Double spiral patent foramen ovale closure clamp

Abstract

The present invention provides a device which is adapted to press together the septum primum and the septum secundum between the atrial chambers to close any tunnel in the septum. The device in its preferred form has two clamping members, one on each side of the septum and a central connector which connects the two clamping members and passes through the tunnel. The device is configured to conform to the anatomy such that the tunnel is not substantially deformed by the device. The central connector, in its preferred form has two wires that are spaced apart so that the wires are proximate the lateral sides of the tunnel. The spacing allows the device to be centered at an appropriate location.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application claims priority to provisional patent application 60 / 528,022 filed Dec. 9, 2003.FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0002] The present invention relates to devices and methods which are used to close septal openings. In particular, this invention is directed to devices and methods which are used to close a patent foramen ovale (PFO) in the septum between the left atrium and right atrium. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0003] A PFO, illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, is a persistent, one-way, usually flap-like opening in the wall between the right atrium and left atrium of the heart. Because left atrial (LA) pressure is normally higher than right atrial (RA) pressure, the flap usually stays closed. Under certain conditions, however, right atrial pressure can exceed left atrial pressure which creates the possibility that blood could pass from the right atrium to the left atrium and allow blood clots to enter the systemic circulation. It is de...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention provides a device for closing a tunnel in the heart called a patent foramen ovale (PFO). The device has two clamping members that press together the two sides of the tunnel to close it. The device is designed to conform to the anatomy of the heart and not deform the tunnel. The clamping members can be spirals made of nitinol or wires that are spread out along the tunnel. The device can be delivered through a catheter and change shape when deployed in the heart. The technical effect of the invention is to provide a reliable and effective device for closing a PFO.

Problems solved by technology

Under certain conditions, however, right atrial pressure can exceed left atrial pressure which creates the possibility that blood could pass from the right atrium to the left atrium and allow blood clots to enter the systemic circulation.

While there is currently no proof for a cause-effect relationship, many studies have confirmed a strong association between the presence of a PFO and the risk for paradoxical embolism or stroke.

In addition, there is good evidence that patients with PFO and paradoxical embolism are at increased risk for future, recurrent cerebrovascular events.

These patients are commonly treated with oral anticoagulants, which have the potential for adverse side effects, such as hemorrhaging, hematoma, and interactions with a variety of other drugs.

However, umbrella devices and the like which are designed for ASDs are not optimally suited for use as a PFO closure device.

Currently available designs of septal closure devices present drawbacks, including that the implantation procedure is technically complex.

Many devices have high septal profile and may include large masses of foreign material which may lead to unfavorable body adaptation of a device.

Since ASD devices are designed to occlude a hole, many lack anatomic conformability to the PFO flap-like anatomy.

That is, when inserting an ASD into the heart to close a PFO, the narrow opening and the thin flap may form impediments to proper deployment.

Even if an occlusive seal is formed, the device may be deployed in the heart on an angle which could leave some components not securely seated against the septum.

Finally, some septal closure devices are complex to manufacture, which may result in lack of consistency in product performance.

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