WO2013169921A1 - Dispositif et procédé d'anastomose - Google Patents

Dispositif et procédé d'anastomose Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2013169921A1
WO2013169921A1 PCT/US2013/040171 US2013040171W WO2013169921A1 WO 2013169921 A1 WO2013169921 A1 WO 2013169921A1 US 2013040171 W US2013040171 W US 2013040171W WO 2013169921 A1 WO2013169921 A1 WO 2013169921A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
base
graft
stapling
stapler
aorta
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2013/040171
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English (en)
Other versions
WO2013169921A8 (fr
Inventor
Syed Tasnim RAZA
Original Assignee
The Trustees Of Columbia University In The City Of New York
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by The Trustees Of Columbia University In The City Of New York filed Critical The Trustees Of Columbia University In The City Of New York
Publication of WO2013169921A1 publication Critical patent/WO2013169921A1/fr
Publication of WO2013169921A8 publication Critical patent/WO2013169921A8/fr
Priority to US14/536,193 priority Critical patent/US20150127029A1/en

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B17/00—Surgical instruments, devices or methods, e.g. tourniquets
    • A61B17/11—Surgical instruments, devices or methods, e.g. tourniquets for performing anastomosis; Buttons for anastomosis
    • A61B17/115—Staplers for performing anastomosis in a single operation
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B17/00—Surgical instruments, devices or methods, e.g. tourniquets
    • A61B17/11—Surgical instruments, devices or methods, e.g. tourniquets for performing anastomosis; Buttons for anastomosis
    • A61B17/115—Staplers for performing anastomosis in a single operation
    • A61B17/1152—Staplers for performing anastomosis in a single operation applying the staples on the outside of the lumen
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B17/00—Surgical instruments, devices or methods, e.g. tourniquets
    • A61B17/11—Surgical instruments, devices or methods, e.g. tourniquets for performing anastomosis; Buttons for anastomosis
    • A61B17/115—Staplers for performing anastomosis in a single operation
    • A61B17/1155—Circular staplers comprising a plurality of staples
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B17/00—Surgical instruments, devices or methods, e.g. tourniquets
    • A61B17/068—Surgical staplers, e.g. containing multiple staples or clamps
    • A61B17/072—Surgical staplers, e.g. containing multiple staples or clamps for applying a row of staples in a single action, e.g. the staples being applied simultaneously
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B17/00—Surgical instruments, devices or methods, e.g. tourniquets
    • A61B17/11—Surgical instruments, devices or methods, e.g. tourniquets for performing anastomosis; Buttons for anastomosis
    • A61B2017/1107—Surgical instruments, devices or methods, e.g. tourniquets for performing anastomosis; Buttons for anastomosis for blood vessels
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B17/00—Surgical instruments, devices or methods, e.g. tourniquets
    • A61B17/11—Surgical instruments, devices or methods, e.g. tourniquets for performing anastomosis; Buttons for anastomosis
    • A61B2017/1132—End-to-end connections
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B17/00—Surgical instruments, devices or methods, e.g. tourniquets
    • A61B17/11—Surgical instruments, devices or methods, e.g. tourniquets for performing anastomosis; Buttons for anastomosis
    • A61B2017/1135—End-to-side connections, e.g. T- or Y-connections
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B17/00—Surgical instruments, devices or methods, e.g. tourniquets
    • A61B17/11—Surgical instruments, devices or methods, e.g. tourniquets for performing anastomosis; Buttons for anastomosis
    • A61B17/115—Staplers for performing anastomosis in a single operation
    • A61B2017/1157—Staplers for performing anastomosis in a single operation applying the staples radially

