DE102010027123A1 - Medical device - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a medical device for insertion into a hollow body organ with a hollow body (10) made of a mesh (11) made of wire elements (12) which cross over to form meshes (13), the mesh (11) having a terminating edge (14 ) which delimits an axial end (15) of the hollow body (10). The invention is characterized in that the terminating edge (14) is arranged continuously around the circumference of the hollow body (10) and is formed by a first end loop (16a), the first end loop (16a) - obliquely with respect to the longitudinal axis of the hollow body ( 10) is arranged in such a way that the first end loop (16a) forms a point, - comprises at least one wire element (12) of the braid (11) which extends continuously along the circumference of the terminating edge (14) at least to the point of the first end loop ( 16a), and - at least in sections, in particular over the entire circumference of the terminating edge (14), is free of the meshes (13) of the braid (11), and at least one second end loop (16b, 16c, 16d) in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the hollow body (10) is offset inwardly and at a distance from the first end loop (16a), the second end loop (16b, 16c, 16d) extending at least in sections along the first end loop (16a) extends and forms a tip and - comprises at least one wire element (12) of the braid (11) which extends continuously at least to the tip of the second end loop (16b, 16c, 16d), the first and second end loops (16a, 16b, 16c, 16d) are elastically and / or flexibly connected to one another in such a way that the end loops (16a, 16b, 16c, 16d) are movable relative to one another in the longitudinal direction of the hollow body (10).

Description

The invention relates to a medical device for introduction into a hollow organ and to a method for producing such a device. A generic device with the features of the preamble of claim 1, for example DE 101 27 602 A1 known.

For the treatment of aneurysms, stenoses and for the expansion of thrombi lattice structures are suitable, which have an increased Feinmaschigkeit. The fine meshing can influence the flow conditions in the aneurysm, in particular by slowing the flow in the aneurysm with the aim of causing the aneurysm to coagulate and become desquamated. The fine-meshed lattice structure also promotes the rapid growth of cells (endothelialization). In the expansion of stenoses and thrombi particles are also well blocked by the fine mesh.

An increased Feinmaschigkeit is achieved for example by braids, which are therefore particularly well suited for this type of use.

Braids are also needed in the endovascular area whenever increased flexibility is required. For example, baskets can be made to protect against distal embolism or to remove thrombus in the form of braids. Due to the good flexibility of braids, the treatment is also possible in very tortuous areas, such as in the brain area. Baskets can also be used in other areas, such as the bladder for removing stones. Flexibility is also beneficial in the context of treating aneurysms or stenoses when they are located at highly tortuous vascular sites.

It is known to make braids with an open structure. This means that the wires of the braid have free ends. As a result, the wires can be braided as a long strand, which is then cut to the appropriate length. This results in different units, each with open or free wire ends. This production technique is suitable when the mesh has many wires and the custom-made individual units is uneconomical. Braids with a large number of wires are very fine-meshed and have the advantages mentioned above.

Alternatively braids can be made with closed loops. This requires a single production of each braid. The braids produced in this way have the advantage that the braid ends rounded by the loops have an atraumatic effect and reduce the risk of injury to the vessel wall.

An example of a mesh with closed loops is in the aforementioned DE 101 27 602 A1 disclosed. The document describes a stent for implantation in the human body with a hollow cylindrical body made of a braid. At the braid ends, the free ends of the wires of the braid are brought together and connected such that loops are formed at the braid ends. The loops at the braid ends lead to a terminal edge of the mesh with a serrated contour.

Both braids where the wires free end as well as braids with closed loops at the braid ends, such as in DE 101 27 602 A1 have the disadvantage that the free wire ends or the loops hinder or even completely prevent retraction of the braid into a catheter after it has been released from the catheter into the vessel. Moreover, in the case of braided wire ends at the braid end, in view of the recoverability of the braid, there is a problem that a guide wire for retraction can not be practically connected to the braid. Even if the braid were connected at one point to a guidewire that draws the braid into the catheter, the free wires at the catheter opening would tilt. This would damage the braid and catheter. Retraction of the mesh is therefore not possible.

Even a braid that ends with closed loops, can not retract into the catheter after it has been completely discharged. Such a braid has several corners at the end of the braid, which tilt when pulled into the catheter. This is especially the case when the braid is connected to a guidewire at a single location.

The invention has for its object to provide a medical device for import into a hollow body organ comprising a mesh whose end edge is designed so that the device can be withdrawn into a delivery system, for example in a catheter after the device completely or partially from the Feeding system was dismissed.

According to the invention the object is achieved by the device according to claim 1.

The invention is based on the idea of providing a medical device for insertion into a hollow body organ with a hollow body made of a mesh of wire elements, which intersect to form meshes, wherein the braid has a terminal edge which defines an axial end of the hollow body. The end edge is formed continuously circumferentially in the circumferential direction of the hollow body and formed by a first end loop. The first end loop is inclined relative to the longitudinal axis of the hollow body, such that the first end loop forms a tip. The first end loop comprises at least one wire element of the braid, wherein the wire element extends continuously along the circumference of the end edge at least to the tip of the first end loop. The first end loop is at least in sections, in particular on the entire circumference of the end edge, free of the mesh of the braid. At least one second end loop is offset inwardly in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the hollow body and spaced from the first end loop. The second end loop extends at least in sections along the first end loop and forms a point. The first end loop comprises at least one wire element of the braid, wherein the wire element extends continuously at least to the tip of the second end loop. The first and second end loops are elastically and / or flexibly connected to each other such that the end loops are movable relative to one another in the longitudinal direction of the hollow body.

The invention has the advantage that a continuous peripheral edge is formed by the formation of the end edge through the end loop, which can be withdrawn with only a small resistance in the feed system. In contrast to known braids which have a serrated and thus discontinuous terminal edge, the recoverability of the device according to the invention is improved or even made possible in the first place. In contrast to braids, in which the terminal edge is formed of meshes, which lead to a thickening at the edge region, a relatively thin end edge is achieved according to the invention, which can be well fed into the feed system. This is inventively achieved in that the end edge is formed by an end loop, which is free of mesh at least in sections. The end edge is thus at least partially formed only by the first end loop and is decoupled in this area from the mesh of the mesh.

The first end loop comprises at least one wire element of the braid, wherein the wire element extends continuously along the circumference of the end edge at least to the tip of the first end loop. In this case, the end loop may comprise at least a single continuous wire element for a closed loop or at least two separate wire elements for an open loop, which extend on both sides of the median plane of the hollow body and meet in the top of the end loop. It is also possible to form the end loops by a plurality of wire elements forming a wire strand. The wire strand can be completely continuous (closed loop) or split in the top (open loop). This applies to the first end loop which forms the terminal edge and / or to the second inwardly offset end loop. The terminal edge formed from a loop leads to a relatively smaller crimp diameter compared to a terminal edge, which is formed from individual stitches, since it does not overlap the two bevels (on both sides of the median plane of the hollow body) of several mesh wires during crimping ,

The at least one second end loop is offset inwardly in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the hollow body and spaced from the first end loop. The second end loop extends at least in sections along the first end loop and forms a point. The second end loop essentially follows the course of the first end loop, wherein the loops can run parallel or non-parallel. The first and second end loops extend in substantially the same direction and are spaced apart. Thus, the second end loop at least partially on a similar or the same geometry as the first end loop on.

The second end loop comprises at least one wire element of the braid, wherein the wire element extends continuously at least to the tip of the second end loop. In this respect, the second end loop is constructed like the first end loop. Reference is made to the comments on the construction of the first end loop. The possibilities of the wire element arrangements disclosed in connection with the first end loop (for example single wire / stranded wire and / or open / closed loop) may in each case be implemented differently in the case of the first and second end loop.

