TISSUE PUNCTURE CLOSURE DEVICE

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to medical devices and more particularly to methods and devices for closing and/or sealing punctures in tissue.

[0002] In many medical procedures, such as, for example, balloon angioplasty and the like, an opening can be created in a blood vessel or arteriotomy to allow for the insertion of various medical devices which can be navigated through the blood vessel to the site to be treated. For example, after initial access with a hollow needle, a guidewire may first be inserted through the tissue tract created between the skin, or the epidermis, of the patient down through the subcutaneous tissue and into the opening formed in the blood vessel. The guidewire is then navigated through the blood vessel to the site of the occlusion or other treatment site. Once the guidewire is in place, an introducer sheath can be slid over the guide wire to form a wider, more easily accessible, tract between the epidermis and the opening into the blood vessel. The appropriate medical device can then be introduced over the guidewire through the introducer sheath and then up the blood vessel to the site of the occlusion or other treatment site.

[0003] Once the procedure is completed, the medical devices or other equipment introduced into the vessel can be retracted through the blood vessel, out the opening in the blood vessel wall, and out through the tissue tract to be removed from the body. The physician or other medical technician is presented with the challenge of trying to close the opening in the blood vessel and/or the tissue tract formed in the epidermis and subcutaneous tissue. A number of different device structures, assemblies, and methods are known for closing the opening in the blood vessel and/or tissue tract, each having certain advantages and disadvantages. However, there is an ongoing need to provide new and improved device structures, assemblies, and/or methods for closing and/or sealing the opening in the blood vessel and/or tissue tract.

[0004] The following summary is provided to facilitate an understanding of some of the innovative features unique to the present disclosure and is not intended to be a full description. A full appreciation of the disclosure can be gained by taking the entire specification, claims, drawings, and abstract as a whole.

[0005] The present disclosure relates generally to medical devices and more particularly to methods and devices for closing and/or sealing punctures in tissue. In one illustrative embodiment, a device is provided for delivering and deploying an anchor, plug, filament, and an optional locking element adjacent to the opening in the vessel wall and/or tissue tract. In some cases, the plug may be configured to compress against the anchor when deployed in the tissue tract and/or opening in the vessel wall. In some cases, the filament may be automatically released from the device when the plug is compressed. In some cases, the device may include a mechanism to prevent premature compression of the plug.

[0013] While the invention is amenable to various modifications and alternative forms, specifics thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the intention is not to limit the invention to the particular embodiments described. On the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0014] For the following defined terms, these definitions shall be applied, unless a different definition is given in the claims or elsewhere in this specification.

[0015] All numeric values are herein assumed to be modified by the term “about,” whether or not explicitly indicated. The term “about” generally refers to a range of numbers that one of skill in the art would consider equivalent to the recited value (i.e., having the same function or result). In many instances, the terms “about” may include numbers that are rounded to the nearest significant figure.

[0016] The recitation of numerical ranges by endpoints includes all numbers within that range (e.g. 1 to 5 includes 1, 1.5, 2, 2.75, 3, 3.80, 4, and 5).

[0017] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. As used in this specification and the appended claims, the term “or” is generally employed in its sense including “and/or” unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

[0018] The following detailed description should be read with reference to the drawings in which similar elements in different drawings are numbered the same. The drawings, which are not necessarily to scale, depict illustrative embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

[0019] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an illustrative embodiment of an anchor 10, a plug 12, a filament 14, and a locking element 16 for closing and/or sealing an opening in a blood vessel 18 and/or adjacent tissue tract 20 that was created to gain access to the vessel 18 to perform a medical procedure. In the illustrative embodiment, the anchor 10 may be configured to engage an interior surface of the vessel wall 22. In some cases, the anchor 10 may be configured to partially or completely occlude the opening in the vessel wall 22, as desired. The anchor 10 may include a biodegradable material so that, over time, the anchor 10 is degraded, eroded, and/or absorbed in the body. In some cases, the anchor 10 may include a PLGA, PLLA, PGA or other degradable or erodable polymers, such as polyesters, polysaccharides, polyanhydrides, polycaprolactone, and various combinations thereof. In some cases, the anchor 10 may include a combination of the previously mentioned materials to impart a variable strength and/or degradation time profile in the anchor 10. One example anchor 10 that is configured to rapidly absorb and/or degrade is disclosed in Application Ser. No. 61/031,456, filed Feb. 26, 2008, which is hereby incorporated by reference. However, it is contemplated that any suitable anchor 10 may be used, as desired.

[0020] Filament 14 may include a proximal end, a distal end, with a length extending therebetween. The distal end of the filament 14 may be coupled to the anchor 10 with the filament 14 extending proximally therefrom and through the tissue tract 20. In some cases, the anchor 10 may include a raised portion including an eyelet to facilitate attachment of the distal end of the filament 14 to the anchor. In other cases, the distal end of the filament 14 may be molded into the anchor 10, passed through an opening in the anchor 10, or otherwise attached, connected, or secured to the anchor 10, as desired.

