FIXATION DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ENGAGING TISSUE
First Claim
1. A fixation device for engaging tissue comprising:
- a pair of fixation elements each having a first end, a free end opposite the first end, and an engagement surface therebetween for engaging the tissue, the first ends being movably coupled together such that the fixation elements are moveable between an open position wherein the free ends are spaced apart and a closed position wherein the free ends are closer together with the engagement surfaces generally facing each other;
a locking mechanism coupled to the fixation elements for locking the engagement elements in the closed position; and
an unlocking mechanism for disengaging the locking mechanism so the fixation elements are movable to the open position.
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Abstract
The invention provides devices, systems and methods for tissue approximation and repair at treatment sites. The devices, systems and methods of the invention will find use in a variety of therapeutic procedures, including endovascular, minimally-invasive, and open surgical procedures, and can be used in various anatomical regions, including the abdomen, thorax, cardiovascular system, heart, intestinal tract, stomach, urinary tract, bladder, lung, and other organs, vessels, and tissues. The invention is particularly useful in those procedures requiring minimally-invasive or endovascular access to remote tissue locations, where the instruments utilized must negotiate long, narrow, and tortuous pathways to the treatment site. In addition, many of the devices and systems of the invention are adapted to be reversible and removable from the patient at any point without interference with or trauma to internal tissues.
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Citations
13 Claims
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1. A fixation device for engaging tissue comprising:
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a pair of fixation elements each having a first end, a free end opposite the first end, and an engagement surface therebetween for engaging the tissue, the first ends being movably coupled together such that the fixation elements are moveable between an open position wherein the free ends are spaced apart and a closed position wherein the free ends are closer together with the engagement surfaces generally facing each other;
a locking mechanism coupled to the fixation elements for locking the engagement elements in the closed position; and
an unlocking mechanism for disengaging the locking mechanism so the fixation elements are movable to the open position. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13)
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Specification