Definitions

  • the disclosed subject matter relates generally to the field of surgery and particularly to surgical suturing devices and methods.
  • a heart is illustrated in Figure 1 , and is generally designated by the reference letter H.
  • the heart H includes a right atrium RA, a left atrium LA, a right ventricle RV, a left ventricle LV, a pulmonary artery PA, and an aorta A.
  • the aorta A includes an intimal (inner) layer or intima IL ( Figure 2) and an adventitial (outer) layer or adventitia AL.
  • the intimal (inner) layer or intima IL is torn and defines a tear T in the ascending aorta AA or aortic arch.
  • Blood B collects in (unnumbered) between the layers AL, IL. This is referred to as a false lumen. If the blood collection continues, the false lumen may block off origin of major arteries coming off the aorta, thus causing abrupt lack of blood flow to the involved organ, causing its death. This condition may be fatal, or cause of major morbidity, if not treated urgently.
  • Treatment may necessitate dissection of an aortic portion Ap of the aorta A containing the portion with intimal tear along lines of dissection LDl, LD2, and replacement of the cutout portion of the aorta by a Dacron® tube graft of appropriate size. More particularly, the dissection along lines of dissection LD1, LD2 may separate a distal end or end portion Ea of the ascending aorta AA from a proximal end or end portion Ed of the ascending aorta AA.
  • the two ends Ea, Ed may be prepared for the Dacron® tube graft by suturing the respective ends Ea, Ed and buttressing them with strips of Dacron® or felt both on the inside and the outside of the ends Ea, Ed. After both ends Ea, Ed are prepared, the Dacron® tube graft is anatamosed to restore the continuity of the aorta and establish blood flow.
  • the treatment described above may take a considerable length of time using prior art methods and devices.
  • the patient is on cardiopulmonary bypass (heart-lung) machine.
  • all circulation is stopped.
  • a patient may be on the heart-lung machine for three hours and 20 minutes, and the average time of a patient's circulation being stopped is 34 - 40 minutes.
  • Subjecting the patient to such treatment for the above durations of time contributes to the increased risk of stroke, bleeding, and death.
  • the operative mortality rate is 17.84%
  • post-op neuro deficit is 10.3%
  • reexploration for bleeding is 16.5%.
  • the disclosed subject matter relates to apparatuses and methods for anastomosis.
  • exemplary embodiments provide a stapler that may be used for anastomosis such as between the end of a dissected aorta and the end of a Dacron® tube graft.
  • Features and actions of the exemplary embodiments allow for generally faster anastomosis than with prior art devices and methods as explained below.
  • the disclosed subject matter may be embodied as an apparatus of a relatively small design advantageous for use in the limited space of the operative field.
  • An exemplary device according to the disclosed subject matter may be a single unit including the base and stapling heads.
  • the single unit design may reduce alignment complexity and problems compared to working with other devices where the base and stapling head may be separate units.
  • the exemplary device requires only generally minimal dexterity for operation - an advantage especially in a confined space at least because the device may be actuated by simply turning or actuating a control knob.
  • certain embodiments of the disclosed subject matter can be configured such that a single actuation of the control mechanism can accomplish multiple staple firings.
  • Time savings are additional advantages. Use of the disclosed subject matter in exemplary devices and methods may save critical time during anastomosis procedures. One way in which time is saved is that the disclosed subject matter does not require "cuffing" of the end of the aorta for stapling to the graft. [0011] Using exemplary embodiments, the user may avoid or at least minimize the use of sutures in anastomosis and the problems caused by sutures. In previous embodiments, sutures were often pulled "tight" to effect a seal, but such pulling could lead to tearing delicate tissues and further bleeding. In contrast, the multiple staples fired by exemplary embodiments into the materials to be connected form a strong leak-free connection thereof. The embodiments of staples into two rows according to the interleaved or staggered pattern may provide higher (stronger) bonding and higher leak resistance than connections made by prior art devices and methods.
  • the disclosed subject matter includes an apparatus for anastomosis comprising a base having a length from a front end and at least one stapling limb disposed proximate the base, with each stapling limb having stapling functionality at its limb end corresponding to the front end of the base.
  • Each stapling limb end is configured for movement from an open position at a distance from the front end of the base to a closed position closer to the front end of the base.
  • a control capable of being selectively activated to cause movement of each stapling limb end between the open and closed positions.
  • the front end of the base is configured to engage at least a portion of a graft for connection to a vessel, wherein the base and graft are insertable at least partially into a portion of the vessel with at least a portion of the graft, vessel and base overlapping each other.
  • the control is configured to cause each stapling limb in the closed position to fire at least one staple into the overlapping portions of the vessel and graft to make a connection therebetween.
  • the front end of the base is configured with an arcuate shape and the at least one stapling limb includes two stapling limbs disposed generally circumferentially about the front end of the base.
  • the control actuates a cam to cause movement between open and closed positions.
  • the front end of the base is received within a folded portion of the graft, such that the front end of the base has a layer of the graft on opposing first and second surfaces of the base.
  • the base and each stapling limb are configured to engage an asymmetrical graft.
  • connection between the overlapping graft and vessel comprises a substantially leak-proof connection.
  • each stapling limb includes multiple rows of staples which are fired into the overlapping layers of the vessel and graft forming two generally parallel rows, the staples of each row being staggered with respect to the staples of the other row.
  • the staples from each row of each stapling limb can be fired substantially simultaneously.
  • a device for substantially leak-free fastening of at least two elements comprises a base having a fastening end which has first and second opposing surfaces. At least one fastening mechanism is positioned about the fastening end of the base and configured for movement between an open position about the fastening end and a firing position about the fastening end.
  • the base is configured to receive a length of a first element disposed over the first and second opposing surfaces of the base with the fastening mechanism in the open position.
  • the fastening end of the base is configured to be received in a portion of a second element to form an overlap between a portion of the first element, second element and fastening end of the base with the fastening mechanism in the open position.
  • a control is configured to activate the at least one fastening mechanism to move from the open position into the firing position about the fastening end to make a substantially leak-free fastening between the first and second elements at the overlap.
  • the at least one fastening mechanism is responsive to an opening activation to move away from the firing position to allow for withdrawal of the fastened first and second elements from the base.
  • the fastening end of the base is configured with an arcuate shape.
  • a method for anastomosis comprising positioning a graft on a base of an arcuate stapler with the stapling heads of the stapler disposed in an open position relative to the base.
  • the base is then inserted into a dissected end of an aorta so that a segment of the graft underlies a portion of the dissected end of the aorta to form an overlap between the graft and the aorta.
  • the stapling heads are then moved into a firing position relative to the base within the overlap such that staples are fired in two parallel rows within the overlap to form a leak-free connection between the graft and the aorta.
  • the stapling heads are moved to the open position relative to the base and the overlap and the base is withdrawn from the graft, wherein the graft remains connected to the aorta in the leak-free connection at the overlap.
  • positioning a graft on a base of an arcuate stapler includes forming a fold within the graft and inserting the base of the arcuate stapler into the fold. Additionally, the firing position of the stapling heads includes a radial distribution of the staple heads within the overlap, and firing the staples includes causing each staple to pierce one layer of the graft and the aorta. Typically, each staple at least partially closes interior to the overlap upon engaging with the base. Thereafter, the arcuate stapler is repositioned substantially adjacent to the location of a first firing location and fires additional staples within the overlap. Furthermore, in certain embodiments the graft has an
  • the stapling limbs of the exemplary embodiment may be disposed in pairs with each of the limb ends in a pair firing three staples in two rows into the overlap.
  • a first limb end of the pair may fire a staple into a top row and two staples into a bottom row, the two staples in the bottom row being spaced apart, and the staple in the top row positioned generally parallel at least in part to the space between the two staples in the bottom row.
  • a second limb of the pair may fire two staples into a top row and a staple into a bottom row, the two staples in the top row being spaced apart, and the staple in the bottom row positioned generally parallel at least in part to the space between the two staples in the top row.
  • Figure 1 is a perspective view of a human heart, and illustrates various portions thereof, including the aorta.
  • Figure 2 is a highly enlarged perspective view of the aorta of Figure 1 with portions broken away for clarity, and illustrates intimal and adventitial layers thereof, including an intimal tear in the intima or inner layer of the aorta.
  • Figure 3 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a circular stapler in accordance with the disclosed subject matter.
  • Figure 4 is a perspective view of the embodiment of Figure 3 with the addition secured graft.
  • Figure 5 is a perspective view of part of the embodiment of Figure 3 as it may be in use in the operative field.
  • Figure 6 is a perspective view of the embodiment of Figure 3 as it may be in use in connecting a graft to an end of an aorta.
  • Figure 7 is a perspective view of the embodiment of Figure 3 with the limbs of the embodiment in a closed position.
  • Figure 8 is a lengthwise cross section view of the embodiment of Figure 7 taken along the line defined by A - A' in Figure 7.
