US20160199066A1 - Articulable anchor - Google Patents

Abstract

Embodiments disclosed herein relate to devices implantable into a human lung, for example to reduce the volume of air trapped in a diseased portion of the lung to prevent inhalation while permitting expiration out of the diseased portion. In some embodiments, the device comprises a distal portion with an anchor system that may anchor the device into tissue of an air passageway wall, and the distal portion may be connected to a proximal portion via a flexible portion that permits the distal portion to articulate substantially with respect to the proximal portion, such that the distal portion and the proximal portion may be non-collinear along a longitudinal axis of the distal portion. This may facilitate implantation of the device into a non-linear air passageway.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS
• This application is a continuation U.S. application Ser. No. 14/106,459, filed Dec. 13, 2013, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 13/457,346, filed Apr. 26, 2012, now issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,647,392, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 12/754,394, filed Apr. 5, 2010, now issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,454,708, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 11/585,415, filed Oct. 24, 2006, now issued as U.S. Pat. No. 7,691,151, which claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. 119(c) to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/787,995, filed Mar. 31, 2006. The foregoing applications are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
• 1. Field of the Invention
• The inventions relate in general to the field of pulmonary treatments, and specifically to systems, devices, and methods for treating a patient's lung or portion thereof.
• 2. Description of the Related Art
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (“COPD”) has become a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the United States. COPD is typically characterized by the presence of airflow obstructions due to chronic bronchitis or emphysema. The airflow obstructions in COPD are due largely to structural abnormalities in the smaller airways in the lungs.
• Mortality, health-related costs, and the segment of the population having adverse effects due to COPD are substantial. COPD is a progressive disease that can severely affect a person's ability to accomplish normal tasks. One method of treating COPD is the insertion of one-way valves into lumens in the lung. The valves inhibit inhalation, but permit exhalation of air already within the lung. The lung presents challenge in mounting such valves because lumens within it are rarely linear over a useful distance. Accordingly, there is a need for a device to permit mounting of valves within non-linear lumens in the lung.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
• Accordingly, one aspect of the invention comprises an implantable device for providing substantially one-way flow of air through a lumen in a human lung to reduce the volume of air trapped in a diseased portion of the lung. The implantable device occludes the lumen to substantially prevent inhalation while substantially permitting expiration out of said diseased portion of the lung. The implantable device is deployable into the lumen with a catheter.
• One aspect of an embodiment of the implantable device can comprise a one-way valve being generally umbrella-shaped in configuration. The valve is collapsible for containment within a delivery catheter and expandable in situ when deployed. The valve substantially occludes the lumen. The valve is configured so that when deployed in an orientation to substantially preclude inhalation, inhaled air is prevented from flowing past the valve into said lung by capturing said air within the umbrella-shaped valve. The air exerts an outward force on the umbrella shape and forces said valve to tightly engage the lumen. The valve is configured to permit expiration to occur between the perimeter of the valve and the lumen.
• The valve also defines a longitudinal axis and comprises a plurality of metal struts that define a generally bell-shaped frame. Each of the struts have a first end that curves slightly inward towards the longitudinal axis of said implantable device when deployed and a second end proximal a junction of the second ends of the other struts, The valve also has a resilient membrane that wraps around at least a part of the metal struts and is supported by them. The membrane extends from the junction of the plurality of metal struts toward the first end of said struts. The valve also comprises a central post with a first part that extends within the membrane from the junction of said plurality of metal struts at the center of the bell-shaped frame. The post has a flange at an end distal from the strut junction. The flange is configured to permit deployment, positioning, and recapture of said implantable device. The central post further comprises a second part that extends axially outside the membrane.
• Another aspect of the invention comprises an anchor for securing the implantable device within the lumen by inhibiting migration of the device once deployed. The anchor comprises a plurality of resilient arms extending outwardly and radially from the second part of the central post. Each of said arms are configured so as to be collapsible for containment within a delivery catheter and expandable to engage the lumen when deployed in situ. Each of the arms comprises a generally tapered distal end to permit the arm to penetrate the wall of the lumen. The arms further comprise a planar member proximal the tapered distal end and positioned at an angle to the arm to limit advancement of said arm into the lumen wall by contacting the surface of said lumen wall.