[0021] The filament 14 may include a biodegradable material so that, over time, the filament 14 is degraded, eroded, and/or absorbed in the body. In some cases, the filament 14 may include a PLGA, PLLA, PGA or other degradable or erodable polymers, such as polyesters, polysaccharides, polyanhydrides, polycaprolactone, and various combinations thereof. In some cases, the filament 14 can include a suture material, which may be a biodegradable suture.

[0022] Although the filament 14 is shown in FIG. 1 as having a distal end coupled to the anchor 10, it is contemplated that the filament 14 may be configured to loop through the anchor 10 in a pulley-like arrangement, if desired.

[0023] In the illustrative embodiment, the plug 12 can be disposed about at least a portion of the filament 14 adjacent to the anchor 10 in the tissue tract 20 and/or opening of the vessel wall 22. The plug 12 may be configured to fill the space in the tissue tract 20 adjacent to the vessel 18 and/or the opening in the vessel wall 22 to close and/or seal the vessel 18 opening and/or tissue tract 20. In some examples, the plug 12 may include a material that swells to fill space in the tissue tract 20 and/or vessel wall 22 opening, such as by elastic expansion, fluid absorption, chemical reaction, as well as any other suitable swelling and/or expansion. The plug 12 can be configured to promote hemostasis and/or clotting adjacent to the vessel 18. In one example, the plug may include collagen foam, gelatin foam, PEG or other hydrogel, starch powder, any suitable hemostatic material, any suitable clot-promoting material, as well as any other suitable material, as desired. In some cases, other materials can be used to provide control of thrombogenicity or hydration.

[0024] In the illustrative embodiment, the plug 12 may be generally cylindrical in shape with a lumen extending therethrough. As illustrated, the plug 12 is shown in an axially compressed state after it has been deployed in the tissue tract 20. In some cases, the plug 12 can be radially compressed prior to delivery, as desired.

[0025] The plug 12 may include a biodegradable material so that, over time, the plug 12 is degraded, eroded, and/or absorbed in the body. In one example, the plug 12 can include an elongated member formed from gelatin foam, such as, for example, GELFOAM® (Pharmacia & Upjohn, Inc., Bridgewater, N.J.) or Surgifoam™ (Johnson & Johnson, New Brunswick, N.J.). In some cases, the plug 12 can also include a hydrogel and/or a hemostatic material, if desired. Example hydrogels can include polyethylene glycols (PEG), including PEG 900, PEG 3350, and PEG 6000, as well as any other suitable hydrogel, as desired. Examples of hemostatic materials can include starch powders, such as BleedArrest™ Clotting Powder (Hemostasis, LLC, St. Paul, Minn.). In one illustrative example, the starch powder can be disposed in the gelatin foam. In this illustrative example, the hydrogel can be coated on at least a portion of the gelatin foam and starch powder combination by, for example, drip coating, spray coating, or dip coating. However, any other suitable method of combining the gelatin foam, hydrogel, and starch powder can be used, as desired.

[0026] Some examples of plugs and plug materials that may be used in the closure device are disclosed in application Ser. No. ______, (Attorney docket No. 1001.2424101), filed on the even date herewith, which is hereby incorporated by reference. In some cases, the plug 12 can include one or more voids, notches, slits, or other modifications to provide a desired axial compression of plug 12. Examples of plugs that may include voids, notches, slits, or other modification are disclosed in application Ser. No. ______, (Attorney docket No. 1001.2235101), filed on the even date herewith, which is hereby incorporated by reference. In some cases, the illustrative plug 12 can be processed to have desired expansion characteristics. For example, the plug 12 can be tenderized to break down cell walls to increase the rate of expansion of the plug 12. Examples of plugs that have been tenderized or otherwise processed and methods of tenderizing or otherwise processing are disclosed in application Ser. No. ______, (Attorney docket No. 1001.2236101), filed on the even date herewith, which is hereby incorporated by reference.

[0027] In the illustrative embodiment, one or more locking elements 16 can be used to help secure the plug 12 relative to the anchor 10. As illustrated, the locking element 16 can be disposed about at least a portion of the filament 14 proximal of the anchor 10. The locking element 16 can be configured to slide over the filament 14 and compress the plug 12 during deployment. In some cases, the locking element 16 can be slid distally over the filament 14 to compress the plug 12. In some cases, the locking element 16 can be a knot, such as a compression knot that may exert a radial force on the filament 14. As such, the knot may have a friction force of 0.5 pounds, 1 pound, 1.5 pounds, 2.0 pounds, 2.5 pounds, 3.0 pounds, or any other force depending on the production of the knot 16. In any event, the friction force of the knot 16 may be greater than the rebound force of the plug 12 to prevent the plug 12 axially expanding after axial compression.

