Clip applier and methods of use

[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/973,204, filed Dec. 20, 2010, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,202,294, which is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/048,503, filed Feb. 1, 2005, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,857,828, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Serial No. 10/638,115, filed Aug. 8, 2003, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,867,249, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/356,214, filed Jan. 30, 2003, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,905,900, each of which are incorporated herein by specific reference in its entirety. This application is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/852,190, filed on Sep. 7, 2007, which claims benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/843,325, filed Sep. 8, 2006, each of which are incorporated herein by specific reference in its entirety. This application is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/143,020, filed Jun. 20, 2008, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,202,293, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/946,030, filed June 25, 2007 and U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/946,042, filed Jun. 25, 2007, and is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/048,503, filed Feb. 1, 2005 now U.S. Pat. No. 7,857,828, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/638,115 filed Aug. 8, 2003 now U.S. Pat. No. 7,867,249, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/356,214, filed Jan. 30, 2003 now U.S. Pat. No. 7,905,900, each of which are incorporated herein by specific reference in its entirety. This application is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/393,877, filed Feb. 26, 2009. This application is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/961,331, filed Dec. 6, 2010, which is incorporated herein by specific reference in its entirety

[0002] The present invention relates generally to apparatus and methods for closing and/or sealing openings through tissue, and more particularly to apparatus and methods for delivering a closure element for closing a puncture in a blood vessel or other body lumen formed during a diagnostic or therapeutic procedure.

[0003] Catheterization and interventional procedures, such as angioplasty or stenting, generally are performed by inserting a hollow needle through a patient's skin and tissue into the vascular system. A guide wire may be advanced through the needle and into the patient's blood vessel accessed by the needle. The needle then is removed, enabling an introducer sheath to be advanced over the guide wire into the vessel, e.g., in conjunction with or subsequent to a dilator. A catheter or other device may then be advanced through a lumen of the introducer sheath and over the guide wire into a position for performing a medical procedure. Thus, the introducer sheath may facilitate introducing various devices into the vessel, while minimizing trauma to the vessel wall and/or minimizing blood loss during a procedure.

[0004] Upon completing the procedure, the devices and introducer sheath may be removed, leaving a puncture site in the vessel wall. External pressure may be applied to the puncture site until clotting and wound sealing occur. This procedure, however, may be time consuming and expensive, requiring as much as an hour of a physician's or nurse's time. It is also uncomfortable for the patient, and requires that the patient remain immobilized in the operating room, catheter lab, or holding area. In addition, a risk of hematoma exists from bleeding before hemostasis occurs.

[0005] Various apparatus have been suggested for percutaneously sealing a vascular puncture by occluding the puncture site. For example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,192,302 and 5,222,974, issued to Kensey et al., describe the use of a biodegradable plug that may be delivered through an introducer sheath into a puncture site. Another technique has been suggested that involves percutaneously suturing the puncture site, such as that disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,304,184, issued to Hathaway et al. To facilitate positioning devices that are percutaneously inserted into a blood vessel, “bleed back” indicators have been suggested. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,676,974, issued to Kensey et al., discloses a bleed back lumen intended to facilitate positioning of a biodegradable plug within a puncture site. This device, however, requires that an anchor of the plug be positioned within the vessel, and therefore, may increase the risk of over-advancement of the plug itself into the vessel.

[0006] Alternatively, U.S. Pat. No. 5,674,231, issued to Green et al., discloses a deployable loop that may be advanced through a sheath into a vessel. The loop is intended to resiliently expand to engage the inner wall of the vessel, thereby facilitating holding the sheath in a desired location with respect to the vessel. Accordingly, apparatus and methods for delivering a device for closing a vascular puncture site or other opening through tissue would be useful.

[0007] The present invention is directed toward an apparatus and method for delivering a closure element (e.g., clip) through tissue and into an opening formed in, or adjacent to, a wall of a blood vessel or other body lumen of any size.

[0008] Generally, an embodiment of such a clip applier apparatus can include a carrier tube carrying a closure element and a splitter configured to split the carrier tube. As such, the carrier tube can have an outer surface retaining the closure element in a substantially tubular configuration. Also, the carrier tube can be configured to split into radially-expandable or outwardly bendable carrier flaps. The splitter can be disposed distally from the carrier tube, and can be configured to move into a lumen of the carrier tube. Alternatively, the splitter can be disposed in a distal end of the lumen of the carrier tube. The splitter can split the carrier tube into the radially-expandable or outwardly bendable carrier flaps when moved through the lumen of the carrier tube. Also, the splitter can have a proximal end with a cross-sectional profile smaller than a cross-sectional profile of a distal end.

[0009] In another embodiment, a clip applier apparatus for delivering a closure element to an opening formed in a wall of a body lumen or body tissue can include a slidable splitter or an expandable splitter. As such, the carrier tube can have an outer surface retaining the closure element in a substantially tubular configuration. Also, the carrier tube can have a lumen and slits at a distal end of the carrier tube. The carrier tube can be configured to split at the slits so as to form outwardly bendable carrier flaps. Additionally, the splitter can be disposed adjacent to the slits so that the splitter can split the carrier tube at the distal end to form and outwardly bend the carrier flaps.

[0010] In one embodiment, the apparatus can include a splittable pusher tube that splits similarly as the carrier tube. The pusher tube can be configured to split into radially-expandable or outwardly bendable pusher flaps by the splitter when moved distally with respect to the carrier tube to deploy the closure element over the radially-expandable or outwardly bendable carrier flaps after expanding over the splitter. On the other hand, the expandable splitter can expand to split the pusher tube in order to form the pusher flaps.

[0011] In another embodiment, a clip applier apparatus for delivering a closure element to an opening formed in a wall of a body lumen or body tissue can include at least a partially splittable carrier tube and a splitter. Such a clip applier apparatus can include a partially splittable carrier tube having a length and slits extending at least partially along the length from a distal end toward a proximal end. The slits can be configured to separate at a distal portion of the carrier tube to form carrier flaps. Also, the carrier tube can have an outer surface retaining a closure element in a substantially tubular configuration at the splittable distal portion.

[0012] In one option, the splitter can be configured to move into a lumen of the carrier tube so as to split the distal portion of the carrier tube into the carrier flaps. The splitter can have a proximal end with a cross-sectional profile smaller than a cross-sectional profile of a distal end. Moreover, at least the distal end of the splitter can be larger than the lumen of the carrier tube.

[0013] In another option, the splitter can be an expandable splitter. As such, the entire splitter can selectively expand to split the carrier tube into the carrier flaps. Alternatively, the distal end of the splitter can selectively expand to split the carrier tube into the carrier flaps.

[0014] Additionally, the splitter can be coupled to a support tube so as to form a splitter tube. Alternatively, the splitter can be coupled to a wire disposed within the lumen of the carrier tube. The wire can extend through a passage in the splitter and have an end with an expanded diameter or retaining element disposed within a cavity in the splitter so that the end cannot pass through the passage.

[0015] A slidable splitter can be planar or volumetric, and can be shaped as at least one of a cone, wedge, sphere, hemisphere, trapezoid, combinations thereof, or other configurations that allow the splitter to perform the functions described herein. Also, the splitter can include a series of combinable splitters, wherein proximally disposed combinable splitters each have a recess for receiving a proximal portion of a distally-adjacent combinable splitter. Similarly, the splitter can include at least a proximal combinable splitter and a distal combinable splitter, wherein the proximal combinable splitter has a recess for receiving a proximal end of the distal combinable splitter. Furthermore, the splitter can be adapted to take hold of or grab a portion of tissue to the splitter. To aid with this functionality, the splitter can include teeth, barbs, or other structures that enable tissue to be selectively secured to a portion of the splitter.

[0016] In one embodiment, the present invention can use a clip applier having a carrier tube and a splitter in a method for closing an opening formed in a wall of a body lumen or body tissue. Such a method can include the following: positioning a carrier tube adjacent to the opening, the carrier tube having a distal end with an outer surface retaining a closure element in a substantially tubular configuration, the carrier tube having a lumen and being configured to split into flaps; splitting a distal end of the carrier tube with a splitter so as to form the flaps that deform outwardly over the splitter; and deploying the closure element from the outwardly deformed flaps of the carrier tube and over the splitter so that the closure element engages at least a portion of the wall of the body lumen or the body tissue whereby the opening is drawn substantially closed.

[0017] Accordingly, the carrier tube can be split with the splitter by at least one of the following: moving the splitter proximally with respect to the carrier tube; moving the carrier tube distally with respect to the splitter, or simultaneously moving the splitter proximally with respect to the carrier tube and moving the carrier tube distally with respect to the splitter; expanding the splitter; or selectively expanding a distal portion of the splitter.

[0018] In one embodiment, a tissue-grabbing splitter can be used in a method for closing an opening formed in a wall of a body lumen or body tissue. Such a method can include grabbing tissue around the opening with teeth and/or barbs on the splitter, and drawing the grabbed tissue toward the opening when the splitter is being pulled therethrough.

[0019] The present invention is also directed toward an apparatus and method for delivering a closure element through tissue and into an opening formed in, or adjacent to, a wall of a blood vessel or other body lumen of any size. It is further contemplated that the closure element and devices described herein can be utilized for other medical procedures not described herein, and it shall be further understood that the methods described herein should be considered exemplary and not limiting.

[0020] Generally, an embodiment of a closure element in accordance with the present can include a clip for closing an opening formed in a wall of a body lumen or body tissue. Such a clip can include a shape-memory clip having a relaxed configuration with a substantially planar-annular body defining a lumen with a plurality of tines directed inwardly from the body. Additionally, the clip can be oriented and held by a clip applier in a retaining configuration having a substantially asymmetrically-elongated tubular shape with a substantially trapezoidal longitudinal cross-sectional profile and a body portion having the plurality of tines being longitudinally and distally directed with a first tine of the plurality being more distally oriented compared to a substantially opposite second tine being more proximal. Also, the clip can be capable of retracting to a deploying configuration having a substantially symmetrical tubular shape with a substantially rectangular longitudinal cross-sectional profile with the first tine being substantially even with the second tine when the clip is being delivered from the clip applier to close the opening.

[0021] Additionally, the clip in the retaining configuration can have a lumen that has a smaller orthogonal cross-sectional profile (e.g., orthogonal to longitudinal direction) compared to the lumen in the deploying configuration. Alternatively, the clip in the retaining configuration can have a lumen that has a more oval orthogonal cross-sectional profile compared to the lumen in the deploying configuration having a more circular orthogonal cross-sectional profile. Also, the clip can automatically retract from the retaining configuration to the deploying configuration when being released from the clip applier. Further, the clip can automatically convert to the relaxed configuration from the deploying configuration after being released from the clip applier.

[0022] In another embodiment, the present invention can include a clip applier apparatus for delivering a clip to an opening formed in a wall of a body lumen or body tissue. Such a clip applier can include a shape-memory clip as described herein. Additionally, the clip applier can include a carrier tube having an outer surface configured for slidably retaining the clip in a retaining configuration and slidably delivering the clip in a deploying configuration, wherein the retaining configuration and deploying configuration are described herein.

[0023] In one embodiment, the clip applier can include a pusher tube that can push the clip from the retaining configuration to the deploying configuration. Also, the pusher tube can be configured to distally push the clip in the retaining configuration over the carrier tube toward a distal end of the carrier tube. Further, the pusher tube can be configured to distally push the clip over a distal end of the carrier tube so that the clip retracts from the retaining configuration to the deploying configuration.

[0024] Additionally, the carrier tube can be configured so that the outer surface corresponds in shape and size with the lumen of the clip in the retaining configuration. Accordingly, the outer surface of the carrier tube can be generally oval in shape. Also, the outer surface can have a smaller orthogonal cross-sectional profile compared to the size of the lumen of the clip in the deploying configuration.

[0025] In yet another embodiment, the clip applier can include a clip expander that is capable of expanding the clip during deployment. As such, the clip expander can be a selectively expandable shape-memory clip expander. Also, the clip expander can be disposed at a distal portion of the carrier tube.

[0026] In still another embodiment, the clip applier can include a cover tube that contains any of the carrier tube, pusher tube, clip, and/or clip expander. As such, the cover tube can define a lumen that retains the clip in the retaining configuration. Also, the lumen of the cover tube can retain the clip expander in a contracted orientation so that the clip expander can be capable of expanding when moved distally past a distal end of the cover tube.

[0027] Another embodiment of the present invention can include a method for closing an opening formed in a wall of a body lumen or body tissue. Such a method can include positioning a carrier tube adjacent to the opening, wherein the carrier tube has a distal portion with an outer surface retaining a shape-memory clip in a retaining configuration. The carrier tube, clip, and retaining configuration can be as described herein. Additionally, the method can include pushing the clip over a distal end of the carrier tube so that the clip retracts to a deploying configuration, wherein the deploying configuration is described herein. Further, the method can include ejecting the clip from the carrier tube so that at least a portion of the plurality of tines disposed on the body portion of the clip engages a portion of the wall of the body lumen or the body tissue whereby the opening is drawn substantially closed.

[0028] Additionally, the method can include pushing the clip toward the distal end of the carrier tube with a pusher tube being configured to distally push the clip in the retaining configuration. Also, the method can include flattening the clip, after being deployed from the carrier tube, to a relaxed configuration with a substantially planar-annular body defining a lumen with a plurality of tines directed inwardly from the body of the clip, wherein at least a portion of the tines have inwardly drawn a portion of the wall of the body lumen or the body tissue so as to substantially close the opening. Further, the method can include expanding the clip from the retaining configuration having a lumen with a smaller orthogonal cross-sectional profile to the deploying configuration so that the lumen has a larger orthogonal cross-sectional profile. Optionally, the clip can be expanded by a selectively expandable shape-memory clip expander. Furthermore, the method can include expanding the clip from the retaining configuration having a lumen with a more oval orthogonal cross-sectional profile to the deploying configuration so that the lumen has a more circular orthogonal cross-sectional profile.

[0029] An embodiment of an apparatus for locating a surface of a body lumen is disclosed. The apparatus includes a locator assembly that has a distal end region configured to extend into an opening of the body lumen and to selectably engage at least a portion of the body lumen adjacent to the opening. The distal end region includes at least one surface engaging element that is configured to engage the surface of the body lumen. The apparatus includes a measuring device that is in electrical communication with the surface engaging element. The measuring device is configured to determine changes in measurable characteristics of the surface engaging element.

[0030] An embodiment of a method for locating a surface of a body lumen is disclosed. The method includes inserting a locator assembly through an opening of the body lumen. The locator assembly includes a distal end region having a surface engaging element configured to selectively engage the surface of the body lumen. The locator assembly is positioned in close proximity to the opening of the body lumen. A measurable characteristic of the surface engaging element is measured within the body lumen. It is determined whether the measurable characteristic of the surface engaging element indicates that the surface engaging element has engaged the surface of the body lumen.

[0031] An embodiment of a surface engaging element is disclosed. The surface engaging element includes a proximal end portion that has at least one retaining portion. The surface engaging element includes a distal end portion that has at least one retaining portion. The surface engaging element includes at least one engaging member that extends toward the proximal end portion and extends toward the distal end portion. The at least one engaging member is configured to engage a surface of a body lumen.

[0032] In one embodiment, the present invention includes an apparatus for positioning a closure element to close an opening in a body lumen. Such an apparatus includes a carrier assembly and a distal tissue engaging device. The carrier assembly is configured to support a closure element in a substantially tubular configuration in a first diameter. The closure element is configured to substantially uniformly deform from a substantially tubular configuration to a natural, substantially planar configuration. The distal tissue engaging device is selectably axially displaceable relative to at least a portion of the carrier assembly. As such, the distal tissue engaging device moves between a tissue engaging condition and a tissue closing condition. The tissue engaging condition engages opposing portions of an arterial wall defining said body lumen adjacent to the opening. The tissue closing condition urges the engaged opposing portions of the arterial wall substantially together such that the closure element may be deployed from the delivery assembly to engage the opposed portions of the arterial wall and to return to the natural, substantially planar configuration.

[0033] In one embodiment, the distal tissue engaging device includes two or more opposed engaging tongs having respective end tips configured to open radially in directions extending beyond the first diameter to initially engage the opposing portions of the arterial wall, in the engaging condition.

[0034] In one embodiment, the carrier assembly further includes a cover member protecting at least the closure element which is contained therein.

[0035] In one embodiment, the distal tissue engaging device is integral with a distal end of the cover member.

[0036] In one embodiment, the carrier assembly is formed and dimensioned for sliding axial, reciprocating, receipt in a lumen of an introducer sheath extending through said tissue and terminating proximate the opening. The tissue engaging device is configured to cooperate with the introducer sheath to enable movement between the engaging condition and the closing condition.

[0037] In one embodiment, the present invention includes an apparatus for delivering and deploying a substantially resilient closure element through tissue to an opening in a body lumen perimeterically defined by opposing arterial walls. The closure element is configured to substantially uniformly deform from a natural, substantially resilient planar configuration to a substantially tubular configuration having a substantially natural transverse cross-sectional dimension. The apparatus includes a delivery assembly positionable through the tissue toward the opening in the body lumen. Also, the delivery assembly has a distal tissue engaging device and a carrier assembly configured to support the closure element in the substantially tubular configuration in a first diameter. The distal tissue engaging device is selectably axially displaceable relative to at least a portion of the carrier assembly between a tissue engaging condition and a tissue closing condition. The tissue engaging condition engages the opposing arterial walls of the body lumen adjacent to the opening. The tissue closing condition urges the engaged opposing arterial walls substantially transversely together such that the closure element may be deployed from the delivery assembly, while substantially maintained in the first diameter, into the opposing arterial walls. The closure element is oriented to engage the engaged opposing arterial walls when deployed and to return to the natural, substantially planar configuration and the natural, transverse cross-sectional dimension such that the engaged opposing arterial walls are drawn substantially closed.

[0038] In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a locator configured to position the carrier assembly and distal tissue engaging device adjacent to the opening in the body lumen. Also, the locator has a distal locator portion selectably controllable between an unexpanded state and an expanded state for engaging the opposing portions of the arterial wall of the body lumen.

[0039] In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a distal tissue locator portion contained on the delivery assembly. The distal tissue locator portion is configured to facilitate detection of the body lumen and includes one or more expansion elements configured to expand substantially transversely with respect to a longitudinal axis of the distal locator portion.

[0040] In one embodiment, the distal locator portion is selectably controllable between an unexpanded state and an expanded state for engaging said opposing arterial walls of said body lumen.

[0041] In one embodiment, while in the unexpanded state, the distal locator portion has a transverse cross-sectional dimension less than that of the opening. Also, while in the expanded state, the distal locator portion has a transverse cross-sectional dimension greater than or substantially equal to that of said opening.

[0042] In one embodiment, the present invention includes an apparatus for positioning a closure element to close an opening in a body lumen. Such an apparatus includes a carrier assembly and a distal tissue engaging device. The carrier assembly has a tubular body configured to receive a closure element in a substantially tubular configuration in a first diameter prior to deployment. Also, the tubular body has a distal port. The distal tissue engaging device is disposed within the tubular body and is selectably axially displaceable from the distal port. A portion of the distal tissue engaging device is biased to selectively radially extend outwardly from a longitudinal axis of the tubular body to intravascularly engage opposing arterial walls of the body lumen. A portion of the distal tissue engaging device urges the engaged opposing portions of the arterial wall substantially together as the distal tissue engaging device moves proximally. The closure element is then deployed to engage the opposed portions of the arterial wall.

[0043] In one embodiment, the carrier assembly includes a cover member defining a lumen configured for slidable receipt of the closure element therein.

[0044] In one embodiment, the carrier assembly includes a pusher member that slides for distally deploying the closure element.

[0045] In one embodiment, the pusher member and the tubular body are disposed as a nested, telescoping tube set with a common longitudinal axis.

[0046] In one embodiment, the tubular body includes a tissue locator portion. The tissue locator portion includes a bleed back shaft having a bleed back port distally disposed on a distal end of the tubular body.

[0047] In one embodiment, the present invention includes a closure system for closing an opening formed in a body lumen perimeterically defined by opposing arterial walls. Such a closure system includes a closure element, a delivery assembly, and a pusher member. The closure element is adapted to deform from a natural, substantially resilient planar configuration to a substantially tubular configuration that has a substantially natural transverse cross-sectional dimension. The delivery assembly is capable of being positioned through the tissue and into the opening in the body lumen.

[0048] Additionally, the delivery assembly has an elongated body, a carrier assembly and a distal tissue engaging device. The carrier assembly includes a carrier seat configured to carry and peripherally support the closure element in the substantially tubular configuration in a first diameter. The distal tissue engaging device is selectably, axially displaceable relative to the carrier seat between an engaging condition and a closing condition. The engaging condition engages the opposing arterial walls of the body lumen adjacent to the opening. The closing condition urges the engaged opposing arterial walls substantially transversely together such that the closure element may be deployed from the carrier assembly, while substantially maintained in the first diameter, into the opposing arterial walls.

[0049] The pusher member is slidably disposed about the elongated body for relative axial sliding displacement therebetween. The pusher member has a contact portion disposed proximally adjacent to the closure element in order to selectively distally deploy the closure element from the carrier assembly. The closure element is deployed in the substantially tubular configuration so as to engage the opposing arterial walls and to return to the natural, substantially planar configuration and the natural, transverse cross-sectional dimension such that the engaged opposing arterial walls are drawn substantially closed.