The first and second end loops are elastically and / or flexibly connected to each other such that the end loops are movable relative to one another in the longitudinal direction of the hollow body. This achieves two things: Firstly, the stability of the end loops in the area of the end edge is increased, which improves the security when retracting the braid. The risk of tilting of the end loops is reduced and the guidance or guidance of the braid on re-entry is improved. On the other hand it comes with Pull back to a compression of the mesh, which should be as distortion-free as possible. Due to the elastic and / or flexible connection of the end loops and the associated approval of the relative movement of the end loops in the longitudinal direction of the hollow body is achieved that the distance between the end loops during deformation, so when the hollow body is retracted into the feed system can change. This causes that the at least partially decoupling of the end loops of the mesh of the braid remains, even if the end loops are at least selectively connected to each other for reasons of stability.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the end loops are connected by an elongated connecting element whose main orientation extends in the longitudinal direction of the hollow body. The connecting element allows a simple and effective coupling, in particular selective coupling, the end loops. Due to the course of the main orientation of the connecting element in the longitudinal direction of the hollow body is achieved that the connecting element or a longitudinal axis of the connecting element is arranged in the feed direction in which the hollow body is moved during retraction into the feed system. By this orientation, a favorable power transmission is achieved when pulling into the feed system. It is sufficient if the main orientation of the connecting element extends in the longitudinal direction of the hollow body. This includes the possibility that the elongated connecting element is straight and extends parallel to the longitudinal direction of the hollow body. The longitudinal main orientation also includes the possibility that the connecting element deviates in sections from the longitudinal direction of the hollow body, provided that the longitudinal extent of the connecting element extends overall in the longitudinal direction of the hollow body, such as in an S-shaped connecting element. It may be sufficient if the end points of the connection between the end loops, in particular between adjacent end loops, in particular between all end loops, lie on an imaginary line which runs parallel to the longitudinal axis of the hollow body. The connection points can coincide with the tips of the end loops. The tips of the end loops can be arranged on an imaginary line which runs parallel to the longitudinal axis of the hollow body.

In a further preferred embodiment, the connecting element is flexible in the longitudinal direction of the hollow body. This ensures that a deformation of the end loops, in particular with different degrees of deformation of the different end loops, a change in distance between the end loops can take place without distorting the mesh of the mesh by the deformation of the end loops. Due to the flexibility of the connecting element, the relative movement between the end loops during deformation is made possible.

The connecting element preferably comprises at least one connecting wire, which is in each case curved between the end loops such that the connecting wire extends in sections, with respect to the longitudinal axis of the hollow body, in different directions, in particular deviating from the longitudinal axis. In a deformation of the end loops when pulling the hollow body in the feed system increases the distance between end loops. The flexibility of the connecting element or of the connecting wire is achieved in this embodiment in that the initial curved connecting wire stretches in the deformation of the end loops, so that the distance between the end loops may change. In the case of a plurality of end loops, the connecting wire can in each case be curved between all end loops, so that it is possible for the change in length of the connecting wire corresponding to the change in distance between all end loops to be enabled by a sectionwise stretching of the connecting wire between the end loops. The curvature of the connecting wire between each end loop is not mandatory. For example, individual end loops can be skipped by the connection wire. Multiple bends in different directions between adjacent end loops are also possible.

The connecting wire may be formed, for example, single or multiple S-shaped. In a simple S-shaped design, the connecting wire has two opposing curvatures. In a multiple S-shaped design of the connecting wire has this three curvature, four curvature or more than four curvatures. Overall, the number of bends of the connecting wire at least equal to the number of end loops that are connected by the connecting wire. For multiple bends in different directions between adjacent end loops, the total number of bends is greater than the number of end loops provided that no end loop is skipped.

The connecting wire may extend in sections in the same direction of the wire elements of the staggered end loops. This increases the stability of the terminal edge and the area of the free end loops adjoining the terminal edge.

In a further preferred embodiment, the connecting wire has openings, in where the wire elements of the end loops are arranged. This embodiment is particularly well suited for closed end loops, which are formed from at least one continuous wire element. Thereby, a simple production of the braid by threading the end loops is made possible in the openings of the connecting wire, wherein the threading can be done in a preliminary step before the actual braid production.

The connecting wire can be cohesively, non-positively or positively connected to the wire elements of the end loops. An example of the frictional connection are Crimphülsen, which are suitable for both open and closed loops. The connection between the connecting wire and the wire elements may alternatively be done by welding, gluing or form-fitting by twisting.

In a further embodiment, the end loops form closed loops, each with at least one continuous wire element, which has two sections with axial components which are opposite in the course of the wire and extend in the longitudinal direction of the hollow body. The bonding wire is connected to a first portion of an end loop and a second portion of the next end loop, wherein the first portion of the one end loop and the second portion of the next end loop have opposing axial components. This embodiment forms a concrete example of the coupling of several closed loops by a connecting wire. The orientation of the connecting wire with differently oriented sections of the mutually downstream end loops on the one hand increases the stability of the loop arrangement in the region of the end edge. On the other hand, the flexibility of the connection or coupling of the loops is achieved by the resulting course of the connecting wire. The connection of the connecting wire with the individual end loops has the advantage that when pulling the braid into the feed system, the tensile force is distributed to the individual end loops, as this attacks each of the individual end loops. The flexibility of the bonding wire compensates for the change in spacing between the loops during deformation.

In a further preferred embodiment, the end loops form open loops, each with at least two separate wire elements, of which one wire element has two sections with circumferential components opposite in the course of the wire, which extend in the circumferential direction of the hollow body. The bonding wire is connected to a first portion of an end loop and a second portion of the next end loop, wherein the first portion of the one end loop and the second portion of the next end loop have opposite circumferential components. By connecting the connecting wire with different sections of successive end loops of the connecting wire is aligned according to these differently oriented sections, whereby on the one hand, the stability of the loop assembly in the region of the end edge is increased and on the other hand, the flexibility of the connecting wire due to the different sections and thus from the longitudinal axis of the hollow body alternately different orientation of the wire is achieved. The alignment can be coaxial or parallel. This is not mandatory. The merged wires may have at least partially aligned in different directions axes.

In the above embodiments, the connecting element is formed as a separate additional element which cooperates with the wire elements of the braid.

In contrast, in the following embodiment, the connecting member is formed by the wire members of the braid and not by a separate member in addition to the braid members. In this embodiment, the end loops form open loops, each having at least two separate wire elements, of which a wire element has two sections with circumferentially opposite circumferential wire components, which extend in the circumferential direction of the hollow body. The connecting element is formed by the separate wire elements of the end loops, wherein at least one wire element of the one end loop and at least one wire element of the next end loop are brought together. The winding direction of the merged wire elements changes such that the wire elements are arranged on the one hand in the direction of a first portion of an end loop and on the other hand in the direction of a second portion of the next end loop. The first portion of one end loop and the second portion of the next end loop have opposite circumferential components.

In principle, the present embodiment is constructed similarly to the above-mentioned embodiments, since the connecting element in the form of the separate wire elements of the end loops is adapted to the course of the end loops, in particular the course of the first section of an end loop and the second section of a next end loop. As a result, a shape diverging in sections from the longitudinal extent or longitudinal axis of the hollow body is obtained Fastener achieved or the merged separate wire elements, which causes the flexibility of the connecting element. On the other hand, the individual end loops are coupled by the merged wire elements, so that the stability is increased or a deflection of the end loops is avoided during insertion into a feed system. The formation of the connecting element in the form of the separate wire elements of the end loops has the advantage that no additional element is used, whereby a particularly flat structure in the region of the end edge is achieved, which has a positive effect on the crimpability and the flow conditions in the vessel after implantation influenced as little as possible.

The wire elements of the one end loop can be connected to the wire elements of the next end loop and form a connection point, the wire elements of the next end loop after the connection end such that the number of wire elements in the longitudinal direction of the hollow body remains constant. This means that the wire elements of the next respective end loop are cut off after the connection point or otherwise shortened. Due to the consequent constant number of wire elements in the longitudinal direction of the hollow body, a substantially constant flexibility of the connecting element is achieved.