• Another aspect of the invention comprises a mechanism connecting the one-way valve to the anchor and being disposed generally along the longitudinal axis when the device is in a collapsed state. The mechanism is configured to permit the valve to be oriented at an angle to the anchor when deployed, thereby allowing the anchor to be positioned in a section of the lumen that is at an angle to a section of said lumen in which the one-way valve is positioned. The mechanism comprises at least one connector at a first end to connect the mechanism to the valve. In some embodiments, the mechanism comprises a flexible member configured to be articulable to permit angled orientation of the anchor. In some embodiments, the flexible member comprises a helical spring. In some embodiments, the flexible member comprises a generally cylindrical mesh.
• In some embodiments of the connector, a second end of the mechanism comprises a generally spherical connector. In some embodiments, the second end of the mechanism resides in a cavity within the anchor. In some embodiments the cavity is elongated. In some embodiments, the first end of the mechanism comprises a generally spherical connector.
• In some embodiments, a cavity is within the anchor, wherein the first end of the mechanism can reside. In some embodiments, the implantable device comprises a second end of the mechanism which comprises a generally spherical connector. In some embodiments, the second end of the mechanism resides in a cavity within the valve. In some embodiments, at least one of the cavities is elongated.
• Another aspect of an embodiment is an implantable device for deployment in an anatomical lumen wherein the device comprises an occluding device and an articulable anchor for securing the occluding device within the lumen in a manner that permits the anchor to articulate substantially with respect to said occluding device. The articulable anchor comprises a mechanism connecting said anchor to the occluding device. Additionally, the mechanism comprises at least one connector at a first end to connect said mechanism to at least one anchoring member and the articulable anchor includes a cavity.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
• FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an implantable device with a one-way valve, an anchor, and a connector;
• FIG. 2 is a side view of an implantable device with an articulable anchor.
• FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the device ofFIG. 2.
• FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of an air passageway and an implantable device with an articulable anchor that spans a bifurcated air passageway;
• FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of an implantable device with an articulable anchor in accordance with another embodiment;
• FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of an implantable device with an articulable anchor in accordance with another embodiment;
• FIG. 7 is a side view of an implantable device with an articulable anchor in accordance with another embodiment;
• FIG. 8 is a side view of a flexible connector for use in an implantable device with an articulable anchor;
• FIG. 9 is a side view of an implantable device with an articulable anchor having a biasing member and a connector positioned between an obstruction member and the anchor system;
• FIGS. 10A-10C are side views of alternative embodiments of frames for implantable devices with articulable members embodied as flexible connectors; and
• FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of an air passageway and a flexible implantable device positioned in the air passageway
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
• FIG. 1 illustrates an implantable device in an expanded position. Theimplantable device10 is configured to affect airflow in an air passageway in a lung. The implantable device comprises ananchor12 and anobstruction member14. A connectingmechanism16 couples theanchor12 to theobstruction member14. The illustratedimplantable device10 includes asupport structure18 that can form the frame of theimplantable device10. At least a portion of theanchor12, the connectingmechanism16, and theobstruction member14 can be formed by thesupport structure18. Anelongated member20 extends axially throughobstruction member14 and can be directly or indirectly coupled to thesupport structure18.
• Theobstruction member14 surrounds at least a portion of theelongated member20 and is configured to interact with an anatomical lumen, such as an air passageway, to regulate the flow of fluid through the lumen. Theobstruction member14 can effectively function as a one-way valve. One example of an obstruction member is an occluding device.
• Theanchor12 comprises a plurality ofanchor members22 that extend from the connectingmechanism16. In the illustrated embodiment, each of theanchor members22 is an elongated member that extends radially outward from the connectingmechanism16 and terminates at a piercingend24, although theanchor members22 can have any number of piercing ends. One ormore stops26 can be positioned along eachanchor member22, preferably positioned at some point near the piercingmembers24. The stops26 can be configured to limit the puncturing by the piercingmember24 through lung tissue beyond a desired depth.
• The stops26 can be formed by splitting the distal ends of theanchor members22. One of the split sections can be bent downwardly to form thestop26, while leaving the second split section to extend outwardly to form the piercingmember24. Although thestops26 can be formed integrally with theanchor member22, thestops26 can also be applied in a subsequent process. For example, each stop26 can be a piece of metal that is mounted to theanchor members22. Thus, each of theanchor members22 can be of a one piece or multi-piece construction.
• Any number ofanchor members22 can be used to limit migration of theimplantable device10 implanted at a desired deployment site. The illustratedimplantable device10 comprises fiveanchor members22 that are coupled to the connectingmechanism16. However, theanchor12 can comprise any suitable number of anchor members in any various configurations. A skilled artisan can select the number ofanchor members22 based on the size of an air passageway, anchor design, and the like. Theanchor members22 can be positioned at regular or irregular intervals. When theanchor12 is positioned in situ, the piercingmembers24 can engage tissue of an air passageway wall of a lung to retain theimplantable device10 at a desired location. One non-limiting example of such an engagement occurs when at least one piercing member punctures the wall of the air passageway.