[0050] In one embodiment, the delivery assembly includes a tubular body supporting the carrier seat. Also, the tubular body defines a central receiving lumen extending longitudinally therethrough that is configured for sliding support of the tissue engaging device for axial movement between the engaging condition and the closing condition.

[0051] In one embodiment, the pusher member comprises one or more distally extending longitudinal extensions.

[0052] In one embodiment, the closure system includes a locator slidably receivable within the pusher member and the delivery assembly.

[0053] In one embodiment, the present invention includes a method for closing an opening defined by edges of arterial walls of a body lumen. Such a method includes the following: positioning a distal end region of a carrier assembly through tissue adjacent to an opening so that a distal tissue engaging device engages opposing portions of arterial walls, the distal end region of the carrier assembly includes a carrier seat configured to seat said closure element thereon in a substantially tubular configuration, having a first diameter; urging the engaged arterial walls radially inwardly and toward one another such that at least opposed edges of the arterial walls are drawn with the first diameter of the closure element; and distally deploying the closure element from the carrier assembly without further substantial radial expansion for the closure element, in the substantially tubular configuration, such that the closure element engages the arterial walls, and returns to the natural, planar configuration and the natural cross-section wherein the tissue is drawn substantially closed.

[0054] In one embodiment, the engagement of the arterial walls is performed by extravascularly engaging the arterial walls with the tissue engaging device.

[0055] In one embodiment, the engagement of the arterial walls is performed by intravascularly engaging the arterial walls with the tissue engaging device.

[0056] In one embodiment, the method includes placing a distal end region of a locator portion through tissue into the opening.

[0057] In one embodiment, the method includes engaging the arterial walls adjacent to the opening.

[0058] In one embodiment, the method includes orientating the carrier assembly proximal to the locator portion.

[0059] In one embodiment, the present invention is a medical device for delivering a closure element to an opening formed in a body lumen or body tissue with improved hemostasis. Such a medical device can include a locator assembly, a hemostasis assembly, and a carrier assembly. The locator assembly can have a distal end region configured to extend through tissue into the opening and to selectively engage an internal surface of said body lumen adjacent to the opening so as to provide a desired position of the medical device relative to the body lumen. The distal end region can include a locator that is implantable to improve hemostasis. Also, the locator can be a hemostatic locator with similar hemostatic characteristics as the hemostasis assembly. The hemostasis assembly can be associated with the locator assembly, whether or not the locator assembly includes an implantable locator or hemostatic locator. The hemostasis assembly can have a selectively expandable member on a distal end configured to extend into the opening so as to be disposed therein when the locator assembly is in contact with said internal surface of said body lumen. The expandable member can be configured to expand laterally when disposed in the opening so as to substantially plug the opening to provide hemostasis. Also, the hemostasis assembly can include a member, such as the selectively expandable member or other aspect of the distal end that includes a hemostatic agent coated thereon. The carrier assembly can be slidably coupled with the locator assembly and hemostasis assembly. The carrier assembly can have a carrier member supporting the closure element and a cover member retaining the closure element within the carrier assembly. The carrier assembly can be positioned through the tissue adjacent to the opening and can be configured to distally deploy the closure element such that the closure element substantially uniformly expands to a cross-section that is greater than a natural cross-section of the closure element. The closure element can be configured to engage the body lumen when deployed such that the lumen is drawn substantially closed.

[0060] In one embodiment, the expandable member of the hemostasis assembly can be selectively controlled between an unexpanded state and an expanded state for engaging a wall of said opening. The expandable member of the hemostasis assembly in the unexpanded state can have a cross-section that is less than a cross-section of the opening. The expandable member of the hemostasis assembly in the expanded state can have a cross-section that is greater than or substantially equal to a cross-section of the opening. Also, a hemostatic agent can be included with the expandable member or the expandable member can be configured to release some hemostatic agent when expanding or fully expanded.

[0061] In one embodiment, the expandable member of the hemostasis assembly can include one or more expansion elements configured to expand substantially transversely with respect to a longitudinal axis of the hemostasis assembly. The one or more expansion elements can be disposed within a flexible portion of the expandable member of the hemostasis assembly so that the expansion elements flex the flexible portion from the unexpanded state to the expanded state in order to plug the opening and provide hemostasis.

[0062] In one embodiment, the expandable member includes a substantially flexible and/or deformable member with a substantially fixed end region fixedly coupled with the hemostasis assembly, an intermediate region, and a movable end region movable coupled with the hemostasis assembly such that the intermediate region is configured to expand transversely outwardly when the movable end region is axially moved toward the substantially fixed end region.

[0063] In one embodiment, the hemostasis assembly can include a control system coupled to a proximal end region of the hemostasis assembly. The control system can be configured to selectively control the expandable member of the hemostasis assembly between the expanded state and the unexpanded state. The control system can expand the expandable member and maintain the expandable member in the expanded state for a desired duration when the control system is engaged. The control system can change the expandable member from the expanded state to the unexpanded state when the control system is disengaged.

[0064] In one embodiment, the expandable member can include an expandable bladder. The bladder can be coupled to a fluid source that can inflate the bladder. For example, an inflation tube can be coupled with the bladder such that fluid, such as air, can be passed through the inflation tube to expand the bladder. A pump or other device that can cause the bladder to inflate may also be associated with the bladder and inflation tube.

[0065] In one embodiment, the expandable member expands by longitudinally compressing the expandable member so as to laterally expand the expandable member.

[0066] In one embodiment, the hemostasis assembly can include an actuator member that is actuated so as to expand the expandable member.

[0067] In one embodiment, the present invention includes a medical system for closing an opening formed in a body lumen or body tissue with improved hemostasis. Such a system can include an introducer sheath, locator assembly, hemostasis assembly, closure element, and carrier assembly for the closure element. The introducer sheath can be configured to be deployed into the body lumen or body tissue. The introducer sheath can include a proximal end, a distal end, and a lumen extending from the proximal end to the distal end. The locator assembly can be configured so as to be capable of being disposed in the lumen of the introducer sheath. The locator assembly can have a locator member at a distal end region of the locator assembly configured to extend through tissue into the opening and to selectively engage an internal surface of the body lumen adjacent to the opening so as to provide a desired position of the medical device relative to the opening and body lumen. Optionally, the locator member can be implantable and either biostable or biodegradable. In another option, the locator member can be hemostatic. The hemostasis assembly can be associated with the locator assembly, and can be capable of being disposed in the lumen of the introducer sheath with the locator assembly. The hemostasis assembly can have a selectively expandable member on a distal end configured to extend into the opening so as to be disposed therein when the locator assembly is in contact with the internal surface of the body lumen. The expandable member can be configured to expand laterally when disposed in the opening so as to contact the wall of the opening and substantially plug the opening to provide hemostasis. The carrier assembly can be slidably coupled with the locator assembly and hemostasis assembly, and can be dimensioned so as to be capable of being disposed in the introducer sheath with the locator assembly and the hemostasis assembly. The carrier assembly can have a carrier member supporting the closure element and a cover member retaining the closure element within the carrier assembly. The carrier assembly can be positioned through the tissue adjacent to the opening, and can be configured to distally deploy the closure element such that the closure element substantially uniformly expands to a cross-section that is greater than a natural cross-section of the closure element. The closure element can be configured to engage the tissue when deployed such that the tissue is drawn substantially closed.

[0068] In one embodiment, the expandable member of the hemostasis assembly can be selectively controlled between an unexpanded state and an expanded state for engaging a wall of the opening. Also, the locator member of the locator assembly can be selectively controlled between an unexpanded state and an expanded state for engaging the body lumen. The expandable member of the hemostasis assembly and the locator member of the locator assembly both can be in the unexpanded state and can have a cross-section that is less than a cross-section of the opening. The expandable member of the hemostasis assembly and the locator member of the locator assembly both in the expanded state can each have a cross-section that is greater than or substantially equal to a cross-section of the opening. Optionally, the expandable member and locator member can be configured to cooperate in providing hemostasis. This can allow for the locator member to apply pressure to the inside wall of a blood vessel while the expandable member of the hemostasis assembly can apply pressure to the outside of the vessel and/or against the vessel walls surrounding the opening in the vessel.

[0069] In one embodiment, the expandable member of the hemostasis assembly can include one or more hemostasis expansion elements configured to expand substantially transversely with respect to a longitudinal axis of the hemostasis assembly. The locator member of the locator assembly can also include one or more locator expansion elements configured to expand substantially transversely with respect to a longitudinal axis of the locator assembly.

[0070] In one embodiment, the hemostasis expansion elements are disposed within a flexible portion of the expandable member of the hemostasis assembly so that the one or more hemostasis expansion elements flex the flexible portion from the unexpanded state to the expanded state in order to plug the opening and provide hemostasis. The locator expansion elements can be substantially equally distributed about an outer periphery of the locator member of the locator assembly.

[0071] In one embodiment, each of the locator expansion elements can include a substantially flexible member with a substantially fixed end region fixedly coupled with said distal end region of the locator assembly, an intermediate region, and a movable end region movable coupled with the distal end region of the locator assembly such that the intermediate regions are configured to expand transversely outwardly when the movable end regions are axially moved toward said substantially fixed end regions.

[0072] In one embodiment, the expandable member of the hemostasis assembly can include a substantially flexible member with a substantially fixed end region fixedly coupled with the hemostasis assembly, an intermediate region, and a movable end region movable coupled with the hemostasis assembly such that the intermediate region is configured to expand transversely outwardly when the movable end region is axially moved toward the substantially fixed end region.

[0073] In one embodiment, the hemostasis assembly can include a hemostasis control system coupled to a proximal end region of the hemostasis assembly. The hemostasis control system can be configured to selectively control the expandable member of the hemostasis assembly between the expanded state and the unexpanded state.

[0074] In one embodiment, the locator assembly can include a locator control system coupled to a proximal end region of the locator assembly. The locator control system can be configured to selectively control the locator member of the locator assembly between the expanded state and the unexpanded state. The locator control can also be configured to release the locator upon application of the closure element so that the locator is retained against the inner wall of the vessel in order to facilitate hemostasis. The hemostasis control system and locator control system can be integrated. Also, the hemostasis control system and locator control system can be included in the same control system.

[0075] Generally, an embodiment of a closure element in accordance with the present can include a clip for closing an opening formed in a wall of a body lumen or body tissue. Such a clip can include a shape-memory clip having a relaxed configuration with a substantially planar-annular body defining a lumen with a plurality of tines directed inwardly from the body. Additionally, the clip can be oriented and held by a clip applier in a retaining configuration having a substantially asymmetrically-elongated tubular shape with a substantially trapezoidal longitudinal cross-sectional profile and a proximal portion having the plurality of tines being longitudinally and distally directed with a first tine of the plurality being more distally oriented compared to a substantially opposite second tine being more proximal. Also, the clip can be capable of retracting to a deploying configuration having a substantially symmetrical tubular shape with a substantially rectangular longitudinal cross-sectional profile with the first tine being substantially even with the second tine when the clip is being delivered from the clip applier to close the opening.

[0076] Additionally, the clip in the retaining configuration can have a lumen that has a smaller orthogonal cross-sectional profile (e.g., orthogonal to longitudinal direction) compared to the lumen in the deploying configuration. Alternatively, the clip in the retaining configuration can have a lumen that has a more oval orthogonal cross-sectional profile compared to the lumen in the deploying configuration having a more circular orthogonal cross-sectional profile. Also, the clip can automatically retract from the retaining configuration to the deploying configuration when being released from the clip applier. Further, the clip can automatically convert to the relaxed configuration from the deploying configuration after being released from the clip applier. Such conversion to the relaxed configuration can allow for the tines of the clip to grab the locator during the relaxation process, and retain the locator against the blood vessel wall to facilitate hemostasis.

[0077] In another embodiment, the present invention can include a clip applier apparatus for delivering a clip to an opening formed in a wall of a body lumen or body tissue. Such a clip applier can include a shape-memory clip as described herein. Additionally, the clip applier can include a carrier tube having an outer surface configured for slidably retaining the clip in a retaining configuration and slidably delivering the clip in a deploying configuration, wherein the retaining configuration and deploying configuration are described herein.

[0078] In one embodiment, the clip applier can include a pusher tube that can push the clip from the retaining configuration to the deploying configuration. Also, the pusher tube can be configured to distally push the clip in the retaining configuration over the carrier tube toward a distal end of the carrier tube. Further, the pusher tube can be configured to distally push the clip over a distal end of the carrier tube so that the clip retracts from the retaining configuration to the deploying configuration.

[0079] Additionally, the carrier tube can be configured so that the outer surface corresponds in shape and size with the lumen of the clip in the retaining configuration. Accordingly, the outer surface of the carrier tube can be generally oval in shape. Also, the outer surface can have a smaller orthogonal cross-sectional profile compared to the size of the lumen of the clip in the deploying configuration.

[0080] In yet another embodiment, the clip applier can include a clip expander that is capable of expanding the clip during deployment. As such, the clip expander can be a selectively expandable shape-memory clip expander. Also, the clip expander can be disposed at a distal portion of the carrier tube.

[0081] In still another embodiment, the clip applier can include a cover tube that contains any of the carrier tube, pusher tube, clip, and/or clip expander. As such, the cover tube can define a lumen that retains the clip in the retaining configuration. Also, the lumen of the cover tube can retain the clip expander in a contracted orientation so that the clip expander can be capable of expanding when moved distally past a distal end of the cover tube.

[0082] Another embodiment of the present invention can include a method for closing an opening formed in a wall of a body lumen or body tissue. Such a method can include positioning a carrier tube adjacent to the opening, wherein the carrier tube has a distal portion with an outer surface retaining a shape-memory clip in a retaining configuration. The carrier tube, clip, and retaining configuration can be as described herein. Additionally, the method can include pushing the clip over a distal end of the carrier tube so that the clip retracts to a deploying configuration, wherein the deploying configuration is described herein. Further, the method can include ejecting the clip from the carrier tube so that at least a portion of the plurality of tines disposed on the proximal end of the clip engages a portion of the wall of the body lumen or the body tissue whereby the opening is drawn substantially closed.

[0083] Additionally, the method can include pushing the clip toward the distal end of the carrier tube with a pusher tube being configured to distally push the clip in the retaining configuration. Also, the method can include flattening the clip, after being deployed from the carrier tube, to a relaxed configuration with a substantially planar-annular body defining a lumen with a plurality of tines directed inwardly from the body of the clip, wherein at least a portion of the tines have inwardly drawn a portion of the wall of the body lumen or the body tissue so as to substantially close the opening. Further, the method can include expanding the clip from the retaining configuration having a lumen with a smaller orthogonal cross-sectional profile to the deploying configuration so that the lumen has a larger orthogonal cross-sectional profile. Optionally, the clip can be expanded by a selectively expandable shape-memory clip expander. Furthermore, the method can include expanding the clip from the retaining configuration having a lumen with a more oval orthogonal cross-sectional profile to the deploying configuration so that the lumen has a more circular orthogonal cross-sectional profile.

[0084] In one embodiment, a method of closing an opening in a body lumen of a subject can include use of a medical device having a locator assembly and hemostasis assembly as described herein. Such a method can include: locating the body lumen with the locator; expanding the expandable hemostasis member so as to provide hemostasis to the opening; and deploying the closure element into the body lumen so as to close the body lumen. The method can also include expanding the locator from an unexpanded state to an expanded state and pulling the locator against the internal surface of the body lumen. The locator can be configured to automatically expand when moved out from the tube of the locator assembly.

[0085] In one embodiment, the locator is configured to be implanted. As such, deployment of the closure element traps the implantable locator against and adjacent to the internal surface of the body lumen. Optionally, the locator assembly includes a suture coupled to the implantable locator, and the suture is cut after the opening of the body lumen is closed. The suture can be biodegradable and any portion of the suture remaining in the subject degrades. The locator can be biostable or biodegradable.

[0086] In one embodiment, the locator is configured to be withdrawn from the body lumen as the closure element is deployed to close the opening. The locator assembly can include at least a first wire and a second wire that are coupled to the locator such that pulling on both the first wire and second wire draws the locator against the internal surface of the body lumen, and pulling on one of the first wire or second wire unwinds the locator and withdraws the locator from the body lumen.

[0087] In one embodiment, a hemostasis assembly can have a hemostasis tube, and an expandable hemostasis member located at a distal end of the hemostasis tube, said expandable hemostasis member being configured to selectively expand at an opening in a body lumen so as to cover or plug the opening and provide hemostasis.

[0088] In one embodiment, an implantable body lumen locator can include: a biocompatible locator configured to be in an unexpanded state while being inserted through an opening in a body lumen and to be in an expanded state that is larger in diameter than the opening; and a locator assembly configured to deliver the biocompatible locator into the body lumen and selectively expand the locator assembly, and configured to release the biocompatible locator therefrom for implantation. The locator assembly can include one or more sutures coupled to the locator, the one or more sutures being configured to be cut.

[0089] In one embodiment, an implantable body lumen locator can include: a biocompatible locator configured to be in an unexpanded state while being inserted through an opening in a body lumen and to be in an expanded state that is larger in diameter than the opening; and a locator assembly configured to deliver the biocompatible locator into the body lumen and selectively expand the locator assembly, and configured to retract the biocompatible locator from the body lumen, said locator assembly having at least a first locator wire coupled with a first end of the locator and a second locator wire coupled to a second end of the locator such that pulling on both the first locator wire and second locator wire draws the locator against the internal surface of the body lumen, and pulling on one of the first wire or second wire unwinds the locator and withdraws the locator from the body lumen.

[0090] These and other advantages and features of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, or may be learned by the practice of the invention as set forth hereinafter.

[0265] It should be noted that the figures are not drawn to scale and that elements of similar structures or functions are generally represented by like reference numerals for illustrative purposes throughout the figures. It also should be noted that the figures are only intended to facilitate the description of the preferred embodiments of the present invention. The figures do not describe every aspect of the present invention and do not limit the scope of the invention.

[0266] The embodiments described herein extend to methods, systems, and apparatus for managing access through tissue. Some of the apparatuses of the present invention are configured to deliver a device for managing access through tissue into an opening formed in and/or adjacent to tissue. Embodiments are additionally directed to an apparatus and method for delivering a closure element through tissue and into an opening formed in, or adjacent to, a wall of a blood vessel or other body lumen of any size.

[0267] The apparatus can be configured to receive and retain the closure element such that the closure element is disposed substantially within the apparatus. Thereby, if the apparatus is introduced via an introducer sheath, for example, the closure element can be disposed within, and delivered by way of, a lumen of the introducer sheath. The apparatus also is configured to engage the blood vessel wall adjacent to the opening and to position the closure element substantially adjacent to an outer surface of the blood vessel wall adjacent to the opening.

[0268] When properly positioned, the apparatus can be activated to distally deploy the closure element. During deployment, the apparatus can be configured to substantially uniformly expand the closure element beyond a natural cross-section of the closure element such that the closure element, when deployed, is configured to engage a significant amount of the blood vessel wall and/or tissue. Engaging the blood vessel wall and/or tissue, the closure element can be further configured to return to the natural cross-section. Thereby, the engaged blood vessel wall and/or tissue are drawn substantially closed and/or sealed, such that, for example, hemostasis within the opening is enhanced.

[0269] Since current apparatuses for sealing openings formed in blood vessel walls can snag tissue adjacent to the openings during positioning and may not provide an adequate seal, an apparatus that is configured to prevent inadvertent tissue contact during positioning and to engage a substantial of amount of tissue adjacent to the opening can prove much more desirable and provide a basis for a wide range of medical applications, such as diagnostic and/or therapeutic procedures involving blood vessels or other body lumens of any size. This result can be achieved by employing a clip applier and associated methods of use in accordance with the present invention.

[0270] Medical devices may be used in a variety of spaces. It may be desirable to generally reduce the size of medical devices. For example, stents may be inserted into smaller and smaller vasculature, thus making it generally desirable to reduce the pre-deployment size of a stent. In another example, a closure device may be used to close tissue in, for example, a body lumen. In order to reach the desired body lumen, typically a delivery device may be used to reach an access point in the body lumen. To minimize the effects of a procedure on a patient, the reduction in size of the access point may be desirable.

[0271] When engaging tissue and/or closing openings in tissue, it may be desirable to use a locator assembly to selectably contact a portion of the tissue. In some cases, the locator assembly may not contact a portion of the desired tissue. For example, the locator assembly may be positioned within a body lumen but away from an inside surface of the body lumen. In these instances, engagement of a portion of the desired tissue may be less likely and/or favorable. It may be desirable to verify contact with a portion of the desired tissue during a medical procedure.

[0272] In one embodiment, a locator assembly may include engagement members configured to engage a portion of the desired tissue. The locator assembly may include a device to take measurements of a desired measurable characteristic. The measurable characteristic may include, for example, impedance. Measurements may be taken when a portion of the locator assembly is within a body lumen and when the locator assembly is believed to be in contact with tissue. Comparing the measurements taken when within the body lumen and when the locator assembly is believed to be in contact with tissue may indicate that the locator assembly has contacted a portion of the desired tissue. For example, an impedance measurement taken when within the body lumen may be higher than an impedance measurement taken when the locator assembly is in contact with tissue.

[0273] In a further embodiment, a surface engaging element can be provided. The surface engaging element may include a flexible body that may actuate between an expanded and relaxed configuration.