  • Figure 9 is a drawing of three exemplary limbs of an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.
  • Figure 10 is a radial cross section of the exemplary embodiment of Figure 7.
  • Figure 11 A is an exemplary embodiment of an unformed staple that may be used with an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.
  • Figure 1 IB is an exemplary embodiment of a formed staple that may be used with an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.
  • Figure 12 is an illustration of exemplary results of use of an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed subject matter in connecting a graft with an end of an aorta.
  • Figure 13 is a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.
  • Figures 14A-B depict two exemplary limbs of an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.
  • Figure 15 is an illustration of a graft having a tubular end with a circular opening and an asymmetrical end with a non-cylindrical opening as it may be in use in connecting to an end of an aorta.
  • Figure 16A is an axial view of an alternative exemplary embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.
  • Figure 16B is a perspective view of the exemplary embodiment of Figure 16A.
  • Figure 17 is an illustration of exemplary results of use of an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed subject matter in connecting a graft with an end of an aorta.
  • Figure 18 is an illustration of a cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed subject matter in connecting a graft with an end of an aorta.
  • Figure 19 is an illustration of a cross-sectional view of a connection of a graft with an end of an aorta in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.
  • Figure 20 is a perspective view of a handle for deploying and operating the exemplary embodiments of Figures 3 and 16B in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.
  • the disclosed subject matter relates to a device and method for making a leak-proof connection between a first element and a second element.
  • the disclosed subject matter is described below by reference to exemplary embodiments, but the disclosed subject matter should not be limited by such embodiments or examples provided.
  • the disclosed subject matter can be embodied in many different forms and carried out in a variety of ways, and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth in this description and/or the drawings.
  • the exemplary embodiments that are described and shown herein are only some of the ways to implement the disclosed subject matter. Elements and/or actions of the disclosed subject matter may be assembled, connected, configured, and/or taken in an order different in whole or in part from the descriptions herein.
  • FIG 3 illustrates an exemplary embodiment 10 of the disclosed subject matter as a device that may be used for anastomosis between the generally circular end of a dissected aorta and a tubular graft of an appropriate size.
  • this exemplary embodiment 10 may be referred to as a "circular aortic stapler.”
  • An overview of the exemplary embodiment 10 is provided in the paragraph immediately below with additional details in the paragraphs that follow.
  • the term "device” is used herein synonymously with the term "apparatus”.
  • the exemplary embodiment 10 in Figure 3 includes a central cylindrical anvil
  • a tubular graft 26 (not shown in Figure 3, see Figure 4) may be positioned over and along the cylindrical central anvil 12 of the exemplary embodiment 10. The graft 26 may be said to be "sleeved" on the anvil 12.
  • the anvil 12 with the tubular graft 26 may be positioned inside one end of the dissected aorta so the end of the aorta lies between the splayed limbs 16a- 16j of the circular aortic stapler 10 and the anvil 12 with tubular graft 26.
  • the limbs 16a- 16j move from their respective open positions to closer positions relative to each other and to and about the front end 14 of the anvil 12.
  • the embodiment 10 may be further activated to cause the limbs 16a- 16j to staple the end of the aorta to the tubular graft 26 at the overlap between the two on the anvil 12.
  • the stapling effects a substantially leak-free connection between the end of the dissected aorta and the tubular graft 26.
  • its limbs 16a-16j may be caused to open and the anvil 12 may be slid from the connected aorta and graft without disturbing the leak-free connection therebetween.
  • the exemplary embodiment 10 shown in Figure 3 includes an anvil 12 at its center.
  • the anvil 12 may also be referred to as a base (as will be described in further detail below), or a graft support means.
  • the anvil 12 is generally cylindrical having a length from a front end 14 to a back end (not shown in Figure 3). Also in this example, the anvil 12 includes a hollow core 15 (to at least partially accept a control screw (not shown in Figure
  • the anvil 12 may be made of stainless steel (and/or other appropriate material).
  • the size of the anvil may vary depending on the size of the tubular graft to be used with the anvil.
  • the size of the tubular graft may vary depending on the size of the end of the dissected aorta with which the tubular graft is to be connected.
  • the size of the anvil may vary depending on the size of the end of the dissected aorta to which the tubular graft is to be connected in a leak-proof manner.
  • limbs 16a-16j are disposed about the length of the anvil 12.
  • a limb also may be referred to as an arm, a splay arm, a fastening mechanism (or part of a fastening mechanism), or a leak proof connection means (or part of a leak proof connection means).
  • the limbs 16a-16j are disposed generally circumferentially about and along at least some part of the length of the anvil 12.
  • the limb disposition also is generally symmetrical about the anvil 12 in the embodiment 10.
  • Each limb 16a- 16j may be made of stainless steel (and/or any other appropriate material).
  • the size and length of each limb is approximately the same in this embodiment, and such features may depend on the size of the anvil 12.
  • the exemplary embodiment 10 includes ten (10) limbs 16a-16j, but the number of limbs may vary depending upon the embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.
  • Each limb 16a-16j in this embodiment 10 includes a stapling head 18a-18j at a limb end corresponding to the front end 14 of the anvil 12.
  • a stapling head may be referred to as a stapling arm or a firing head.
  • Each stapling head 18a-18j of this exemplary embodiment 10 is disposed for movement from an open position about the front end 14 of the anvil 12 to a closed position closer to the front end 14 of the anvil 12.
  • the stapling heads 18a-18j move as a group; they do not move individually between open and closed positions in this embodiment.
  • Other embodiments may vary.
  • the stapling heads can fire in sequential order around the circumference of the circular aortic stapler 10. Given the radial disposition of the limbs 16a-16j, the open position of the stapling heads 18a-18j has a greater diameter (or radius) than their closed position.
  • the stapling heads 18a-18j move from their respective open positions in a wider circular pattern to closed positions in a smaller circular pattern about the front end 14 of the anvil 12.
  • a stapling head 18a-18j may be made of the same material as its respective limb 16a-16j, or may be made of a different material.
  • the stapling heads 18a-18j are of two types, which are described below.
  • the exemplary embodiment 10 includes a cam 20 that may be actuated by a control 22.
  • the cam 20 may be actuated to cause the stapling heads 18a-18j to move from their respective open positions to their closed positions.
  • the control 22 can take a variety of forms and employ a variety of activation techniques, such as a trigger or push button mechanism. These control mechanisms can be beneficial in that they require less dexterity to operate, and are equally convenient to operate regardless of whether a physician is right or left handed.
  • the cam 20 includes a generally cylindrical element encircling the limb ends opposite the stapling heads 18a-18j and the end of the anvil 12 opposite its front end 14.
  • the generally cylindrical element may be referred to as a sleeve or a clamp sleeve.
  • the clamp sleeve of the cam 20 may be disposed to move along the lengths of the limbs 16a- 16j and anvil 12 towards a closed or second position closer towards the stapling heads 18a-18j of the limbs and the front end 14 of the anvil 12.
  • the "cam” is said to move rather than the "clamp sleeve of the cam”.
  • the stapling heads 18a-18j may be caused to move from their open positions towards their closed positions about the front end 14 of the anvil 12.
  • the cam 20 may be made of stainless steel (and/or any other appropriate material). The size of the cam is variable so long as it achieves its function.
  • a control 22 is shown in Figure 3 as positioned at the end of the embodiment 10 opposite to the front end 14 of the anvil 12, but in other embodiments, the control 22 may be otherwise positioned.
  • the control 22 may be referred to as a controller, control knob, knob, OR fire and release knob.
  • the control 22 may be used to cause the exemplary embodiment 10 to assume its closed position, to fire staples against the anvil 12, and to move to its open position.
  • actuating the control 22 by turning it clockwise causes the cam 20 to move from its open position towards its closed position closer to the front end 14 of the anvil 12, thereby causing the stapling heads 18a-18j to move from their respective open positions to their closed positions closer about the front end 14 of the anvil 12.
  • further actuating the control 22 by continued turning clockwise causes the stapling heads 18a-18j to fire their respective staples against the side of the anvil 12.
  • the control 22 additionally may be used to return or to move the exemplary embodiment 10 to its open position by causing movement of the cam 20 away from the front end 14 of the anvil 12 so that the stapling heads 18a-18j may move from their small circular pattern about the front end of the anvil 12 to their respective wider circular pattern further from the front end 14 of the anvil 12.
  • the exemplary circular aortic circular aortic stapler 10 may be used to connect a tubular graft to an end of a dissected aorta.
  • a tubular graft may be made of Dacron® in whole. Other embodiments may have tubular grafts of other materials in whole or in part.
  • a tubular graft also may be referred to as a graft, tube, or sleeve.
  • Figure 3 illustrates the central cylindrical anvil 12 of the exemplary circular aortic stapler 10.
  • the anvil 12 includes an optional feature to aid in holding a tubular graft in place around the anvil 12.
  • the anvil 12 includes a groove 24 around a circumference of the anvil 12.
  • the circumferential groove 24 is generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the anvil 12.
  • the groove 24 is generally "u" shaped in cross-section.
  • the groove 24 has a depth to accommodate the diameter of a tie that may be used with the groove 24 to aid in holding the tubular graft in place on the anvil.