• With continued reference toFIG. 1, theobstruction member14 is generally umbrella-shaped and comprises an obstructingmember frame28 that carries amembrane32. The obstructingframe28 includes a plurality ofarcuate struts30 that support themembrane32.
• A plurality of pathways can be defined by theobstruction member14 between each pair ofstruts30. When theimplantable device10 is securely anchored in a lung passageway, thestruts30 can bias theobstruction member14 outwardly against the air passageway wall. Between each pair ofstruts30, themembrane32 can define the pathway that permits mucus transport past theobstruction member14 through the associated air passageway.
• Proper mucociliary functioning can be maintained to ensure that the respiratory system continues to self clean after an implantable device has been deployed. To maintain mucociliary transport themembrane32 can be folded inwardly away from the air passageway wall, especially during exhalation when theimplantable device10 has theanchor12 positioned distally. Themembrane32 can press lightly against the air passageway wall in order to permit cilliary action for the movement of mucus past themembrane32. Of course, the implantable device can have other configurations that permit mucus transport.
• Themembrane32 can be treated to enhance sealing, improve biostability, and/or enhance mucus transport. To enhance valving action, themembrane32 can be treated with a material that interacts with a wall of an air passageway to improve functioning. A coating on the membrane can reduce airflow in at least one direction between the air passageway and the expanded membrane engaging the air passageway wall. The coating can be a hydrogel that helps themembrane32 adhere to the air passageway wall to further limit air flow past the implantable device in at least one direction. Other coating materials can be applied to the membrane or other portions of the implantable device depending on the intended application. The coating can be applied before, during, or after the implantable device is placed in a passageway.
• In some embodiments, themembrane32 can be coated with a lubricious material to limit adherence to an air passageway. Additionally, an implantable device may partially or fully collapse when subjected to rapid pressure changes, such as when a person coughs. If the membrane is folded together, the lubricious material can inhibit sticking of the membrane to itself so that the implantable device can quickly re-expand to function effectively again.
• The implantable device can be adapted to facilitated movement through a delivery lumen. To reduce frictional forces between the implantable device and a lumen of a delivery instrument, a release agent can be applied to the implantable device. The release agent can reduce the force required to eject the implantable device out of the lumen as detailed above.
• The struts can have first strut ends connected to the connectingmechanism16 and opposing second strut ends. The proximal tips of the struts can curve radially inward toward the longitudinal axis of theimplantable device10.
• With continued reference toFIG. 1, theelongated member20 comprises arod34 that is connected to the connectingmechanism16 and a grippinghead36. Therod34 is a generally cylindrical body that extends along the longitudinal axis of theimplantable device10, although therod34 can be at other suitable locations. For example, therod34 can be angled or offset from the longitudinal axial of theimplantable device10.
• Therod34 is connected to the grippinghead36 that is positioned exterior to the chamber defined by themembrane32. Therod34 extends from the opening such that the grippinghead36 is spaced outwardly from the opening defined by themembrane32. Theelongated member20 can be of such a length that it extends beyond the second end of the struts when the implantable10 occupies an expanded position. When the grippinghead36 is spaced from the proximal ends of the struts and themembrane32, a removal device (not shown) can easily grip the exposed grippinghead36. In alternative embodiments, therod34 terminates to form the grippinghead36 positioned inwardly of the opening defined by themember32. Other embodiments of the grippinghead36 can include various changes in shape and size of the grippinghead36 to cooperate with different coupling mechanisms.
• Theelongated member20 can also be of such a length that theelongated member20 and thestruts30 extend substantially the same distance from the connectingmechanism16 when theimplantable device10 is in a fully collapsed state (not shown). Thestruts30 can lie flat along therod34 for a low profile configuration. The grippinghead36 preferably remains exposed so that theimplantable device10 can be pushed out of a delivery instrument by conveniently applying a force to the grippinghead36.
• A variety of removal devices can be used to engage the implantable device to, for example, reposition, re-implant, or remove the implantable device as discussed above. The enlargedgripping head36 can be designed to facilitate removal of theimplantable device10 by any of numerous extracting devices and methods as are known in the art. Theremoval gripping head36 can be gripped by a removal device (such as forceps, an extractor, a retractor, gripping device, or other suitable device for gripping a portion of the implantable device10). A sufficient proximal force can be applied to displace the implantedimplantable device10 from the implantation site. The illustratedgripping head36 is a somewhat cylindrical knob having an outer diameter that is greater than the outer diameter of therod34. The grippinghead36 can have other configurations for engaging a removal device. Exemplary gripping heads can comprise a hook, ring, enlarged portion, connectors (e.g., snap connector, threaded connector, etc), or other structure for permanently or temporarily coupling to a removal device.