[0028] In the illustrative embodiment, the locking element 16 may be separate and independent from the filament 14. In some cases, the locking element 16 may include a suture that is independent of the filament 14. In some cases, the suture of the locking element 16 may have a larger radial diameter than the filament 14 so that the locking element 16 has a sufficient size to contact the proximal end of the plug 12 for axial compression and not penetrating into the plug 12.

[0029] In other cases, the locking element 16 can be a sliding cinch, a disc shaped retainer, or other device. In some cases, the locking element 16 may be capable of sliding relative to the filament 14 upon an exertion of force. In other cases, the locking element 16 can be configured to slide in a distal direction relative to the filament 14, but not in a proximal direction. An example knot that is disclosed in applicant Ser. No. ______ (Attorney Docket No. 1001.2425101), filed on the even date herewith, which is hereby incorporated by reference.

[0030] The locking element 16 may include a biodegradable material so that, over time, the locking element 16 is degraded, eroded, and/or absorbed in the body. In some cases, the locking element 16 may include a PLGA, PLLA, PGA or other degradable or erodable polymers, such as polyesters, polysaccharides, polyanhydrides, polycaprolactone, and various combinations thereof.

[0031] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an illustrative embodiment of an implantation device 24 for implanting the anchor 10, plug 12, filament 14, an/or locking element 16 shown in FIG. 1 in the tissue tract 20 and/or vessel 18. The illustrated implantation device 24 may be a generally syringe-shaped device having elongated components for introduction of the anchor 10, plug 12, filament 14, and/or locking element 16 into the opening in the vessel wall 22 and/or tissue tract 20.

[0032] The implantation device 24 may include a device handle 26 and a device sheath 34. The device sheath 34 may be a tubular member having a proximal end coupled to the handle 26. The anchor 10 can be disposed adjacent the distal end of the device sheath 34, either within the device sheath 34, partially within the device sheath 34, or outside the device sheath 34, as shown. The plug 12, filament 14, and locking element 16 can also be disposed within the device sheath 34.

[0033] The device handle 26 can include a body portion 28 having a grip enhancement feature, such as one or more finger hooks 36 to assist the user in holding the implantation device 24. As illustrated, there are two finger hooks 36 provided on opposite sides of the handle 26. However, it is contemplated that any or no grip enhancement feature may be used, as desired. The finger hooks 36 can be secured to or molded to the body portion 28 of the handle 26, as desired. A proximal end of the handle 26 may be configured to receive a plunger 30 therein. The handle 26 may also include a control handle connector 32 configured to attach the implantation device 24 to an insertion sheath (shown in FIG. 5). The illustrative implantation device 24 may allow for ambidextrous use and provided controlled deployment of the anchor 10, plug, 12, filament 14, and/or locking element 16.

[0034] FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the illustrative implantation device 24 of FIG. 2. In the illustrative embodiment, the device handle 26 can include the handle body 28, the plunger 30, the control handle connector 32, as well as a number of other components to aid in deploying the anchor 10, plug 12, filament 14 and/or locking element 16 at a desired location. As illustrated, the handle body 28 may be a composite body including a first half 29 and a second half 27 secured together with a fastener, adhesive, or other method, as desired. However, this is not meant to be limiting and it is contemplated that any suitable composite or a non-composite structure may be used, such as, for example, a body molded as a single piece, as desired.

[0035] Plunger 30 may be configured to move relative to the handle body 28 to deploy the anchor 10, plug 12, filament 14, and/or locking device 16. In the illustrative example, the plunger 30 may move along one or more plunger guide pins 42, each of which may include an actuating spring 40 to bias the plunger to a position outside of the handle body 28. The plunger guide pins 42 can be configured to have a first end and a second end secured or mounted to the handle body 28. As illustrated, the plunger 30 may include a flange portion defining opening 31 configured to receive the one or more plunger guide pins 42. Plunger 30 may also include a groove 33 disposed along a length of the plunger 30 configured to help stiffen the plunger 30 and aid in guiding the plunger 30.

[0036] In the illustrative embodiment, the plunger 30 may be initially retained within the handle body 28 (as shown in FIG. 2) to help prevent accidental or premature deployment of the plug 12 and/or locking element 16. To retain the plunger 30 in the handle body 28, a plunger protection mechanism including one or more plunger retainer clips 38 and one or more plunger retainer clip pins 58 can be provided. The one or more plunger retainer clip pins 58 can be secured to the handle body 28. The one or more plunger retainer clips 38 can have a proximal end secured relative to the plunger 30 and a distal end configured to engage the plunger retainer clip pins 58. In some cases, the distal end of the plunger retainer clip 38 can be curved to wrap at least partially around the one or more plunger retainer clip pins 58. In some cases, the one or more plunger retainer clips 38 can be biased radially outward so that when the plunger retainer clips 38 are moved in a proximal direction relative to the one or more plunger retainer clip pins 58, the plunger retainer clips 38 disengage the one or more plunger retainer clip pins 58 and spring outward allowing the plunger 30 to move in a proximal direction to a position at least partially outside of the handle body 28. In some cases, when the plunger retainer clips 38 disengage the one or more plunger retainer clip pins 58, the actuating springs 40 can bias the plunger to move out of the handle body 28.