  • the groove 24 may have more or less depth than the diameter of a tie that may be used coordinately with the groove 24, may be of a different shape in cross section, and/or may be positioned differently so long as the groove 24 at least partially carries out its function of aiding the tubular graft to stay in place on the anvil 12.
  • the groove 24 is positioned generally at a distance latitudinally away from the front end 14 of the anvil 12 so as not to interfere or be aligned with the stapling connection made between the tubular graft and the end of the dissected aorta.
  • the groove 24 may be positioned on the anvil so the groove 24 is not covered by the part of the end of the dissected aorta that is positioned over a section of the tubular graft covering the anvil 12.
  • Figure 4 shows the same exemplary embodiment 10 as in Figure 3, but the entire length of a tubular graft 26 is now sleeve-fitted over the anvil 12.
  • the tubular graft 26 may be fitted over the anvil by inserting the front end 14 of the anvil 12 into an end of the tubular graft 26 and drawing the tubular graft 26 along the length of the anvil 12 until substantially the entire length of the tubular graft 26 covers the anvil 12.
  • a front end of the tubular graft 26 may align with the front end 14 of the anvil 12, but that does not necessarily have to be the case.
  • the fit between the tubular graft 26 and the anvil 12 is generally snug in this embodiment 10.
  • the diameter of the cylindrical anvil 12 may be just slightly less than the diameter of the tubular graft 26.
  • the snug fit may be enough to hold the tubular graft 26 in place around the anvil 12.
  • the exemplary embodiment 10, however, as explained above, includes a feature to help hold the graft 26 in place around the anvil 12.
  • the feature includes the circumferential groove 24 on the anvil 12 shown in Figure 3.
  • a tie 28 may be used to tie the tubular graft 26 to the anvil 12.
  • the tie 28 is tied around the tubular graft 26 and anvil 12 at a position generally above or corresponding to the groove 24 on the anvil 12.
  • the tie 28 may be tied tight enough so the tie 28 when fixed does not add much if any diameter to the combination of the anvil 12 with groove 24, tubular graft 26, and tie 28.
  • the secured tie 28 may lie along with the tied portion of the tubular graft 26 generally in the circumferential groove 24 around the anvil 12.
  • the tie 28 may be fixed in any manner appropriate and that may allow for its easy release so the tubular graft 26 may be pulled away from its position around the anvil 12 of the circular aortic stapler 10.
  • the tie 28 in the embodiment 10 may be made of suture string, thread, or other material, and may be hand tied. Alternatives to the tie 28 and its characteristics are possible, e.g., a band. In addition, an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter may make use of a tie 28 (or an alternative) as an aid to holding a tubular graft in place on an anvil of an circular aortic stapler, but that embodiment may lack the groove 24 shown in Figure 3 (or have an alternative feature).
  • the exemplary circular aortic stapler 10 With the tubular graft 26 attached to the anvil 12, the exemplary circular aortic stapler 10 is ready to be moved into the operative field so the graft 26 may be connected to an end of the dissected aorta.
  • the exemplary circular aortic stapler 10 is positioned so part of the anvil 12 with the tubular graft 26 is inserted into the end of the dissected aorta.
  • the insertion of part of the anvil 12 with the tubular graft 26 causes an overlap between part of the tubular graft 26 and a portion of the dissected end of the aorta.
  • Figure 5 illustrates part of the same embodiment 10 of Figures 3 and 4, but
  • Figure 5 shows the exemplary circular aortic stapler 10 as it may be initially positioned in the operative field with respect to an end of a dissected aorta 30 to which the tubular graft 26 sleeved over the anvil 12 is to be connected in a leak-proof manner.
  • a collar of graft or graft collar may be positioned around the end of the dissected aorta 30.
  • the graft collar 32 may be used to reinforce the end of the dissected aorta 30.
  • the graft collar 32 may be made of Dacron®. Other embodiments may be made in whole or in part of other materials.
  • the graft collar 32 also may be referred to as a reinforcement ring.
  • the positioning of the exemplary circular aortic stapler 10 with sleeved tubular graft 26 is described with respect to the end of the dissected aorta having the encircling graft collar 32.
  • the exemplary circular aortic stapler 10 with sleeved tubular graft 26 is moved into the operative field so the front end of the anvil 12 with tubular graft 26 is inserted into the end of the dissected aorta 30 with graft collar 32.
  • the end of the aorta 30 with graft collar 32 overlaps the part of the tubular graft 26 covering the end of the anvil 12 inserted into the end of the dissected aorta 30.
  • the overlap is positioned between the stapling heads 18a-18j (stapling heads 18a-18e are shown) of the limbs 16a-16j (limbs 16a-16e are shown) of the exemplary circular aortic stapler 10 and the end of the anvil 12 inserted into the end of the dissected aorta 30.
  • the exemplary circular aortic stapler 10 may be moved from its open position (as shown in Figure 5) to a closed position (as shown in Figure 6) and then to a firing position (as shown in Figure 7). Some embodiments may omit the closed position, instead moving from an open position to a firing position.
  • the closed position may be the same as the firing position, but a specific actuation may be necessary to fire the staples rather than an automatic firing once the circular aortic stapler moves into that position.
  • the cam 20 In its open position (as shown in Figure 5), the cam 20 is furthest from the front end 14 of the anvil 12 (not shown in Figure 5) of the exemplary circular aortic stapler 10. To reach its closed position (as shown in Figure 6), the cam 20 slides along the lengths of the limbs 16a-16j in a longitudinal direction towards the front end 14 of the anvil 12.
  • the cam 20 acts on the limbs 16a- 16j so the stapling heads 18a-18j move closer towards each other and the front end 14 of the anvil 12.
  • the action of the cam 20 on the limbs 16a-16j may be a lever action. In their closed position, the stapling heads 18a-18j have little if any space between them as may be seen in Figure 6.
  • the exemplary circular aortic stapler 10 may be moved to its open position as shown in Figure 5 or to its firing position as shown in Figure 7.
  • Other embodiments may provide other positions so those embodiments may provide other options.
  • the circular aortic stapler 10 may be moved to its open position by turning the control 22 in a counterclockwise direction to cause the cam 20 to slide back the way it came and away from the front end 14 of the anvil 12.
  • the cam 20 may be provided with spring rods to provide reverse tension on the limbs (also referred to as the firing sleeve arms) as the clamp sleeve of the cam is retracted after firing.
  • the circular aortic stapler 10 may be moved into its firing position by further turning the control 22 in the clockwise direction.
  • Turning the control 22 in such a way causes the cam 20 to interact with the limbs 16a- 16j so they carry out a stapling function.
  • turning the control 22 further in the clockwise direction causes the cam 20 to continue its sliding movement from its closed position further towards the front end 14 of the anvil 12.
  • the cam's continued movement towards the front end 14 causes the stapling heads 18a-18j of the limbs 16a-16j to move into firing position as shown in Figure 7, and to fire their respective staples.
  • Figure 8 is a cut-away diagram showing the interior of the exemplary circular aortic stapler 10 for use in explaining the motion of the cam 20 with respect to other elements
  • the cut-away diagram is taken along lines A-A' marked in Figures 6 and 7.
  • the cut-away diagram illustrates the exemplary embodiment 10 in its closed position.
  • Figure 8 shows that a control screw 36 protrudes from the longitudinal end 37 of the control 22 closest to the cam 20.
  • the control screw 36 passes through a central hole in the side face 38 of the cam 20.
  • the side face 38 of the cam 20 is facing the side 37 of the control 22.
  • the side face 38 is generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cam 20.
  • the control screw 36 fits into a central shaft 40 of the anvil 12.
  • the control screw 36 is connected to the central shaft 40 by a slip joint which allows the control screw 36 to rotate and force motion of the cam without turning the anvil 12.
  • the control screw 36 turns and causes the cam 20 to move either towards or away from the front end 14 of the anvil 12.
  • Figure 8 also shows the movement of the cam 20 on the respective tops of the limbs 16a- 16j and the spring angle tension therebetween. Segments of the respective tops of the limbs 16a-16j come into contact with the underside of the generally cylindrical element (clamp sleeve) of the cam 20.
  • each of the limbs 16a-16j includes an aligned two-part firing mechanism: (1) a firing pin head 41 a-41 j (41e-41h not shown in Figure 8) above (2) a part of a staple firing chamber 43a-43j (43a, 43e-43h not shown in Figure 8).
  • a firing mechanism is well known to those familiar with stapler design.
  • Each of the firing pin heads is shorter in length than its corresponding staple firing chamber.
  • each firing pin head 41 a-41 j is positioned above and along the front two-thirds (approximate) of its corresponding staple firing chamber 43a-43j.
  • the cam 20 moves the circular aortic stapler 10 from its open position to its closed position, the cam 20 comes into direct contact due to spring angle tension first with the tops of the staple firing chambers 43a-43j and then the tops of the firing pin heads 41 a-41 j of the limbs 16a-16j.
  • the cam 20 moves along the length of the circular aortic stapler 10
  • the cam 20 first encounters those parts of the staple firing chambers 43a-43j that are not topped by the firing pin heads 41 a-41 j .
  • the tops of these initial sections of the staple firing chambers 43a-43j each include a bevel (also referred to as a ramp) that rises towards the front end 14 of the circular aortic stapler 10.
  • the cam 20 causes each of the limbs 16a-16j to move from their open positions to their closed positions when the cam "climbs" the bevels of the staple firing chambers 43a-43j of the limbs 16a-16j.
  • Figure 8 depicts the circular aortic stapler 10 in its closed position.
  • the control 22 is turned further in the clockwise direction.
  • the turning of the control 22 causes the cam 20 to continue its movement along the length of the circular aortic stapler 10, and in particular, along the tops of the firing pin heads 41a-41j of the limbs 16a-16j.
  • the top of each of the firing pin heads 41 a-41 j has a lower or back section that begins with a bevel (also referred to as a ramp) rising towards the front end 14 of the circular aortic stapler 10.
  • a bevel also referred to as a ramp