In another embodiment, the wire elements of the one end loop may be fed to the wire elements of the next end loop such that the number of merged wire elements increases in the longitudinal direction of the hollow body. Specifically, the number of wire elements increases with each other end loop such that the number of wire elements in the region of the end edge is maximum. This embodiment has the advantage of easy manufacture. Moreover, the stability of the hollow body is increased in the region of the end edge.

The above-mentioned embodiments are generally based on the idea of making the connecting element flexible in the longitudinal direction in order to compensate for the change in distance between the end loops when drawing into the braid, in particular the increase in the distance between the end loops. This is done in the above-mentioned embodiments by the geometry of the connecting element, in particular of the connecting wire. Alternatively or additionally, it is possible to form the connecting element elastically, d. H. to select the material properties of the connecting element so that the connecting element elastically deforms or elastically elongates when subjected to a tensile force in the longitudinal direction of the hollow body. The geometric flexibility may be combined with the elastic material of the connecting element or of the connecting wire. A purely geometric flexibility due to non-stretchable connecting element is also possible, as an elastic connecting element without additional geometric flexibility.

Alternatively or in addition to the flexible design of the connecting element is provided in a further embodiment that the connecting element and at least one end loop are slidably connected in the longitudinal direction of the hollow body. Thus, the length compensation in the change in distance of the end loops is effected by a relative movement between the end loop and the connecting element. The connecting element remains fixed relative to the hollow body when pulled into the feed system and the end loops or the at least one end loop slide in the longitudinal direction of the hollow body on the connecting element. This allows different distances to be set between the different end loops, without this leading to a distortion of the lattice braid.

In a preferred embodiment, the connecting element may comprise at least one connecting wire which is slidably connected to the end loops each by a lubricant, in particular by sleeves and / or coils. The connection between the connecting wire and the end loops by a lubricant allows on the one hand the radial fixation of the end loops, which are supported in the radial direction on the connecting wire and on the other hand a relative movement in the longitudinal direction of the hollow body by the sliding displacement.

The connecting wire preferably has at least one stop, which cooperates with a lubricant by an axial movement of the connecting wire relative to the end loop and acts on the hollow body with a tensile force. As a result, the frictional connection between the guide wire or generally between the actuating means, by which the hollow body is drawn into the feed system, and the hollow body is effectively produced.

The connecting means may comprise a lubricant which is fixedly connected on the one hand firmly to the first end loop which forms the terminal edge, and on the other hand slidably connected to the separate wire elements of the at least one second open end loop. The separate wire elements are brought together in the longitudinal direction of the hollow body, wherein the free end are arranged in the lubricant. The lubricant associated with the first end loop may be connected to the guide wire or other actuating means be connected. The merged wire elements, whose free ends are arranged in the lubricant, are supported on the lubricant in the radial direction, so that tilting of the device during insertion into the feed system is avoided.

The invention will be explained below with reference to embodiments with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings with further details. In these show:

1 : the development of a wire mesh with closed end loops according to an embodiment of the invention, which are connected by a spring element;

2 : the development of a wire mesh with closed end loops according to an embodiment of the invention, which are connected by an alternately curved connecting wire;

3 : the development of a wire mesh with closed end loops according to an embodiment of the invention, which are connected by an alternately curved connecting wire by means of sleeves;

4 : the development of a wire mesh with open end loops according to an embodiment of the invention, which are connected by an alternately curved connecting wire by means of sleeves;

5 : the development of a wire mesh with open end loops according to an embodiment of the invention, which are interconnected by the separate wire elements of the end loops;

6 the development of a wire mesh with open end loops according to an embodiment of the invention, wherein the end loops by the separate wire elements in a variant of the embodiment according to 5 are connected;

7 : the development of a wire mesh with open end loops according to an embodiment of the invention, which are slidably connected to a connecting wire;

8th : the development of a wire mesh with open end loops according to an embodiment of the invention, which are slidably connected to the connecting wire having stops;

9 : the development of a wire mesh with open end loops according to an embodiment of the invention, wherein the first end loop is connected to a sleeve in which the separate wire elements of the other end loops are slidably mounted;

10 a view of a mesh;

11a to 11d Views of various loop shapes;

12 a partial view of a mesh with alternative shape;

13 the development of a wire mesh with partially mesh-free end loop according to an embodiment of the invention, in which the end loops are connected by a curved connecting wire;

14 the development of a wire mesh with partially mesh-free end loop according to an embodiment of the invention, in which the end loops are connected by a spring element

15 the development of a wire mesh with partially mesh-free end loop according to an embodiment of the invention, in which the mesh-free portion is arranged in the region of the tip; and

16 the development of a wire mesh with partially mesh-free end loop according to an embodiment of the invention, in which the mesh-free portion is arranged in the region on both sides of the tip.

In 1 an embodiment of the medical device according to the invention for import into a hollow body organ is shown. The medical device may be a cylindrical hollow body 10 include. Other rotationally symmetrical shapes of the hollow body are possible whose diameter is variable, in particular compressible and expandable. The medical device is for example a stent. The medical device may also be a thrombectomy device, such as a thrombus removal basket. The device may comprise a recanalization device. Other medical devices for vascular applications, such as filters, are possible which are to be withdrawn into the delivery system by a delivery system, such as a catheter, which is discharged into a body larynx and withdrawn from the discharged state.

The device can be converted to a compressed state and to an expanded state. In the compressed state, the device is longitudinally displaceable in the catheter and expands after release from the catheter in a conventional manner. The device may self-expand or expand by the action of an external force, for example by a balloon.

The device comprises a hollow body 10 from a network 11 made of wire elements 12 , The hollow body is in 1 shown in unwound representation and has a rotationally symmetrical, in particular a cylindrical shape. The hollow body 10 is closed in the circumferential direction. The braid 11 is made of wire elements 12 produced in a conventional manner by a braiding process. The wire elements 12 are intertwined and intersect to form stitches 13 , The formation of the mesh 13 takes place in a conventional manner. The braid 11 has an end edge 14 on, which has an axial end 15 of the hollow body 10 limited. The axial end 15 of the hollow body 10 corresponds to the proximal end of the hollow body 10 , ie the closer to the user arranged end of the hollow body 10 which first enters the delivery system upon retraction of the device into the delivery system (not shown). The oppositely disposed distal end of the hollow body 10 is not shown. The wire ends, especially the free wire ends of the braid 10 may be fixed at the distal end in a conventional manner. It is also possible to use the free ends of the wire elements 12 at the distal end as in the applicant DE 10 2009 006 180.0 to arrange. The content of this application is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

The at the proximal end 15 of the hollow body 10 provided end edge 14 is arranged continuously circumferentially in the circumferential direction of the hollow body. The end edge 14 thus forms a smooth continuous edge as opposed to the serrated edge in FIG DE 101 27 602 A1 , The closing edge 10 is arranged obliquely relative to the longitudinal axis of the hollow body. This results in 1 from the arrow-shaped tip 31 the unwound representation, in the spatial form of the hollow body 10 the sloping end edge 14 forms. The hollow body 10 has a single tip 31 on. The summit 31 forms in the proximal longitudinal direction of the hollow body furthest projecting element of the hollow body.

The closing edge 14 runs in the spatial shape of the hollow body 10 along an inclined plane, which is arranged at an angle not equal to 90 ° with respect to the longitudinal axis of the hollow body. This may be a straight or a curved, in particular a convex or concave curved plane, in which the end edge 14 lies. The sloping end edge 14 can therefore be straight or concave or convex curved. The closing edge 14 is formed symmetrically relative to the central axis of the hollow body.