[0037] The illustrative implantation device 24 can also include an interlock block 48 coupled to a proximal end of a proximal push rod 52. The interlock block may also include one or more interlock block clips 50. The interlock block 48 and interlock block clips 50 may be configured to be disposed within the plunger 30 and slide relative to the plunger 30 until the plunger 30 is withdrawn a distance proximally so that the ramp 47 on plunger 30 may engage a proximal end of the interlock block 48 or interlock block clips 50. In some cases, the interlock block clips 50 may include an outwardly extending flange portion on a proximal end that may be configured to engage the ramp 47 of the plunger 30.

[0038] As illustrated, a tubular member 44 can be provided having a proximal end disposed in the device handle 26 and a distal end disposed in the device sheath 34. In one example, the tubular member 44 can be a collet, but any other suitable tubular member may be used, as desired. A proximal end of the collet 44 can be coupled to a retainer 46 configured to maintain the relative relationship of the collet 44 and handle body 28. The distal end of the collet 44 can include a collet lock ring 68 that is configured to have a releasable engagement with the filament 14. In some cases, the distal end of the collet 44 can be coupled to the proximal end of the filament 14. A filament release bead 64 can be disposed about a portion of the collet 44 a distance from the collet lock ring 68. The filament release bead 64 may slide relative to the collet 44 and is configured to engage the collet lock ring 68 and slide the collet lock ring 68 off of the collet 44 distal end releasing the filament 14.

[0039] A proximal push rod 52 can be disposed about at least a portion of the collet 44 between the interlock block 48 and the filament release bead 64. A distal push rod 66 can be disposed about the collet 44 and having a proximal end configured to engage the filament release bead 64 and a distal end configured to engage or couple a plug compression bead 70. The distal push rod 66 may be configured to slide over the collet lock ring 68. When the plunger is actuated to deploy the plug 12 and/or locking element 16, the plunger 30 may engage the interlock block 48, which in turn may engage the proximal push rod 52, which in turn may engage the filament release bead 64, which in turn may engage the distal push rod 66, which in turn may engage the plug compression bead 70, which can engage the locking element 16, which can engage the proximal end of the plug 12. In this way, the force of the plunger 30 may be transferred to the locking element 16 to compress the plug 12. In some cases, the filament release bead 64 may simultaneously or concurrently pass over the collet 44 and engage the collet lock ring 68 to automatically release the filament 14 from the implantation device 24.

[0040] In the illustrative embodiment, the proximal push rod 52 and the distal push rod 66 may be a coil having a number of turns. However, it is contemplated that any suitable tubular member having a sufficient pushability and flexibility may be used, as desired.

[0041] The implantation device 24 may also include a control handle connector 32 configured to engage a hub of the insertion sheath 60 (shown in FIG. 5). The control handle connector 32 can be configured to be housed in the distal end of the handle body 28 or extend partially out of the distal end of the handle body 28. As illustrated, the control handle connector 32 may include a lumen configured to receive a proximal region of the device sheath 34. A control handle connector washer 56 can be embedded in the control handle connector 32.

[0042] The device sheath 34 may be configured to be coupled to the distal end of the handle 26 and extend distally therefrom. The device sheath 34 may include a thin-walled tubular member configured to house the collet 44, proximal push rod 52, filament release bead 64, distal push rod 66, collet lock ring 68, and plug compression bead 70. The device sheath 34 may also house the locking element 16, at least a portion of filament 14, and at least a portion of plug 12. The anchor 10 may be disposed adjacent to the distal end of the device sheath 34. As illustrated, a device sheath retainer 54 may be configured to couple the device sheath 34 relative to the control handle connector 32 and/or handle 26, as desired.

[0043] In the illustrative embodiment, a bypass tube 62 is shown. The bypass tube 62 may be used to aid in loading the anchor 10 and device sheath 34 into the insertion sheath 60. For example, the anchor 10 may be arranged in a desired position for deployment and then loaded into the bypass tube 62. Then, when the implantation device 24 is to be loaded into a proximal end of the insertion sheath 60, the bypass tube 62 can be inserted into the proximal end of the insertion sheath 60 and allow the anchor 10 and device sheath 34 to pass out a distal end of the bypass tube 62. For example, the bypass tube 62 can include a proximal flange portion 63 that may be configured to engage the insertion sheath 60.

[0044] FIGS. 4-10 are perspective views and partial cut-away perspective views of the illustrative implantation device 24 of FIG. 2 in various stages of a procedure for implanting the anchor 10, plug 12, filament 14, and/or locking element 16 in the opening in the blood vessel wall 22 and/or adjacent tissue tract 20. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the illustrative implantation device of FIG. 2 prior to being inserted into the insertion sheath 60. As illustrated, the anchor 10 (not shown in FIG. 4) and distal end of the device sheath 34 have been loaded into the bypass tube 62.