• FIG. 2 is a side view of an embodiment of animplantable device50. Theobstruction member58 is coupled with theanchor56 by a connectingmechanism52. In the illustrated embodiment, the connectingmechanism52 comprises a connectingmember54. The connectingmechanism52 permits articulation between theobstruction member58 and theanchor56. In the illustrated position, theobstruction member58 and theanchor56 are collinear along the longitudinal axis of theimplantable device50. Through articulation of the connectingmechanism52, theobstruction member58 and theanchor56 can be configured to no longer be collinear along the longitudinal axis of theimplantable device50. As one non-limiting example, theobstruction member58 can be maintained at an unaltered orientation while the connectingmechanism52, either by pivoting or flexing, can continue to couple theobstruction member58 to theanchor56 while theanchor56 is moved to a different orientation than that of theobstruction member58. In some embodiments, the connectingmechanism52 can permit axial movement, changing the distance between the distal end of theobstruction member58 and the proximal end of theanchor56. In some embodiments, the articulation of the connectingmechanism52 is accomplished through discrete pivotal orientation changes. In other embodiments, the connectingmechanism52 is configured to articulate through continuous flexing, such as the bending of a flexible member. In still other embodiments, the connectingmechanism52 can be configured to permit changes in orientation between theobstruction member58 and theanchor56 by limiting separation between theobstruction member58 and theanchor56 when the connectingmechanism52 is not rigidly coupled to the two components. In these embodiments, the connectingmechanism52 can comprise a tether or other limiting component.
• FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of animplantable device100. Theimplantable device100 is configured to permit an angled position. Theimplantable device100 can be positioned in a naturally angled air passageway (e.g., a bifurcated air passageway, tortuous air passageway, etc.) in a lung. Theimplantable device100 has an anchor sufficiently articulable so as to permit deployment of theimplantable device100 within the angled air passageway without substantially altering the natural geometry of the air passageway. Theimplantable device100 can effectively function even though the obstructingmember102 conforms to the natural shape of the air passageway. Theimplantable device100 can be generally similar to theimplantable device10 ofFIG. 1, and accordingly, the following description of theimplantable device100 can equally apply to the implantable devices described below, unless indicated otherwise.
• As used herein, the term “implantable device” is a broad term and is used in its ordinary meaning and includes, without limitation, articulated implantable devices, actuatable implantable devices, and other implantable devices that have one or more means for providing articulation, actuating, or flexibility between an anchor and a functional member, such as an obstruction member. The implantable devices may have any number of pivot points or flexible portions. These implantable devices can be placed along tortuous pathways, such as a section of a lung passageway that is substantially curved along its length. Some embodiments include a means for providing flexibility that comprises any combination of a biasing member, a flexible member, a ball and socket arrangement, a joint, a linkage, a hinge, and/or a flexible connector. As such, the flexible implantable device can be selectively curved or angled along its length to match the shape of the air passageway.
• The illustratedimplantable device100 comprises an obstructingmember102 articulably and pivotally connected to ananchor system104. Theanchor system104 can be moved relative to the obstructingmember102 to a desired position depending on the functional application of thedevice100. An articulating connectingportion106 connects and permits movement between the obstructingmember102 and theanchor system104. The articulating connectingportion106 permits articulation of thedevice100 such that thedevice100 can be implanted in curved air passageways without significantly altering the natural geometry of the air passageway. For example, theimplantable device100 can span a bronchial branching section of a lung. Theimplantable device100 can be articulated repeatedly (e.g., during normal lung functioning) without appreciable trauma to the lung, or to theimplantable device100. Traditional stent-based devices for implantation in air passageways are typically rigid elongated structures that are not suitable for placement in bifurcated or substantially curved air passageways. These stent-based devices maintain their linear configuration thus rendering them unsuitable for use in these types of air passageways.
• With reference again toFIG. 3, the articulating connectingportion106 can have various configurations for permitting relative movement between theanchor system104 and the obstructingmember102. In some embodiments, including the illustrated embodiment, the articulating connectingportion106 comprises at least one ball and socket arrangement. The illustratedanchor system104 has ananchor socket120 comprising a generally spherical cavity that holds one end of the connectingrod124, while the obstructingmember102 has an obstructingsocket122 that holds the other end of the connectingrod124.
• The connectingrod124 has afirst end128 and an opposingsecond end126. Each of theends126,128 is generally spheroidal and sized to be received by the correspondingsocket122,120. The spheroidal shape theends126,128 can be integral with the connectingrod124 or generally spheroidal-shaped members can be coupled to or mounted on theends126,128. Thefirst end128 is rotatably mounted in the obstructingsocket122. Thesecond end126 is rotatably mounted in theanchor socket120. As such, thesockets120,122 can rotate freely about the ends of the connectingrod124. Thus, theimplantable device100 has a plurality of joints that permit articulation. The implantable device can have any number of articulable connecting portions for a particular application.