As in 1 shown is the trailing edge 14 through a first end loop 16a educated. Unlike the mesh 13 of the braid 11 becomes in the context of the application under a loop a superior unit of the mesh 11 Understood. A mesh 13 is limited by wire elements which extend both inwardly into the braid, ie from the proximal end in the direction of the distal end, as well as by wire elements which extend outwardly, ie from the distal end to the proximal end. In contrast, loops are larger units than mesh, which are limited over a greater length than the mesh only by outwardly extending wire elements, ie wire elements that extend from the distal end to the proximal end. In this area, loops have no inwardly extending wire elements, so no wire elements, which extend from the proximal end to the distal end.

In order to clarify the difference between stitches and loops according to the present application, reference is made to FIGS 10 to 12 directed. As in 10 To recognize, a grid cell is referred to as a mesh whose wires overlap in all corners of the cell and have different directions. In contrast, a loop is a grid cell in which the wires do not cross over at a corner and change direction. This corner is called the top of the loop. There are various possibilities for this. In a closed loop, which consists of a single continuous wire or a single continuous strand of wire of several individual wires, the wire makes a change in direction in the area of the tip ( 11a ). With an open loop consisting of at least two separate wires or strands of multiple strands, the wires meet in the top of the loop and make a change in direction such that the wires continue to the tip in the same direction. The direction of the continued wires may be associated with a change of direction of the wires in front of the tip ( 11b ). Alternatively, the wires may extend past the tip in the same direction as one of the wires or wire strands in front of the tip. Thus, only the other wire or the other strand of wire undergoes a change of direction after the tip ( 11d ). The other corners of the loop may be formed by crossovers like meshes ( 11c ). 11a . 11b . 11c . 11d thus show loops. In contrast to this is in 12 a variant of a mesh shown in which the wires cross in the top.

The closing edge 14 according to 1 is through the first end loop 16a formed, which comprises at least one wire element of the braid. It is possible that the trailing edge 14 through a single wire element 12 of the braid 11 or by several wire elements 12 of the braid 11 is formed. This can be the end loop 16a a closed end loop, as in the 1 - 3 or an open end loop, as in the 4 - 9 represented. The closed end loops comprises one or more continuous wire elements 12 whose axial component changes in the course of the wire. Open end loops are made of at least two separate, ie non-continuous wire elements 12a . 12b formed with free ends whose axial components are arranged in opposite directions with respect to the same wire path. Again, it is possible in each case several wire elements 12a . 12b to combine to a wire strand.

The closing edge 14 is through a single end loop 16a namely, the first end loop 16a educated. This forms the only end loop 16 the outer boundary of the braid. The end loop 16a makes a single point 31 , The first end loop 16a is from the mesh 13 of the braid 11 decoupled. The first end loop 16a thus runs free of the stitches 13 and is with the braid 11 connected by the fact that the first end loop 16a through a wire element 12 is formed, which is part of the mesh or from the mesh-shaped part of the braid 11 comes. This is in 1 as well as in the remaining developments illustrated by the fact that the from the network 11 coming left wire 16a ' not until the end of the loop 16a is drawn. In the three-dimensional state of the hollow body 10 goes the left wire 16a ' in the in 1 shown right part of the end loop 16a above. The same goes for the right wire 16a '' which is in the left part of the end loop 16a passes. This applies to all embodiments.

The first end loop 16a is with the stitches 13 of the braid 11 in the area of the end edge 14 not directly connected and thus decoupled from them. Unlike the unpublished DE 10 2009 056 450 , which goes back to the applicant, is the first end loop 16a not connected to any other loops that make up the first end loop 16a with the mesh-shaped part of the braid 11 couple. Between the first and second end loop 16a . 16b or in general between adjacent end loops there is at least one wire-free section without connection between the end loops 16a . 16b , The wireless section is longer than a loop or loop of the mesh. In particular, the wire-free section is at least the length of two stitches or loops. A gap is formed between the end loops, which is seen in the wire longitudinal direction is greater than a mesh or loop of the braid. The section decoupled from the mesh extends along the entire circumference of the terminal edge 14 , It is also possible that the mesh-free section extends only over a partial circumference of the terminal edge ( 13 - 17 ).

The hollow body 10 has further, in particular three more end loops 16b . 16c . 16d on, each offset inwardly to the first end loop 16a or offset inwardly to the respective upstream adjacent end loop 16b . 16c . 16d are arranged. The other end loops 16b . 16c . 16d are each from the first end loop 16a or from the respectively adjacent adjacent end loop 16b . 16c . 16d spaced and each in the direction of the distal end of the hollow body 10 staggered arranged. Between the individual end loops 16a . 16b . 16c a distance is provided. This distance is when compressing the hollow body 10 variable. Specifically, the distance between the individual end loops 16a . 16b . 16c when compressing each enlarged. When expanding the hollow body 10 the distance is reduced starting from the compressed state. The change in the distance between the end loops corresponds to each.

The arrangement of the other end loops 16b . 16c . 16d corresponds in principle to the arrangement and the course of the first end loop 16a , The other end loops 16b . 16c , in particular the second and third end loop 16b . 16c are freely arranged so that these from the mesh 13 of the braid 11 are decoupled. The innermost end loop 16d , in particular the fourth end loop 16d is the smallest of the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d and has the size of a mesh. Because the innermost end loop 16d directly to the mesh 11 adjacent, there is no or at least a lesser degree of decoupling. In contrast to the first end loop 16a , the outer edge or the end edge 14 of the braid 11 are the other end loops 16b . 16c . 16d arranged inside the braid. The length of the other end loops 16b . 16c . 16d is shorter than the length of the first end loop 16a , The length of the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d decreases with increasing distance from the proximal end of the hollow body.

The end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d are spaced apart in the axial and circumferential directions. The end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d do not touch each other directly. In particular, the end loops grip 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d not in each other, but extend independently.

The first end loop 16a is from the second end loop 16b . 16c . 16d over the entire circumference of the hollow body 10 or the end edge 14 spaced apart. In particular, the first end loop 16a and the second end loop 16b . 16c . 16d arranged without crossing. In other words, there is between the first end loop 16a and the second end loop 16b . 16c . 16d completely a distance, so that the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d do not touch or do not cross. Preferably, the first and second end loops run 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d on the entire circumference of the trailing edge 14 or of the hollow body 10 parallel to each other.

The first and second end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d are each made of a wire element 12 formed, which is in the network 11 Continues continuously. The wire element 12 is thus with several other wire elements 12 to the braid 11 intertwines and forms in the course of a first and / or second end loop 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d , Preferably, the first and second end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d each of wire elements 12 formed within the mesh 11 are arranged parallel to each other. Two in the network 11 mutually parallel and immediately adjacent arranged wire elements 12 , in particular wire elements 12 that in the network 11 have the same winding direction, sit over the braid 11 out and form each of the first and second end loop 16a . 16b , The wire elements 12 the first and second end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d therefore belong to the network 11 , wherein at least the first end loop 16a at least in sections on the hollow cylindrical basic shape of the hollow body 10 protrudes. The protruding section of the first end loop 16a forms the final edge 14 ,

The closing edge 14 is smooth. In particular, forms the end edge 14 one over the entire circumference of the hollow body 10 smooth edge. The entire closing edge 14 is only through the wire element 12 the first end loop 16a educated. The wire element 12 the first end loop 16a runs along the circumference of the hollow body 10 , The wire element 12 the first end loop 16a or the first final mesh 16a itself forms a smooth closing ring of the hollow body 10 or the braid 11 , The closing edge 14 limits the hollow body 10 , The closing edge 14 thus forms a final element for the hollow body 10 , In other words, the hollow body 10 , especially the braid 11 , no further elements beyond the smooth trailing edge 14 protrude. The closing edge 10 may have a substantially circular or elliptical contour. In general, the end edge 14 a steady course.