[0045] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the illustrative implantation device 24 of FIG. 4 partially inserted into an insertion sheath 60. In the illustrative embodiment, the insertion sheath 60 may include a hub 71 and an insertion sheath tube 76. The hub 71 may be connected to a proximal end of the insertion sheath tube 76 and may include an insertion sheath connector 72, an insertion sheath cap 74, and a hemostatic seal (not shown) disposed between the insertion sheath connector 72 and insertion sheath cap 74. The insertion sheath connector 72 and insertion sheath cap 74 may be secured together with a fastener or adhesive, as desired. The hub 71 may have a lumen extending through the insertion sheath connector 72 and the insertion sheath cap 74.

[0046] The insertion sheath tube 76 may include a thin-walled tubular member having a proximal end, a distal end, and a lumen extending therebetween. The proximal end of the insertion sheath tube 76 may be coupled to the hub 71 so that the lumen of the hub 71 is in fluid communication with the lumen of the insertion sheath tube 76. In some cases, the distal end of the insertion sheath tube 76 may be beveled to accommodate the anchor 10 at the desired deployment angle for proper approximation to the artery.

[0047] In some cases, a position indicator, such as opening 78 may be positioned adjacent to the distal end of the insertion sheath tube 76 to aid in positioning the insertion sheath 60 at a desired location in the vessel 18. The opening may provide an inlet for a bleed path which may flow through the insertion sheath 60 and/or a dilator to indicate the position of the insertion sheath 60 relative to the vessel wall opening. However, other suitable position indicators and/or locators may be used, such as, for example, one or more bent wires, one or more interlocking buttons, one or more folded components, an inflatable balloon, a radially expanding disc, as well as other suitable position indicator and/or locator or combination thereof, as desired.

[0048] In some cases, the insertion sheath 60 may include an orientation indicator (not shown) on a proximal end thereof to help orient the insertion sheath 60. In some cases, the orientation indicator may be a line, mark, shape, other indicator, or combination thereof, to aid a user in orienting the insertion sheath 60 relative to its position in the vessel.

[0049] As illustrated, the device sheath 34 may be inserted in the proximal end of the lumen of the hub 71 and pass into the lumen of the insertion sheath tube 76. As illustrated, the flange portion 63 of the bypass tube 62 may engage the proximal end of the hub 71 and be retained therein. Although not expressly shown in FIG. 5, the device sheath 34 may pass through the distal end of the bypass tube 62 and into the lumen of the insertion sheath tube 76. When the bypass tube 62 and/or device sheath 34 enters the insertion sheath 60, the device sheath 34 may pass through and open the hemostatic seal of the insertion sheath 60.

[0050] As illustrated, the insertion sheath connector 72 may include one or more pins and/or protrusions 86 that are configured to engage one or more slots 84 of the control handle connector 32 to mate the insertion sheath 60 to the implantation device 24. In the illustrative example, the control handle connector 32 of the handle 26 may only mate with the insertion sheath connector 72 in only one orientation. As illustrated, the hub 71 may include a major radial axis that is offset from the major radial axis of the handle 26.

[0051] FIG. 6 is a partial cut-away perspective view of the illustrative implantation device 24 of FIG. 5 inserted in the insertion sheath 60. As illustrated, the implantation device 24 can be inserted into the insertion sheath 60 at an orientation offset from the insertion sheath 60, but this is not required. It is contemplated that other suitable connectors may be used instead of the illustrative control handle connector 32 and insertion sheath connector 72, as desired.

[0052] In the illustrated example, the device sheath 34 of the implantation device 24 may be completely inserted into the insertion sheath 60. As also shown in FIG. 6, when the implantation device 24 is completely inserted, the anchor 10 can be deployed out the distal end of the insertion sheath tube 76 into the vessel. When deployed, the anchor 10 may be initially spaced from the beveled distal end 80 of the insertion sheath tube 76, but, as shown in FIG. 7, can be subsequently retracted, in some cases automatically, against the beveled distal end 80.

[0053] FIG. 7 is a partial cut-away perspective view of the illustrative implantation device 24 of FIG. 6 inserted in the insertion sheath 60. As illustrated, the implantation device 24 is secured to the insertion sheath 60. To do this, in one example, the handle 26 of the implantation device 24 can be rotated relative to the insertion sheath 60 to align the insertion sheath connector 72 with the control handle connector 32. In the illustrative example, the implantation device 24 can be rotated about 90 degrees when viewed from the proximal end. The rotation may lock the control handle connector 32 to the insertion sheath connector 72. This rotation can release the control handle connector 32 from the housing body 28 moving the insertion sheath 60 distal relative to the implantation device 24 seating the anchor 10 against the beveled distal end 80 of the insertion sheath tube 76. The rotation may cause slots in the control handle washer 56 to align with slots in the control handle connector 32. The alignment may release the control handle connector 32 actuating the handle 26 of the implantation device proximally via the actuating springs 40. However, it is contemplated that other attachment, alignment, and/or release mechanisms may be used to connect the insertion sheath 60 to the implantation device 24 and to seat the anchor 10 against the distal end of the insertion sheath 60, as desired. Examples of such components that may be used can include interlocking snaps, torsional springs, spring releases, keys, push pins, and any other suitable component, as desired.