  • the cam 20 "climbs" the bevels of the firing pin heads 41 a-41 j towards the front end 14 of the circular aortic stapler 10.
  • the movement of the cam 20 on the firing pin heads 41 a-41 j forces each firing pin head 41 a-41 j into its corresponding staple firing chamber 43a-43j.
  • the cam 20 advances along the circular aortic stapler 10 towards its closure, the cam 20 is in constant contact due to spring angle tension with the firing pin heads 41 a-41 j of the limbs 16a-16j.
  • the cam 20 applies greater pressure as it moves forward along the tops of the firing pin heads 41 a-41 j due to the bevels decreasing the distance between the cam and the respective limbs 16a- 16j at a greater rate than the forward advancement of the cam 20.
  • each limb 16a-16j includes a series of two bevels or ramps.
  • the first ramp 42d is located generally near the base of the staple firing chamber 43d of limb 16d (i.e., the end of the limb 16d opposite to its staple firing chamber 18d).
  • the first ramp 42d begins near the end of the limb 16d and rises slightly until the ramp 42d ends in a generally perpendicular falling off of the ramp 42d.
  • the second ramp 44d follows the first ramp 42d in series along the top of the limb 16d, but on the firing pin head 4 Id.
  • the second ramp 44d begins where the first ramp 42d falls off and rises slightly before the second ramp 44d levels off to the horizontal for a short distance that ends in a stop that marks the beginning of the staple firing chamber 18d of the limb 16d.
  • the turning of the control 22 causes the control screw 36 to rotate thereby moving the cam 20 towards the front end 14 of the anvil 12.
  • the cam 20 moves along the limb 16d (and the other limbs)
  • the cam 20 encounters the first ramp 42d (as well as the other ramps), slides along it, and exerts downward pressure as the cam 20 moves along.
  • the downward pressure causes the staple firing chamber 18d of the limb 16d to move from its open position about the front end 14 of the anvil 12 to a closer position about the front end 14 that is referred to as the "closed position”.
  • Figure 8 specifically depicts the exemplary circular aortic stapler 10 in its closed position.
  • the user may turn the control 22 in the opposite direction.
  • the control screw 36 turns in a direction opposite to its previous turning, and the cam 20 is caused to move away from the front end 14 of the anvil 12.
  • the cam 20 moves backwards down the first ramp 42d (as well as the other ramps), and in moving off the ramp 42d, the cam 20 releases the pressure on the limb 16d (and the other limbs).
  • the stapling arm 18d is released to return to its open position.
  • the exemplary circular aortic stapler 10 may be moved to a firing position that causes the staples to be fired from the stapling heads 18a-18j.
  • the cam 20 has been moved up the first ramp 42d of the limb 16d until the cam 20 encounters the perpendicular falling away of the first ramp 42d so as to attain the closed position for the exemplary circular aortic stapler 10.
  • the user continues to turn the control 22 in the direction that was used for moving the limbs 16a-16j into the closed position.
  • the control screw 36 turns and causes the cam 20 to continue its movement towards the front end 14 of the anvil 12.
  • the cam 20 encounters the second ramp 44d on the limb 16d and exerts pressure on the limb 16d.
  • the cam 20 continues its movement and pressure as the control 22 is turned and until the cam encounters a stop 46d at the end of the second ramp 44d on the limb 16d.
  • the stop 46d also marks the beginning of the staple firing head 18d of the limb 16d.
  • the firing of the staples may be characterized as a slow deformation of the staples as the cam 20 moves forward along the length of the circular aortic stapler 10 towards its front end 14. As the cam 20 moves forward, more pressure is exerted so the staples are compressed or formed between the anvil and the stapling heads 18a-18j.
  • An embodiment of the disclosed subject matter may include a feature particular to the control 22 so as to avoid overtightening.
  • a control may allow only a certain amount of pressure when rotating to the closed position before the control then locks in that closed position until the direction of rotation is reversed. This is a feature that also may be found in some torque wrenches and screw guns to avoid overtightening.
  • FIG. 9 illustrates three exemplary limbs 52, 54 and 56 as may be used with the exemplary embodiment 10 or other embodiments.
  • Each limb 52, 54, 56 includes a respective firing pin head 58, 60, 62.
  • Each limb 52, 54, 56 is generally the same in terms of size, structure, functionality except for the pattern in which each limb 52, 54, 56 fires its staples and the staple firing chambers 64, 66, 68 that facilitate such patterned stapling.
  • three staples in two rows are fired from each limb 52, 54, 56, but in one of two patterns.
  • the first pattern is two spaced-apart staples in the top row and one staple in the bottom row.
  • Limbs 52, 56 fire staples in the first pattern.
  • the second pattern is one staple in the top row and two spaced-apart staples in the bottom row.
  • Limb 54 fires staples in the second pattern.
  • the single staple is wider than the space between the staples in the other row.
  • the result of these two firing patterns is that the limbs of the exemplary embodiment fire staples into two circumferential generally parallel but staggered rows.
  • the pattern of the staples in the two rows may be referred to as "interleaved".
  • the staggered rows of staples makes for a leak proof connection.
  • the staples are all of the same size in this embodiment 10, but do not necessarily have to be, so long as the leak proof connection is attained.
  • the exemplary embodiment 10 facilitates the use of the two patterns of three staples by including staple firing chambers where a staple firing chamber corresponds to a limb's firing pattern.
  • limbs 52, 56 include respectively staple firing chambers 64, 68.
  • Each staple firing chamber 64, 68 is a generally T-shaped element that allows room for the T-shaped first pattern of staples with two on top and one on the bottom.
  • Limb 54 has an "inverted" T-shaped staple firing chamber 66 as an element. Inverted T-shaped staple firing chamber 66 allows room for the inverted T-shaped second pattern of staples with one on top and two on the bottom.
  • the T-shaped staple firing chambers on the limbs alternate with the inverted T-shaped staple firing chambers. With an even number of limbs, the result is the limbs fire staples into the two circumferential generally parallel but staggered rows.
  • the staple firing chambers of the limbs are configured to "mate" so the limbs 16a- 16j in the closed and firing positions come together in a substantially closed circle around the front end 14 of the anvil 12. There is not much space between the staple firing chambers of the limbs when they are in their closed and firing positions.
  • FIG. 9 is used to explain how the staple firing chambers 64, 66, 68 may be made to match up.
  • Staple firing chamber 64 is T-shaped.
  • staple firing chamber 66 has an inverted T-shape. The right side of staple firing chamber 64 matches or fits together with the left side of staple firing chamber 66.
  • the right arm in the "T” of staple firing chamber 64 fits above the left arm of the inverted “T” of staple firing chamber 66 when their respective limbs are in the closed and firing positions.
  • the right arm of the inverted “T” of staple firing chamber 66 fits below the left arm of the "T” of staple firing chamber 68, which is to the right of staple firing chamber 66, when their respective limbs are in the closed and firing positions.
  • Figure 10 provides a view of how the staple firing chamber of the limbs 16a-
  • FIG. 16j in the exemplary embodiment 10 match up to form a circle around the front end 14 of the anvil 12.
  • Figure 10 is a radial cross section of the exemplary embodiment 10.
  • the center circle represents the core 40 in the anvil 12 for receiving the control screw 36 (although the control screw 36 may not extend all along the length of the core 40).
  • the front end 14 of the anvil 12 is depicted.
  • the anvil 12 has an outer diameter of about 27.5 mm.
  • a tubular graft 26 is sleeved about the anvil 12.
  • the cylindrical wall of the tubular graft 26 has a thickness of about 1.0 mm.
  • the compressed tubular graft has a thickness of about 0.75 mm.
  • the circle 30 around the graft 26 represents the end of the dissected aorta.
  • the end of the dissected aorta in this example has a thickness of about 2.0 mm with a compression rate of about 30% or 1.4 mm when staple connected using the exemplary embodiment 10.
  • the outermost circle 32 represents the graft collar that may be placed around the end of the dissected aorta 30 prior to connection of the tubular graft 26 and the aorta 30.
  • the graft collar 32 has a thickness of 1.0 mm prior to compression, but about 0.75 mm after.
  • stapling heads 18a-18j are shown in their closed positions encircling the elements listed in the previous paragraph.
  • Other embodiments may have more or fewer.
  • Five (5) of the stapling heads 18b, 18d, 18f, 18h and 18 j have T-shaped staple firing chambers 70b, 70d, 70f, 70h, and 70j.
  • the other five (5) of the stapling heads 18a, 18c, 18e 18g, and 18i have inverted T-shaped staple firing chambers 70a, 70c, 70e, 70g, and 70i.
  • the left arms of the T-shaped staple firing chambers 70b, 70d, 70f, 70h, and 70j fit over the respective right arms of the inverted T-shaped staple firing chambers 70a, 70c, 70e, 70g, and 70i.
  • the right arms of the T-shaped staple firing chambers 70b, 70d, 70f, 70h, and 70j fit over the respective left arms of the inverted T-shaped staple firing chambers 70c, 70e, 70g, 70i, and 70a.
  • the fit between the stapling heads 18a-18j is relatively close with hardly if any space between.
  • FIGs 11 A and 1 IB illustrate a staple 80 that may be used with the exemplary embodiment 10.
  • Other connection means and differently sized or shaped staples may be used in other embodiments.
  • Figure 11A shows the staple 80 as it may be loaded into a staple firing chamber 70a-70j of a limb 16a-16j.
  • the staple 80 Prior to stapling, as shown in Figure 11A, the staple 80 may be referred to as "unformed”; after stapling, as shown in Figure 1 IB, the staple 80 may be referred to as "formed”.
  • the unformed staple 80 is generally U-shaped having two generally parallel sides 82, 84 and a top 86 generally perpendicular to the sides 82, 84. There are ends 83, 85 of the sides 82, 84 of the staple 80 opposite to the top 86. The ends 83, 85 also may be referred to as "prongs" or "tips". These ends 83, 85 are cut at an angle of about 45 degrees such that the inside sides 88, 90 of the sides 82, 84 of the staple 80 are slightly longer than the outside sides 92, 94. There may be advantages to the ends 83, 85 of the staple 80 having angled cut ends. When the staple 80 is "stapled", it is forced through the materials it is connecting.
  • the angled ends 83, 85 may work their way through the materials more easily than blunt ends.
  • the staple 80 when the staple 80 is "stapled", it encounters the anvil 12 after the staple has been forced through the materials.