The end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d are arranged in parallel. Due to the parallelism of the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d is achieved that the offset inwardly arranged end loops 16b . 16c . 16d follow the course of the trailing edge until the catchment area 25 in the mesh-shaped part 26 of the braid 11 passes. Another geometric arrangement of the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d is possible. The other end loops 16b . 16c . 16d can follow the course of the first end loops 16a follow and be arranged non-parallel. For example. can the distance between two adjacent end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d be smaller or larger in the area of the tips than in the area close to the braid, or at the transition from the end loop to the braid. The end loops 16b . 16c . 16d essentially follow the course of the first end loop 16a insofar as they extend in substantially the same direction.

Generally, the tips of the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d arranged on a common imaginary line parallel to the longitudinal axis of the hollow body 10 runs.

The inwardly staggered end loops 16b . 16c . 16d are in the area of the trailing edge 14 and form together with the first end loop 16a the catchment area 25 of the hollow body 10 , which is retracted as the first braid part in the delivery system or the catheter. By the appropriate training of the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d can be the entire catchment area 25 good crimp. In addition, the production is facilitated.

In principle, it is conceivable the catchment area 25 of the hollow body 10 through a single end loop 16a , which at the same time the closing edge 14 forms, realizing the meshes 13 of the braid 11 to the only end loop 16a connect without this along the trailing edge 14 to be connected. The training of the catchment area 25 through several staggered end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d has the advantage that the proximal end of the hollow body is stable and easily retractable.

In the embodiment according to 1 indicates the catchment area 25 four end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d on. It is also possible to the catchment area 25 with two or three end loops or with more than four end loops. For example, the catchment area 25 comprise five end loops, six end loops or more than six end loops, which are staggered in each case, that is offset to the distal end.

The catchment area 25 is the foremost region of the hollow body in the proximal direction 10 when retracting the hollow body 10 is first moved into a feed system.

The structure of the mesh explained above 11 applies to all embodiments of this application. The embodiments according to 1 - 3 have closed end loops and the embodiments according to 4 - 9 open end loops on.

Closed end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d are each made of at least one continuous wire element 12 formed, the two sections 20a . 20b has, whose axial components in the wire run are opposite. The axial components are aligned in the longitudinal direction of the hollow body. The axial component of the first (in 1 left) section 20a extends in the direction of rotation ULR seen so in the wire in the proximal direction or in the feed direction EZ. Viewed in the same circumferential direction ULR, the axial component of the second section extends 20b contrary to the direction of feed EZ. This means that the two axial components of the first and second sections 20a . 20b extend in the longitudinal direction L of the hollow body, wherein in the same direction of rotation ULR seen direction of the axial components is opposite. The first end loop 16a and / or the other end loops 16b . 16c . 16d can each consist of a single wire element 12 be formed. It is also possible the first end loop 16a and / or the other end loops 16b . 16c . 16d each by several wire elements 12 to form, each continuous along the end loop 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d extend and also in the area of the tip 31 , Throughout in this context means that the wire elements 12 in the field of end loops are one-piece.

As in 1 can be seen, are the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d connected together such that the end loops are movable relative to each other in the longitudinal direction of the hollow body and at the same time stabilized. This applies to all embodiments, wherein the type of connection between the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c realized differently. The connection between the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d takes place selectively, in particular selectively centered on the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c , This means that the tips of the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c in the settlement according to 1 connected to each other or in the spatial state of the hollow body 10 each proximal farthest protruding parts of the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d , The compound can be regarded as a linear compound in contrast to mesh-like compounds.

In this case, a single connection is provided, on the one hand has the function to stabilize the end loops in the radial direction relative to the hollow body in order to improve the guidance when retracting, and on the other hand, the decoupling of the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c from the mesh 13 to maintain the mesh. This allows the connection between the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c a relative movement of the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c in the longitudinal direction of the hollow body to each other. The connection is thus designed so that the distance between the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c at a deformation, when the hollow body 10 withdrawn into the delivery system, can change, in particular, can increase.

Instead of the only connection between the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c it is also possible to provide two corresponding connections which extend in the axial direction parallel to the central axis of the hollow body and which allow a relative movement of the end loop 16a . 16b . 16c allow each other. It is also possible to provide more than two such connections, the total decoupling of the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c from the mesh-shaped area of the mesh 11 maintained.

As in 1 can be seen by the connection of the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c with the innermost end loop 16d achieved a further stabilizing effect. The connection with the innermost end loop 16d is not mandatory, because by the connection of the other end loops 16a . 16b . 16c Already a good stability is created.

All the above statements regarding the connection between the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d apply to all embodiments.

Specifically, in the embodiment according to 1 the decoupling of the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d from the mesh-shaped part 26 of the braid 11 through an elongate connecting element 17 realized, whose main orientation extends in the longitudinal direction of the hollow body. The connecting element 17 is in the longitudinal direction of the hollow body 10 flexible, as by the spring-like design of the connecting element 17 shown schematically. This means that between the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d respectively spring elements or elastic elements 27 are provided, in the longitudinal direction of the hollow body 10 can be deflected to a change in distance between the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d to enable. Instead of the spring elements 27 can the between the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d provided areas by an elastic connecting element 17 be bridged, the same function as the spring elements 27 having. In this case, the flexibility of the connecting element 17 in the longitudinal direction by an elastic deformation of the connecting element 17 causes.

Because in general the flexibility of the connecting element 17 in the longitudinal direction is greater than the flexibility in the radial direction relative to the hollow body 10 on the one hand, the change in distance between the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d allows and on the other hand, a radial deflection of the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d prevents or impedes. This ensures that the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d upon retraction into the feed system in the wall plane of the braid 11 remain so as to prevent jamming or reduce the risk of jamming, without distorting the mesh 11 becomes.

The connecting element 17 has a connection section 28 on, starting from the first end loop 16a extends in the proximal direction. The connecting section 28 may be fixed or releasably connected to a guide wire or generally an actuating element, by a tensile force in the proximal direction of the hollow body 10 can be exercised. The guide wire (not shown) may be from the connecting portion 28 be decoupled in a conventional manner, for example, when the device designed as a stent completely discharged from the delivery system and positioned correctly. In the case of the device as a thrombus or, in general, as a thrombectomy device, the guide wire can be connected to the connecting section 18 fixed, for example, be connected in one piece.

The comments on the connection section 28 are disclosed in connection with all embodiments.

In the embodiments according to the 2 and 3 Further possibilities are described, such as the flexibility of the connecting element 13 can be realized. This is an additional connection element 17 used and in the form of a connecting wire 18 , with the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d is coupled. The use of a connecting wire 18 for coupling the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d has the advantage that no elements, such as in spring or coil type systems, extend radially outwardly or inwardly beyond the mesh plane, which could interfere with blood flow and make it difficult to pull the mesh into the catheter. In general, the elastic and / or resilient connection elements 17 their size and shape according to the mesh level or the wall of the braid 11 customized.

In the embodiment according to 2 is a curved connecting wire 18 provided with the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d connected is. The connecting wire 18 is in each case between the first and second end loop 16a . 16b and between the third and fourth end loop 16c . 16d curved so that the connecting wire 18 sections extending in different directions based on the longitudinal axis of the hollow body. Specifically, the connecting wire 18 alternately curved in different directions. The connecting wire 18 is formed several times S-shaped, wherein the number of curvatures of the S-shape according to the number of end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d or the number of spaces between the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d equivalent. In the embodiment according to 2 is the connecting wire 18 triple S-shaped curved and thus has three individual end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d associated curvatures on. The curvatures of the connecting wire 18 are arranged so that the connecting wire 18 in sections in the same direction of the wire elements 12 the staggered end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d runs. This will increase the stability of the catchment area 26 elevated. The connecting wire 18 thus runs in sections parallel to the first and second sections 20a . 20b the respective end loops 16a . 16b . 16c having oppositely disposed axial components. This results in the alternately opposing curvature of the connecting wire 18 , The connecting wire 18 or in general the connecting element 17 is arranged meandering.

