Tissue fasteners and related deployment systems and methods

Abstract

Surgical tissue fasteners and related deployment systems and methods are disclosed. A tissue fastener used to join multiple tissue layers includes a first member, a second member, and a connecting member connecting the first and second members. In some embodiments, the first and second members are configured to expand from a delivered state to a deployed state in which the fastener secures the tissue layers together. Other tissue fastener embodiments include means for applying a substantially constant force on the tissue layers and / or means for adjusting a length of the connecting member between the first and second members.

Description

[0001] This application relates to commonly assigned U.S. Application Serial No. ______ of Robert Devries et al., filed on the same date as this application, and entitled "Devices and Methods for Fastening Tissue Layers." The complete disclosure of that application is incorporated by reference herein.DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION[0002] 2. 1Field of the Invention[0003] The present invention relates to surgical tissue fasteners and related deployment systems and methods for delivering the tissue fasteners. In particular, the present invention relates to tissue fasteners used in, for example, a fundoplication procedure for treatment of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD).[0004] 2. Background of the Invention[0005] Gastroesophageal reflux occurs when stomach acid enters the esophagus. This reflux of acid into the esophagus occurs naturally in healthy individuals, but also may become a pathological condition in others. Effects from gastroesophageal reflux range from mild to severe. Mil...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

This reflux of acid into the esophagus occurs naturally in healthy individuals, but also may become a pathological condition in others.

Transient relaxations of the LES 2 do occur in healthy individuals, typically resulting in occasional bouts of heartburn.

As with any surgery, the attendant risks are great.

Due to relatively large incisions necessary in the performance of open surgery, relatively large amount of blood is lost, the risk of infection increases, and the potential for post-operative hernias is high.

Further, the relatively large incisions necessary in the performance of open surgery require extended recovery times for the incision to heal.

This procedure is still relatively invasive requiring incisions through the stomach, which has a risk of infection.

The location of the incision in the abdominal wall presents a risk of other negative effects, such as sepsis, which can be caused by leakage of septic fluid contained in the stomach.

Images