[0274] In some embodiments, an engagement portion of the surface engaging element may include substantially uniform dimensions. In other embodiments, the engagement portion of the surface engaging element may include at least one non-uniform dimension. For example, the engagement portion may have a dimension that is larger than a support portion of the surface engaging element.

[0275] In further embodiments, the surface engaging element may be assembled using a retaining portion. For example, an engagement portion may be connected to a proximal, distal, and/or other portion of the surface engaging element by a retaining portion, such as a detent.

[0276] These results, whether individually or collectively, can be achieved, according to one embodiment of the present invention, by employing methods, systems, and/or apparatus as shown in the figures and described in detail below.

[0277] Since current apparatuses for sealing openings formed in blood vessel walls can snag tissue adjacent to the openings during positioning and may not provide an adequate seal, an apparatus that is configured to prevent inadvertent tissue contact during positioning and to engage a substantial of amount of tissue adjacent to the opening can prove much more desirable and provide a basis for a wide range of medical applications, such as diagnostic and/or therapeutic procedures involving blood vessels or other body lumens of any size. This result can be achieved, according to one embodiment of the present invention, by employing an apparatus 100 as shown in FIG. 1.

[0278] FIG. 1 illustrates a clip applier apparatus 100 in accordance with the present invention. As will be discussed in more detail below, the apparatus 100 can deliver a closure element 500 (shown in FIGS. 6A-6B) through tissue 630 (shown in FIG. 8A) and into an opening 610 (shown in FIG. 8A) formed in and/or adjacent to a wall 620 (shown in FIG. 8A) of a blood vessel 600 (shown in FIG. 8A) or other body lumen. The closure element (also referred to herein as a “clip”) 500 can have a generally annular-shapes body 510 (shown in FIGS. 6A-6B) defining a channel 540 and one or more barbs and/or tines 520 (shown in FIGS. 6A-6B) for receiving and engaging the blood vessel wall 620 and/or the tissue 630 around the opening 610. Although the closure element 500 has a natural shape and size, the closure element 500 can be deformed into other shapes and sizes, as desired, and is configured to return to the natural shape and size when released. For example, the closure element 500 can have a natural, planar configuration with opposing tines 520 and a natural cross-section 530 as shown in FIGS. 6A-6B. The natural cross-section 530 of the closure element 500 can be reduced to form a reduced closure element 500′ that has a natural, planar configuration with opposing tines 520 and a reduced cross-section 530′ as shown in FIGS. 6C-6D. By rotating the opposing tines 520 axially as shown in FIG. 6E, the reduced closure element 500′ can be further deformed to form a substantially tubular closure element 500″ (shown in FIG. 6F) having the reduced cross-section 530′ as well as being in a substantially tubular configuration with the tines 520 in an axial configuration.

[0279] Being configured to draw the blood vessel wall 620 and/or the tissue 630 adjacent to the opening 610 substantially closed and/or to enhance hemostasis within the opening 610, the closure element 500 can be formed from any suitable material, including any biodegradable material, any shape memory alloy, such as alloys of nickel-titanium, or any combination thereof. Additionally, it is contemplated that the closure element may be coated with a beneficial agent or be constructed as a composite, wherein one component of the composite would be a beneficial agent. As desired, the closure element 500 may further include radiopaque markers (not shown) or may be wholly or partially formed from a radiopaque material to facilitate observation of the closure element 500 using fluoroscopy or other imaging systems. Exemplary embodiments of a closure element are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,197,042, and 6,623,510, and in co-pending application Ser. Nos. 09/546,998, 09/610,238, and 10/081,726. The disclosures of these references and any others cited therein are expressly incorporated herein by reference.

[0280] The apparatus 100 can be configured to receive and retain the closure element 500 such that the closure element 500 is disposed substantially within the apparatus 100. Thereby, if the apparatus 100 is introduced via an introducer sheath 640 (shown in FIG. 8A), for example, the closure element 500 can be disposed within, and delivered by way of, a lumen 644 (shown in FIG. 8A) of the introducer sheath 640. The apparatus 100 also can be configured to engage the blood vessel wall 620 adjacent to the opening 610. Being disposed substantially within the apparatus 100, the closure element 500 can deeply penetrate, without inadvertently contacting, tissue 630 adjacent to the opening 610 such that the apparatus 100 can position the closure element 500 substantially adjacent to an outer surface 620a (shown in FIG. 8A) of the blood vessel wall 620 adjacent to the opening 610.

[0281] When properly positioned, the apparatus 100 can be activated to deploy the closure element 500. The apparatus 100 can be configured to substantially uniformly expand the closure element 500 beyond the natural cross-section 530 of the closure element 500 during deployment, the apparatus 100, as desired, and/or can deploy the closure element 500 without expanding the closure element 500. The closure element 500, when deployed, can be configured to engage a significant amount of the blood vessel wall 620 and/or tissue 630 adjacent to the opening 610. Engaging the blood vessel wall 620 and/or tissue 630, the closure element 500 is further configured to return to the natural cross-section 530. Thus, the engaged blood vessel wall 620 and/or tissue 630 can be drawn substantially closed and/or sealed, such that, for example, hemostasis within the opening 610 is enhanced.

[0282] The apparatus 100 can be provided as one or more integrated components and/or discrete components. As shown in FIG. 1, for example, the apparatus 100 can include a locator (or obturator) assembly 200 and a carrier assembly 300. For purposes of illustration, the locator assembly 200 and the carrier assembly 300 are shown in FIG. 1 as including substantially separate assemblies. As desired, however, the locator assembly 200 and the carrier assembly 300 each can be provided, in whole or in part, as one or more integrated assemblies.

[0283] Being configured to extend into the opening 610, the locator assembly 200 can selectably contact the inner surface 620b of the blood vessel wall 620 adjacent the opening 610. Whereby, the locator assembly 200 can be configured to draw the blood vessel wall 620 taut and maintain the proper position of the apparatus 100 in relation to the opening 610 as the blood vessel 600 pulsates. The locator assembly 200 can be provided in the manner disclosed in co-pending application Ser. Nos. 09/732,835 and 10/081,723, the disclosures of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference. The locator assembly 200 can include a flexible or semi-rigid tubular body 210. As illustrated in FIG. 2A, the tubular body 210 has a proximal end region 210a and a distal end region 210b and includes a predetermined length 218a and a predetermined outer cross-section 218b, both of which can be of any suitable dimension. The distal end region 210b of the locator assembly 200 can include a substantially rounded, soft, and/or flexible distal end or tip 220 to facilitate atraumatic advancement and/or refraction of the distal end region 210b into the blood vessel 600. As desired, a pigtail (not shown) may be provided on the distal end 220 to further aid atraumatic advancement of the distal end region 210b.

[0284] The distal end region 210b of the locator assembly 200 further can be selectably controllable between an unexpanded state and an expanded state. In the unexpanded state, the distal end region 210b has an unexpanded size; whereas, the distal end region 210b in the expanded state has an expanded size, which is greater than the unexpanded size of the distal end region 210b in the unexpanded state. The distal end region 210b can be configured to expand from the unexpanded size to the expanded size and/or to contract from the expanded size to the unexpanded size, and the expansion and contraction of the distal end region 210b can be substantially uniform about a longitudinal axis of the locator assembly 200. For example, one or more expansion elements 230 can be provided on the distal end region 210b and can be configured to expand substantially transversely with respect to a longitudinal axis of the locator assembly 200. The expansion elements 230 can be substantially equally distributed about an outer periphery 212 of the distal end region 210b. Optionally, the expansion elements 230 may include radiopaque markers (not shown) or may be wholly or partially formed from a radiopaque material to facilitate observation of the expansion elements 230 and/or the distal end region 210b using fluoroscopy or other imaging systems.

[0285] At least one (and, at least in some cases, all) of the expansion elements 230 can include a substantially flexible member 230′ with a substantially fixed end region 230a′, an intermediate region 230b′, and a movable end region 230c′ as shown in FIGS. 2B-2C. For each substantially flexible member 230′, the fixed end region 230a′ can be fixedly coupled with the distal end region 210b; whereas, the movable end region 230c′ can be movably coupled with the distal end region 210b and configured to be axially movable relative to the fixed end region 230a′. When each movable end region 230c′ can be axially moved toward the relevant fixed end region 230a′, the intermediate regions 230b′ buckle and/or expand transversely outwardly, thereby transitioning the distal end region 210b of the locator assembly 200 from the unexpanded state to the expanded state. In contrast, the distal end region 210b transitions from the expanded state to the unexpanded state as each of the movable end regions 230c′ are axially moved away from the relevant fixed end region 230a′. Although the expansion elements 230 are shown as including the flexible members 230′ in FIGS. 2B-2C for purposes of illustration, it is understood that the expansion elements 230 can include any type of expansion elements and are not limited to the illustrated embodiments. It is further contemplated that the expansion elements 230 may further include geometric features that allow/enhance the ability of the expansion elements to bend or fold from a retracted position to an expanded position. The expansion elements may be constructed of a material such as steel, spring steel, plastics or composites. In one embodiment, the expansion elements are constructed of Nitinol®.

[0286] FIGS. 2B′ and 2C′ illustrate an alternative embodiment of a locator assembly 200″ for locating a surface of a body lumen, in accordance with the present invention. The locator assembly 200″ of this embodiment may be functionally similar to that of the locator assembly 200 previously described above and shown in FIGS. 2B and 2C in most respects, wherein certain features will not be described in relation to this embodiment wherein those components may function in the manner as described above and are hereby incorporated into this alternative embodiment described below. Like structures and/or components are given like reference numerals.

[0287] The locator assembly 200″ may be located proximal to a distal end 210b″ of a tubular member 210″ and/or an apparatus (such as apparatus 100 shown in FIG. 1). The locator assembly 200″ may include a surface engagement assembly 226″. The surface engagement assembly 226″ may include a distal end portion 226a″, a proximal end portion 226b″, and/or at least one surface engagement element 230″. The surface engagement elements 230″ may be configured to transition from a relaxed state to an expanded state, similar to the substantially flexible member 230′ described above. For example, the surface engagement elements 230″ may be moveably connected to and/or fixedly connected to a distal end region 210b″ of the locator assembly 200″. In this example, a distal end 230a″ of the surface engagement elements 230″ may be moveably connected to a proximal end 230c″ of the surface engagement elements 230″ may be fixedly connected to the distal end region 210b″. In other examples, other types of connections may be contemplated.

[0288] The locator assembly 200″ may include two, three, four, and/or other numbers of surface engaging elements 230″. At least one of the surface engaging elements 230″ may be configured to conduct a measurable characteristic of the surface engaging elements 230″ to the locator assembly 200″. For instance, the locator assembly 200″ may be in communication with a measuring device 251. An example of a measuring device 251 may include an impedance measuring device, a volt meter, an amp meter, a pressure transducer, piezoelectric crystals, other measuring devices, or combinations thereof. The measuring device 251 may determine changes in measurable characteristics of the locator assembly 200″. For instance, the measuring device 251 may measure changes in the impedance of the locator assembly 200″. In another example, the measuring device 251 may determine changes in pressure. Changes in pressure may be determined by a pressure transducer or other pressure measuring device. In a further example, the measuring device 251 may retrieve ultrasonic data in and/or around the body lumen. Ultrasonic data may be retrieved by piezoelectric crystal or other ultrasonic data gathering device. Other measurable characteristics may include electrical characteristics such as voltage, current, other electrical characteristics, and/or other measurable characteristics.

[0289] In embodiments where the measurable characteristic is an electrical characteristic, the locator assembly 200″ may be in electrical communication with at least one of the surface engaging elements 230″. In the present embodiment, the locator assembly 200″ may include at least one distal conductive portion 204a″ and/or at least one proximal conductive portion 204b″ with which at least one surface engaging element 230″ may be in electrical communication. At least one of surface engaging elements 230″ may be formed at least partially from an electrically conductive material. In the present embodiment, at least one of surface engaging elements 230″ may be formed at least partially from Nitinol®.

[0290] The distal conductive portions 204a″ and/or the proximal conductive portions 204b″ may be in electrical communication with the measuring device 251. For example, the at least one distal conductive portion 204a″ may be in electrical communication with the measuring device 251 through at least one distal conductor connector 205a″ and/or the at least one proximal conductive portion 204b″ may be in electrical communication with the measuring device 251 through at least one proximal conductor connector 205b″. The distal and/or proximal conductor connectors 205a″, 205b″ may extend toward the distal end 210b″ and/or toward a proximal end 210a″ of the tubular member 210″ through at least one lumen (not shown).

[0291] In the present embodiment, each of the surface engaging elements 230″ may be in electrical communication with a different distal conductive portion 204a″ and/or proximal conductive portion 204b″. Alternatively, more than one surface engaging element 230″ may be in electrical communication with the same distal conductive portion 204a″ and/or proximal conductive portion 204b″. Other combinations are also contemplated.

[0292] The surface engaging elements 230″ may be in electrical communication with each other. For instance, two or more surface engaging elements 230″ may be may be formed from the same piece of material. In the present embodiment, each of the surface engaging elements 230″ may be selectively electrically isolated from each other. Isolation of the surface engaging elements 230″ may be accomplished by insulators 206a″, 206b″. The insulators 206a″, 206b″ may include materials such as ceramics, polyethylene, and/or other insulating materials.

[0293] FIGS. 2B″ and 2C″ illustrate a further embodiment of a locator assembly 200′ for locating a surface of a body lumen, in accordance with the present invention. The locator assembly 200′″ of this embodiment may be functionally similar to that of the locator assemblies 200, 200″ previously described above and shown in FIGS. 2B-2C and 2B′-2C′ in most respects, wherein certain features will not be described in relation to this embodiment wherein those components may function in the manner as described above and are hereby incorporated into this alternative embodiment described below. Like structures and/or components are given like reference numerals. For example, the locator assembly 200′″ may be configured to facilitate the determination of changes in measurable characteristics of the locator assembly.

[0294] The locator assembly 200′ may be located proximal to a distal end of a tubular member (such as 210b, 210b″ shown in FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2A′, and 2B′) and/or an apparatus (such as apparatus 100 shown in FIG. 1). The locator assembly 200′″ may include a surface engagement assembly 226′″.

[0295] The surface engagement assembly 226′″ may include a distal end portion 226a′″, a proximal end portion 226b′″, and/or at least one surface engagement element 230′″. In the present embodiment, the surface engagement assembly 226′″ may include four surface engagement elements 230′″ that may be separated by a distal and/or proximal engagement element support 231a′″, 231b′″. The distal and/or proximal engagement element supports 231a′″, 231b′″ may electrically insulate the surface engagement elements 230′″. In an alternative embodiment, the distal engagement element supports 231a′″, proximal engagement element supports 231b′″, and/or surface engagement elements 230′″ may be formed as a unitary piece and/or from the same material. For example, the distal engagement element supports 231a′″, proximal engagement element supports 231b′″, and/or surface engagement elements 230′″ may be laser cut from a Nitinol® tube.

[0296] The surface engagement elements 230′″ may include a distal and/or proximal retaining portion 229a′″, 229b′″. The distal and/or proximal retaining portions 229a′″, 229b′″ may include an aperture and/or other retaining mechanism that may receive, for example, a detent and/or other retaining mechanism. For instance, a cover member (such as the cover member 220 shown in FIG. 2C) may include a retaining mechanism (not shown) to limit motion between the cover member and the surface engagement elements 230′″. The cover member may be connected to a control member (such as control member 250 shown in FIG. 2D) that is configured to transition the surface engagement elements 230′″ from a relaxed state to an expanded state, similar to the substantially flexible member 230′ described above.

[0297] The surface engaging elements 230′″ may include a measuring component 253′″. The measuring component 253′″ may facilitate the determination of changes in measurable characteristics of the locator assembly 200′″. For instance, the measuring component 253′″ may facilitate the determination of changes in impedance, pressure, ultrasonic data, or other measurable characteristics. The measuring component 253′″ may be in electrical communication with a connector 205′″. The connector 205′″ may be in electrical communication with a measuring device (shown as 251 in FIG. 2B′).

[0298] FIGS. 2B′″ and 2C′″ illustrate a further embodiment of a locator assembly 200″″ for locating a surface of a body lumen, in accordance with the present invention. The locator assembly 200″″ of this embodiment may be functionally similar to that of the locator assemblies 200, 200′, 200″, 200′″ previously described above and shown in FIGS. 2B-2C, 2B′-2C′, and 2B″-2C″ in most respects, wherein certain features will not be described in relation to this embodiment wherein those components may function in the manner as described above and are hereby incorporated into this alternative embodiment described below. Like structures and/or components are given like reference numerals.

[0299] The locator assembly 200″″ may be located proximal to a distal end of a tubular member (such as 210b, 210b″ shown in FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2A′, and 2B′) and/or an apparatus (such as apparatus 100 shown in FIG. 1). The locator assembly 200″″ may include a surface engagement assembly 226″″, a cover member 220″″, and/or a proximal end portion 226b″″.

[0300] The cover member 220″″ and/or proximal end portion 226b″″ may include a distal retaining portion 221a″″ and/or a proximal retaining portion 221b″″, respectively. The surface engagement assembly 226″″ may include at least one surface engagement element 230″″. The surface engagement elements 230″″ may include a distal and/or proximal retaining portion 229a″″, 229b″″. The distal and/or proximal retaining portions 221a″″, 221b″″ on the cover member 220″″ and/or proximal end portion 226b″″ may include an aperture and/or other retaining mechanism that may cooperate with corresponding distal and/or proximal retaining portions 229a″″, 229b″″, such as a detent and/or other retaining mechanism, on the surface engagement elements 230″″ to limit motion between the cover member 220″″, the proximal end portion 226b″″, and/or the surface engagement elements 230″″. The distal and/or proximal retaining portions 229a″″, 229b″″ may be located near a distal and/or proximal end 230a″″, 230b″″ of the surface engagement element 230″″, respectively.

[0301] A control member 250″″ may be inserted through the proximal end portion 226b″″ and/or may be connected to the cover member 220″″. The control member 250″″ may be used to transition the surface engagement elements 230″″ from a relaxed state to an expanded state, similar to the substantially flexible member 230′ described above.

[0302] In the present embodiment, the control member 250″″ may be a single piece, which may be elongate from the cover member 220″″ toward a proximal end (such as proximal end 210a″ shown in FIG. 2B′) of the locator assembly 200″″. Alternatively, the control member 250″″ may be in one or more pieces that may be connected together using various mechanisms, similar to the retaining portions 221a″″, 221b″″, 229a″″, 229b″″ described above.

[0303] The proximal end portion 226b″″ may include a tubular member retaining portion 228″″. The tubular member retaining portion 228″″ may be configured to engage a distal end (such as distal end 210b, 210b″ shown in FIGS. 2B and 2B′). The tubular member retaining portion 228″″, in the present embodiment, may include a ramp and/or other retaining mechanism to limit the motion of the tubular member in at least one direction.

[0304] The surface engagement elements 230″″ may include an engagement member 232″″. The engagement member 232″″ may include an engagement portion 234″″ and/or an engagement support portion 237″″.

[0305] The engagement portion 234″″ may be configured to contact and/or engage tissue. The engagement portion 234″″, in the present embodiment, may be enlarged in an intermediate portion 235″″ in comparison to distal and/or proximal end 234a″″, 234b″″ of the engagement portion 234″″. An enlarged intermediate portion 235″″ may facilitate contact and/or engagement with tissue.

[0306] The engagement support portion 237″″ may support the engagement portion 234″″ during, for example, transitioning from a relaxed state to an expanded state. The engagement support portion 237″″ may include an enlarged intermediate portion 238″″, similar to the enlarged intermediate portion 235″″ of the engagement portion 234″″. Having an enlarged intermediate portion 238″″ on the engagement support portion 237″″ may add stability to the engagement portion 234″″ while in the expanded state.

[0307] The intermediate portions 235″″, 238″″ of the engagement portions 234′ and/or the engagement support portions 237″″ may be oval shaped. Alternatively, the intermediate portions 235″″, 238″″ may have the same shape, have differing shapes, and/or have other combinations of shapes.

[0308] In the present embodiment, the proximal end 234b″″ of the engagement portion 234″″ may be connected to a proximal support portion 233″″. The proximal support portion 233″″ may be connected to the proximal end portion 226b″″ and may separate the engagement portion 234″″ from the proximal end portion 226b″″. The distal end 234a″″ of the engagement portion 234″″ may be connected to an intermediate support portion 236″″. The intermediate support portion 236″″ may be connected to the proximal end 237b″″ of the engagement support portion 237″″ and may separate the engagement portion 234″″ from the engagement support portion 237″″. The distal end 237a″″ of the engagement support portion 237″″ may be connected to a distal support portion 239″″. The distal support portion 239″″ may be connected to the distal end (not shown) of the surface engagement element 230″″ and may separate the engagement support portion 237″″ from the distal end portion 226a″″.

[0309] The surface engaging elements 230″″ may include a measuring component 253″″. The measuring component 253″″ may facilitate the determination of changes in measurable characteristics of the locator assembly 200″″. For instance, the measuring component 253″″ may facilitate the determination of changes in impedance, pressure, ultrasonic data, or other measurable characteristics. The measuring component 253″″ may be in electrical communication with a connector 205″″. The connector 205″″ may be in electrical communication with a measuring device (shown as 251 in FIG. 2B′).