The connecting wire 18 has a connection section 28 auf, who, as in the embodiment according to 1 over the first end loop 16a extends in the proximal direction and serves to force application.

The connection of the connecting wire 18 with the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c and / or the first stitch 13a takes place through openings 19 in the form of holes or holes in the connecting wire 18 are arranged and in which the wire elements 12 the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d are arranged. The wire elements 12 are threaded into the openings before the actual production of the braid, creating a relatively simple connection between the connecting wire 18 and the various elements of the mesh. The openings 19 may also be formed in the form of laterally open recesses into which the wire is inserted. This can be done after braiding.

When compressing the hollow body and the associated increase in distance between the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d becomes the multiply curved connecting wire 18 stretched and takes on a straightforward form in extreme cases. The respective curvatures of the connecting wire 18 are designed so that a maximum change in distance between the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d is possible.

In the embodiment according to 3 is an alternative arrangement of the connecting wire 18 or an alternative connection of the connecting wire 18 with the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d shown. The connection is force-fit, for example by sleeves 30 which are crimped and through which the connecting wire 18 as well as the wire elements 12 are guided. The crimp connection becomes the guidewire 28 and the wire elements 12 firmly connected. It is also possible to use the connecting wire 18 cohesively or positively with the wire element 12 to connect the end loops. The positive connection can be done for example by twisting. The cohesive connection can be done by welding or gluing. The course of the connecting wire 18 corresponds to the course of the connecting wire 18 according to 2 , The related statements in connection with 2 are also in connection with the embodiment according to 3 disclosed.

As crimping elements, for example, radiopaque markers can be used. With respect to the remaining features of the embodiment according to 3 Reference is made to the above statements.

In contrast to the embodiment according to 3 in which the end loops are closed, the end loops of the embodiment are according to 4 open. This means that each end loop 16a . 16b . 16c from at least two separate wire elements 12a . 12b exists, which are not continuous, so in the area of the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d especially in the area of tips 31 the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d have free wire ends.

Generally and with regard to the embodiments according to the 4 - 9 discloses that the separate wire elements 12a . 12b an open end loop 16a . 16b . 16c are formed such that in each case a wire element 12a the open end loops two sections 21a . 21b has, which form opposite circumferential components in the wire. The opposite circumferential components extend in the circumferential direction of the hollow body. These wire elements 12a are curved such that the first section 21 and the second section 21b seen in the wire have opposite circumferential components. The wire element 12a thus changes the circumferential or the winding direction in the course of the end loop. In the example according to 4 these are each the left wire elements 12a the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d , The other separate wire elements 12b an end loop 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d are straight in the same circumferential direction or have no change in the circumferential direction. The curved wire elements 12 are deformed so that these sections, especially in the area of the second section 21b parallel to the other separate wire elements 12b an end loop 16a . 16b . 16c run. This corresponds to the perimeter component of the second section 21b of a wire element 12a the peripheral component of the respective other wire element 12b an end loop 16a . 16b . 16c ,

As in 4 can be seen, is the connecting wire 18 with a first section 21a an end loop 16a . 16b . 16c and a second section 21b the next end loop 16a . 16b . 16c connected, the first section 21a the one end loop 16a . 16b . 16c and the second section 21b the next end loop 16a . 16b . 16c have opposite circumferential components. In 4 has the reference number 21b for the second section on the crimp barrel 30 because the second section 21b the end loop 16a . 16b . 16c essentially within the crimp barrel 30 extends.

Based on the respective curved wire elements 12a an end loop 16a . 16b . 16c is the connecting wire 18 each with the second section 21b the curved wire elements 12a connected. This results in the multiply curved shape of the connecting wire 18 sectionally along the extending in the same direction separate wire elements 12a . 12b an end loop 16a . 16b . 16c runs. The connecting wire 18 is by Crimpverbindungen, in particular by sleeves 30 with the wire elements 12a . 12b connected. Both are the connecting wire 18 as well as the wire elements 12a . 12b an end loop 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d in the respective sleeves 30 arranged as in 4 seen. The separate wire elements 12a . 12b and the connection wire 18 can be connected to each other in other ways, for example by material bonding (eg by welding or gluing) or by positive engagement (for example by twisting).

In the embodiment according to 4 the flexibility of the connecting wire, as described above, by the sectional curvature of the connecting wire 18 allows the length compensation in the deformation of the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c upon retraction by stretching the curved portions of the connecting wire 18 causes.

The embodiment according to 5 differs from the above embodiments in that not, as in the above embodiments, an additional connecting element 17 is used, but the connecting element 17 through the wire elements 12a . 12b the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c is realized. Incidentally, the embodiment corresponds to 5 the above embodiments. The end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d are in the embodiment according to 5 open and each comprise at least two separate wire elements 12a . 12b , For the arrangement and the course of the separate wire elements 12a . 12b is based on the statements in connection with the embodiment according to 4 directed. The connecting element 17 is through the separate wire elements 12a . 12b the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d educated. These are the separate wire elements 12a . 12b the innermost (for example fourth) end loop 16d extended and with the separate wire elements 12a . 12b the next end loop (third end loop 16c ) merged. The first stitch 13a coming wire elements 12a . 12b are curved and the course of a wire element 12a the next end loop 16c customized. The other wire element of the next end loop 16a is curved such that the winding direction of the other wire element changes and thus in the winding direction of the innermost end loop 16d coming wire elements 12a . 12b and to the winding direction of the other wire element 12a the next end loop 16a is adjusted. The construction of the connection between the third end loop 16c and the next (second end loop 16b ) takes place in a corresponding manner. This also applies to the connection between the second end loop 16b and the first end loop 16a , In all cases, the separate wire elements 12a . 12b the preceding end loop 16b . 16c extended and with the separate wire elements 12a . 12b the subsequent end loops 16b . 16a merged. This results in the meandering or multiple in the opposite direction curved connection between the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c and the first end loop 13a whereby a longitudinally flexible coupling of the above-mentioned elements is achieved with simultaneous fixation in the radial direction.

The fixation of the separate, merged wire elements 12a . 12b takes place in each case by a fixed connection, in particular by a cohesive, non-positive or positive connection. In the embodiment according to 5 is a frictional connection in the form of crimp sleeves 30 intended. The firm connection takes place in each case in the region of the second section of the curved wire element 12b an end loop 16a . 16b . 16c and includes all merged wire elements 12a . 12b , So both the separate wire elements of the end loop 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d as well as the extended wire elements 12a . 12b the longitudinally upstream end loop 16b . 16c . 16d , This will be a connection point 22 educated.

The wire elements of each upstream end loop 16a . 16b . 16c are after the connection point 22 (according to the crimp barrel 30 ) cut off or end there. Only the separate wire elements 12a . 12b the respectively upstream end loop 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d are extended and with the respective downstream end loop 16a . 16b . 16c connected, so that in total the number of wire elements of the connecting element 17 is constant. This can alternatively be achieved in that the supplied wire elements 12a . 12b after the connection point 22 ends and the wires of each upstream end loop 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d extended or continued. The connection point 22 or in general the connection of the individual separate wire elements 12a . 12b can alternatively be realized by welding, gluing or by twisting.

The merged wire elements 12a . 12b can be parallel and straight. Alternatively, the merged wire elements may be partially twisted. It is also possible that only the respective extended wire elements 12a . 12b extending along the entire connecting element 17 extend, are twisted. The respectively supplied wire elements of the upstream end loop 16b . 16c . 16d can be parallel to the twisted wire elements 12b be guided and not twisted.