  • the relatively forceful encounter with the anvil 12 may cause the sides 82, 84 of the staple 80 to change shape.
  • the force may distend the sides 82, 84 into a semi-circular shape as may be seen in Figure 1 IB.
  • the sides 82, 84 may distend in a curved manner outwards from their perpendicular relationship to the top 86 of the staple 80.
  • the formed staple 80 therefore may be wider than the unformed staple.
  • ends 83, 85 of the sides 82, 84 staple 80 bend inward, towards each other and then towards the inside top of the staple as shown in Figure 1 IB.
  • the bending of the staple sides, and particularly the ends 83, 85 may aid in the security of the connection of the materials that are stapled.
  • Exemplary staple 80 is made all of one material (titanium), but does not necessarily have to be.
  • the exemplary staple 80 is sized as follows, but as noted, other sizes of staples may be used in other embodiments.
  • the sides 82, 84 are 6.0 mm in length.
  • the top 86 of the staple 80 is 5.25 mm wide.
  • the overall thickness of the staple 80 is 0.25 mm.
  • the width of the staple 80 is slightly larger than its original size and its length is 2.9 mm.
  • the size of the staple 80 may correspond to the elements the staple 80 connects.
  • the formed staple 80 is long enough (2.9 mm) to connect the tubular graft 26, the end of the aorta 30, and the graft collar 32, which in their compressed state have a total diameter of about 2.9 mm.
  • Figure 12 illustrates an exemplary result of use of the exemplary circular aortic stapler 10, which, itself, is not shown, presumably because it has been removed from the operative field.
  • the use of the exemplary circular aortic stapler 10 has resulted in one end of the dissected aorta 30 having been connected via two circumferential rows of staples 96a, 96b between the graft collar 32 on the outside of the end of the dissected aorta 30 and the tubular graft 26 on the inside.
  • the two circumferential rows of staples 96a, 96b are spaced about 3.0 -4.0 mm apart from each other. In each row 96a, 96b there are spaces between staples.
  • the rows 96a, 96b are staggered in their patterns so that a space in either staple row 96a, 96b is "covered” by a staple in the opposite row.
  • the staples are wider than the space between staples.
  • the staggered pattern allows for a leak- free connection between the end of the aorta 30 and the tubular graft 26.
  • the disclosed subject matter also include methods of anastomosis.
  • An exemplary method 100 is now described with reference to the flow diagram shown in
  • the exemplary method 100 makes use of the exemplary circular aortic stapler 10 previously described, but other embodiments may be used.
  • the exemplary method 100 may begin with actions that may be optional depending on the circumstances relating to checking and/or setting up of the circular aortic stapler 10. For example, to begin the method, the user may check whether the circular aortic stapler is in its "open” position (i.e., limbs away from the anvil). In action 110, if the circular aortic stapler needs to be “opened”, then the user may actuate the control to cause the exemplary circular aortic stapler to be in its "open” position. In one particular embodiment, the control may be a "fire and release knob" that is turned to a fully counter-clockwise position to accomplish opening of the circular aortic stapler.
  • the user may check whether the circular aortic stapler 10 needs to be loaded with staples. If staples need to be loaded, then in action 120 the staples may be inserted into the respective firing cavities in the stapling heads. In the exemplary embodiment 10, the staples may be individually hand-loaded into the circular aortic stapler. Other embodiments may
  • the exemplary method 100 includes the action of positioning a tube to fit around a cylindrical anvil of a circular stapler. Specifically, in action 130, a Dacron® graft tube may be slid over the anvil. In the exemplary method 100, most if not all of the tube is sleeved over the anvil of the circular aortic stapler so that a segment of the tube is relatively close to if not substantially next to the front end of the anvil of the circular aortic stapler. Action 130 of this exemplary method also includes securing the tube to the anvil by releasably tying the tube to the anvil. Other embodiments may not require this tying action and/or may secure the tube in other ways.
  • the circular aortic stapler is introduced into the operative field, and specifically, the graft tube on the anvil is inserted at least partially into a dissected end of the aorta. After insertion, a segment of the graft tube underlies a part of the dissected end of the aorta to form an overlap between the graft tube segment and the end part of the dissected aorta.
  • the circular aortic stapler is used to make the leak-free connection between the graft tube and the end of the dissected aorta.
  • the control also referred to as the fire and release knob
  • the control is turned in a clockwise direction so that the limbs of the circular aortic stapler move into their closed positions around the overlap.
  • the control then is turned further clockwise to cause the stapling heads to fire the staples into the overlap.
  • the firing of the staples causes each staple to pierce the overlap and to at least partially close behind it by an inward movement of each leg of the staple when it encounters the anvil.
  • the firing position of the stapling heads may be characterized in this embodiment as a radial distribution about the overlap of the graft tube and the end of the dissected aorta.
  • the staples may be fired so that the result is two parallel rows of staples around the overlap.
  • the rows of staples (and the materials they compress) form a leak-free connection between the graft tube and the dissected end of the aorta.
  • the exemplary method provides for the control of the circular aortic stapler to be rotated in a counter-clockwise direction to open the limbs of the circular aortic stapler.
  • any tie and/or other means of securing the graft tube to the anvil of the circular aortic stapler is undone or unsecured so the anvil may be withdrawn from the graft tube.
  • action 180 the circular aortic stapler is removed so the graft tube remains in its leak- free connection to the dissected end of the aorta.
  • an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed subject matter may be used in an anastomosis to connect one end of a tubular graft in a leak-free connection with an end of a dissected aorta.
  • the respective other ends of the tubular graft and the dissected aorta may also need to be connected in a leak-free manner, and such connection may be
  • the ends not connected according to the disclosed subject matter may be connected by suturing or any other method of bonding.
  • an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter is particularly well-suited to provide a leak- free connection at the end of the tubular graft and dissected aorta in a rapid, reproducible manner, which does not subject the vessel walls to tearing and other trauma that may result from conventional suturing.
  • a stapler can be configured with at least one pair of stapling limbs which are coupled to each other to move in unison.
  • the stapling limbs 16a, 16b are positioned in a diametrically opposed relationship for providing a connection between graft 26 and vessel 30. This is advantageous, e.g., in that the force imparted on anvil 12 from stapling limb 16a will be countered by the equal and opposing force imparted on anvil 12 from stapling limb 16b.
  • a further stapler having stapling limbs arranged side -by-side and which move to engage a base or anvil in substantially the same direction.
  • Figure 15 illustrates a dissected aorta 30 having both a circular opening 30a (lower portion of illustration) and a non-circular opening 30b (upper portion of illustration).
  • the circular aortic stapler device described above with reference to embodiment 10 can be employed to connect the end 260a of graft 260 to the circular opening 30a of the aorta 30 in a leak-proof manner.
  • the graft 260 and the aorta 30 are positioned in a surrounding configuration over the anvil 12 of the circular aortic stapler 10 that provides staples in two circumferential rows 96a, 96b as described above.
  • An arcuate stapler 210 (described in greater detail below) is advantageous in that it allows for only select portions of the graft to be connected to the aorta in a given stapling function. Therefore, the operator can adjust the positioning of the graft and/or stapler with respect to the aorta to achieve a tailored connection that follows the particular contour of the aorta opening.
  • the tops 86 of staples 80 are held by the stapling heads 218a, 218b substantially parallel to one another or at an angle a of about 180° to about 90°.
  • the pair of stapling heads 218a, 218b comprise approximately 1/5 of the full circumference of a circle.
  • the inner contour 212e of the staple base (or anvil) 212 can be substantially flat or convex.
  • An exemplary stapler according to this embodiment can be configured as an arc-shaped, or arcuate, stapler.
  • an arcuate stapler In the case of an arcuate stapler, the staple tops are maintained at an angle a less than 180°, and the inner contour 212e of the base 212 is arcuate/convex.
  • An arcuate configuration is particularly advantageous for forming leak-tight connections between curved but non-circular (e.g., asymmetrical) vessel openings and/or graft materials.
  • the term "arcuate stapler" is used herein, it is understood that the orientation of the stapling heads may be linear (e.g., in which the staple tops are maintained substantially in parallel— angle a of about 180°— and the contour 212e of the base 212 is substantially flat), or in arcuate or angled relationship, as is appropriate to the operative conditions.
  • the arcuate stapler is advantageous for providing connections between vessels and graft materials in which only one of the graft sections is freely accessible, or in situations where it is impossible or undesirable to insert a stapler into the vessel and/or graft section.
  • base 212 extends along the longitudinal axis of the arcuate stapler 210 and includes an elongate front end portion 212b which corresponds with the location of the stapling operation.
  • base 212 includes a front end portion 212b and a support portion 212c which extends longitudinally from the front end of the stapler 210 towards the control (back) end of the device.
  • the end 330 is illustrated in an exemplary embodiment in Figure 20.
  • the front end 212b of the base 212 in some embodiments has an arcuate shape extending in a radial direction around less than 360°.
  • the base may extend for l/5th of a complete circumference.
  • the front end portion 212b of the base may substantially flat.
  • Stapling limbs 216a, 216b extend along the length of the base 212 and include stapling heads 218a, 218b at the front end of the device.
  • the base 212 of the arcuate stapler 210 functions as an anvil, against which the staples are driven by the stapling limbs 216a, 216b, discussed below.
  • the base 212 may be made of stainless steel (and/or other appropriate material).