[0310] Referring now to FIG. 2D, the locator assembly 200 may further include a locator control system associated with the locator assembly. As shown in FIG. 2D, the locator control system 240 can be associated with the proximal end region 210a of the locator assembly 200 and can be configured to selectively control the distal end region 210b of the locator assembly 200 between the unexpanded and expanded states. The locator control system 240 can selectively control the distal end region 210b between the unexpanded and expanded states, such as by being activated by a switching system (not shown). For example, a control member 250, such as a rod, wire, or other elongate member, can be moveably disposed within a lumen (not shown) formed by the tubular body 210 and extending substantially between the proximal end region 210a and the distal end region 210b. The control member 250 has a proximal end region 250a that is coupled with the locator control system 240, which can be via a control block 260 (shown in FIG. 4D), and a distal end region (not shown) that is coupled with the distal end region 210b of the locator assembly 200, the expansion elements 230, and/or the movable end regions 230c′ of the substantially flexible members 230′. The locator control system 240 can selectively transition the distal end region 210b, the expansion elements 230, and/or the substantially flexible members 230′ between the unexpanded and expanded states by moving the control member 250 axially relative to the tubular body 210.

[0311] The locator control system 240 further includes a locator release system 490 for maintaining the unexpanded state and/or the expanded state of the distal end region 210b, the expansion elements 230, and/or the substantially flexible members 230′. The locator release system 490 can be configured to maintain the expanded state of the distal end region 210b, and can include any type of locking system and can be engaged, for instance, by activating the switching system. For example, once the substantially flexible members 230′ have entered the expanded state, the locator release system 490 can secure the control member 250 to prevent axial movement relative to the tubular body 210, thereby maintaining the substantially flexible members 230′ in the expanded state.

[0312] In the manner described in more detail below, the locator control system 240 also can be configured to disengage the locator release system 490, such that the distal end region 210b, the expansion elements 230, and/or the substantially flexible members 230′ can transition between the expanded and unexpanded states. The locator release system 490 can be disengaged, for example, by activating an emergency release system (not shown). As desired, the locator control system 240 may further include a biasing system (not shown), such as one or more springs or other resilient members, to bias the distal end region 210b, the expansion elements 230, and/or the substantially flexible members 230′ to enter and/or maintain the unexpanded state when the locator release system 490 is disengaged.

[0313] Returning to FIG. 1, the carrier assembly 300 can be coupled with, and slidable relative to, the locator assembly 200. The carrier assembly 300 is configured to receive and retain the closure element 500 (shown in FIGS. 6A-6B), which can be disposed substantially within the carrier assembly 300. When the locator assembly 200 engages the inner surface 620b (shown in FIG. 8A) of the blood vessel wall 620 (shown in FIG. 8A), the carrier assembly 300 can be further configured to position the closure element 500 substantially adjacent to the opening 610 (shown in FIG. 8A) and to deploy the closure element 500. Upon being deployed, the closure element 500 can maintain the reduced cross-section 530′ (shown in FIGS. 6C-6D), and can temporarily and substantially uniformly expand beyond the natural cross-section 530 (shown in FIGS. 6A-6B) of the closure element 500. In either case, the closure element 500, when deployed, can engage a significant amount of the blood vessel wall 620 and/or tissue 630 adjacent to the opening 610. Thereafter, the closure element 500 can be configured to return to the natural cross-section 530 such that the blood vessel wall 620 and/or tissue 630 is drawn substantially closed and/or sealed.

[0314] Turning to FIGS. 3A-3D, the carrier assembly 300 can include a tube set 305, including a carrier member 310, a pusher member 320, a support tube 340, and a cover member 330. The carrier member 310, the pusher member 320, the support tube 340, and the cover member 330 can be provided as a plurality of nested, telescoping members with a common longitudinal axis 350 as illustrated in FIG. 3A. The carrier member 310 can be configured to receive and support the closure element 500. While being disposed on the carrier member 310, the closure element 500 can be deformed from the natural, planar configuration to form the substantially tubular closure element 500″ (shown in FIGS. 6F-6G) as will be discussed in more detail below. Being disposed substantially about, and supported by, an outer periphery 312b of the carrier member 310, the substantially tubular closure element 500″ can be substantially in axial alignment with the carrier member 310 with the tines 520 pointed substantially distally.

[0315] The carrier member 310 can be formed as a substantially rigid, semi-rigid, or flexible tubular member. Additionally, the carrier member 310 can have a proximal end region 310a and a distal end region 310b and includes a predetermined length 318a and a predetermined cross-section 318b, both of which can be of any suitable dimension. The carrier member 310 also can define a lumen 314 that extends substantially between the proximal end region 310a and the distal end region 310b and that is configured to slidably receive at least a portion of the tubular body 210 of the locator assembly 200. Although the cross-section 318b of the carrier member 310 generally is substantially uniform, the distal end region 310b of the carrier member 310 can have a cross-section that increases distally, as illustrated in FIGS. 3A-3B, for substantially uniformly expanding the substantially tubular closure element 500″ beyond the natural cross-section 530 of the closure element 500 when the substantially tubular closure element 500″ is deployed. To deploy the closure element 500 without expanding the closure element 500, the distal end region 310b can be formed with a cross-section (not shown) that is substantially uniform. Although shown and described as having the cross-section that increases distally for expanding the substantially tubular closure element 500″, it will be understood that the distal end region 310b of the carrier member 310 can be provided with the substantially-uniform cross-section and that the substantially tubular closure element 500″ can be deployed without being expanded.

[0316] Being configured to distally deploy the substantially tubular closure element 500″, the pusher member 320 has a proximal end region 320a and a distal end region 320b and is coupled with, and slidable relative to, the carrier member 310. The pusher member 320 includes a predetermined length 328a and a predetermined cross-section 328b, both of which can be of any suitable dimension and can be configured to slidably receive the carrier member 310 such that the distal end region 320b of the pusher member 320 is offset proximally from the distal end region 310b of the carrier member 310. As desired, the predetermined length 328a of the pusher member 320 can be greater than or substantially equal to the predetermined length 318a of the carrier member 310. The predetermined length 328a of the pusher member 320, however, can be less than the predetermined length 318a of the carrier member 310 such that the carrier member 310 and the pusher member 320 at least partially define a space 360 distal to the distal end region 320b of the pusher member 320 and along the periphery 312b of the carrier member 310.

[0317] Being formed from a substantially rigid, semi-rigid, or flexible material, the pusher member 320 can be substantially tubular and can define a lumen 324 that extends substantially between the proximal end region 320a and the distal end region 320b and that is configured to slidably receive at least a portion of the carrier member 310. The cross-section 328b of the pusher member 320 can be substantially uniform, and the distal end region 320b of the pusher member 320 can include one or more longitudinal extensions 325, which extend distally from the pusher member 320 and along the periphery 312b of the carrier member 310 as shown in FIG. 3C. The longitudinal extensions 325 can be biased such that the longitudinal extensions 325 extend generally in parallel with common longitudinal axis 350. The longitudinal extensions 325 are sufficiently flexible to expand radially, and yet sufficiently rigid to inhibit buckling, as the distal end region 320b is directed distally along the carrier member 310, and to engage the distally-increasing cross-section of the distal end region 310b of the carrier member 310 to deploy the substantially tubular closure element 500″.

[0318] A cover member 330 is configured to retain the substantially tubular closure element 500″ substantially within the carrier assembly 300 prior to deployment as shown in FIG. 3D. Being coupled with, and slidable relative to, the pusher member 320, the cover member 330 has a proximal end region 330a and a distal end region 330b and includes a predetermined length 338a and a predetermined cross-section 338b, both of which can be of any suitable dimension. The cover member 330 can be formed as a substantially rigid, semi-rigid, or flexible tubular member. Additionally, the cover member 330 can have an inner periphery 332a and an outer periphery 332b and can define a lumen 334. The lumen 334 can extend substantially between the proximal and distal end regions 330a, 330b of the cover member 330 and can be configured to slidably receive at least a portion of the pusher member 320. When the cover member 330 is properly positioned within the carrier assembly 300, the distal end region 330b can be configured to extend over the space 360, thereby defining an annular cavity 370 for receiving and retaining the substantially tubular closure element 500″.

[0319] The cross-section 338b of the cover member 330 can be substantially uniform, and the distal end region 330b of the cover member 330 can include one or more longitudinal extensions 335, which extends distally from the cover member 330 and along an outer periphery 322b of the pusher member 320 as shown in FIG. 3D. Although the longitudinal extensions 335 can extend generally in parallel with common longitudinal axis 350, the longitudinal extensions 335 can be biased such that the plurality of longitudinal extensions 335 extends substantially radially inwardly as illustrated in FIGS. 3A and 3D. Thereby, the longitudinal extensions 335 can at least partially close the lumen 334 substantially adjacent to the distal end region 330b of the cover member 330. To permit the substantially tubular closure element 500″ to be deployed from the annular cavity 370, the longitudinal extensions 335 can be sufficiently flexible to expand radially to permit the distal end region 310b of the carrier member 310 to move distally past the cover member 330 to open the annular cavity 370 such that the distal end region 330b no longer extends over the space 360.

[0320] If the carrier assembly 300 is assembled as the plurality of nested, telescoping members as shown in FIG. 3A, the carrier member 310 can be at least partially disposed within, and slidable relative to, the lumen 324 of the pusher member 320 as shown in FIG. 3C. The pusher member 320, in turn, can be at least partially disposed within, and slidable relative to, the lumen 334 of the cover member 330. To couple the carrier assembly 300 with the locator assembly 200, the tubular body 210 of the locator assembly 200 can be at least partially disposed within, and slidable relative to, the lumen 314 of the carrier member 310. The longitudinal axis of the locator assembly 200 can be substantially in axial alignment with the common longitudinal axis 350 of the carrier member 310, the pusher member 320, the cover member 330, and the support tube 340.

[0321] It will be appreciated that the tube set 305 can also include a support member 340 as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3E. The support member 340 is configured to slidably receive the tubular body 210 of the locator assembly 200 and to provide radial support for the distal end region 210b of the tubular body 210 when the locator assembly 200 is coupled with the carrier assembly 300. The carrier assembly 300 can advantageously include the support member 340, for example, if the tubular body 210 is not sufficiently rigid or under other circumstances in which support for the tubular body 210 might be desirable. It also will be appreciated that the support member 340 also can be configured to inhibit the plurality of longitudinal extensions 335, which extend from the distal end region 330b of the cover member 330, from expanding prematurely prior to the closure element 500 being deployed.

[0322] The support member 340 can be formed as a substantially rigid, semi-rigid, or flexible tubular member, having a proximal end region 340a and a distal end region 340b. Wherein an outer periphery 342b of the support member 340 can define a lumen 344 that extends substantially between the proximal end region 340a and the distal end region 340b, the lumen is configured to slidably receive and support at least a portion of the tubular body 210 of the locator assembly 200. The support member 340, in turn, can be at least partially slidably disposed within the lumen 314 of the carrier member 310 such that the tubular body 210 of the locator assembly 200 may be coupled with, and slidable relative to, the carrier member 310 in the manner described in more detail above. The support member 340 can have a predetermined length 348a and a predetermined cross-section 348b, both of which can be of any suitable dimension, and the cross-section 348b can be substantially uniform. Although shown and described as being substantially separate for purposes of illustration, it will be appreciated that the carrier member 310, the pusher member 320, the cover member 330, and/or the support member 340 can be provided, in whole or in part, as one or more integrated assemblies.

[0323] The carrier assembly 300 may further include a housing 380 as illustrated in FIG. 4A. The housing 380 can be formed as an elongate member with a longitudinal axis 386. Additionally, the housing 380 can have an outer periphery 382b and includes a proximal end region 380a and a distal end region 380b. Thereby, when the apparatus 100 can be properly assembled, the tubular body 210 of the locator assembly 200 at least partially disposed within the tube set 305 such that the distal end region 210b of the tubular body 210 extends beyond the distal end regions 310b, 320b, 330b, and/or 340b. The tubular body 210, the carrier member 310, the pusher member 320, the cover member 330, and, if provided, the support member 340 can be at least partially disposed within, and slidable relative to, the housing 380, and the respective distal end regions 210b, 310b, 320b, 330b, and 340b extend from the distal end region 380b of the housing 380 such that the common longitudinal axis 350 (shown in FIG. 3A) of the tube set 305 is substantially axially aligned with the longitudinal axis 386 of the housing 380. Being configured to slidably retain the respective proximal end regions 210a, 310a, 320a, 330a, and 340a, the housing 380 supports the tube set 305 and can have one or more handles 390 to facilitate use of the apparatus 100. The handles 390 extend substantially radially from the outer periphery 382b of the housing 380 and can be provided in the manner known in the art.

[0324] When the apparatus 100 is properly assembled, the tubular body 210 of the locator assembly 200 can be at least partially disposed within the tube set 305 of the carrier assembly 300 such that the distal end region 210b of the tubular body 210 extends beyond the distal end regions 310b, 320b, 330b, and/or 340b. Further, the proximal end region 210a of the tubular body 210 and the proximal end regions 310a, 320a, 330a, and/or 340a of the tube set 305 are at least partially disposed within, and slidable relative to, the housing 380. The switching system of the locator assembly 200 and a switching system 450 of the triggering system 400 can be accessible external to the housing 380 as shown in FIGS. 4A and 4C.

[0325] Turning to FIGS. 4B-4D, a triggering system 400 can be disposed substantially within the housing 380. The triggering system 400 can be configured to control the relative axial movement and/or positioning of the respective distal end regions 310b, 320b, 330b, and 340b of the tube set 305 and/or the distal end region 210b of the locator assembly 200. Being coupled with the proximal end regions 210a, 310a, 320a, 330a, and/or 340a, the triggering system 400 can control the relative axial movement of the distal end regions 210b, 310b, 320b, 330b, and/or 340b in any manner, such as by being activated by the switching system 450. As desired, the triggering system 400 can induce axial motion, such as distal motion, with respect to one or more of the distal end regions 210b, 310b, 320b, 330b, and/or 340b. One or more of the distal end regions 210b, 310b, 320b, 330b, and/or 340b can be axially moved. Axial motion of one or more of the carrier member 310, the pusher member 320, the cover member 330, and the support member 340 and/or the tubular body 210 can be attained, for example, by applying an axial force to the switching system 450. To facilitate monitoring of the positioning of the carrier assembly 300 and/or the substantially tubular closure element 500″, one or more of the distal end regions 210b, 310b, 320b, 330b, and/or 340b may include radiopaque markers (not shown) or may be wholly or partially formed from a radiopaque material.

[0326] The triggering system 400 can be configured to overcome internal resistance such that the relative axial movement and/or positioning of the respective distal end regions 310b, 320b, 330b, and 340b of the tube set 305 and/or the distal end region 210b of the locator assembly 200 are controlled in accordance with a predetermined manner when the triggering system 400 is activated. Thereby, movement and/or positioning of the distal end regions 310b, 320b, 330b, 340b, and/or 210b can be initiated when at least a predetermined quantity of force is applied to the switching system 450. Stated somewhat differently, a force that is less than the predetermined quantity generally may be insufficient to activate the triggering system 400; whereas, when the force increases to a level that is greater than or substantially equal to the predetermined quantity, the triggering system 400 is configured to activate, move and/or position the distal end regions 310b, 320b, 330b, 340b, and/or 210b in accordance with the predetermined manner. The triggering system 400, once activated, can continue to move and/or position the distal end regions 310b, 320b, 330b, 340b, and/or 210b in accordance with the predetermined manner until the closure element 500 is deployed.

[0327] The triggering system 400, for example, can include one or more sets of cooperating detents for coupling the axial motion of the distal end regions 310b, 320b, 330b, and 340b in accordance with a predetermined manner when the triggering system 400 is activated. The term “detents” refers to any combination of mating elements, such as blocks, tabs, pockets, slots, ramps, locking pins, cantilevered members, support pins, and the like, that may be selectively or automatically engaged and/or disengaged to couple or decouple the carrier member 310, the pusher member 320, the cover member 330, and the support member 340 relative to one another. It will be appreciated that the cooperating detents as illustrated and described below are merely exemplary and not exhaustive. For example, the cooperating detents can include a first set of cooperating blocks and pockets for releasably coupling the support member 340, the carrier member 310, the pusher member 320, and the cover member 330. When the carrier assembly 300 reaches a first predetermined distal position, the support member 340 can be decoupled from the carrier member 310, the pusher member 320, and the cover member 330 and can be substantially inhibited from further axial movement. Thereby, the carrier member 310, the pusher member 320, and the cover member 330 may continue to be directed distally as the support member 340 remains substantially stationary.

[0328] As shown in FIGS. 4B-4C, the cooperating detents can include a carrier block 410, a pusher block 420, a cover block 430, and a support block 440, which can be configured to couple and decouple in accordance with the predetermined manner. For example, the carrier block 410 can be disposed on the proximal end region 310a of the carrier member 310 and can include a carrier pin 412c that extends from the carrier block 410; whereas, the proximal end region 330a of the cover member 330 and the proximal end region 340a the support member 340 are respectively coupled with the cover block 430 and the support block 440. A cover pin 432b can extend from the cover block 430, and the support block 440 can have a support pin 442a, which extends from the support block 440. The support pin 442a, the cover pin 432b, and the carrier pin 412c each can be formed from a substantially rigid material, such as an alloy of nickel-titanium.

[0329] The pusher block 420 can be disposed on the proximal end region 320a of the pusher member 320 and forms a support slot 422a, a cover slot 422b, and a carrier slot 422c. The support slot 422a can be configured to receive and releasably engage the support pin 442a by which the support member 340 can be coupled with, and decoupled from, the pusher member 320. The cover member 330 can be coupled with, and decoupled from, the pusher member 320 via the cover slot 422b, which is configured to receive and releasably engage the cover pin 432b. The carrier slot 422c can be configured to receive and releasably engage the carrier pin 412c such that the carrier member 310 can be coupled with, and decoupled from, the pusher member 320. The carrier block 410, the pusher block 420, the cover block 430, and the support block 440 can be respectively disposed substantially on the outer peripheries 312b, 322b, 332b, and 342b and can be configured to couple and decouple in accordance with the predetermined manner.

[0330] The triggering system 400 can further include one or more stops for engaging the pusher block 420, the cover block 430, and/or the support block 440, respectively. As illustrated in FIG. 4B, a support stop 460a, a cover stop 460b, and a carrier stop 460c each can be formed in the housing 380 and are configured to receive, and substantially inhibit further movement of, the support block 440, the cover block 430, and the carrier block 410, respectively, in accordance with the predetermined manner. For example, when an axial force is applied to the tube set 305 via the switching system 450, the cover block 430 can move distally within the housing 380, and the cover block 430 approaches the cover stop 460b. Upon being received by the cover stop 460b, the cover block 430 can be substantially locked in place, substantially preventing any further motion of the cover block 430.

[0331] Resisting the axial force, the cover pin 432b can provide a static load while the axial force is less than the predetermined quantity of force. As the axial force increases to a level that is greater than or substantially equal to the predetermined quantity, the cover pin 432b can be displaced from the cover slot 422b, decoupling the cover member 330 from the carrier member 310, the pusher member 320, and the support member 340. Creating the internal resistance to be overcome by the triggering system 400, the static forces provided by the pins 442a, 432b, and 412c is approximately proportional to a composition and cross-section of the respective pins 442a, 432b, and 412c and/or a depth and a slope of the respective slots 422a, 422b, and 422c. As desired, the pins 442a, 432b, and 412c can be configured to provide static loads that are differing and/or substantially uniform.

[0332] Turning to FIG. 4D, the triggering system 400 may further include a tube release system 470 for inhibiting inadvertent advancement of the tube set 305. The tube release system 470 is coupled with a tube release member 480, such as a rod, wire, or other elongate member. The tube release member 480 has a proximal end region 480a that is disposed substantially between the pusher block 420 and the housing 380 (shown in FIG. 4A) and a distal end region 480b that is coupled with the tube release system 470. Optionally, a tab 485 is coupled with the proximal end region 480a of the tube release member 480, and a pin (not shown) extends from the pusher block 420 and is disposed substantially between the tab 485 and a groove (not shown) formed in the housing 380. The tube release system 470 is configured to release the tube set 305 when the tube release member 480 is moved proximally, freeing the pusher block 420.

[0333] A locator release system 490 for permitting the distal end region 210b, the expansion elements 230, and/or the substantially flexible members 230′ of the locator assembly 200 to transition from the expanded state to the unexpanded state can be included with the triggering system 400. The locator release system 490 can include a rod, wire, or other elongate member and has a proximal end region 490a and a distal end region 490b. The proximal end region 490a of the locator release system 490 can be coupled with, and configured to activate, the locator control system 240 (shown in FIG. 2D), and the distal end region 490b extends beyond the pusher block 420. Thereby, when the pusher block 420 is advanced during deployment of the closure element 500, the control block 260 can be disengaged such that the distal end region 210b, the expansion elements 230, and/or the substantially flexible members 230′ of the locator assembly 200 to transition from the expanded state to the unexpanded state.

[0334] The operation of the triggering system 400 in accordance with one predetermined manner is illustrated in FIGS. 5A-5C with the closure element 500 (shown in FIGS. 6A-6B) disposed substantially within the apparatus 100. As shown in FIG. 5A, the distal end region 210b of the locator assembly 200 has been positioned as desired and has transitioned from the unexpanded state to the expanded state. While the locator control system 240 (shown in FIG. 2D) maintains the distal end region 210b in the expanded state, a distally-directed axial force can be applied to the triggering system 400 via the switching system 450. Once the tube release member 480 (shown in FIG. 4D) has been moved proximally to free the pusher block 420, the tube set 305 can be substantially freely slidable within the housing 380 and responds to the axial force by sliding distally from an initial predetermined position to a first predetermined position.