[0054] As shown in the blown up portion of FIG. 7, the plunger retainer clips 38 may be engaged to the plunger retainer clip pins 58 retaining the plunger 30 in a retracted state to prevent premature deployment.

[0055] FIG. 8 is a partial cut-away perspective view of the illustrative implantation device 24 of FIG. 7 with the plunger 30 in a released position. In one example, to actuate the plunger 30 from the retracted state shown in FIG. 7 to the released position of FIG. 8, the plunger 30 may be depressed at least slightly causing the plunger retainer clips 38 (which can be biased radially outward) to disengage plunger retainer clip pins 58. When the plunger retainer clips 38 disengage the plunger retainer clip pins 58, the actuation springs 40 can cause the plunger 30 to move in a proximal direction. In some cases, the control handle connector 32 may hold the plunger retainer clips 38 against the plunger retainer clip pins 58 prior to be released from the handle body 28. However, the illustrative plunger protection mechanism including the control handle connector 32, plunger retainer clips 38, and plunger retainer clip pins 58 are merely illustrative and it is contemplated that any suitable plunger protection mechanism may be used, as desired. Further, it is contemplated that in some embodiments, the plunger 30 can be automatically actuated to the released position upon connection of the implantation device 24 to the insertion sheath 60 without the need for manual depression of the plunger 30, as desired.

[0056] In some embodiments, the implantation device 24 can be pulled proximally to seat the anchor 10 against the arteriotomy prior to proximal movement of the plunger 30 relative to the handle 26. However, it is contemplated that the anchor 10 may be seated against the arteriotomy after releasing the plunger 30, if desired.

[0057] As illustrated in FIG. 8, the plunger 30 is shown in the released position from the handle 26, but may still not be ready to deploy the anchor 10, plug 12, filament 14, and/or locking element 16. In the illustrative embodiment, as noted above, the interlock block 48 and/or interlock block clips 50 may be configured to engage a ramp 47 or otherwise protruding portion of the plunger 30. To cause the interlock block 48 and/or interlock block clips 50 to engage the ramp 47, the plunger 30 may be moved proximally relative to the interlock block 48 and/or interlock block clips 50 causing the interlock block clips 50 to depress inward until the plunger 30 is moved proximally relative to the interlock block 48 so that the interlock block clips 50 may move radially outward to engage a proximal portion of the ramp 47, as shown in FIG. 9. In some cases, this relative movement can be accomplished by applying a tension to the handle 26 of the implantation device 24 to retract the implantation device 24 and insertion sheath 60 in a proximal direction. The anchor 10 which is coupled to the filament 14, which can be coupled directly or indirectly to the interlock block 48 can exert a counter force to the tension causing the interlock block 48 to slide distally relative to the handle 26.

[0058] As also shown in FIG. 9, the tension or proximal retraction of the implantation device 24 can also create a gap between the distal end 80 of the insertion sheath 60 and the anchor 10 providing a place for the plug 12 to compress into. In this configuration, the plunger 30 is ready to deploy (i.e compress) the plug 12.

[0059] However, in some embodiments, it is contemplated that actuating the plunger 30 to the released position described above can automatically put the plunger 30 in a state ready to deploy the anchor 10, plug 12, filament 14, and/or locking element 16 and, in some cases, retract the implantation device 24 and insertion sheath 60 creating a gap for deployment, if desired.

[0060] As shown in FIG. 10, the plunger 30 may be manually actuated to advance the proximal push rod 52 distally, which in turn may advance the filament release bead 64 distally, which in turn may advance the distal push rod 66 distally, which may advance the plunger compression bead 70 distally, which may advance the locking element 16 distally to axially compresses the plug 12. When the plug 12 is deployed, the plug 12 may radially expand, as discussed above, and be coupled to the anchor 10 by locking element 16.