  • the size of the base 212 may vary depending on the size and number of stapling limbs 216a, 216b to be used with the base 212, and also the size of the opening to be spanned by the graft.
  • the size of the graft may vary depending on the size of the end of the dissected aorta with which the graft is to be connected. For example, the greater the width of the base 212, the fewer number of stapling operations that would be required to complete the anastomosis.
  • the stapling limbs 216a, 216b of the exemplary arcuate stapler 210 move between open and closed positions via the control and cam operation of a cam 220, depicted in Figure 16B.
  • the exemplary arcuate stapler 210 may be moved from its open position (as shown in Figure 16B) to a closed position and then to a firing position.
  • Some embodiments may omit the closed position, instead moving from an open position to a firing position.
  • Other embodiments may have more positions than just the three listed positions.
  • the closed position may be the same as the firing position, but a specific actuation may be necessary to fire the staples rather than an automatic firing once the arcuate stapler moves into that position.
  • the cam 220 In its open position (as shown in Figure 16B), the cam 220 is furthest from the front end 212b of the base 212. To reach its closed position, the cam 220 slides along the lengths of the limbs 216a, 216b in a longitudinal direction (as denoted by arrow A) towards the front end 212b of the base 212, driven by actuation of the pivoting lever 332 towards the grip 331 (as shown in Figure 20), e.g., against a spring tension, as is known in the art.
  • the cam 220 acts on the limbs 216a, 216b so the stapling heads 218a, 218b move closer towards the front end 212b of the base 212.
  • the action of the cam 220 on the limbs 216a, 216b may be a lever action.
  • the stapling heads 218a, 218b move closer together and closer to the base 212 as they move towards the closed position.
  • the exemplary arcuate stapler 210 may be moved to its open position or to its firing position.
  • Other embodiments may provide other positions in addition to the three positions discussed above, and those embodiments may provide other options.
  • the arcuate stapler 210 may be moved to its open position by releasing the pivoting lever 332 (as described below) to cause the cam 220 to slide back the way it came (as denoted by arrow B) and away from the front end 212b of the base 212.
  • the cam 220 may be provided with spring rods to provide reverse tension on the limbs (also referred to as the firing sleeve arms) as the clamp sleeve of the cam is retracted after firing the staples.
  • the arcuate stapler 210 may be moved into its firing position by further actuation of the handle 330. Further advancement of the cam 220 (in the direction of arrow A) causes the cam 220 to interact with the limbs 216a, 216b so they carry out a stapling function. Continued movement of the cam 220 towards the front end 212b causes the stapling heads 218a, 218b of the limbs 216a, 216b to move into firing position and to fire their respective staples.
  • Each of the limbs 216a, 216b includes an aligned two-part firing mechanism:
  • each firing pin head 241a, 241b positioned above (2) a part of a staple firing chamber 243 a,b.
  • the staple firing chambers 243a, 243b can be substantially identical to staple firing chamber 64, 66, and 68 illustrated hereinabove in Figure 9, and, e.g., be capable of applying two rows of staples with the staples in each row being staggered with respect to the staples of the other row.
  • Each of the firing pin heads is shorter in length than its corresponding staple firing chamber.
  • each firing pin head 241a, 241b is positioned above and along the front two-thirds (approximate) of its corresponding staple firing chamber 243 a,b.
  • stapling heads 218a, 218b are disposed on stapling limbs 216a, 216b.
  • stapling heads 218a, 218b can be hinged with respect to stapling limbs 216a, 216b at junctions 244a, 244b.
  • the cam 220 moves along the length of the arcuate stapler 210, the cam 220 first encounters those parts of the stapling heads 218a, 218b.
  • the tops of these initial sections of the staple heads 218a, 218b each include a ramp at 244a, 244b that rises towards the front end 214 of the arcuate stapler 210.
  • the lever 332 is further approximated with the grip 331, which causes the cam 220 to continue its movement along the length of the arcuate stapler 210, and in particular, along the tops of the firing pin heads 241a, 241b of the limbs 216a, 216b.
  • the top of each of the firing pin heads 241a, 241b has a lower or back section that begins with a bevel (also referred to as a ramp 242a, 242b) rising towards the front (distal) end 214 of the arcuate stapler 210.
  • the cam 220 "climbs" the bevels of the firing pin heads 241a, 241b towards the front end 214 of the arcuate stapler 210.
  • the movement of the cam 220 on the firing pin heads 241a, 241b forces each of the firing pin heads 241a, 241b into its corresponding staple firing chamber 243 a,b.
  • the cam 220 advances along the arcuate stapler 210 towards its closure, the cam 220 is in constant contact due to spring angle tension with the firing pin heads 241a, 241b of the limbs 216a, 216b.
  • the cam 220 applies greater pressure as it moves forward along the tops of the firing pin heads 241a, 241b due to the bevels decreasing the distance between the cam and the respective limbs 216a, 216b at a greater rate than the forward advancement of the cam 220.
  • the exemplary arcuate stapler 210 may be moved to a firing position that causes the staples to be fired from the stapling arms 218a, 218b.
  • the cam 220 has been moved up the first ramps 244a, 244b of the limbs 216a, 216b so as to attain the closed position for the exemplary arcuate stapler 210.
  • the user continues to advance the lever 332 that was used for moving the arms into the closed position.
  • cam 220 continues its movement towards the front end 214 of the base 212.
  • the cam 220 encounters the second ramps 242a, 242b on the limbs 216a, 216b and exerts pressure on the limbs 216a, 216b.
  • the stapling heads 218a, 218b are caused to fire their respective staples.
  • Figures 16A-B depict two adjacent stapling limbs
  • an alternative number of stapling limbs can be employed (with a commensurate base 212b) in the stapler embodiment 210, if so desired.
  • the stapling limbs 216a, 216b can be coupled such that they move in tandem between open and closed positions. Alternatively, each stapling limb can be independently moved from between open and closed positions.
  • the stapling heads 218a, 218b can be configured to fire staples simultaneously or independently, as so desired.
  • the stapling limbs may omit the closed position, instead moving from an open position to firing position.
  • Other embodiments may have additional or intermediate positions.
  • the closed position may be the same as the firing position, but a specific actuation may be necessary to fire the staples rather than an automatic firing once the stapler moves into that position.
  • the base 212 may be made of stainless steel (and/or other appropriate material of sufficient strength and rigidity to receive and deform the staples).
  • the size of the base may vary depending on the size of the graft to be used with the base.
  • the size of the graft in turn, may vary depending on the size of the end of the dissected aorta with which the graft is to be connected.
  • the size of the base may vary depending on the size of the end of the dissected aorta to which the graft is to be connected in a leak-proof manner.
  • stapling head 218a, 218b and stapling limbs 216a, 216b of the stapler are disposed in an open position relative to the base. (Stapling head 218b and stapling limb 216b are not shown in Figure 18.)
  • the graft material (typically having an asymmetric or non-circular shaped opening) is folded over itself at the opening 260b to form an external cuff, as shown in Figure 15.
  • the arcuate front end 212b of the base 212 is then inserted within the cuffed portion 260c of the graft 260 such that a layer of the graft material is positioned on the top (or exterior) and bottom (or interior) surfaces of the arcuate front end 212b.
  • the graft 260 receives the front end 212b within the folded portion which allows the front end 212b to be inserted within the opening of the aorta 30 while securely retaining the graft 260 material in a fixed position with respect to the base 212. This is advantageous in that it eliminates the need for any additional equipment, such as filament or ties, to secure the graft to the base.
  • the base 212 with the graft 260 disposed around the front end 212b, may be positioned inside an end of the dissected aorta 30 so the end of the aorta lies between the splayed limbs 216 of the stapler 210 and the front end 212b.
  • an overlap region is defined having the aorta 30 as the first (or exterior) layer, with the first graft cuff layer 260c underneath, and both the aorta 30 and first graft cuff layer 260c overlying the front end 212b of the base 212, and second graft cuff layer 260d disposed underneath (or interior to) the aorta layer.
  • the aorta 30 and first graft cuff layer 260c are disposed between the stapling limb 216 and the front end 212b.
  • the second graft cuff layer 260d may extend perpendicular to the first graft cuff layer 260c.
  • the stapling limbs 216a, 216b move from their respective open positions to closed positions relative to each other and to and about the front end 212b of the base (in the direction noted by arrow C).
  • the arcuate stapler 210 may be further activated to cause the stapling heads 218a, 218b to staple the end of the aorta 30 to the first graft cuff layer 260c of the graft 260 at the overlap between the two on the front end 212b of the base 212.
  • the staples pierce through the aorta 30 and first graft layer 260c and deform upon engaging the front end 212b of the base 212, thereby leaving the second graft layer 260d a continuous and unaffected layer.
  • the stapling effects a substantially leak-free connection between the end of the dissected aorta and the graft 260.
  • its limbs 216 may be caused to open and the base 212 may be slid from the connected aorta and graft without disturbing the leak-free connection therebetween.
  • the arcuate stapler 210 can then be repositioned at a location adjacent to the first stapling location, and within the overlap region, to conduct a second stapling operation.
  • the arcuate stapler 210 can be used in the same manner to provide patches 270 of graft material to replace sections of a vessel.
  • the arcuate stapler 210 can securely retain and position the graft
  • apparatus 300 includes an operative portion 350 and a handle or actuating portion 330.
  • the operative portion 350 includes, e.g., base 212, stapling limbs 216, stapling heads 218 and cam 220, as described above, for effecting the stapling action of the graft and vessel.
  • Actuating portion 330 may include a mechanism for remotely actuating the cam 220, such as a grip 331 and pivoting lever 332, as shown in Figure 20, or a rotating control 22, as shown in Figures 3-4 and 6-8.