[0335] In the initial predetermined position, the carrier member 310, the pusher member 320, the cover member 330, and the support member 340 can be coupled via the slots 422c, 422b, and 422a (shown in FIG. 4C) and the pins 412c, 432b, and 442a (shown in FIG. 4C). Stated somewhat differently, the support pin 442a, the cover pin 432b, and the carrier pin 412c can be respectively disposed within, and engaged by, the support slot 422a, the cover slot 422b, and the carrier slot 422c such that the carrier block 410, the pusher block 420, the cover block 430, and the support block 440 are coupled as illustrated in FIG. 4C. Therefore, the carrier member 310, the pusher member 320, the cover member 330, and the support member 340 each can slide distally from the initial predetermined position to the first predetermined position in response to the axial force.

[0336] FIG. 5B illustrates the positions of the carrier member 310, the pusher member 320, the cover member 330, and the support member 340 (FIG. 4C) upon reaching the first predetermined position. In the first predetermined position, the support block 440 and the cover block 430 can respectively engage the support stop 460a and the cover stop 460b. Thereby, the support stop 460a can receive, and substantially inhibit further movement of, the support block 440 and, therefore, the support member 340; whereas, the cover stop 460b receives, and substantially inhibits further movement of, the cover block 430 and, therefore, the cover member 330. Although the support block 440 and the cover block 430 can engage the support stop 460a and the cover stop 460b in the first predetermined position, it will be appreciated that the support block 440 can engage the support stop 460a and the cover block 430 can engage the cover stop 460b in different predetermined positions. In other words, the predetermined manner can include any number of predetermined positions, each predetermined position being associated with any number of the blocks 410, 420, 430, and 440 engaging any number of relevant stops 460a, 460b, and 460c.

[0337] To continue distally from the first predetermined position, the carrier member 310 and the pusher member 320 can be decoupled from the cover member 330 and the support member 340 by disengaging the support pin 442a and the cover pin 432b from the support slot 422a and the cover slot 422b, respectively. In the manner described in more detail above with reference to FIGS. 4B-4C, the support pin 442a and the cover pin 432b each resist the axial force. While the axial force is less than the combined static force provided by the support pin 442a and the cover pin 432b, the carrier member 310 and the pusher member 320 remain coupled with the cover member 330 and the support member 340. As the axial force increases to a level that is greater than or substantially equal to the combined static force, the support pin 442a and the cover pin 432b are respectively displaced from the support slot 422a and the cover slot 422b, decoupling the carrier member 310 and the pusher member 320 from the cover member 330 and the support member 340. Thereby, the cover member 330 and the support member 340 can be inhibited from further distal movement and remain substantially stationary; whereas, the carrier member 310 and the pusher member 320 can proceed distally toward a second predetermined position.

[0338] The pusher member 320 and the carrier member 310 can continue distally until the second predetermined position is reached as shown in FIG. 5C. In the second predetermined position, the carrier block 410 can engage the carrier stop 460c. Whereby, the carrier stop 460c can receive, and substantially inhibit further movement of, the carrier block 410 and, therefore, the carrier member 310. To continue distally from the second predetermined position, the pusher member 320 can be decoupled from the carrier member 310 by disengaging the carrier pin 412c from the carrier slot 422c. In the manner described in more detail above with reference to FIGS. 4B-C, the carrier pin 412c resists the axial force. While the axial force is less than the static force provided by the carrier pin 412c, the pusher member 320 remains coupled with the carrier member 310.

[0339] As the axial force increases to a level that is greater than or substantially equal to the static force, the carrier pin 412c can be displaced from the carrier slot 422c, decoupling the pusher member 320 from the carrier member 310. Thereby, the carrier member 310 can be inhibited from further distal movement and remains substantially stationary; whereas, the pusher member 320 proceeds distally to deploy the closure element 500 and to activate the locator release system 490 (shown in FIG. 4D) such that the distal end region 210b, the expansion elements 230, and/or the substantially flexible members 230′ of the locator assembly 200 transition from the expanded state to the unexpanded state. The axial force that is applied to overcome the static force associated with the first predetermined position is sufficient to overcome the static forces associated with the subsequent predetermined positions, to deploy the closure element 500, and to activate the locator release system 490 such that the triggering system 400 operates in one substantially-continuous motion.

[0340] It will be appreciated that the triggering system 400 can include an energy storing element (not shown), which can be disposed substantially between the housing 380 and the blocks 410, 420, 430, and 440 and which can be configured to store potential energy for moving the tube set 305 from the initial predetermined position through the other predetermined positions, deploying the closure element 500, and/or activating the locator release system 490. The energy-storing element can be configured store the potential energy when the tube set 305 is in the initial predetermined position and to release the potential energy, when activated, such that the tube set 305 travels through the predetermined positions at a substantially constant and continuous rate. For example, the energy-storing element can include one or more springs (not shown). Each of the springs can be in a compressed state when the tube set 305 is in the initial predetermined position and released from the compressed state when the switching system 450 of the triggering system 400 is activated.

[0341] In use, the closure element 500 can be disposed within the carrier assembly and adjacent to the distal end of the pusher tube 320. As shown in FIGS. 7A-7B, for example, the reduced closure element 500′ can be slidably received over the distally-increasing cross-section 318b of the distal end region 310b of the carrier member 310 and disposed about the periphery 312 of the carrier member 310 adjacent to the space 360. Since the reduced cross-section 530′ of the reduced closure element 500′ is less than the cross-section 318b of the distally-increasing cross-section 318b, the reduced closure element 500′ must be temporarily radially deformed to be received over the distal end region 310b. Also, as the reduced closure element 500′ is received over the distal end region 310b, the opposing tines 520 of the reduced closure element 500′ engages the distal end region 310b. The reduced closure element 500′ thereby can form the substantially tubular closure element 500″ in the manner described in more detail above with reference to FIGS. 6E-6G.

[0342] After being received over the distal end region 310b, the substantially tubular closure element 500″ can be disposed about the space 360, and the tines 520 are directed substantially distally as shown in FIG. 7B. As desired, one or more of the tines 520 can be disposed proximally of the distally-increasing cross-section 318b of the distal end region 310b, as illustrated in FIG. 7B, and/or can be at least partially disposed upon, and contact, the distally-increasing cross-section 318b of the distal end region 310b. To improve the engagement between the closure element 500 (shown in FIGS. 6A-6B) and the blood vessel wall 620 and/or tissue 630 (collectively shown in FIG. 8A), the substantially tubular closure element 500″ can be disposed on the carrier member 310 such that the tines 520 define a first plane that is substantially perpendicular to a second plane defined by the switching system 450 and/or the handles 390 (collectively shown in FIG. 4D).

[0343] Once disposed about the space 360, the substantially tubular closure element 500″ can be retained on the outer periphery 312b of the carrier member 310 when distal end region 310b of the carrier member 310 and the distal end region 320b of the pusher member 320 are slidably received within the lumen 334 of the cover member 330 as illustrated in FIGS. 7C-7D. When the cover member 330 is properly positioned within the carrier assembly 300, the distal end region 330b of the cover member 330 can extend over the space 360 and define the annular cavity 370 for retaining the substantially tubular closure element 500″. As such, the substantially tubular closure element 500″ is disposed substantially between the outer periphery 312b of the carrier member 310 and the inner periphery 332a of the cover member 330 such that the substantially tubular closure element 500″ maintains the substantially tubular configuration with the tines 520 being directed substantially distally. As desired, the cover member 330 may radially compress the substantially tubular closure element 500″ such that the substantially tubular closure element 500″ enters and maintains a compressed tubular configuration. The body 510 of the substantially tubular closure element 500″ can be disposed distally of the distal end region 320b of the pusher member 320, as illustrated in FIGS. 7C-7D, or can engage the distal end region 320b, as desired.

[0344] Turning to FIG. 8A, a sheath 640 may be inserted or otherwise positioned through skin 650 and tissue 630 and within the blood vessel 600 or other body lumen via the opening 610. While including a substantially flexible or semi-rigid tubular member, the sheath 640 can have a proximal end region 640a and a distal end region 640b and includes a predetermined length and a predetermined cross-section, both of which can be of any suitable dimension. The sheath 640 also can form a lumen 644 that extends along a longitudinal axis of the sheath 640 and substantially between the proximal and distal end regions 640a, 640b. The lumen 644 can have any suitable internal cross-section 648b and is suitable for receiving one or more devices (not shown), such as a catheter, a guide wire, or the like. The lumen 644 can be configured to slidably receive the tubular body 210 of the locator assembly 200 (shown in FIG. 4A) and/or the tube set 305 of the carrier assembly 300 (shown in FIG. 4A).

[0345] Since the internal cross-section 648b of the sheath 640 typically can be less than or substantially equal to the predetermined cross-section 338b of the cover member 330, the sheath 640 may be configured to radially expand, such as by stretching, to receive the tube set 305. Alternatively, or in addition, the sheath 640 can be advantageously configured to split as the tube set 305 is received by, and advances within, the lumen 644 of the sheath 640, thereby permitting the apparatus 100 to access the blood vessel wall 620. To facilitate the splitting, the sheath 640 can include one or more splits 645, such as longitudinal splits, each split being provided in the manner known in the art. Each split 645 can be configured to split the sheath 640 in accordance with a predetermined pattern, such as in a spiral pattern. It will be appreciated that, when the internal cross-section 648b of the sheath 640 is greater than the predetermined cross-section 338b of the cover member 330, it may not be necessary for the sheath 640 to be configured to radially expand and/or split. In addition to, or as an alternative to, the apparatus 100 may include a cutting means that initiates a tear line or split in the sheath when the sheath is engaged with the distal end of the apparatus 100.

[0346] The sheath 640 may be advanced over a guide wire or other rail (not shown) which has been positioned through the opening 610 and into the blood vessel 600 using conventional procedures such as those described above. The blood vessel 600 is a peripheral blood vessel, such as a femoral or carotid artery, although other body lumens may be accessed using the sheath 640 as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. The opening 610, and consequently the sheath 640, may be oriented with respect to the blood vessel 600 such as to facilitate the introduction of devices through the lumen 644 of the sheath 640 and into the blood vessel 600 with minimal risk of damage to the blood vessel 600. One or more devices (not shown), such as a catheter, a guide wire, or the like, may be inserted through the sheath 640 and advanced to a preselected location within the patient's body. For example, the devices may be used to perform a therapeutic or diagnostic procedure, such as angioplasty, atherectomy, stent implantation, and the like, within the patent's vasculature.

[0347] After the procedure is completed, the devices are removed from the sheath 640, and the apparatus 100 is prepared to be received by the lumen 644 of the sheath 640 as shown in FIG. 8B. Being in the unexpanded state, the distal end region 210b of the tubular body 210 of the locator assembly 200 can be slidably received by the lumen 644 and atraumatically advanced distally into the blood vessel 600 as illustrated in FIGS. 8B-C. Once the distal end region 210b of the tubular body 210 extends into the blood vessel 600, the distal end region 210b can transition from the unexpanded state to the expanded state as shown in FIG. 8D by activating the switching system of the locator assembly 200.

[0348] Turning to FIG. 8E, the apparatus 100 and the sheath 640 then can be refracted proximally until the distal end region 210b is substantially adjacent to an inner surface 620b of the blood vessel wall 620. The distal end region 210b thereby can draw the blood vessel wall 620 taut and maintains the proper position of the apparatus 100 as the blood vessel 600 pulsates. Since the expanded cross-section of the distal end region 210b can be greater than or substantially equal to the cross-section of the opening 610 and/or the cross-section of the lumen 644, the distal end region 210b remains in the blood vessel 600 and engages the inner surface 620b of the blood vessel wall 620. The distal end region 210b can frictionally engage the inner surface 620b of the blood vessel wall 620, thereby securing the apparatus 100 to the blood vessel 600. The sheath 640 can be retracted proximally such that the distal end region 640b of the sheath 640 is substantially withdrawn from the blood vessel 600, as shown in FIG. 8E, permitting the apparatus 100 to access the blood vessel wall 620.

[0349] As the apparatus 100 is being retracted, the apparatus 100 can be axially rotated such that the first plane defined by the tines 520 of the substantially tubular closure element 500″ is substantially parallel with a third plane defined by the blood vessel 600. Thereby, the engagement between the substantially tubular closure element 500″ and the blood vessel wall 620 and/or tissue 630 can be improved because the tines 520 are configured to engage the blood vessel wall 620 and/or tissue 630 at opposite sides of the opening 610. If the substantially tubular closure element 500″ is disposed on the carrier member 310 such that the first plane defined by the tines 520 is substantially perpendicular to the second plane defined by the switching system 450 and/or the handles 390 (collectively shown in FIG. 5A), for example, the apparatus 100 can be positioned such that the second plane defined by the switching system 450 and/or the handles 390 is substantially perpendicular to the third plane defined by the blood vessel 600.

[0350] Once the distal end region 210b of the locator assembly 200 contacts the inner surface 620b of the blood vessel wall 620, the tube set 305 can then be advanced distally and received within the lumen 644 of the sheath 640 as illustrated in FIG. 8F. In the manner described in more detail above with reference to FIG. 8A, the sheath 640 can radially expand and/or split in accordance with the predetermined pattern as the tube set 305 advances because the internal cross-section 648b of the sheath 640 is less than or substantially equal to the predetermined cross-section 338b of the cover member 330. Being coupled, the carrier member 310, the pusher member 320, the cover member 330, and the support member 340 each advance distally and approach the first predetermined position as illustrated in FIG. 8G.

[0351] Upon reaching the first predetermined position, the tube set 305 can be disposed substantially adjacent to the outer surface 620a of the blood vessel wall 620 adjacent to the opening 610 such that the blood vessel wall 620 adjacent to the opening 610 is disposed substantially between the expanded distal region 210b of the locator assembly 200 and the tube set 305. The cover member 330 and the support member 340 can each decouple from the carrier member 310 and the pusher member 320 in the manner described in more detail above with reference to FIGS. 5A-5C when the tube set 305 is in the first predetermined position. Thereby, the cover member 330 and the support member 340 can be inhibited from further axial movement and remain substantially stationary as the carrier member 310 and the pusher member 320 each remain coupled and axially slidable.

[0352] As shown in FIG. 8H, the cover member 330 and the support member 340 can remain substantially stationary while the carrier member 310 and the pusher member 320 can continue distally and approach the second predetermined position. As the carrier member 310 and the pusher member 320 distally advance toward the second predetermined position, the annular cavity 370 can move distally relative to the substantially-stationary cover member 330 such that the distal end region 330b of the cover member 330 no longer encloses the annular cavity 370.

[0353] Thereby, the substantially tubular closure element 500″ may not be completely enclosed by the annular cavity 370 formed by the distal end regions 310b, 320b, and 330b of the carrier member 310, the pusher member 320, and the cover member 330.

[0354] Although not completely enclosed by the annular cavity 370, the substantially tubular closure element 500″ can be advantageously retained on the outer periphery 312b of the carrier member 310 by the distal end region 330b of the cover member 330 as illustrated in FIG. 8H. For example, by retaining the substantially tubular closure element 500″ between the distal end region 330b of the cover member 330 and the distal end region 310b the carrier member 310, the apparatus 100 can be configured to provide better tissue penetration. The timing between the deployment of the substantially tubular closure element 500″ by the tube set 305 and the retraction and transition to the unexpanded state by the locator assembly 200 likewise is facilitated because the substantially tubular closure element 500″ is retained between the distal end region 330b and the distal end region 310b. Further, the carrier member 310 and the cover member 330 can operate to maintain the substantially tubular closure element 500″ in the tubular configuration.

[0355] When the tube set 305 is in the second predetermined position, the carrier member 310 can decouple from the pusher member 320 in the manner described in more detail above with reference to FIGS. 5A-5C. Therefore, the carrier member 310, the cover member 330, and the support member 340 can be inhibited from further axial movement and remain substantially stationary; whereas, the pusher member 320 remains axially slidable. As the pusher member 320 continues distally, the distal end region 320b of the pusher member 320 can contact the substantially tubular closure element 500″ and displaces the substantially tubular closure element 500″ from the space 360 as shown in FIG. 8I. Since the space 360 is substantially radially exposed, the pusher member 320 can direct the substantially tubular closure element 500″ over the distally-increasing cross-section of the distal end region 310b of the substantially-stationary carrier member 310 such that the cross-section 530′ (shown in FIGS. 6F-6G) of the substantially tubular closure element 500″ begins to radially expand in a substantially uniform manner. As the substantially tubular closure element 500″ traverses the distally-increasing cross-section of the distal end region 310b, the cross-section 530′ of the substantially tubular closure element 500″ radially expands beyond the natural cross-section 530 (shown in FIGS. 6A-6B) of the closure element 500.

[0356] Upon being directed over the distally-increasing cross-section of the distal end region 310b by the pusher member 320, the substantially tubular closure element 500″ can be distally deployed as illustrated in FIG. 8J. When the substantially tubular closure element 500″ is deployed, the tines 520 can pierce and otherwise engage a significant amount of the blood vessel wall 620 and/or tissue 630 adjacent to the opening 610. For example, the tines 520 can engage a significant amount of the blood vessel wall 620 and/or tissue 630 because the cross-section 530′ of the substantially tubular closure element 500″ is expanded beyond the natural cross-section 530 of the closure element 500 during deployment.

[0357] As the closure element is being deployed from the space 360, the locator assembly 200 can also begin to retract proximally and the locator release system 490 (shown in FIG. 4D) can be activated to transition from the expanded state to the unexpanded state as the substantially tubular closure element 500″ is deployed as shown in FIG. 8J. The distal end region 210b of the locator assembly 200 retracts proximally and transitions from the expanded state to the unexpanded state substantially simultaneously with the deployment of the substantially tubular closure element 500″. As desired, the distal end region 210b may be configured to draw the blood vessel wall 620 and/or tissue 630 adjacent to the opening 610 proximally and into the channel 540 defined by the substantially tubular closure element 500″. The tines 520 of the substantially tubular closure element 500″ thereby can pierce and otherwise engage the drawn blood vessel wall 620 and/or tissue 630. Since the cross-section 530′ of the substantially tubular closure element 500″ is expanded beyond the natural cross-section 530 of the closure element 500, a significant amount of the blood vessel wall 620 and/or tissue 630 can be drawn into the channel 540 and engaged by the tines 520.

[0358] Turning to FIG. 8K, the substantially tubular closure element 500′, once deployed, can begin to transition from the tubular configuration, returning to the natural, planar configuration with opposing tines 520 and a natural cross-section 530 of the closure element 500. The substantially tubular closure element 500′ substantially uniformly transitions from the tubular configuration to the natural, planar configuration. Rotating axially inwardly to form the opposing tines 520 of the closure element 500, the tines 520 draw the tissue 630 into the channel 540 as the substantially tubular closure element 500″ forms the closure element 500. Also, the tissue 630 can be drawn substantially closed and/or sealed as the cross-section 530′ of the substantially tubular closure element 500′ contracts to return to the natural cross-section 530 of the closure element 500. Thereby, the opening 610 in the blood vessel wall 620 can be drawn substantially closed and/or sealed via the closure element 500 as illustrated in FIG. 8L.

[0359] It will be appreciated that the closure element 500 may be constructed of other materials, that it may include alternative shapes, and that it may adopt alternative methods of operation such that the closure element 500 achieves closure of openings in blood vessel walls or other body tissue. In an additional non-limiting example, the closure element 500 is constructed of materials that use a magnetic force to couple a pair of securing elements in order to close an opening in the lumen wall or tissue. In this alternative embodiment, the closure element 500 may be of a unitary or multi-component construction having a first securing element positionable at a first position adjacent the opening, and a second securing element positionable at a second position adjacent the opening. The first and second securing elements can be provided having a magnetic force biasing the first and second securing elements together, thereby closing the opening, or they are provided having a magnetic force biasing both the first and second securing elements toward a third securing element positioned in a manner to cause closure of the opening. The magnetic closure element 500 may be provided without tines 520, provided the magnetic force coupling the closure elements is sufficient to close the opening. Alternatively, the closure element 500 may be provided with a combination of the magnetic securing elements and tines 520 to provide a combination of coupling forces. Those skilled in the art will recognize that other and further materials, methods, and combinations may be utilized to construct the closure element 500 to achieve the objectives described and implied herein.

[0360] It will be appreciated that the distal end region 380b of the housing 380 can be configured to couple with an introducer sheath 700 as shown in FIG. 9. While being prepared from a substantially flexible or semi-rigid tubular member, the introducer sheath 700 can have a proximal end region 700a and a distal end region 700b and includes a predetermined length and a predetermined cross-section, both of which can be of any suitable dimension. The distal end region 700b can be configured to facilitate insertion of the introducer sheath 700 through tissue and/or into the opening 610 (shown in FIG. 8A) formed in and/or adjacent to the wall 620 (shown in FIG. 8A) of the blood vessel 600 (shown in FIG. 8A) or other body lumen. For example, the distal end region 430b can have a tapered tip (not shown) for facilitating substantially atraumatic introduction of the introducer sheath 700 through a passage formed in the tissue 630 and/or at least partially into the blood vessel wall 620, which is accessible via the passage.