• To reduce wear of the balls and the sockets, the surface(s) of the sockets and/or ends126,128 can be coated with a material to reduce frictional interaction. For example, theinterior surface130 of theanchor socket120 can comprise one or more of the following: a somewhat lubricious material (e.g., Teflon®), ceramics, metals, polymers (preferably hard polymers), or combinations thereof. However, other materials can be utilized to limit or inhibit wear between the connectingrod124 and the obstructingmember102 and/or theanchor system104. When theimplantable device100 is deployed in the lungs, theanchor socket120 can move, preferably slightly, with respect to the ball at thesecond end126 during normal respiration. The wear-resistant surfaces can minimize debris build up that can impede performance of theimplantable device100. In view of the present disclosure, one of ordinary skill in the art can determine the appropriate combination of materials, geometry of the ball and socket arrangement, and the length of the connectingrod124 to achieve the desired positioning of theimplantable device100.
• The connectingrod124 can have a one-piece or multi-piece construction. In some embodiments, the connectingrod body142 and theends126,128 are formed of a single material (e.g., a metal such as Nitinol or titanium). In other embodiments, the connectingrod body142 is formed of a flexible material, and theends126,128 are formed of a somewhat hard, rigid material, such as a ceramic.
• The connectingrod124 can be generally straight, as shown inFIG. 3. However, the connectingrod124 can have other configurations based on clinical need. For example, the connectingrod124 ofFIG. 8 has an angled shape that allows placement of the implantable device in a complex shaped airway (e.g., an airway with sharp curves, branching portions, etc.).
• With continued reference toFIG. 3, anelongated member134 includes arod138 having anend portion140 that is connected to the obstructingmember frame136. Theend portion140 can be connected to theframe136 by one or more mechanical fasteners, adhesives, welding, boarding, interference fit, threads, or other suitable coupling means for securely coupling therod138 to theframe136. In some embodiments, including the illustrated embodiment, therod138 is connected to the interior portions of thestruts110, although the rod can be connected to other portions of theframe136. Therod138 can also be formed integrally with at least a part of the frame.
• As shown inFIG. 4, theimplantable device150 can be placed at a branching air passageway of the bronchial tree. The obstructingmember152 is within aproximal passageway160 and theanchor system154 is positioned within a distalsub-branch air passageway162. Theimplantable device150 can therefore span the junction164 of the air passageway of the lung and, thus, permits flexibility in positioning of thedevice150. The air passageway can generally retain its natural shape, such as its shape before implantation of theimplantable device150, to minimize trauma to the lung tissue. The orientations of the implantable devices are not limited solely to the illustrated orientations. Theimplantable device150 can be reversed from the illustrated orientation so that the anchors are located proximally of the obstruction member. Thus, theimplantable device150 can be oriented to permit air flow in any desired direction.
• Theimplantable device150 can also be implanted in non-branching portions of lungs. If desired, theimplantable device150 can be implanted in continuous air passageways that are generally straight, curved, angled, or having any other configuration. Because theimplantable device150 can assume various configurations, there is significant flexibility in selecting a deployment site. Theimplantable device150 can also be implanted in air passageways that have a substantially constant or varying cross-section. Advantageously, the physician can implant theimplantable device150 at various locations throughout the lung to treat specific portions of the lung. If the implantable devices are in the form of occluding devices or flow regulating devices (e.g., a one-way valve, flow resistor, etc.), these devices can be implanted proximally of, and adjacent to, the diseased portions of a lung, thus maximizing the amount of healthy lung tissue that can function, even if the diseased lung tissue is in the far distal portions of the bronchial tree.
• FIG. 5 illustrates animplantable device200 that comprises ananchor system202 that is pivotally coupled to anelongated member204 that extends through the obstructingmember206. Theelongated member204 has a generallyspheroidal member208 that is rotatably mounted in ananchor socket210 of theanchor system202. The obstructingmember206 can be fixedly attached at some point along theelongated member204.
• To secure the obstructingmember206 to theelongated member204, a portion of an obstructingmember frame212 and/or amembrane214 can be coupled to theelongated member204. In the illustrated embodiment, the struts of the obstructingmember frame212 and themembrane214 are both coupled to the outer surface of theelongated member204.
• Once deployed, theimplantable device200 illustrated inFIG. 5 can be retained in place by theanchor system202. Theimplantable device200 can be positioned in a non-linear lumen, such as those illustrated inFIG. 4, because theanchor system202 may remain at a first orientation while the obstructingmember206 is pivoted to a second orientation by the generallyspheroidal member208 and theanchor socket210. The obstructingmember206 can be configured to move axially from theanchor system202 through travel along theelongated member204, which can be limited to prevent inefficient operation of theimplantable device200.
• FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of aimplantable device250 that has anarticulable connecting portion252 that permits axial movement between ananchor system254 and an obstructingmember256. The connectingportion252 includes aholder260 of theanchor system254 and aholder262 of theobstruction member256. Each of theholders260,262 is configured to receive an end of aconnector264. The illustratedconnector264 has enlarged ends that are held by theholders260,262. Thechambers268,278 of theholders260,262, respectively, permit axial movement of theconnector264. The enlarged ends of theconnector264 that are held by theholders260,262 can also be constructed to permit pivotal movement in addition to axial movement.
• Theanchor system254 and the obstructingmember256 of thedevice250 can move freely towards and away from each other. However, one or more biasing members (not shown) can be positioned between the anchor system and obstructing member of the implantable device to adjust positioning of the implantable device. The biasing member can cooperate with the connecting portion to ensure that the implantable device remains in a desired position.
• FIG. 7 illustrates animplantable device300 that has an articulating connectingportion302 that includes aflexible member304 connected to theanchor system306 and the obstructingmember308. Theflexible member304 can comprise a somewhat flexible elongated member (e.g., a solid rod, a hollow tube, ribbon, etc.) and can comprise metal, polymers (preferably a somewhat rigid polymer), filaments, and the like. Theflexible member304 preferably does not substantially stretch or buckle when an axial force is applied thereto. Alternatively, theflexible member304 can be configured to allow significant axial movement between theanchor system306 and the obstructingmember308. Theflexible member304 can be, for example, a tether that holds together and limits the axial movement of theanchor system306 away from the obstructingmember308. However, theflexible member304 may be easily collapsed as theanchor system306 is moved towards the obstructingmember308. Theflexible member304 can comprise a rope, wire, filaments, or other suitable member for providing relative movement between theanchor system306 and the obstructingmember308.
• With reference toFIG. 8, the connectingrod350 can have or bend to have an angledcentral portion352 that defines an angle θ. The length L1 and L2 can be selected to achieve the desired orientation and size of an implantable device. If the implantable device is deployed at a sharp bend of an air passageway, the angle θ can be matched with the angle of the bend to generally align the longitudinal axis of an anchor system with one of the passages and the longitudinal axis of an obstructing member with the other passage. The implantable device, for example, can include a connecting rod for deployment in air passageways that together form an acute angle. Accordingly, the configuration of the connectingrod350 can be selected based on the target deployment site.
• As illustrated inFIG. 9, theimplantable device400 can have a biasingmember402 positioned between an obstructingmember404 and ananchor system406. One example of such a biasing member is a helical spring. In the illustrated embodiment, atether408 extends through the biasingmember402 between the obstructingmember404 and theanchor system406. Other embodiments can have atether408 connecting the obstructingmember404 and ananchor system406 that does not extend through the biasingmember402 and instead passes at least partially outside the biasingmember402. Alternatively, a flexible cylindrical member (not shown) can extend between the obstructingmember404 and theanchor system406, substantially completely enclosing the biasingmember402. The tether can also be a connector such as the one illustrated inFIG. 7.
• FIGS. 10A-10C illustrate various embodiments of support frames of implantable devices, each having a means for flexing. Each of the support frames has a flexible connecting portion that permits relative movement between an anchor system and an obstructing member frame. The frames as illustrated do not have membranes; however, any of various types of membranes can be applied to the obstructing member frames.FIG. 10A illustrates a frame support450A that includes a flexible connecting portion452A in the form of slots in an alternating pattern. The connecting portion452A can be an integral piece with the frame, as illustrated, or can be coupled or mounted to an anchor system454A and an obstruction frame456A. The flexible connecting portion452A can be formed by cutting slots out of a tube. The number and size of the slots can be selected to achieve the desired flexibility. Additionally, the material used to construct the connecting portion can be selected for its flexibility characteristics.
• FIG. 10B illustrates a frame support500B that is generally similar to the frame support450A ofFIG. 10A. In the illustrated embodiment, the frame support500B includes a flexible connecting portion502B in the form of a spring member extending axially along the longitudinal axis of the frame support500B. As such, the spring member can be arranged in a spiral fashion about the longitudinal axis of the flexible connecting portion502B. The illustrated spring member is in the form of a helical spring, although other types of springs or resilient members can be utilized. The spring can comprise the connecting member alone or can act as a biasing member, as described above. Additionally, as described above, the spring can be formed integrally with the frame, or serve as a coupler for both an anchor system and obstruction frame.
• FIG. 10C illustrates a frame support550C that comprises a flexible connecting portion552C comprising a mesh. The connecting portion552C can comprise a mesh of various sizes, with large or small mesh spaces. Additionally, the mesh can be constructed of a variety of materials, such as metals, synthetics, or any other resilient material. The mesh can permit flexing, as when the obstructing frame554C and anchor system556C are positioned at different orientations, as described above. In some embodiments, the mesh can also permit axial compression along the longitudinal axis of the frame support550C. As described, the mesh can be formed integrally with the frame, or be mounted or coupled at either end to the obstructing frame554C and anchor system556C.