The embodiment according to 6 differs from the embodiment according to 5 in that the merged wires of the innermost end loop 16d and the downstream end loops 16a . 16b . 16c each twisted together. This means that the number of wire elements of the connecting element 17 increases in the longitudinal direction and in the proximal direction. The additional connection points 22 according to 5 omitted. The course of the connecting element 17 or the successively merged wire elements 12a . 12b corresponds to the course of the illustrated in the preceding embodiments or described connecting element 17 or the connecting wire 18 ,

In the above-mentioned embodiments, the length compensation takes place between end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d due to the flexibility of the connecting element 17 ,

In contrast, in the embodiments according to 7 - 9 the length compensation between the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d by a sliding connection of the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d and the connecting element 17 , specifically the connecting wire 18 , It is also possible to use the flexible connecting element 17 to combine with the sliding connection. For example, the connecting element 17 be elastically deformable and at least with a part of the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d be slidably connected.

Specifically, the connecting element 17 according to 7 as a connecting wire 18 trained, with the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d each with a lubricant 23 connected is. The lubricant 23 is in the embodiment according to 7 each realized as a sleeve. It is also possible to use coils instead of the sleeve. It is also possible, the wire elements themselves in the area of the tip 31 the respective end loop 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d to deform into a loop that acts as a lubricant 23 serves.

The concept of the slidable connection is generally applicable to open or closed end loops.

In the embodiment according to 7 the concept is described in connection with open end loops. The different versions of the lubricant 23 (Sleeve, coil, loop, etc.) can be combined. The separate wire elements 12a . 12b or in general the wire elements 12a . 12b the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d are firm with the lubricant 23 connected. In the embodiment according to 7 are the free ends of the wire elements 12a . 12b in holes or in an annular gap in the wall of the sleeve, which extends in the axial direction, arranged and fixed. Other connections between the free ends and the lubricant 23 , For example, by welding, gluing or by non-positive or positive connections are possible. The lubricant 23 comprises an opening extending in the longitudinal direction of the hollow body or in the feed direction EZ 32 in which the connecting wire 18 is arranged. The openings 32 the lubricant 23 are arranged in alignment. The connecting wire 18 is straight, that is not curved in contrast to the above-mentioned embodiments.

The power transmission from the guide wire or the actuating element on the hollow body 10 can be done in different ways. For example, the guide wire with the lubricant 23 the first end loop 16a , ie the proximal foremost end loop 16a be firmly connected. The guide wire or the actuating means may also be with another sleeve or with a different lubricant 23 be connected, for example with the lubricant 23 that with the innermost end loop 16d is connected, so that the force introduction close to the mesh-shaped part 26 of the braid 11 he follows. It is also possible to use the connecting wire 18 firmly with one of the lubricants 23 or to connect with one of the sleeves, so that this only in relation to the remaining lubricant 23 or the corresponding end loops is slidable. The connecting wire 18 is in this case firmly connected to the guide wire, for example in one piece with the guide wire.

In all cases, the guidewire, depending on the application of the device fixed or disconnectable with the connecting wire 18 connected is. In the case of a stent, a decoupling mechanism is provided, either directly on one of the lubricants 23 or one of the sleeves or on the connecting wire 18 is formed, depending on where the force is applied. The length of the connecting wire 18 in the distal direction is such that a maximum change in distance between the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d possible without the connecting wire 18 from the lubricants 23 comes free.

The connecting wire 18 on the one hand causes a radial fixation of the end loops, so that tilting during retraction is avoided. The radial fixation is improved by the connecting wire 18 slidable or fixed to the first end loop 13a and thus with the mesh-shaped area 26 connected is. The change in length of the remaining elements of the catchment area is due to the slidable connection in the axial direction between the wire elements 12a . 12b or the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c and the connection wire 18 reached. It is also conceivable, the connection with the innermost end loop 16d leave out and only the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c to couple with each other.

As in the above embodiments, the connection between the mesh-shaped part takes place 26 of the braid 11 and the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c such that a length compensation between the first stitch 13a and the next end loop 16c allows and the decoupling of the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c from the mesh-shaped part 26 of the braid 11 is maintained.

An alternative of the embodiment according to 7 is in 8th shown. The embodiment according to 8th corresponds to the embodiment according to 7 , except that the connecting wire 18 each in all lubricants 23 is slidably mounted and several stops 24 that is connected to the connecting wire 18 are firmly connected. The attacks 24 Act with at least one lubricant 23 together so that an axial movement of the connecting wire relative to the end loop, in particular in the feed direction EZ of the hollow body is subjected to a tensile force. It can be a single stop 24 be provided with a lubricant 23 interacts. In the embodiment according to 8th are several stops 24 provided that offset on the guide wire 18 are arranged so that these successively with the respective associated lubricants 23 come in contact when the connecting wire 18 is moved in the direction of feed EZ. The distance between the individual stops 24 therefore increases in the distal direction. With stretched configuration of the end loops 16a . 16b . 16c are the respective stops 24 in contact with the associated lubricants 23 , so that the traction is evenly distributed across all end loops 16a . 16b . 16c as well as the first stitch 13a in the hollow body 10 is initiated.

The embodiment according to 9 is also based on the concept of the sliding connection. In this case, the connecting element comprises 17 on the one hand, a lubricant 23 and on the other hand, the axially merged wire elements 12a . 12b the open end loops 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d , In the embodiment according to 9 is the lubricant 23 on the one hand firmly with the first end loop 16a holding the trailing edge 14 forms, and on the other hand slidable with the merged, separate wire elements 12a . 12b the next end loops 16b . 16c . 16d connected. Specifically, the free ends of the merged wire elements 12a . 12b longitudinally displaceable in the lubricant 23 arranged. In contrast to the embodiment according to 5 respectively. 6 in which the merged wire elements run alternately curved, the separate wire elements run 12a . 12b according to 9 straight in the longitudinal axial direction of the hollow body. The merged wire elements 12a . 12b may be partially twisted and / or untwisted parallel to each other. The free ends of the separate wire elements are in the lubricant 23 , In particular arranged longitudinally displaceable in a sleeve. The lubricant 23 is fixed with the separate wire elements 12a . 12b the first end loop 16a connected via which the force is applied. The lubricant 23 is connected to a guidewire at the proximal end. The guidewire and the free ends of the separate wire elements 12a . 12b are in the lubricant 23 arranged coaxially, wherein between the free ends and the guide wire a free distance is provided such that there is sufficient space for the movement of the free ends.

The extension of the wire elements of the one end loop is relatively movable with respect to the wire elements of the next end loop to allow stretching of the cell or end loop. The sleeve or the lubricant 23 can be profiled so that it is flexible in length, comparable to so-called hypotubes. Instead of the sleeve, the lubricant 23 be realized by a coil. The coil can, for example, from the separate wire element 12a . 12b the first end loop 16a be formed.

The 13 to 17 show embodiments in which the end edge 14 only sections of the stitches 13 of the braid 11 free is. The illustrated pins at the deflection of the wires do not belong to the device, but to the production mandrel. In the embodiments according to 13 . 14 is only a proximal anterior region, in particular the proximal anterior half of the first end loop 16a in the area of the top 31 mesh or loop free. This area is symmetrical. The other half or the other area of the first end loop 16a is connected to the mesh by overlapping loops that form the trailing edge 14 couple in sections with the mesh. The coupling of the first and adjacent second end loop 16a . 16b takes place through the flexible connecting element 17 in the area of the top 31 , in the form of the merged wires of the open loops ( 13 ) or in the form of a spring element ( 14 ) is realized.

In the embodiment according to 15 the loop-free area is asymmetric and only on one side of the top 31 educated. The connecting element 17 corresponds to 13 , This results in a higher bracing stability in the rear area and by the front large loop cells a good retractability.

The embodiment according to 16 differs from the embodiment according to 13 in that the mesh-free or loop-free area away from the top 31 , especially in the distal rear half of the end loop 16a is trained. The other half or the proximal front region at the top is coupled by overlapping loops with the mesh-shaped part of the braid. The fourth or innermost end loop 16d is through the connecting element 17 with the first loop 16a connected and that comparable to the connecting element according to 16 , This has the advantage that in the middle of a greater braiding stability is achieved. The laterally larger loop cells improve the retractability.