[0361] The introducer sheath 700 can also form a lumen 704 that extends along a longitudinal axis of the introducer sheath 700 and substantially between the proximal and distal end regions 700a, 700b. The lumen 704 can have any suitable length 708a and internal cross-section 708b and is configured to slidably receive the tubular body 210 of the locator assembly 200 (shown in FIG. 4A) and/or the tube set 305 of the carrier assembly 300 (shown in FIG. 4A). Since the internal cross-section 708b of the introducer sheath 700 typically can be less than or substantially equal to the predetermined cross-section 338b of the cover member 330, the introducer sheath 700 may be configured to radially expand, such as by stretching, to receive the tube set 305. Alternatively, or in addition, the introducer sheath 700 can be advantageously configured to split as the tube set 305 is received by, and advances within, the lumen 704 of the introducer sheath 700 in the manner described in more detail above with reference to the sheath 640 (shown in FIG. 8A). To facilitate the splitting, the introducer sheath 700 can include one or more splits (not shown), such as longitudinal splits, each split being provided in the manner known in the art. Each split is configured to split the introducer sheath 700 in accordance with a predetermined pattern, such as in a spiral pattern. It will be appreciated that, when the internal cross-section 708b of the introducer sheath 700 is greater than the predetermined cross-section 338b of the cover member 330, it may not be necessary for the introducer sheath 700 to be configured to radially expand and/or split.

[0362] The introducer sheath 700 can be coupled with the housing 380 via one or more cooperating connectors (not shown) such that the lumen 704 is substantially axially aligned with the tubular body 210 of the locator assembly 200 and/or the tube set 305 of the carrier assembly 300 and, as desired, may be removably and/or substantially permanently coupled with the housing 380. For example, a hub assembly 710 can be coupled with the proximal end region 700a of the introducer sheath 700. The proximal end region 700a of the introducer sheath 700 can be coupled with, or otherwise provided on, a distal end region 710b of the hub assembly 710, such as via an adhesive, one or more cooperating connectors, and/or a thermo-mechanical joint.

[0363] The hub assembly 710 can also include a proximal end region 710a, which provides the one or more mating connectors for coupling the introducer sheath 700 with the housing 380 and forms a lumen (not shown), which extends substantially between the proximal end region 710a and the distal end region 710b. The lumen of the hub assembly 710 can have an internal cross-section or size that is greater than the internal cross-section or size of the lumen 704 of the introducer sheath 700. When the proximal end region 700a of the introducer sheath 700 is properly connected with the hub assembly 710, the lumen of the hub assembly 710 can be configured to communicate with the lumen 704 of the introducer sheath 700. As desired, the proximal end region 700a of the introducer sheath 700 may be flared to facilitate the connection between the introducer sheath 700 and the hub assembly 710.

[0364] When properly assembled, the hub assembly 710 can be substantially fluid tight such that the one or more devices can be inserted into the lumen 704 of the introducer sheath 700 without fluid passing proximally through the lumen 704. The hub assembly 710 can be made to be watertight, such as via one or more seals (not shown) and/or valves (not shown) in the manner known in the art. For example, the hub assembly 710 can include a thrust washer and/or valve, a guide for directing the devices into the lumen 704 of the introducer sheath 700, and/or a seal (collectively not shown). The various seals and/or guides can be coupled with the hub assembly 710 via, for example, one or more spacers and/or end caps (also collectively not shown).

[0365] As desired, the hub assembly 710 further can include one or more side ports 720. The side ports 720 can communicate with the lumen of the hub assembly 710 and/or the lumen 704 of the introducer sheath 700. At least one of the side ports 720 can be configured to be connected with, and to communicate with, tubing (not shown) to, for example, infuse fluids into the lumen 704 and through the introducer sheath 700. Alternatively, or in addition, at least one of the side ports 720 can provide a “bleed back” indicator, such as in the manner disclosed in the co-pending application Ser. No. 09/680,837. The disclosures of this reference and any others cited therein are expressly incorporated herein by reference.

[0366] Another alternative embodiment of a clip applier for sealing openings through tissue is shown in FIGS. 10-15. The embodiment of FIGS. 10-15, as described below, has many identical or similar structures that perform identical or similar functions to the embodiments described above and in reference to the preceding Figures. Accordingly, the description below should be considered in view of the descriptions above of the preceding embodiments. Furthermore, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that one or more of the components and/or features of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 10-15 may also be incorporated in the previously described embodiments, as those components and/or features of the previously described embodiments may optionally be incorporated in the embodiment described below and in reference to FIGS. 10-15. In the description of the alternative embodiment below, and in FIGS. 10-15, components of the apparatus that are identical or substantially correspond to those previously described will bear the same reference numerals identified above with the addition of the prime 0 identifier.

[0367] Turning to FIGS. 10 and 11, the locator assembly 200′ can be substantially similar to the structure described above in reference to FIGS. 2A-2D, including a flexible or semi-rigid tubular body 210′ (such as an elongate rail) with a longitudinal axis. The tubular body 210′ can have a proximal end region 210a′ and a distal end region 210b′ and includes a predetermined length 218a′ and a predetermined outer cross-section, both of which can be of any suitable dimension. The distal end region 210b′ of the locator assembly 200′ can include a substantially rounded, soft, and/or flexible distal end or tip 220′ to facilitate atraumatic advancement and/or retraction of the distal end region 210b′ into the blood vessel 600. As desired, a pigtail (not shown) may be provided on the distal end 220′ to further aid atraumatic advancement of the distal end region 210b′.

[0368] The distal end region 210b′ of the locator assembly 200′ can be selectably controllable between an unexpanded state and an expanded state, in the manner described above in relation to FIGS. 2A-2D. In the alternative embodiment shown in FIGS. 10A-10B, the distal end region is shown in its expanded state, wherein the substantially flexible members 230′ of the expansion elements 230 are flexed outward.

[0369] A control member 250′, such as a rod, wire, or other elongate member, can be moveably disposed within a lumen (not shown) formed by the tubular body 210′ and extending substantially between the proximal end region 210a′ and the distal end region 210b′. The control member 250′ can have a proximal end region 250a′ that is coupled with a control block 260′, and a distal end region that is coupled with the distal end region 210b′ of the locator assembly 200′, the expansion elements 230, and/or the movable end regions 230c′ of the substantially flexible members 230′. The control block 260′ can be a tubular shape and formed of a metal or rigid plastic, and is adapted to be retained in a control block cavity 265′ (see FIG. 10B) formed on the internal surface of the housing bottom half 380d′, to thereby maintain the control block 260′ in a substantially fixed position relative to the housing 380′. The locator control system can selectively transition the distal end region 210b′, the expansion elements 230, and/or the substantially flexible members 230′ between the unexpanded and expanded states by moving the tubular body 210′ axially relative to the control member 250′.

[0370] Formed on the proximal end 210a′ of the tubular body 210′ can have a tubular body block 270′ having a proximal groove 271′. The tubular body block 270′ can be formed of metal, rigid plastic, or other substantially rigid material and can be formed integrally with or attached securely to the tubular body 210′. The proximal groove 271′ and the proximal end of the tubular body block 270′ can have a shape adapted to cooperate with a pair of tabs 281a′-b′ formed on a locator assembly block 280′ whereby the tubular body block 270′ is maintained in a fixed axial relationship with the locator assembly block 280′. In this way, the tubular body block 270′ and tubular body 210′ can be advanced distally by distal advancement of the locator assembly block 280′.

[0371] A locator assembly spring 290′ can be located coaxially with and substantially surrounds a portion of the tubular body block 270′. The locator assembly spring 290′ can be located between and contacts the distal side of two of the tabs 281a′-b′ formed on the locator assembly block 280′, and the proximal side of a locator assembly spring stop 381′ formed on the inner surface of the housing bottom half 380d′ (see FIG. 10B). The locator assembly spring 290′ so located can provide a force biasing the locator assembly block 280′ in the proximal direction relative to the housing 380′.

[0372] The locator assembly block 280′ can be formed of metal, plastic, or other rigid material. A function of the locator assembly block 280′ can allow the user to apply a force causing distal movement of the tubular body 210′ relative to the control member 250′ to cause the locator assembly 200′ to transition from the unexpanded state to the expanded state. The proximal end of the locator assembly block 280′ can have a slot 281′ formed therein, the slot 281′ can have a size sufficient to accommodate the control block 260′ and the control block cavity 265′, and to allow the locator assembly block 280′ to travel axially relative to the housing 380′. The distal end of the locator assembly block 280′ can have a pair of distally extending forks 282a-b, with each of the forks 282a-b having a ramp 283a-b on its inward facing surface. Finally, the locator assembly block 280′ can have a pair of distally extending release tabs 284a-b, with each of the release tabs 284a-b having a detent 285a-b.

[0373] As shown in FIGS. 11A-11B, the locator assembly block 280′ can be slidably received and retained within grooves formed in the proximal end of the housing 380′, with the proximal end of the locator assembly block extending from the proximal end of the housing. The control block 260′ and control block cavity 265′ can be located in the slot 281′ formed in the proximal end of the locator assembly block 280′.

[0374] The locator release system 490′ can perform the function of releasing the locator assembly 200′, thereby allowing the locator assembly 200′ to transition from its expanded state to its unexpanded state. Turning to FIGS. 10A-10B and FIG. 15, the locator release system 490′ of the alternative embodiment of the apparatus can include locator release rod 491′ having a release tab spacer block 492′ formed on its proximal end. The locator release rod 491′ and release tab spacer block 492′ can be received and retained in a groove formed on the interior surface of the housing bottom half 380d′. The release tab spacer block 492′ can be integrally formed with or attached to the proximal end of the locator release rod 491′, and is formed of metal, plastic, or other rigid material. As shown in FIG. 15, the release tab spacer block 492′ can have a shape and size adapted to fit between the release tabs 284a-b formed on the locator assembly block 280′, thereby biasing the release tabs 284a-b outward and causing the outward facing detents 285a-b to engage a pair of retaining grooves 286a-b formed on the interior of the housing 380′. As long as the detents 285a-b are thus engaged with the retaining grooves 286a-b of the housing 380′, the locator assembly block 280′ can be held in its axial position against the spring force imparted in the proximal direction by the locator assembly spring 290′. The distal end of the locator release rod 491′ can have an engagement member 493′ that includes an inward bend on the distal end of the locator release rod. As described more fully below, the engagement member 493′ on the locator release rod 491′ can be positioned within the apparatus such that, when the closure element 500 is delivered, the engagement member 493′ is engaged and caused to move axially in the distal direction, thereby disengaging the release tab spacer block 492′ from the locator assembly block 280′ and causing the locator assembly simultaneously to transition from its expanded state to the unexpanded state.

[0375] The alternative embodiment of the apparatus 100′ can include a carrier assembly 300′ that is coupled with, and slidable relative to, the locator assembly 200′. The carrier assembly 300′ can be configured to receive and retain the closure element 500 (shown in FIGS. 6A-6B), which can be disposed substantially within the carrier assembly 300′. When the locator assembly 200′ engages the inner surface 620b (shown in FIG. 8A) of the blood vessel wall 620 (shown in FIG. 8A), the carrier assembly 300′ can be further configured to position the closure element 500 substantially adjacent to the opening 610 and to deploy the closure element 500, as described elsewhere herein.

[0376] Turning to FIGS. 10A-10B, the carrier assembly 300′ can include a tube set having a carrier member 310′, a pusher member 320′, a cover member 330′, and a support member 340′. The carrier member 310′, pusher member 320′, cover member 330′, and support member 340′ can be provided as a plurality of nested, telescoping members with a common longitudinal axis. The carrier member 310′ can be configured to receive and support the closure element 500. While being disposed on the carrier member 310′, the closure element 500 can be deformed from the natural, planar configuration to form the substantially tubular closure element 500″ (shown in FIGS. 6F-6G) as described herein.

[0377] The carrier member 310′ can include a proximal end region 310a′ and a distal end region 310b′. The carrier member 310′ can also define a lumen 314′ that extends substantially between the proximal end region 310a′ and the distal end region 310b′ and that is configured to slidably receive at least a portion of the tubular body 210′ of the locator assembly 200′ and/or the support member 340′. Although the exterior cross-section of the carrier member 310′ is substantially uniform, the distal end region 310b′ of the carrier member 310′ can have a cross-section that increases distally, as illustrated in FIGS. 10A-B, for substantially uniformly expanding the substantially tubular closure element 500″ beyond the natural cross-section 530 of the closure element 500 when the substantially tubular closure element 500″ is deployed. Alternatively, the distal end region 310b′ may be formed with a uniform cross-section to deploy the closure element 500 without cross-sectional expansion.

[0378] The pusher member 320′ can have a proximal end region 320a′ and a distal end region 320b′ and is coupled with, and slidable relative to, the carrier member 310′. The pusher member 320′ can include a predetermined length and a predetermined cross-section, both of which can be of any suitable dimension and can be configured to slidably receive the carrier member 310′ such that the distal end region 320b′ of the pusher member 320′ is offset proximally from the distal end region 310b′ of the carrier member 310′. As desired, the predetermined length of the pusher member 320′ can be greater than or substantially equal to the predetermined length of the carrier member 310′. The predetermined length of the pusher member 320′ can be less than the predetermined length of the carrier member 310′ such that the carrier member 310′ and the pusher member 320′ at least partially define a space 360′ distal to the distal end region 320b′ of the pusher member 320′ and along the periphery of the carrier member 310′.

[0379] The pusher member 320′ can be substantially tubular and can define a lumen (not shown) that extends substantially between the proximal end region 320a′ and the distal end region 320b′ and that is configured to slidably receive at least a portion of the carrier member 310′. The cross-section of the pusher member 320′ can be substantially uniform, and the distal end region 320b′ of the pusher member 320′ can include one or more longitudinal extensions 325′, which extend distally from the pusher member 320′ and along the periphery of the carrier member 310′. The longitudinal extensions 325′ can be biased such that the longitudinal extensions 325′ extend generally in parallel with the common longitudinal axis of the carrier assembly tube set. The longitudinal extensions 325′ can be sufficiently flexible to expand radially, and yet sufficiently rigid to inhibit buckling, as the distal end region 320b′ is directed distally along the carrier member 310′ and engage the distally-increasing cross-section of the distal end region 310b′ of the carrier member 310′ to deploy the substantially tubular closure element 500″.

[0380] The cover member 330′ can be configured to retain the substantially tubular closure element 500″ substantially within the carrier assembly 300′ prior to deployment. Being coupled with, and slidable relative to, the pusher member 320′, the cover member 330′ can have a proximal end region 330a′ and a distal end region 330b′ and includes a predetermined length and a predetermined cross-section, both of which can be of any suitable dimension. The cover member 330′ can be formed as a substantially rigid, semi-rigid, or flexible tubular member. Additionally, the cover member 330′ can have an inner periphery and an outer periphery and can define a lumen (not shown). The lumen (not shown) can extend substantially between the proximal and distal end regions 330a′, 330b′ of the cover member 330′ and can be configured to slidably receive at least a portion of the pusher member 320′. When the cover member 330′ is properly positioned within the carrier assembly 300′, the distal end region 330b′ can be configured to extend over the space 360′, thereby defining an annular cavity (not shown) for receiving and retaining the substantially tubular closure element 500″.

[0381] The cross-section of the cover member 330′ can be substantially uniform, and the distal end region 330b′ of the cover member 330′ can include one or more longitudinal extensions 335′, which extend distally from the cover member 330′ and along an outer periphery of the pusher member 320′ (see FIG. 3D). Although the longitudinal extensions 335′ can extend generally in parallel with common longitudinal axis 350′, the longitudinal extensions 335′ can be biased such that the plurality of longitudinal extensions 335′ extend substantially radially inwardly as illustrated in FIGS. 3A and 3D. Thereby, the longitudinal extensions 335′ can at least partially close the lumen (not shown) substantially adjacent to the distal end region 330b′ of the cover member 330′. To permit the substantially tubular closure element 500″ to be deployed from the annular cavity (not shown), the longitudinal extensions 335′ can be sufficiently flexible to expand radially to permit the distal end region 310b′ of the carrier member 310′ to move distally past the cover member 330′ to open the annular cavity (not shown) such that the distal end region 330b′ no longer extends over the space 360′.

[0382] If the carrier assembly 300′ is assembled as the plurality of nested, telescoping members as shown in FIG. 3A, the carrier member 310′ can be at least partially disposed within, and slidable relative to, the lumen (not shown) of the pusher member 320′. The support member 340′ can be slidable relative to the pusher member 320′. The pusher member 320′, in turn, can be at least partially disposed within, and slidable relative to, the lumen (not shown) of the cover member 330′. To couple the carrier assembly 300′ with the locator assembly 200′, the tubular body 210′ of the locator assembly 200′ can be at least partially disposed within, and slidable relative to, the lumen 314′ of the carrier member 310′. The longitudinal axis of the locator assembly 200′ can be substantially in axial alignment with the common longitudinal axis of the carrier member 310′, the pusher member 320′, and the cover member 330′.

[0383] The tube set 305 can also include a support member 340′ as shown in FIGS. 10A-B. The support member 340′ can be configured to slidably receive the tubular body 210′ of the locator assembly 200′ and to provide radial support for the distal end region 210b′ of the tubular body 210′ when the locator assembly 200′ is coupled with the carrier assembly 300′. The carrier assembly 300′ can advantageously include the support member 340′, for example, if the tubular body 210′ is not sufficiently rigid or under other circumstances in which support for the tubular body 210′ might be desirable. It also will be appreciated that the support member 340′ also can be configured to inhibit the plurality of longitudinal extensions 335′, which extend from the distal end region 330b′ of the cover member 330′, from expanding prematurely when the closure element 500 is deployed. If the longitudinal extensions 335′ were to expand prematurely, they may become hung up on the introducer sheath 640 or other delivery member (in an introducer sheath or delivery member is used), the tissue 630, or the wall 620 of the blood vessel 600. This may interfere with the proper advancement or other movement of the cover member 330′ and the carrier assembly 300′.

[0384] The support member 340′ can be formed as a substantially rigid, semi-rigid, or flexible tubular member. Additionally, the support member 340′ can include a proximal end region 340a′ and a distal end region 340b′. Having an outer periphery, the support member 340′ can define a lumen 344′ that extends substantially between the proximal end region 340a′ and the distal end region 340b′ and that is configured to slidably receive and support at least a portion of the tubular body 210′ of the locator assembly 200′. The support member 340′, in turn, can be at least partially slidably disposed within the lumen 314′ of the carrier member 310′ such that the tubular body 210′ of the locator assembly 200′ is coupled with, and slidable relative to, the carrier member 310′ in the manner described in more detail above. The support member 340′ can have a predetermined length and a predetermined cross-section, both of which can be of any suitable dimension, and the cross-section can be substantially uniform. Although shown and described as being substantially separate for purposes of illustration, it will be appreciated that the carrier member 310′, the pusher member 320′, the cover member 330′, and/or the support member 340′ can be provided, in whole or in part, as one or more integrated assemblies.

[0385] The carrier assembly 300′ also can include a housing 380′, the top half 380c′ of which is illustrated in FIG. 10A, and the bottom half 380d′ of which is shown in FIG. 10B. The housing 380′ can be formed as an elongate member with a longitudinal axis. Additionally, the housing 380′ can have an outer periphery and includes a proximal end region 380a′ and a distal end region 380b′. Thereby, when the apparatus 100′ is properly assembled, the tubular body 210′ of the locator assembly 200′ can be at least partially disposed within, and slidable relative to, the tube set 305 such that the distal end region 210b′ of the tubular body 210′ extends beyond the distal end regions 310b′, 320b′, 330b′, and/or 340b′. The tubular body 210′, the carrier member 310′, the pusher member 320′, the cover member 330′, and, if provided, the support member 340′ can be at least partially disposed within, and slidable relative to, the housing 380′, and the respective distal end regions 210b′, 310b′, 320b′, 330b′, and 340b′ extend from the distal end region 380b′ of the housing 380′ such that the common longitudinal axis 350′ of the tube set 305 is substantially axially aligned with the longitudinal axis 386′ of the housing 380′. Being configured to slidably retain the respective proximal end regions 210a′, 310a′, 320a′, 330a′, and 340a′, the housing 380′ can support the tube set 305 and can have one or more handles 391′, 392′ to facilitate use of the apparatus 100′. The handles 391′, 392′ can extend substantially radially from the outer periphery of the housing 380′ and can be provided in the manner known in the art.

[0386] When the apparatus 100′ is properly assembled, the tubular body 210′ of the locator assembly 200′ can be at least partially disposed within, and slidable relative to, the tube set 305 of the carrier assembly 300′ such that the distal end region 210b′ of the tubular body 210′ extends beyond the distal end regions 310b′, 320b′, 330b′, and/or 340b′. Further, the proximal end region 210a′ of the tubular body 210′ and the proximal end regions 310a′, 320a′, 330a′, and/or 340a′ of the tube set 305 can be at least partially disposed within, and slidable relative to, the housing 380′. The switching system of the locator assembly 200′ and a switching system of the triggering system 400′ can be accessible external to the housing 380′ as shown in FIGS. 11-15.

