distal end portion of the core member.

6. The intracorporeal grasping device ofclaim 5, wherein the tube comprises a series of circumferential slots providing the distal end portion with greater flexibility than the intermediate portion.

7. The intracorporeal grasping device ofclaim 5, wherein the tube further comprises a series of circumferential slots, wherein a density of the slots is higher at the distal end portion than a density of slots at the proximal end portion.

8. The intracorporeal grasping device ofclaim 7, wherein there is a continuous transition along the length of the tube from higher density of slots to lower the density of slots.

9. The intracorporeal grasping device ofclaim 1, further comprising a uniform diameter core centered within the tube and spanning the length of the tube.

10. The intracorporeal grasping device ofclaim 9, wherein at least the ends of the core are radially attached to the tube.

11. The intracorporeal grasping device ofclaim 10, wherein the core is radially attached to the tube by at least one of soldering, welding or brazing.

12. An intracorporeal grasping device having a longitudinal axis, comprising:

a movable elongated core having a proximal end and a distal end, the elongated core comprising a plurality of flexion regions having different flexions along a length from the proximal end to the distal end portion; and

a grasping assembly attached to the distal end of the elongated core.

13. The intracorporeal grasping device ofclaim 12, wherein at least one flexion region of the core member is 10%-25% more flexible than another flexion region the core member.

14. The intracorporeal grasping device ofclaim 12, wherein the wherein at least one flexion region of the core member is 35%-50% more flexible than another flexion region. of the core member.

15. The intracorporeal grasping device ofclaim 12, wherein the flexion regions include plurality circumferential slots of different densities.

16. An intracorporeal grasping device, comprising:

a tubular member for entering a lumen of a human body and the tubular member having a distal end portion;

an elongated core member being disposed with the tubular member and the elongated core member having a proximal end portion and a distal end portion; and

a grasping configuration for capturing an object therein, in which the grasping configuration is formed by at least one spiral member having a distal tip for penetrating an object to be removed from a human body lumen, the spiral member being provided at the distal end portion of the elongated core member.

17. The grasping device according toclaim 16, wherein the spiral member is configured to rotate by an axis to penetrate the object to be removed.

18. The grasping device according toclaim 16, wherein the grasping configuration includes a moveable jaw type member.

19. The grasping device according toclaim 18, wherein the grasping configuration is formed with tubing having at least one perforation for releasing a fluid from within the tubing.

20. The grasping device according toclaim 16, wherein the elongated core member has variable flexibility along a length from the proximal end portion to the distal end portion.

21. The grasping device according toclaim 16, wherein the tube further comprises a series of spaced circumferential slots at the distal end portion to provide variability flexibility of the tube.

22. The grasping device according toclaim 16, wherein the wherein an intermediate portion of the core member is defined between the distal end portion and the proximal end portion, the intermediate portion having greater flexibility than the proximal end portion of the core member, and the intermediate portion having less flexibility than the distal end portion of the core member.

23. An intracorporeal grasping device, comprising:

a tubular member for entering a lumen of a human body and the tubular member having a distal end portion;

an elongated core member being disposed with the tubular member and the elongated core member having a proximal end portion and a distal end portion; and

a grasping configuration for capturing an object therein, in which the grasping configuration is formed by at least one web member retaining an object to be removed from a human body lumen, the web member being provided at the distal end portion of the elongated core member.

24. The grasping device according toclaim 23, wherein the grasping configuration includes a moveable jaw type member attached to the web member.

25. The grasping device according toclaim 24, wherein the grasping configuration is formed with tubing having a wall with at least one perforation for releasing a fluid from within the tubing.

26. The grasping device according toclaim 25, wherein the jaws includes an engaging surface and an opposing surface, the engaging surface including a plurality of engaging elements provided along a longitudinal length thereof.

27. The grasping device according toclaim 26, wherein the engaging elements are formed as ribs inwardly extending thereof.

28. The grasping device according toclaim 23, wherein the elongated core member has variable flexibility along a length from the proximal end portion to the distal end portion.

29. An intracorporeal grasping device, comprising:

a tubular member for entering a lumen of a human body and the tubular member having a distal end portion;

an elongated core member being disposed with the tubular member and the elongated core member having a proximal end portion and a distal end portion; and

a grasping configuration for capturing an object therein, in which the grasping configuration is formed by at least one spiral member having a distal tip for penetrating an object to be removed from a human body lumen, the spiral member being provided at the distal end portion of the elongated core member.

30. The grasping device according toclaim 29, wherein the spiral member is configured to rotate by an axis to penetrate the object to be removed.

31. The grasping device according toclaim 29, wherein the grasping configuration includes a moveable jaw type member.

32. The grasping device according toclaim 29, wherein the grasping configuration is formed with tubing having at least one perforation for releasing a fluid from within the tubing.

33. The grasping device according toclaim 29, wherein the elongated core member has variable flexibility along a length from the proximal end portion to the distal end portion.

34. The grasping device according toclaim 29, wherein the tube further comprises a series of spaced circumferential slots at the distal end portion to provide variability flexibility of the tube.

35. The grasping device according toclaim 29, wherein the wherein an intermediate portion of the core member is defined between the distal end portion and the proximal end portion, the intermediate portion having greater flexibility than the proximal end portion of the core member, and the intermediate portion having less flexibility than the distal end portion of the core member.

36. An intracorporeal grasping device, comprising:

a tubular member for entering a lumen of a human body and the tubular member having a distal end portion;

an elongated core member being disposed with the tubular member and the elongated core member having a proximal end portion and a distal end portion; and

a grasping configuration for capturing an object therein, in which the grasping configuration is formed by at least one web member retaining an object to be removed from a human body lumen, the web member being provided at the distal end portion of the elongated core member.

37. The grasping device according toclaim 36, wherein the grasping configuration includes a moveable jaw type member attached to the web member.

38. The grasping device according toclaim 37, wherein the grasping configuration is formed with tubing having a wall with at least one perforation for releasing a fluid from within the tubing.

39. The grasping device according toclaim 38, wherein the jaws includes an engaging surface and an opposing surface, the engaging surface including a plurality of engaging elements provided along a longitudinal length thereof.

40. The grasping device according toclaim 39, wherein the engaging elements are formed as ribs inwardly extending thereof.

41. The grasping device according toclaim 36, wherein the elongated core member has variable flexibility along a length from the proximal end portion to the distal end portion.

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