[0061] FIGS. 11-13 are schematic diagrams of illustrative embodiments of the automatic filament release mechanism of the implantation device 24. In the illustrative embodiment, the automatic filament release Mechanism can include a collet 44, a collet lock ring 68, and a filament release bead 64. As shown in FIG. 11, the insertion sheath 60 may be disposed at least partially in the tissue tract 20 for providing access to the opening in the vessel wall 22. The implantation device 24 may be inserted into the insertion sheath 60. As shown, the anchor 10 is seated against the interior of the vessel wall 22 or arteriotomy. The filament 14 is coupled to the anchor 10 and extends proximally through the tissue tract 20. The plug 12 is disposed over the filament 14 adjacent the anchor 10 and the locking element 16 is disposed about the filament 14 proximal of the plug 12. The plug 12, filament 14, and locking element 16 may be disposed, at least partially, within the implantation device sheath 34. As illustrated, both the insertion sheath 60 and the device sheath 34 may be retracted a distance from the anchor 10 and/or opening in the vessel wall 22 to provide an area for plug 12 deployment. In the illustrative example, the distance may be about one-quarter the length of the plug 12. For example, if the plug 12 is about one inch long in a non-axially compressed state, the distance that the insertion sheath 60 and device sheath 34 can be retracted may be about one-quarter inch. However, it is contemplated that any suitable distance may be used, as desired.

[0062] As illustrated in FIG. 11, the collet 44 can be coupled to the filament 14 by a collet locking ring 68. As the proximal push rod 52 is advanced distally, the filament release bead 64 may be advanced distally over the collet 44. The filament release bead 64 may engage the collet locking ring 68 and push the collet locking ring 68 off of the collet 44, as shown in FIG. 12, releasing the filament 14.

[0063] Simultaneously, the distal push rod 66 may advance the plunger compression bead 70 against the locking element 16 to compress the plug 12, as shown in FIG. 12. The plug 12 may be compressed and secured in the compressed state by the locking element 16. In one example, the locking element 16 may have a compressive force on the filament creating a friction force in the locking element of 0.5 pounds, 1 pound, 1.5 pounds, 2 pounds, or any suitable friction force, as desired. Accordingly, the force exerted by the plug compression bead 70 onto the locking element 16 may be greater than the friction force of the locking element 16. Further, the plug 12 may exert a rebounding force on the locking element 16 trying to return to the non-axially compressed position. However, the friction force of the locking element 16 may be configured to be greater than the rebounding force of the plug 12.

[0064] As shown in FIG. 13, the insertion sheath 60 and the implantation device 24 can be removed from the tissue tract 20 leaving the anchor 10, plug 12, filament 14, and locking element 16 to seal and/or close the puncture in the vessel wall 22.

[0065] In some cases, the filament 14 may stretch slightly when a tensioning force is applied in the proximal direction. With many devices, the magnitude of the tensioning force can result in varying size gaps for plug deployment. In the illustrative embodiment of FIGS. 11-13, the collet 44 and/or collet lock ring 68 may be configured to engage the filament 14 a short distance proximal of the locking element 16 (prior to deployment) to define a tensioned length of the filament 14. In this case, the tensioning force can be spread out only over the tensioned length of the filament 14. In one example, the collet 44 and/or collet lock ring 68 may engage the filament 14 less than one inch proximal of the locking element 16. For example, the collet 44 and/or collet lock ring 68 may engage the filament 14 one-quarter inch, one-half inch, three-quarter inch, one inch, or any other suitable length proximal of the locking element 16, as desired. This example may provide a length of filament 14 with a smaller amount of length to stretch than a filament that has a tensioning length extending into the device handle 26, which may provide for less variance in the size of the gap for plug 12 deployment. In another example, it is contemplated that the length of the filament 14 may terminate in the insertion sheath tube 76 and not in the device handle 26, but this is not required.

[0066] FIGS. 14A-J are perspective views showing an illustrative procedure for sealing and/or closing a puncture in a vessel wall 22 and/or adjacent tissue tract 20 using the implantation device 24 of FIG. 2. In some cases, a medical procedure can be preformed with a procedural sheath, which in some cases, may be different than the insertion sheath 60 described above. In this case, the procedural sheath may be swapped for the insertion sheath 60. In some cases, a guidewire may be used to facilitate the swapping. In some cases, the vessel may be occluded by depressing the skin to temporarily stop the flow of blood therethrough.

[0067] A dilator 90 can be provided in the insertion sheath 60 and over the guidewire 92. The dilator 90 may be configured to fluidly seal the distal end of the insertion sheath 60 to inhibit the flow of blood therein. Similarly, the dilator 90 may be configured to tightly fit around the guidewire 92 to inhibit the flow of blood therein. In some cases, the dilator 90 and insertion sheath 60 may be assembled prior to insertion. In other cases, the dilator 90 may be inserted into the insertion sheath 60 after insertion of the insertion sheath 60.

[0068] As shown in FIG. 14A, the opening 78 in the insertion sheath 60 and the dilator 90 may define a bleed path that may be used to identify the location of the distal end of the insertion sheath 60. The insertion sheath 60 and dilator 90 combination can be withdrawn proximally until blood does not flow through the bleed path, as shown in S FIG. 14B. As shown, the opening 78 of the insertion sheath 60 may be aligned with the vessel wall 22. Once the proper position is located, the dilator 90 and guidewire 92 may be removed from the insertion sheath 60.