[0387] As shown in FIGS. 11-15, the triggering system 400′ of the alternative embodiment of the apparatus 100′ can be disposed substantially within the housing 380′. The triggering system 400′ can be configured to control the relative axial movement and/or positioning of the respective distal end regions 310b′, 320b′, 330b′, and 340b′ of the tube set 305 and/or the distal end region 210b′ of the locator assembly 200′. Axial motion of one or more of the carrier member 310′, the pusher member 320′, the cover member 330′, and the support member 340′ and/or the tubular body 210′ can be attained, for example, by applying an axial force to the switching system 405′.

[0388] The triggering system 400′ can include a set of block members—a carrier block 410′, a pusher block 420′, a cover block 430′, and a support block 440′—each of which is formed integrally with or securely attached to its respective member of the carrier assembly 300′. The block members can be adapted to selectably couple and decouple the carrier member 310′, the pusher member 320′, the cover member 330′, and the support member 340′ relative to one another in order to provide axial movement of those components in a predetermined manner intended to deliver the closure element 500 in the manner described herein. For example, when the carrier assembly 300′ reaches a first predetermined distal position, the support member 340′ can be decoupled from the carrier member 310′, the pusher member 320′, and the cover member 330′ and is thereafter substantially inhibited from further axial movement. Thereby, the carrier member 310′, the pusher member 320′, and the cover member 330′ may be directed distally as the support member 340′ remains substantially stationary. Subsequently, the carrier member 310′ and the cover member 330′ can be decoupled from the pusher member 320′ and thereafter inhibited from further axial movement. Thereby, the pusher member 320′ may be directed distally as the support member 340′, carrier member 310′, and cover member 330′ remain substantially stationary, as described more fully herein.

[0389] The carrier block 410′ can be disposed on the proximal end region 310a′ of the carrier member 310′ and can include a trigger extension 405′ that extends through a slot in the housing 380′ to the exterior of the housing 380′ to be accessible to the user. The carrier block 410′ can include a pair of grooves 413a-b formed on a peripheral surface of the carrier block 410′, the grooves 413a-b being adapted to receive and retain a pair of tabs 445a-b formed on a pair of forks 444a-b extending distally from the support block 440′, thereby selectably coupling the support block 440′ to the carrier block 410′. The carrier block 410′ can also include a pair of distal tabs 416a-b extending from the distal end of the carrier block 410′, and adapted to engage a pair of slots 423a-b formed on the proximal end of the pusher block 420′.

[0390] The carrier block 410′ can also include a pair of forks 414a-b extending in the proximal direction from the proximal end of the carrier block, each of the forks having an outward directed tab 415a-b at its proximal end. The tabs 415a-b can be adapted to selectably engage a pair of slots 387a-b (not shown) formed on the interior surface of the housing 380′ near its proximal end and, when so engaged, to fix the axial position of the carrier block 410′ and, with it, the carrier assembly 300′ relative to the housing 380′. The tabs 415a-b can be disengaged from the slots in the housing when the locator assembly block 280′ is moved axially in the distal direction in the following manner (see FIG. 11B). As the locator assembly block 280′ is advanced distally, the interior surfaces of the ramps 283a-b on the locator assembly block forks 282a-b can engage the exterior surfaces of the tabs 415a-b and cause the carrier block forks 414a-b to flex inward, releasing the tabs 415a-b from the slots in the housing, thereby freeing the carrier block 410′ and the carrier assembly 300′ to move axially. Thus, axial movement of the carrier block 410′ within the apparatus can be inhibited until the locator assembly block 280′ is advanced to transition the locator assembly 200′ to the expanded condition, simultaneously releasing the tabs 415a-b on the carrier block 410′.

[0391] The pusher block 420′ can be disposed on the proximal end region 320a′ of the pusher member 320′. As described above, the pusher block 420′ can include a pair of slots 423a-b formed on its proximal end that are adapted to selectably engage the pair of distal tabs 416a-b extending from the distal end of the carrier block 410′. The pusher block 420′ can also include a pair of grooves 424a-b formed on its peripheral surface, the grooves 424a-b being adapted to engage a pair of tabs 435a-b formed on a pair of forks 434a-b extending from the proximal side of the cover block 430′ to selectably couple the cover block 430′ to the pusher block 420′.

[0392] The cover block 430′ can be disposed on the proximal end region 330a′ of the cover member 330′. As described above, the cover block 430′ can include a pair of forks 434a-b extending from the proximal end of the cover block 430′, each of the forks having an inward directed tab 435a-b that are adapted to engage the grooves 424a-b on the peripheral surface of the pusher block 420′ to selectably couple the cover block 430′ to the pusher block 420′.

[0393] The support block 440′ can be disposed on the proximal end region 340a′ of the support member 340′. As described above, the support block 440′ can include a pair of forks 444a-b extending from the distal end of the support block 440′, each of the forks having an inward directed tab 445a-b that are adapted to engage the grooves 413a-b formed on the surface of the carrier block 410′ to selectably couple the support block 440′ to the carrier block 410′.

[0394] The carrier block 410′, pusher block 420′, cover block 430′, and support block 440′ are shown in FIGS. 11-13 in their fully coupled state, with the support block 440′ coupled to the carrier block 410′, the pusher block 420′ coupled to the carrier block 410′, and the cover block 430′ coupled to the pusher block 420′. In this arrangement, the carrier assembly 300′ can include a coaxial set of tubes (as shown, for example, in FIG. 3A), with the support member 340′ slidably retained substantially within the carrier member 310′, which is in turn slidably retained substantially within the pusher member 320′, which is in turn slidably retained substantially within the cover member 330′.

[0395] The triggering system 400′ of the alternative embodiment of the apparatus can include an energy storing element that is used in the final stage of the closure element 500 delivery process. The energy storing element, which can be a spring such as the pusher spring 425′ shown in FIGS. 10A-10B, can be substantially retained in a spring cavity 417′ formed in the carrier block 410′ and coaxially surrounds a proximal portion 310a′ of the carrier member 310′. The pusher spring 425′ can be capable of expanding and contracting, storing potential energy as it is contracted and releasing energy as it expands. In its fully expanded state, the pusher spring 425′ can have a length that is greater than the length of the spring cavity 417′. The cross-sectional dimension of the pusher spring 425′ can be such that it backs up against and contacts the proximal end of the pusher block 420′. Thus, when the pusher spring 425′ is in place between the carrier block 410′ and the pusher block 420′, the pusher spring 425′ can be capable of imparting a force biasing the carrier block 410′ away from the pusher block 420′.

[0396] Prior to delivery of the closure element 500, the distal end of the carrier block 410′ can be in physical contact with the proximal end of the pusher block 420′. In this pre-delivery condition, the pusher spring 425′ can be in a contracted state and can be maintained fully within the spring cavity 417′ formed in the carrier block 410′. A catch member 418′ can serve the function of maintaining the carrier block 410′ and pusher block 420′ in the pre-delivery condition against the spring force of the pusher spring 425′, the force of which would otherwise force apart the carrier block 410′ from the pusher block 420′. The catch member 418′ can be a U-shaped piece of metal, plastic, or other rigid material that engages a first groove 418a formed on the surface of the carrier block 410′ and a second groove 418b formed on the surface of the pusher block 420′. The pusher block 420′ can include a hole 426′ extending through a portion thereof, with one end of the hole 426′ opening into the groove 418b. The hole 426′ can be adapted to receive a trip pin 427′. During the closure element deployment process, the trip pin 427′ can be advanced through the hole 426′, where it can encounter the catch member 418′ that is retained in the groove 418b. Further advancement of the trip pin 427′ can cause the catch member 418′ to become disengaged from the groove 418b, thereby releasing the restraining force on the pusher spring 425′.

[0397] The operation of the triggering system 400′ of the alternative embodiment of the apparatus 100′ is illustrated in FIGS. 11-14 with the closure element 500 (shown in FIGS. 6A-6B) disposed substantially within the apparatus 100′. As shown in FIGS. 11A-11B, the apparatus can have an initial position in which the locator assembly block 280′ is extended proximally and the triggering system 400′ is in its most proximal position. Accordingly, the locator control system 200′ is in its unexpanded state, as shown. At a point in time that the distal end region 210b′ of the locator assembly 200′ has been positioned as desired (for example, within the blood vessel 600), the locator assembly block 280 is depressed distally, as shown in FIG. 12, thereby transitioning the locator assembly to the expanded state and, simultaneously, releasing the triggering system 400′ from the initial position (in the manner described above) such that the triggering system can be advanced distally within the housing 380′.

[0398] The triggering system 400′ can be advanced distally within the housing 380′, thereby advancing the tube set 305 into position adjacent the blood vessel. At a first predetermined position, shown in FIG. 13, the support block 440′ can encounter a support stop (not shown) on the interior surface of the housing bottom half 380d that inhibits the support block 440′ from advancing further distally. As a result, an application of additional distal force to the triggering system 400′ can cause the support block 440′ to decouple from the carrier block 410′, as shown in FIG. 13. More specifically, the tabs 445a-b on the forks 444a-b of the support block 440′ can disengage from the grooves 413a-b on the carrier block 410′. Thus, the support block 440′ can remain in the position shown in FIG. 13, while the carrier block 410′ is able to advance further distally upon application of force to the triggering system 400′.

[0399] Turning to FIGS. 14A-14B, as the triggering system 400′ can be advanced further distally, the cover block 430′ engages a cover stop on the interior surface near the distal end of the housing 380′, thereby inhibiting additional distal advancement of the cover block 430′. In addition, the trigger extension 405′ can engage the handle 391′ on the exterior of the apparatus, thereby inhibiting additional distal advancement of the carrier block 410′. At this point, the distal end of the tube set corresponds generally to the state illustrated in FIG. 8G, prior to deployment of the closure element 500.

[0400] The closure element 500 can be deployed by releasing the pusher spring 425′, which causes the pusher block 420′ (and, thus, the pusher member 320′) to advance distally, deploying the closure element in the manner described above. The pusher spring 425′ can be released by disengaging the catch member 418′ from the groove 418b on the pusher block 420′, thereby releasing the pusher spring 425′ to force the pusher block 420′ and, thus, the pusher member 320′—distally relative to the carrier block 410′. This action can cause the pusher member 320′ to deploy the closure element 500, as shown, for example, in FIGS. 8H-8L. The catch member 418′ can be disengaged from the groove 418b by applying a force to the trigger 401′, which, in the deployment position, is aligned with the trip pin 427′ retained in the pusher block 420′. A trigger spring 402′ can bias the trigger outward relative to the housing 380′. The user can apply an inward directed force to the trigger 401′ to counteract the biasing force of the trigger spring 402′ and force the trigger 401′ against the trip pin 427′.

[0401] In addition to deploying the closure element 500, the distal advancement of the pusher block 420′ can also cause the locator release system 490′ to activate, thereby transitioning the locator control system 200′ from the expanded state to the unexpanded state. As the pusher block 420′ advances distally to deploy the closure element 500′ in the manner described above, the pusher block 420′ can also engage the engagement member 493′ of the locator release system 490′ and advances the locator release rod 491′ distally. This action can cause the release tab spacer block 492′ to disengage from the release tabs 284a-b on the locator assembly block 280′ (see FIG. 15), thereby releasing the locator assembly block 280′, which returns to its proximal position, causing the locator assembly 200′ to return to the unexpanded state.

[0402] The closure element 500 deployment and locator release actions can occur nearly simultaneously, as illustrated in FIGS. 8I-8K. As described previously, the apparatus 100 can be brought into contact with the blood vessel 600 by inserting and advancing the distal end of the apparatus through an introducer sheath 640 to the blood vessel location. The use of an introducer sheath 640 is not necessary, as the apparatus can be used to deploy the closure element 500 without the use of an introducer sheath 640. Furthermore, as described above, when an introducer sheath 640 is used, the locator assembly 200, 200′ and the carrier assembly 300, 300′ may have cross-sectional dimensions that allow them to be received within the introducer sheath 640 either without causing radial expansion or splitting of the sheath, or with causing radial expansion or splitting of the sheath. If the relative cross-sectional dimensions of the introducer sheath 640 and carrier assembly 300, 300′ are such that the introducer sheath 640 is intended to be split during advancement of the carrier assembly 300, 200′, a sheath cutter 701′ having a pointed tip 702′ may be utilized to initiate a split at the proximal end of the introducer sheath 640. The sheath cutter 701′ can be advantageously placed coaxially over the cover member 330′ and can be attached to the distal end of the housing 380′ (FIGS. 11A-11B), whereby it will initiate a split in the introducer sheath 640. Distal advancement of the carrier assembly 300, 300′ causes the initial split at the proximal end of the sheath to advance as the carrier assembly 300, 300′ advances, as will be understood by those skilled in the art.

[0403] Another alternative embodiment of a clip applier for sealing openings through tissue is shown in FIGS. 16-19. The embodiment of FIGS. 16-19, as described below, has many identical or similar structures that perform identical or similar functions to the embodiments described above and in reference to the preceding Figures. Accordingly, the description below should be considered in view of the descriptions above of the preceding embodiments. Furthermore, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that one or more of the components and/or features of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 16-19 may also be incorporated in the previously described embodiments, as those components and/or features of the previously described embodiments may optionally be incorporated in the embodiment described below and in reference to FIGS. 16-19.

[0404] Turning to FIGS. 16 and 16A, the device 1001 can be adapted for use in conjunction with a guidewire in an over the wire deployment method described below. The device 1001 can have a generally elongated body that includes, beginning at its proximal end, an actuator cap 1280, a generally cylindrical actuator housing 1800, a generally cylindrical release barrel 1810, a generally cylindrical main housing 1380, and a distal extension 1010. Several components of a locator assembly, a carrier assembly, and a triggering system can be contained within the main housing 1380, as described more fully below in relation to FIGS. 18 and 19. The distal extension 1010 of the device can include an external protective sheath 1012 that covers the distal portions of the locator assembly and carrier assembly. The distal end region 1210b of the locator assembly can extend out of the distal end of the protective sheath 1012.

[0405] With particular reference to FIG. 16A, the distal end region 1210b of the locator assembly can include expansion elements 1230 that include substantially flexible members 1230′. The substantially flexible members 1230′ can be selectively controllable between an unexpanded state (as shown in FIG. 16A) and an expanded state, generally in the manner described above in relation to FIGS. 2A-2D. As shown in FIG. 16A, the locator assembly of the alternative embodiment of the device 1001 can be provided with a central lumen 1003, which can be of a diameter sufficient to accommodate a standard guidewire or other structure, as appropriate. As described below, the central lumen 1003 can extend through the length of the locator assembly and, thus, through the length of the device 1001.

[0406] Turning again to FIG. 16, the main housing 1380 can include a pair of grips 1392a-b integrally formed on opposite sides of the main housing 1380. The distal end of the main housing 1380 can be gradually tapered 1382, with the protective sheath 1012 extending out of its distal end. A cylindrical counter spring 1386 can be located coaxially on the external surface of the main housing 1380 and rests, at its distal end, against a shoulder 1384 formed in the main housing just proximal to the section of the main housing upon which the grips 1392 are formed. The proximal end of the counter spring 1386 can rest against the release barrel 1810, biasing the release barrel 1810 proximally in relation to the shoulder 1384 formed on the main housing 1380. The release barrel 1810 is generally cylindrical and coaxially surrounds the main housing 1380. A mechanical linkage 1812 can connect the release barrel 1810 to a release lever 1814 that cooperates with an actuator block 1282, as described more fully below in reference to FIGS. 18 and 19. A longitudinal slot 1388 can be formed on each of the main housing 1380 and the release barrel 1810, through which extends a lever 1405 that, as described below, is used to advance the carrier assembly in the distal direction to operate the device 1001.

[0407] A calibration set screw 1818 can be located on the release barrel 1810 near the distal end of the slot 1388. As the user advances the lever 1405 distally to deploy the closure element 500 similar to that described above and shown in FIGS. 6A-6G, the lever 1405 will eventually engage the calibration set screw 1818. As described below, further distal advancement of the lever 1405 can cause the actuator block 1282 to release, thereby causing the locator assembly to release the expansion elements 1230 and 1230′ from the expanded state to the unexpanded state. Thus, the setting of the calibration set screw 1818 can allow the user to fine tune the synchronization of the release of the locator assembly with the deployment of the closure element 500, as described below.

[0408] The actuator housing 1800 can be attached by a screw 1802 to the proximal end of the main housing 1380, and extends proximally from the main housing 1380. A longitudinal slot 1804 can be formed in the actuator housing 1800 to accommodate the release lever 1814 and the linkage 1812 (FIGS. 18-19). The actuator cap 1280 can extend out from the proximal end of the actuator housing 1800. The actuator cap 1280 can be a generally cylindrical body that is coaxial with and generally internal of the actuator housing 1800. The actuator cap 1280 can include a slide seal 1288 at its proximal end that is slidable and that provides a fluid-tight seal, as described in more detail below. Additional details concerning the actuator are described below in reference to FIGS. 18 and 19.

[0409] Turning to FIGS. 17 and 17A, the proximal end of the device is shown in more detail. As shown, the slide seal 1288 on the actuator cap 1280 has been slid to an open position to expose the interior of the actuator. The slide seal 1288 can be provided with a pair of tabs 1287 that cooperates with a pair of slots 1289 formed on the proximal end of the actuator cap 1280 to allow the slide seal 1288 to slide in relation to the actuator cap 1280. The actuator cap 1280 can include a seal 1281, such as an o-ring, that provides a fluid tight seal with the slide seal 1288.

[0410] As described above and as shown in FIGS. 17 and 17A, the central lumen 1003 can extend longitudinally through the center of the device and is accessible at the proximal end of the actuator cap 1280 when the slide seal 1288 is in the open position. Additional details concerning the central lumen 1003 are described below in relation to the additional Figures.

[0411] FIG. 17 provides additional detail concerning the shape and orientation of the grips 1392a-b formed on the main housing. As shown, the grips 1392a-b can extend radially outward on opposite sides of a point near the distal end of the main housing 1380, and provide the user with the ability to grip the housing with two fingers while operating the lever 1405 with the user's thumb. Also shown in FIGS. 17 and 17A is the slot 1804 formed in the actuator housing 1800 to accommodate the release lever 1814.

[0412] FIGS. 18, 18A, and 18B show a cross-section of the proximal portion of the device 1001, including the previously described main housing 1380, the release barrel 1810 located coaxially in a slidable relation on the external surface of the main housing, the counter spring 1386 that biases the release barrel proximally relative to the shoulder 1384 formed on the main housing, the actuator housing 1800 extending proximally from the proximal end of the main housing, the linkage 1812 and release lever 1814 connected to the release barrel 1810, and the actuator cap 1280 extending proximally from the proximal end of the actuator housing 1800. The actuator cap 1280 can be attached to, or formed integrally with, an actuator block 1282 that is generally cylindrical and that is adapted to slide longitudinally within an actuator base 1284. The actuator base 1284, in turn, can be attached by the screw 1802 to the proximal end of the main housing 1380 and the distal end of the actuator housing 1800, as shown in FIG. 18.

[0413] The central lumen 1003 is shown extending through the length of the device along its longitudinal axis. The central lumen 1003 can be defined by the interior diameter of the tubular body 1210 of the locator assembly 1200, which extends from the proximal end region 1210a to a distal end region 1210b (FIG. 16A). The proximal end region 1210a of the tubular body 1210 can be attached or otherwise connected to the actuator block 1282 such that when the actuator block 1282 is advanced distally the tubular body 1210 is also advanced distally, thereby causing the flexible members 1230′ to buckle and/or expand transversely outwardly, (in the manner described above, for example, in relation to FIGS. 2A-2D), thereby transitioning the distal end region 1210b of the locator assembly 1200 from the unexpanded state to the expanded state. For example, in FIG. 18, the actuator cap 1280 is shown in the extended position, consistent with the locator assembly 1200 being in the unexpanded state. In FIG. 19, the actuator cap 1280 is shown in the depressed position, consistent with the locator assembly 1200 being in the expanded state. An actuator spring 1286 can be located in a chamber 1285 formed within the interior of the device between the distal end of the actuator block 1282 and the actuator base 1284 attached to the proximal end of the main housing 1380 and the distal end of the actuator housing 1800. The actuator spring 1286 can bias the actuator block 1282 in the proximal direction. Depressing the actuator cap 1280 can cause the actuator spring 1286 to compress within the chamber 1285. Once the actuator cap is fully depressed, the release lever 1814 can be rotated inwardly such that a catch 1816 formed on the release lever engages a slot 1283 formed on the actuator block 1282, thereby holding the actuator block 1282 in place in the depressed position against the spring force of the actuator spring 1286. The release lever 1814 may be disengaged, thus transitioning the locator assembly 1200 from the expanded state to the unexpanded state, either by manually releasing the release lever 1814 from the actuator block 1282 and allowing the actuator block to extend proximally, or by advancing the carrier assembly lever 1405 distally to engage the calibration set screw 1818 on the release barrel 1810 and applying additional distal force to the lever 1405 (and, thus, the release barrel 1810) to cause the release lever 1814 to disengage from the actuator block 1282.

[0414] A tube set 1305 can be located within the interior of the main housing 1380, extending distally through the distal extension 1010. The tube set 1305 shown in FIG. 18 includes a carrier tube 1310, a pusher tube 1320, and a cover tube 1330, each located in a coaxial orientation with each other and with the tubular body 1210 of the locator assembly 1200. The tube set 1305 can have a structure otherwise substantially identical to that described above in relation to FIGS. 3A-3E. The cover tube 1330 can be connected or otherwise attached at its proximal end to a cover block 1430. The pusher tube 1320, similarly, can be connected or otherwise attached at its proximal end to a pusher block 1420. Finally, the carrier tube 1310 can be connected or otherwise attached at its proximal end to a carrier block 1410. The lever 1405 can be attached to the pusher block 1420. Thus, any movement of the lever 1405 may cause the pusher block 1420 to move as well.

