Devices, methods, and kits for gastrointestinal procedures
AssigneeGuided Delivery Systems, Inc.
InventorNiel F. STARKSEN
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
Devices, methods and kits for restricting a portion of a GI tract by tightening tissue are provided. The devices, methods and kits can be used to treat GERD or obesity. The devices, methods, and kits do not require the formation of plications in tissue walls and may result in faster application, reduced surgical trauma, reduced risk, and reduced cost. The devices comprise a plurality of tissue-engageable anchors coupled to a tether. Each anchor is secured to a tissue wall of the GI tract. The anchors are secured to the tissue wall in a manner that may minimize tissue damage. The tether is configured to be cinched to draw the anchors together, which in turn draws the tissue secured to the anchors together, thereby tightening tissue to restrict a portion of the GI tract.
Claims25
A method for restricting a portion of a gastrointestinal tract comprising:
- delivering a plurality of tissue-engageable anchors and a reinforcing band to a tissue wall of the gastrointestinal tract, wherein;
- the anchors are coupled to a tether;
- and
- each anchor comprises a first anchor tip that defines a first axis;
- securing each anchor to the tissue wall by piercing a surface of the tissue wall at first positions with the first anchor tips and driving the first anchor tips into the tissue wall in a nonaxial direction relative to the first axes of the anchors;
- and
- cinching the tether to draw the anchors together.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.