• The illustrated struts600A,600B,600C ofFIGS. 10A-10C each have two generally elongated straight portions connected by a bend. The struts600A,600B,600C can also have a continuously curved configuration similar to the struts described above. The frame supports can carry a membrane to form an obstructing member, such as an obstructing member adapted to function as a valve (preferably a one-way valve). The connecting portions can enhance the seating of the obstructing member within an air passageway to enhance valve functioning.
• With reference toFIG. 11, animplantable device700 is illustrated as having a flexible connectingportion702, such as the one shown inFIG. 10A. Theimplantable device700 is deployed and implanted in anair passageway708 and is held in place by itsanchor system704. The flexibleconnecting position702 can apply a force to the obstructingmember706 of theimplantable device700 to enhance seating between the membrane of the obstructingmember706 and thewall708. Thus, a bias of the flexible connectingportion702 can ensure that an effective seal is maintained between the obstructingmember706 and thewall708, thereby limiting or preventing the flow of air distally past theimplantable device700. Advantageously, theimplantable device700 can permit the passage of air proximally past the obstructingmember706 when the pressure differential across theimplantable device700 is sufficiently high. As the air flows proximally past the obstructingmember706, the flexible connectingportion702 can apply a distally directed force. When the pressure differential is reduced a sufficient amount, the obstructingmember706 is pulled distally against theair passageway wall708 to once again form a seal with the air passageway wall. Thus, the obstructingmember706 can move slightly during normal lung functioning while theanchor system704 can remain securely fixed in place. The flexible connectingportion702 can therefore enhance the valving action of theimplantable device700.
• If desired, the connectingportion702 can also be used to position theanchors704 and the obstructingmember706 along a tortuous path within a lung, as shown inFIG. 4 above. The connectingportion702 can be positioned along sharp turns that may be unsuitable for rigid valves, such as stent-based devices.
• All patents and publications mentioned herein are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties. Except as further described herein, the embodiments, features, systems, devices, materials, methods and techniques described herein may, in some embodiments, be similar to any one or more of the embodiments, features, systems, devices, materials, methods and techniques described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/409,785 (U.S. Publication 2004-0200484), filed Apr. 8, 2003; Ser. No. 09/951,105 (U.S. Publication No. 2003/0050648A1), filed Mar. 13, 2003; Ser. No. 10/848,571, filed May 17, 2004; Ser. No. 10/847,554, filed May 17, 2004; Ser. No. 10/418,929, filed Apr. 17, 2003; Ser. No. 10/081,712 (U.S. Publication 2002-0112729), filed Feb. 21, 2002; Ser. No. 10/178,073 (U.S. Publication 2003-0154988), filed Jun. 21, 2002; Ser. No. 10/317,667 (U.S. Publication 2003-0158515), filed Dec. 11, 2002; Ser. No. 10/103,487 (U.S. Publication 2003-0181922), filed Mar. 20, 2002; Ser. No. 10/124,790 (U.S. Publication 2003-0195385), filed Apr. 16, 2002; Ser. No. 10/143,353 (U.S. Publication 2003-0212412), filed Mar. 9, 2002; Ser. No. 10/150,547 (U.S. Publication 2003/0216769), filed May 17, 2002; Ser. No. 10/196,513 (U.S. Publication 2004-0010209), filed Jul. 15, 2002; Ser. No. 10/254,392 (U.S. Publication 2004//0059263), filed Sep. 24, 2002; Ser. No. 10/387,963 (U.S. Publication 2004-0210248), filed Mar. 12, 2003; Ser. No. 10/745,401, filed Dec. 22, 2003; U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,293,951; 6,258,100; 6722360; 6,592,594, which are hereby incorporated herein and made part of this specification. In addition, the embodiments, features, systems, devices, materials, methods and techniques described herein may, in certain embodiments, be applied to or used in connection with any one or more of the embodiments, features, systems, devices, materials, methods and techniques disclosed in the above-mentioned incorporated applications and patents.
• The articles disclosed herein may be formed through any suitable means. The various methods and techniques described above provide a number of ways to carry out the invention. Of course, it is to be understood that not necessarily all objectives or advantages described may be achieved in accordance with any particular embodiment described herein. Thus, for example, those skilled in the art will recognize that the methods may be performed in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other objectives or advantages as may be taught or suggested herein.
• Furthermore, the skilled artisan will recognize the interchangeability of various features from different embodiments disclosed herein. Similarly, the various features and steps discussed above, as well as other known equivalents for each such feature or step, can be mixed and matched by one of ordinary skill in this art to perform methods in accordance with principles described herein. Additionally, the methods which are described and illustrated herein are not limited to the exact sequence of acts described, nor are they necessarily limited to the practice of all of the acts set forth. Other sequences of events or acts, or less than all of the events, or simultaneous occurrence of the events, may be utilized in practicing the embodiments of the invention.
• Although the invention has been disclosed in the context of certain embodiments and examples, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the invention extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof. Accordingly, the invention is not intended to be limited by the specific disclosures of preferred embodiments herein.