[0069] As shown in FIG. 14C, the insertion sheath 60 may be maintained in the located position. In some cases, an annular shaped locking ring 94 or other suitable locking ring, such as an elastomeric o-ring, can be used to maintain the position of the insertion sheath 60. In other cases, a physician or medical technician may hold the insertion sheath 60 to maintain the position. In some embodiments, an indicator or other visual mark can be provided to verify that the proper location is maintained.

[0070] The implantation device 24 can then be inserted into the proximal end of the insertion sheath 60. In some cases, the bypass tube 62 can be used to load the anchor 10. Then, as shown in FIG. 14D, the implantation device 24 can be inserted through the hemostatic valve and connected to the insertion sheath 60. At the same time, the anchor 10 can be deployed into the vessel 18.

[0071] In the illustrative procedure, the implantation device 24 can be rotated relative to the insertion sheath 60 to release the control handle connector 32 to seat the anchor 10 against the beveled distal end 80 of the insertion sheath 60. In some cases, the rotation can be a one-quarter turn. However, any suitable rotation can be used, as desired. Further, it is contemplated that non-rotational connection methods may be used, as desired.

[0072] As shown in FIG. 14F, the implantation device 24 and insertion sheath 60 can then be retracted proximally to seat the anchor 10 against the interior surface of the vessel wall 22. With the anchor 10 seated against the interior surface of the vessel wall 22, tension may be continually applied to the implantation device 24 handle 26 while pushing down on the plunger 30 to cause the plunger 30 to pop up when released, as shown in FIG. 14G.

[0073] Also, as shown in FIG. 14G, a continued tension on the implantation device 24 handle 26 can cause the implantation device 24 and the insertion sheath 60 to retract proximally exposing an area in the tissue tract 20 for the plug 12 to deploy into. While the implantation device 24 is retracted, the interlock block 48 may engage the ramp 47 of the plunger 30.

[0074] In FIG. 14H, the plunger 30 of the implantation device 24 can be depressed to deploy the plug 12 in the tissue tract 20 while continuing to apply tension to the implantation device 24. As shown in FIG. 141, with continued tension to the implantation device 24, the plunger 30 can be completely depressed to actuate the automatic filament release mechanism to release the filament 14 from the implantation device 24.

[0075] As shown in FIG. 14J, the filament 14 is released from the implantation device 24 and then, the insertion sheath 60 and implantation device 24 can be removed from the tissue tract 20 leaving the anchor 10, plug 12, filament 14, and locking element 16 to seal and/or close the opening in the vessel wall 22 and/or tissue tract 20. The length of the filament 14 extending proximally of the locking element 16 and/or outside of the tissue tract 20 can be removed, such as, for example, by cutting. In other cases, the filament 14 may have a length such that no cutting may be needed. When the plug is exposed to a fluid, such as blood for example, the plug 12 can expand to fill the tissue tract 20 and/or opening in the vessel wall 22.

[0076] While the foregoing has described the implantation device 24 in detail, this is not meant to be limiting in any manner. It is contemplated that any suitable apparatus for sealing and/or closing an opening in a vessel wall and/or tissue tract can include any combination of the above-described features.

[0077] Other examples can include a plug 12, an anchor 10, a filament 14, and a locking element 16, as discussed above. In some cases, a device sheath may include at least the filament 14, plug 12, and locking element 16 during introduction and the device sheath may be attached to a handle at one end and having a tip at the other end, with the filament 14 releaseably attached to the handle. In some cases, an introducing sheath may pass the plug 12, filament 14, anchor 10, locking element, and/or device sheath through a tissue tract to the artery, the introducing sheath may have a hub attached to one end. In some cases, a positioning guide may be used to properly position the tip of the introducing sheath in the artery. In some cases, a locking mechanism may attach and hold the introducing sheath hub to the handle in proper alignment with the tip of the device sheath and the anchor extending out the end of the introducing sheath. In some cases, a seating mechanism may be used to retract the device sheath and the filament 14 to seat the anchor 10 against the tip of the device sheath. In some cases, a sheath retraction mechanism, which may retract the sheath(s) a controlled amount from the anchor 1,0 and may expose at least a portion of the plug 12, can be used. In some cases, an arming mechanism which may help prevent premature advancement of the plug 12 along the filament 14 until the arming mechanism is actuated can be used. In some cases, a plug 12 advancement mechanism, which may advance the plug 12 along the filament 14 to cinch the plug 12 towards the anchor 10 a controlled amount and may actuate the locking element 16 to hold the plug 12 in cinched configuration, may be used. In some cases, a filament 14 release mechanism which may release the filament 14 from the handle may be used.

[0078] It should be understood that this disclosure is, in many respects, only illustrative. Changes may be made in details, particularly in matters of shape, size, and arrangement of steps without exceeding the scope of the invention. The invention's scope is, of course, defined in the language in which the appended claims are expressed.