Abstract:
Suture holding devices and methods are disclosed, including devices and methods useful in performing a transoral surgical procedure, such as a posterior gastropexy procedure. A device is disclosed which can be used by a physician in a medical procedure to automatically lock and cut a suture in one motion and without the need for additional cutting instrumentation, rather than perform separate locking and cutting actions.
Abstract:
Endoscopic suturing devices are provided for suture locking and/or cutting, the devices being small enough to pass through the working channel of various endoscopic and ultrasound devices. One embodiment of the invention provides a device and method for a physician in a medical procedure to automatically lock and cut a suture in one motion and without the need for additional cutting instrumentation, rather than perform separate locking and cutting actions.
Abstract:
An endoscope, such as a colonoscope, is provided for introduction into and along a passageway in a human or animal body in a desired direction of travel. The endoscope is disclosed in association with a fluid propulsion apparatus which can be employed for effecting introduction and advancement of the endoscope.
Abstract:
An apparatus and method for cleaning a body cavity, such as a portion of the GI tract, are disclosed. The apparatus can include a colonoscope having viewing optics and a liquid conduit with at least one outlet. The outlet can be positioned to direct a liquid to clean the colon or other cavity in the region being viewed.
Abstract:
A device is provided which can act as one component of an anastomosis-forming assembly, i.e. as an anastomosis button. The device comprises a plurality of elongate members having a first, introduction configuration in which they are substantially aligned with one another, and a second, use configuration in which they are disposed at an angle to one another. For example, there may be two such elongate members, which, in the use configuration, form a cross. The device comprises means, for example, a tensionable thread, for bringing the elongate members into the use configuration.
Abstract:
A device is provided for use in joining together first and second tissue layers. The device comprises a catheter with an inflatable balloon mounted on the catheter adjacent one and thereof. An inflation channel is provided which is an fluid communication with the interior of the balloon and with a source of inflation fluid for introducing the inflation fluid into the interior of the balloon. The balloon is inflated and engages an outwardly facing surface of the first tissue layer and a tissue-engaging member, for example a cup or another balloon, engages an outwardly facing surface of the second tissue layer. The inwardly facing surfaces of the first and second tissue layers are thereby urged into engagement with on another.
Abstract:
Devices and methods are provided which may be used for suturing, including performing a totally transoral surgical procedure, such as a posterior gastropexy procedure. A suture lock and cut assembly is provided to lock and cut one or more sutures in one motion, which motion can be a non-curved, non rotational linear motion. The suture lock and cut assembly with one or more sutures threaded therethrough may be pushed through, for example, a patient's esophagus and into the stomach by the tip of an endoscope, or alternatively, sized to be fed through the working channel of the endoscope.