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  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Surgery (AREA)
  • Heart & Thoracic Surgery (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Biomedical Technology (AREA)
  • Nuclear Medicine, Radiotherapy & Molecular Imaging (AREA)
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  • Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
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Abstract

La présente invention concerne un dispositif et un procédé d'anastomose pouvant comprendre une agrafeuse avec une base et un ou plusieurs membres d'agrafage. Une greffe présentant une partie d'extrémité asymétrique peut être emmanchée sur ladite base. L'appareil comprend une base qui possède une certaine longueur depuis une extrémité antérieure, et au moins un membre d'agrafage placé à proximité de la base, chaque élément d'agrafage présentant une fonctionnalité d'agrafage sur sa tête. Chaque extrémité de membre d'agrafage est conçue pour se déplacer depuis une position ouverte, à une certaine distance de l'extrémité antérieure de la base, jusqu'à une position fermée plus proche de l'extrémité antérieure de la base.
PCT/US2013/040171 2010-11-05 2013-05-08 Dispositif et procédé d'anastomose WO2013169921A1 (fr)

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Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US14/536,193 US20150127029A1 (en) 2010-11-05 2014-11-07 Device and method for anastomosis

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US201261644263P 2012-05-08 2012-05-08
US61/644,263 2012-05-08

Related Child Applications (1)

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Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN109171857A (zh) * 2018-09-19 2019-01-11 天津万和医疗器械有限公司 一种智能多功能电动吻合器

Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20040200876A1 (en) * 1994-06-17 2004-10-14 Bolduc Lee R. Surgical stapling instrument and method thereof
US7000818B2 (en) * 2003-05-20 2006-02-21 Ethicon, Endo-Surger, Inc. Surgical stapling instrument having separate distinct closing and firing systems
US20080082115A1 (en) * 2006-09-29 2008-04-03 Morgan Jerome R Method of manufacturing staples

Patent Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20040200876A1 (en) * 1994-06-17 2004-10-14 Bolduc Lee R. Surgical stapling instrument and method thereof
US7000818B2 (en) * 2003-05-20 2006-02-21 Ethicon, Endo-Surger, Inc. Surgical stapling instrument having separate distinct closing and firing systems
US20080082115A1 (en) * 2006-09-29 2008-04-03 Morgan Jerome R Method of manufacturing staples

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN109171857A (zh) * 2018-09-19 2019-01-11 天津万和医疗器械有限公司 一种智能多功能电动吻合器
CN109171857B (zh) * 2018-09-19 2022-10-18 天津万和医疗器械有限公司 一种智能多功能电动吻合器

Also Published As

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