Claims (21)

1. (canceled)

2. An implantable device configured to be secured within an air passageway, the device comprising:

an anchor system comprising at least one piercing tip and being configured to engage tissue of an air passageway wall;

a proximal valve portion; and

a flexible connecting portion connected to both the proximal valve portion and the anchor system and positioned there between, the flexible connecting portion configured to apply a force to the proximal valve portion to enhance seating between the proximal valve portion and airway passage.

3. The device ofclaim 2 wherein the proximal valve portion is configured to move in a distal and a proximal direction with respect to the anchor system in response to exhalation and inhalation when implanted in the air passageway.

4. The device ofclaim 2, wherein the flexible connecting portion comprises a coil spring.

5. The device ofclaim 2, wherein the flexible connecting portion comprises a tube in which slots of an alternating pattern are cut.

6. The device ofclaim 2, wherein the flexible connecting portion comprises a mesh.

7. The device ofclaim 2, wherein the anchor system comprises one or more stops configured to limit a depth to which the piercing tip engages tissue of the air passageway wall.

8. An implantable device configured to be secured within an air passageway, the device comprising:

an anchor system having portions configured to pierce tissue of an air passageway wall;

a proximal one-way valve; and

a connecting portion having a first end connected to the proximal one-way valve and a second end connected to the anchor system, the connecting portion configured to apply distal force on the one-way valve to enhance seating between the proximal valve portion and airway passage.

9. The device ofclaim 8, wherein the proximal one-way valve is configured to move in a distal and a proximal direction with respect to the anchor system in response to exhalation and inhalation when implanted in the air passageway.

10. The device ofclaim 8, wherein the connecting portion comprises a coil spring.

11. The device ofclaim 8, wherein the connecting portion comprises a tube in which slots of an alternating pattern are cut.

12. The device ofclaim 8, wherein the connecting portion comprises a mesh.

13. An implantable device configured to be secured within an air passageway, the device comprising:

a frame having a concave side and a convex side;

a membrane supported by the frame;

an anchor system comprising a plurality of anchor arms; and

a connecting portion having a first end connected to the frame and a second end connected to the anchor system, the connecting portion configured to bias the frame toward the anchor system.

14. The device ofclaim 13, wherein the frame, anchor system, and connecting portion are formed as a unitary part.

15. The device ofclaim 13, wherein the convex side of the frame is connected to the connecting portion.

16. The device ofclaim 13, wherein the concave side of the frame faces away from the anchor system.

17. The device ofclaim 13, wherein a distance between the first and second ends of the connecting portion is configured to change in response to inhalation and exhalation when the device is implanted in the air passageway.

18. The device ofclaim 13, wherein the connecting portion is constructed by cutting a tube.

19. The device ofclaim 13, wherein the membrane is carried on the entire frame.

20. The device ofclaim 13, wherein each of the anchor arms comprises a first end connected to the connecting portion and a second end positioned away from the connecting portion.

21. The device ofclaim 20, wherein the second end of each of the anchor arms is positioned entirely distal of the connecting portion and of the frame when the device is implanted in the air passageway and when the concave side of the frame faces a proximal direction

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