The device according to the invention can be designed as an implant or as a medical device that is temporarily released in a vessel, such as baskets, in particular thrombosis scavengers. As implants come for example Stents in question. For implants, the advantage of the invention is that, after checking the position of the implant, the user, if an incorrect positioning is detected, re-insert the implant into the catheter and reposition it before, for example, an aneurysm or stenosis. For temporarily released devices, such as baskets or filters, the function of recoverability is to remove particles trapped in the basket or filter, such as clots, from the vessel or other hollow organs.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

10

hollow body

11

weave

12

wire element

13

mesh

14

terminal edge

15

axial end

16

end loop

16a

first end loop

16b, 16c, 16d

second end loop

17

connecting element

18

connecting wire

19

opening

20a, 21a

first section

20b, 21b

second part

22

junction

23

lubricant

24

attack

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

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Cited patent literature

• DE 10127602 A1 [0001, 0007, 0008, 0057]
• DE 102009006180 [0056]
• DE 102009056450 [0063]

Claims (17)

Medical device for import into a hollow body of the body with a hollow body ( 10 ) from a network ( 11 ) of wire elements ( 12 ), which are used to form stitches ( 13 ), the braid ( 11 ) an end edge ( 14 ) having an axial end ( 15 ) of the hollow body ( 10 ), characterized in that the end edge ( 14 ) in the circumferential direction of the hollow body ( 10 ) continuously circulating and by a first end loop ( 16a ), wherein the first end loop ( 16a ) - obliquely relative to the longitudinal axis of the hollow body ( 10 ) is arranged such that the first end loop ( 16a ) forms a tip, - at least one wire element ( 12 ) of the mesh ( 11 ), which extends along the circumference of the end edge ( 14 ) continuously at least to the top of the first end loop ( 16a ), and - at least in sections, in particular on the entire circumference of the end edge ( 14 ), free from the mesh ( 13 ) of the mesh ( 11 ), and at least one second end loop ( 16b . 16c . 16d ) in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the hollow body ( 10 ) offset inwardly and spaced from the first end loop ( 16a ), wherein the second end loop ( 16b . 16c . 16d ) - at least in sections along the first end loop ( 16a ) and forms a point and - at least one wire element ( 12 ) of the mesh ( 11 ), which extends continuously at least to the tip of the second end loop ( 16b . 16c . 16d ), wherein the first and second end loops ( 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d ) are elastically and / or flexibly connected to each other such that the end loops ( 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d ) in the longitudinal direction of the hollow body ( 10 ) are movable relative to each other. Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the interconnected end loops ( 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d ) by an elongate connecting element ( 17 ) whose main orientation in the longitudinal direction of the hollow body ( 10 ) runs. Device according to claim 2, characterized in that the connecting element ( 17 ) in the longitudinal direction of the hollow body ( 10 ) is flexible. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the connecting element ( 17 ) at least one connecting wire ( 18 ), which in each case between the end loops ( 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d ) is curved such that the connecting wire ( 18 ) relative to the longitudinal axis of the hollow body ( 10 ) extends in sections in different directions. Apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that the connecting wire ( 18 ) is formed simply or repeatedly S-shaped. Device according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that the connecting wire ( 18 ) in sections in the same direction of the wire elements ( 12 ) of the staggered end loops ( 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d ) runs. Device according to one of claims 4 to 6, characterized in that the connecting wire ( 18 ) Openings ( 19 ), in which the wire elements ( 12 ) of the end loops ( 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d ) are arranged. Device according to one of claims 4 to 7, characterized in that the connecting wire ( 18 ) cohesively, positively or positively with the wire elements ( 12 ) of the end loops ( 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d ) connected is. Device according to one of claims 4 to 8, characterized in that the end loops ( 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d ) closed loops, each with at least one continuous wire element ( 12 ), the two sections ( 20a . 20b ) having opposite in the wire path axial components, which in the longitudinal direction of the hollow body ( 10 ), wherein the connecting wire ( 18 ) with a first section ( 20a ) of an end loop ( 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d ) and a second section of the next end loop ( 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d ), the first section ( 20a ) of one end loop ( 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d ) and the second section ( 20b ) of the next end loop ( 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d ) have opposite axial components. Device according to claim 8, characterized in that the end loops ( 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d ) open loops each having at least two separate wire elements ( 12a . 12b ) form, of which a wire element ( 12a ) two sections ( 21a . 21b ) has circumferentially opposite circumferential components, which in the circumferential direction of the hollow body ( 10 ), wherein the connecting wire ( 18 ) with a first section ( 21a ) of an end loop ( 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d ) and a second section ( 21b ) of the next end loop ( 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d ), the first section ( 21a ) of one end loop ( 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d ) and the second section ( 21b ) of the next end loop ( 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d ) have opposite circumferential components. Device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the end loops ( 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d ) open loops each having at least two separate wire elements ( 12a . 12b ), of which a wire element ( 12a ) two sections ( 21a . 12b ) has circumferentially opposite circumferential components, which in the circumferential direction of the hollow body ( 10 ), and the connecting element ( 17 ) by the separate wire elements ( 12a . 12b ) of the end loops ( 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d ) is formed, wherein at least one wire element ( 12a . 12b ) of one end loop ( 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d ) and at least one wire element ( 12a . 12b ) of the next end loop ( 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d ) are merged and the winding direction of the merged wire elements ( 12a . 12b ) changes such that the wire elements ( 12a . 12b ) on the one hand towards a first section ( 21a ) of an end loop ( 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d ) and on the other hand towards a second section ( 21b ) of the next end loop ( 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d ), the first section ( 21a ) of one end loop ( 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d ) and the second section ( 21b ) of the next end loop ( 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d ) have opposite circumferential components. Device according to claim 11, characterized in that the wire elements ( 12a . 12b ) of one end loop ( 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d ) with the wire elements ( 12a . 12b ) of the next end loop ( 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d ) and a connection point ( 22 ), wherein the wire elements ( 12a . 12b ) of the next end loop ( 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d ) after the junction ( 22 ) terminate such that the number of wire elements ( 12a . 12b ) in the longitudinal direction of the hollow body ( 10 ) remains constant. Device according to claim 11, characterized in that the wire elements ( 12a . 12b ) of one end loop ( 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d ) the wire elements ( 12a . 12b ) of the next end loop ( 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d ) are supplied such that the number of merged wire elements ( 12a . 12b ) in the longitudinal direction of the hollow body ( 10 ) increases. Device according to claim 2, characterized in that the connecting element ( 17 ) and at least one end loop ( 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d ) in the longitudinal direction of the hollow body ( 10 ) are slidably connected. Apparatus according to claim 14, characterized in that the connecting element ( 17 ) at least one connecting wire ( 18 ), which is connected to the end loops ( 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d ) each by a lubricant ( 23 ), in particular slidably connected by sleeves and / or coils. Apparatus according to claim 15, characterized in that the connecting wire ( 18 ) at least one stop ( 24 ) provided with a lubricant ( 23 ) by an axial movement of the connecting wire ( 18 ) relative to the end loop ( 16a . 16b . 16c . 16d ) cooperates and the hollow body ( 10 ) is subjected to a tensile force. Apparatus according to claim 14, characterized in that the connecting element ( 17 ) a lubricant ( 23 ), on the one hand firmly with the first end loop ( 16a ), the leading edge ( 14 ) and, on the other hand, slidingly displaceable with the separate wire elements ( 12a . 12b ) the at least one second open end loop ( 16b . 16c . 16d ), the separate wire elements ( 12a . 12b ) in the longitudinal direction of the hollow body ( 10 ) and their free ends in the lubricant ( 23 ) are arranged.

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