[0415] A leaf spring 1418 can connect the carrier block 1410 to the pusher block 1420, as shown in FIG. 18B. The leaf spring 1418 can be generally flat and can extend longitudinally parallel to the central axis of the device. A lip 1419 can be formed on the distal end of the leaf spring 1418, the lip 1419 oriented such that it engages the distal end of the pusher block 1420, effectively locking the pusher block 1420 to the carrier block 1410 until the leaf spring 1418 is disengaged from the pusher block 1420, as described below. As long as the pusher block 1420 is thereby locked to the carrier block 1410, advancement of the lever 1405 may cause advancement of the combination of the carrier block 1410 and the pusher block 1420.

[0416] A guide pin 1900 can be located and fixed on the interior of the main housing 1380, and can extend proximally from the distal wall of the interior of the main housing. The guide pin 1900 can be received within a slot 1902 formed in the pusher block 1420 and cover block 1430, and can prevent the pusher block 1420 and cover block 1430 from rotating inside the main housing 1380.

[0417] A grooved pin 1910 can be located and fixed on the interior of the main housing 1380, and can extend proximally from the distal wall of the interior of the main housing 1380. The grooved pin 1910 can be located on an opposite side of the interior of the main housing from the guide pin 1900. The grooved pin 1910 can have a taper 1912 formed on its proximal end and a transverse groove 1914 formed just distally from the beginning of the taper 1912. The location and orientation of the grooved pin 1910 can be such that the taper 1912 formed on the grooved pin 1910 engages and lifts the leaf spring 1418 from its engagement with the pusher block 1420 as the pusher block 1420 and carrier block 1410 are advanced distally within the device. As the pusher block 1420 and carrier block 1410 are advanced still further, the lip 1419 formed on the leaf spring 1418 can engage and lock in place in the transverse groove 1914 formed on the grooved pin 1910, thereby preventing the carrier block 1410 (and, thus, the carrier tube 1310) from advancing any further distally. This position of the device also corresponds to the engagement of the lever 1405 with the calibration set screw 1818 (FIG. 16). Any additional distal movement of the lever 1405 may cause the pusher block 1420 to move further distally while the carrier block 1410 remains stationary, thus causing the pusher tube 1320 to deploy the closure element 1500, in the manner described above in relation to FIGS. 8A-8L. This additional distal movement of the lever 1405 may simultaneously cause the release barrel 1810 to move distally and to disengage the release lever 1814 from the actuator block 1282, thereby releasing the actuator block 1282 and causing the locator assembly 1200 to transition from the expanded state to the unexpanded state.

[0418] Referring now to FIGS. 20A-20G, methods of use of the device 1001 in accordance with the present invention will be described. As previously described above and shown in FIGS. 16-19, the device 1001 can be configured to deploy a closure element 500 over a wire, wherein the over the wire deployment method utilizing the device 1001 described herein may for example include the following steps, though methods of use associated with the apparatus should not be limited to those described herein or shown in the appended drawings.

[0419] Referring now to FIG. 20A, there is shown a vessel wall 620 disposed below a patient's tissue 630 and skin 650, wherein a guidewire 1950 is shown disposed through an opening formed in the vessel and tissue as described above. The guidewire 1950 may be introduced into the blood vessel for the sole purpose of using the device 1001 to deploy the closure element 500″, or the guidewire may have already been present from a previously completed interventional procedure. If an introducer sheath is in place, it should be removed prior to use of the apparatus 1001, thereby leaving the guidewire 1950 in place extending into the blood vessel.

[0420] As shown in FIG. 20B, the device 1001 can be threaded over the guidewire 1950 by inserting the proximal end of the guidewire 1950 into the central lumen of the device 1001 at the distal end of the device, the guidewire is disposed through the device and exits at the proximal end of the device. The device 1001 can be advanced along the guidewire until the distal end 210b of the locator assembly is disposed through the opening formed in the blood vessel as shown in FIG. 20C, whereby the correct position of the device is confirmed by observing a slight flow of blood out of the proximal end of the device, through the open slide seal 1288 on the actuator cap 1280 (FIG. 18).

[0421] Once the correct position of the device is confirmed, the actuator cap 1280 can be depressed (i.e., the actuator block 1282 is advanced distally) to deploy the flexible members on the distal end 210b of the locator assembly, i.e., to transition the locator assembly from the unexpanded state to the expanded state. In the expanded state, the flexible members can engage the inside of the vessel wall at the location of the opening in the blood vessel as shown in FIG. 20D. The correct position of the device at this point may be confirmed by gently pulling on the device to feel the resistance of the vessel wall against the flexible members in the expanded state as shown in FIG. 20E. After verifying the correct position in this manner, the guidewire may be removed from the vessel and from the device by withdrawing the guidewire through the proximal end of the device. Once the guidewire is removed, the slide seal 1288 on the actuator cap 1280 may be closed to prevent further flow of blood through the device.

[0422] Referring now to FIGS. 20F and 20G, the device 1001 is in the proper position to deploy the closure element 500″. The closure element 500″ can be deployed by advancing the lever 1405, which advances the carrier block 1410, pusher block 1420, and cover block 1430 until further distal advancement of the carrier block 1410 and cover block 1430 are prevented by the interaction of the leaf spring 1418 engaging and locking in place in the transverse groove 1914 formed on the grooved pin 1910, thereby preventing the carrier block 1410 (and, thus, the carrier tube 1310) from advancing any further distally. Further distal advancement of the lever 1405 thereafter can cause advancement only of the pusher block 1420, which causes deployment of the closure element 500 in the identical manner described above, for example, in relation to FIGS. 8H-L. In addition, further distal advancement of the lever 1405 can cause the lever 1405 simultaneously to engage the release barrel 1810, which in turn pulls the release lever 1814 and frees the actuator block 1282 to spring back proximally, transitioning the locator assembly 1200 from the expanded state to the unexpanded state. The closure element deployment and locator release actions can occur nearly simultaneously, as illustrated, for example, in FIGS. 8I-8K.

[0423] As shown in FIG. 20G, the closure element 500 is shown in a deployed position, wherein the closure element has been engaged with the vessel wall to effectively close the opening formed therein. As previously described and shown in FIGS. 20F and 20G, the closure element 500 can be expanded as it is deployed from the device 1001, wherein by increasing the diameter of the closure element 500, the closure element may engage tissue adjacent the opening in the tissue. It is contemplated that the closure element may be configured to penetrate the vessel wall to effect a closure, or partially penetrate the vessel wall to effect closure.

[0424] Another alternative embodiment of a clip applier for sealing openings through tissue is shown in FIGS. 21A-21E. The embodiment of FIGS. 21A-21E, as described below, has many identical or similar structures that perform identical or similar functions to the embodiments described above and in reference to the preceding figures. Accordingly, the description below should be considered in view of the descriptions above of the preceding embodiments. Furthermore, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that one or more of the components and/or features of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 21A-21E may also be incorporated in the previously described embodiments, as those components and/or features of the previously described embodiments may optionally be incorporated in the embodiment described below and in reference to FIGS. 21A-21E.

[0425] Turning to FIGS. 21A-21E, the carrier assembly 2000 can include a tube set 2305 having a carrier tube 2310, a pusher tube 2320, a support tube 2340, and a cover tube 2330. The carrier tube 2310, the pusher tube 2320, the support tube 2340, and the cover tube 2330 can be provided as a plurality of nested, telescoping tubes with a common longitudinal axis 2350 as illustrated in FIG. 21A. While the carrier assembly 2000 is described as having a tube set 2305, such tubes can be exchanged with other members with substantially similar functionalities as described herein.

[0426] As shown, the carrier tube 2310 can be configured to receive and support the closure element 2500. While being disposed on the carrier tube 2310, the closure element 2500 can be deformed from the natural, planar orientation to form the substantially tubular orientation (shown in FIGS. 6F-6G). Being disposed substantially about and supported by an outer periphery 2312 of the carrier tube 2310, the substantially tubular closure element 2500 can be substantially in axial alignment with the carrier tube 2310 with the tines 2520 pointed substantially distally and parallel with the tube set 2305.

[0427] Additionally, the carrier assembly 2000 can be operable with a splitter 2012. The splitter 2012 can be configured to include at least one splitting face 2014 that can split various members of the tube set 2305. Also, the splitter 2012 can be configured to radially dilate or outwardly expand the tines 2520 or body of the substantially tubular closure element 2500 by having a splitter body that increases in cross-section from the proximal end 2012a to the distal end 2012b. Also, the splitter 2012 can be moved axially with respect to the tubes of the tube set 2305 by being coupled via a coupling to a wire 2010, such as a guide wire, in order to facilitate placement of the closure element 2500. However, the wire 2010 can be substituted with a tube, rod, elongate member, or the like. Moreover, the splitter 2012 can cooperate with tubes of the tube set 2305 that are configured to split so that the tubes can expand around the splitter 2012 and increase in outer diameter as they move distally with respect to the splitter 2012, which can be useful for directing the tines 2520 in an outward-radial direction.

[0428] As shown in FIG. 21B, the carrier tube 2310 can have a proximal end region 2310a and a distal end region 2310b. Also, the carrier tube 2310 can include a predetermined length 2318a, a predetermined outer diameter 2318b, and a predetermined inner diameter 2318c, any of which can be of any suitable dimension. The carrier tube 2310 can be formed as a substantially rigid, semi-rigid, or flexible tubular member; however, other suitable configurations can also be employed. The carrier tube 2310 can define a lumen 2314 that extends substantially between the proximal end region 2310a and the distal end region 2310b, and can be configured to slide relative to the other tubes in the tube set 2305 disposed in the lumen 2314.

[0429] As illustrated, the carrier tube 2310 can include a body 2311 that is configured to radially expand either by stretching or by including slits 2022 in the body 2311 that provide the carrier tube 2310 with regions along which the carrier tube 2310 can split or separate into multiple portions. As shown, the slits 2022 are generally longitudinally oriented along the lumen; however, other orientations can be used, such as spirals, zigzags (shown in FIG. 23A), or the like. As such, the carrier tube 2310 can have a splitting end 2016 at the distal end region 2310b configured to split and separate by movement of the splitter 2012 and/or the carrier tube 2310. The splitting end 2016 can include a plurality of slit openings 2018a-b that provide a splitting region or portion along which the carrier tube 2310 can separate when receiving a force, such as when the splitter 2012 moves from the distal end 2310b toward the proximal end 2310a of the carrier tube 2310. The slit openings 2018 can be spaced apart by portions of the splitting end 2016 that become carrier flap ends 2020 after the distal end region 2310b becomes split. Additionally, the body 2311 can include slits 2022 that extend partially or completely along the length 2318a of the carrier tube 2310. The slits 2022 can be continuous, intermittent, or composed of perforations. The slits 2022 can (i) extend radially from the lumen to the outer periphery 2312 of the carrier tube 2310, (ii) partially extend radially from the lumen toward the outer periphery 2312 of the carrier tube 2310, or (iii) partially extend radially from the outer periphery 2312 of the carrier tube 2310 toward the lumen. For example, when the splitter 2012 interacts with the carrier tube 2310, the slits 2022a and 2022b can split and separate so as to form carrier flaps 2024. The carrier flaps 2024 can bend or deform outwardly, and carry the closure element 2500 during deployment.

[0430] In an alternative to other embodiments, the outer diameter 2318b of the carrier tube 2310 can be substantially uniform such that the distal end region 2310b of the carrier tube 2310 has a cross-section similar to the proximal end region 2310a. However, it may be beneficial for the distal end region 2310b to be expandable or configured in such a way that the outer diameter 2318b can selectively expand or bend outwardly so that the closure element 2500 and/or tines 2520 can be expanded during deployment. This can include expanding at least the distal end of the substantially tubular closure element 2500 beyond the natural cross-section when being deployed; however, the entire closure element 2500 can be expanded with the distal end being expanded before the proximal end. The carrier flaps 2024 separate and radially expand or bend outwardly so as to expand the closure element 2500.

[0431] As shown in FIG. 21C, the pusher tube 2320 can be configured to distally push and/or deploy the substantially tubular closure element 2500. As such, the pusher tube 2320 can have a proximal end region 2320a and a distal end region 2320b and can be coupled with, and slidable relative to, the carrier tube 2310. The pusher tube 2320 can include a predetermined length 2328a, a predetermined outer diameter 2328b, and a predetermined inner diameter 2328c, any of which can be of any suitable dimension. The pusher tube 2320 can be configured to slidably receive the carrier member 2310 in the lumen 2324 of the pusher tube 2320 such that the distal end region 2320b of the pusher tube 2320 can be offset proximally from the distal end region 2310b of the carrier tube 2310. As desired, the predetermined length 2328a of the pusher tube 2320 can be greater than or substantially equal to the predetermined length 2318a of the carrier tube 2310. The predetermined length 2328a of the pusher tube 2320, however, can be less than the predetermined length 2318a of the carrier tube 2310 such that the carrier tube 2310 and the pusher tube 2320 at least partially define a space 2360 distal to the distal end region 2320b of the pusher tube 2320 and along the periphery 2312 of the carrier tube 2310. The space 2360 can be configured for housing or containing the closure element 2500.

[0432] The pusher tube 2320 can be formed from a substantially rigid, semi-rigid, or flexible material. Also, the pusher tube 2320 can be substantially tubular and can define a lumen 2324 that extends substantially between the proximal end region 2320a and the distal end region 2320b. The pusher tube 2320 can be configured to slidably receive at least a portion of the carrier tube 2310 so that the inner diameter 2328c of the pusher tube 2320 is equal to or larger than the outer diameter 2318b of the carrier tube 2310. The outer diameter 2328b and/or inner chamber 2328c of the pusher tube 2320 can be substantially uniform. Also, the distal end region 2320b of the pusher tube 2320 can have one or more longitudinal extensions 2325, which extend distally from the pusher tube 2320 and along the periphery 2312 of the carrier tube 2310. Optionally, the longitudinal extensions 2325 can be biased such that the longitudinal extensions 2325 extend generally in parallel with a common longitudinal axis 2350, which can be at the guidewire 2010. The longitudinal extensions 2325 can be sufficiently flexible to expand radially or bend outwardly, and yet sufficiently rigid to inhibit buckling, as the distal end region 2320b is directed distally along the carrier tube 2310 and engages the substantially tubular closure element 2500 for deployment.

[0433] Additionally, the pusher tube 2320 can include a body 2321 that is configured to radially expand either by stretching or by including slits 2032 in the body 2321 that can separate along the lumen 2324. As shown, the slits 2032 are generally longitudinally oriented; however, other orientations can be used, such as spirals, zigzags (shown in FIG. 23B), or the like. As such, the pusher tube 2320 can have a splitting end 2026 at the distal end region 2320b configured to split and separate, which can be induced by the splitter 2012. The splitting end 2026 can include a plurality of slit openings 2028a-b that can separate when receiving a force, such as when the splitter 2012 moves from the distal end 2320b toward the proximal end 2320a of the pusher tube 2320. The slit openings 2028a-b can be spaced apart by portions of the splitting end 2026 that become pushing flap ends 2030 after being split. Additionally, the body 2321 can include slits 2032 that extend partially or completely along the length 2328a of the pusher tube 2320, and can be continuous or intermittent, or composed of perforations. The slits 2032 can (i) extend radially from the lumen 2324 to the outer periphery 2322, (ii) partially extend radially from the lumen 2324 toward the outer periphery 2322, or (iii) partially extend radially from the outer periphery 2322 toward the lumen 2324. For example, when the splitter 2012 interacts with the pusher tube 2320, the slits 2032a and 2032b can split and separate so as to form pusher flaps 2034. The pusher flaps 2034 can then retain the pushing capability so as to push the closure element 2500 during deployment.

[0434] As shown in FIGS. 21A and 21D, a cover tube 2330 can be configured to retain the substantially tubular closure element 2500 substantially within the carrier assembly 2000 prior to deployment. Being coupled with, and slidable relative to, the pusher tube 2320, the cover tube 2330 can have a proximal end region 2330a and a distal end region 2330b. Also, the cover tube 2330 can include a predetermined length 2338a, a predetermined outer diameter 2338b, and a predetermined inner diameter 2338c, any of which can be of any suitable dimension.

[0435] The cover tube 2330 can be formed as a substantially rigid, semi-rigid, or flexible tubular member. Also, the cover tube 2330 can have an outer periphery 2332 and have a body 2331 that defines a lumen 2334. The lumen 2334 can extend substantially between the proximal and distal end regions 2330a, 2330b of the cover tube 2330, and it can be configured to slidably receive at least a portion of the pusher tube 2320 or any member of the tube set 2305. When the cover tube 2330 is positioned within the carrier assembly 2000, the distal end region 2330b can be configured to extend over the space 2360, thereby defining an annular cavity 2370 for receiving, retaining, and deploying the substantially tubular closure element 2500.

[0436] The outer diameter 2338b and/or inner diameter 2338c of the cover tube 2330 can be substantially uniform along the length 2338a, or vary in dimensions as desired. Additionally, the distal end region 2330b of the cover tube 2330 can include one or more longitudinal extensions 2335, which extend distally from the cover tube 2330 and along an outer periphery 2322 of the pusher tube 2320. Although the longitudinal extensions 2335 can extend generally in parallel with a common longitudinal axis 2350, the longitudinal extensions 2335 can also be biased such that the plurality of longitudinal extensions 2335 extend substantially radially inwardly. Thereby, the longitudinal extensions 2335 can at least partially close the lumen 2334 substantially adjacent to the distal end region 2330b of the cover tube 2330. To permit the substantially tubular closure element 2500 to be deployed from the annular cavity 2370, the longitudinal extensions 2335 can be sufficiently flexible to expand or bend radially outward so as to permit the distal end region 2310b of the carrier tube 2310 to move distally past the cover tube 2330 to open the annular cavity 2370 such that the distal end region 2330b no longer extends over the space 2360.

[0437] As shown in FIGS. 21A and 21E, the tube set 2305 can include a support tube 2340. The support tube 2340 can be configured to slidably receive the wire 2010 that is coupled to the splitter 2012. The support tube 2340 can also provide radial support for the other tubes within the tube set 2305. The carrier assembly 2000 can advantageously include the support tube 2340, for example, to provide sufficient support to the carrier tube 2310 in the instance it is not sufficiently rigid or under other circumstances in which support for the carrier tube 2310 or other tubes in the tube set 2305 might be desirable. Also, the support tube 2340 can include slits (not shown) that can provide a region of separation similar to those described with respect to the carrier tube 2310 and/or pusher tube 2320.

[0438] The support tube 2340 can be formed as a substantially rigid, semi-rigid, or flexible tubular member, and have a proximal end region 2340a and a distal end region 2340b. A body 2342 of the support tube 2340 can define a lumen 2344 that extends substantially between the proximal end region 2340a and the distal end region 2340b. The lumen 2344 can be configured to slidably receive and support at least a portion of the wire 2010 or other type of movable member coupled to the splitter 2012. The support tube 2340, in turn, can be at least partially slidably disposed within the lumen 2314 of the carrier tube 2310 such that the wire 2010 may be disposed within, and slidable relative to, the carrier member 2310.

[0439] The support tube 2340 can have a predetermined length 2348a, a predetermined outer diameter 2348b, and a predetermined inner diameter 2348c, any of which can be of any suitable dimension. Also, the outer diameter 2348b of the support tube 2340 can be substantially uniform and smaller than inner diameter 2318c of the carrier tube 2310, and the inner diameter 2348c of the support tube 2340 can be larger than the size of the wire 2010, a locator tube, or other type of movable member operably coupled to the splitter 2012.

[0440] In the instance the carrier assembly 2000 is assembled as the plurality of nested, telescoping members as shown in FIG. 21A, the carrier tube 2310 can be at least partially disposed within, and slidable relative to, the lumen 2324 of the pusher tube 2320. The pusher tube 2320, in turn, can be at least partially disposed within, and slidable relative to, the lumen 2334 of the cover tube 2330. To operably couple the carrier assembly 2000 with the splitter 2012, the wire 2010 can be at least partially disposed within, and slidable relative to, the lumen 2314 of the carrier tube 2310. In the instance the carrier assembly 2000 includes a support tube 2340 as depicted, the wire 2010 can be disposed within, and slidable relative to, the lumen 2344 of the support tube 2340. The longitudinal axis of the wire 2010 can be substantially in axial alignment with the common longitudinal axis 2350 of the carrier tube 2310, the pusher tube 2320, the cover tube 2330, and/or the support tube 2340. Although shown and described as being substantially separate for purposes of illustration, it will be appreciated that the carrier tube 2310, the pusher tube 2320, the cover tube 2330, and/or the support tub 2340 can be provided, in whole or in part, as one or more integrated assemblies, and the various tubes may be combined.

[0441] Another alternative embodiment of a closure element carrier system having a tube splitter for sealing openings through tissue is shown in FIGS. 22A-22E. The embodiment of FIGS. 22A-22E, as described below, has many identical or similar structures that perform identical or similar functions to the embodiments described above and in reference to the preceding figures. Accordingly, the description below should be considered in view of the descriptions above of the preceding embodiments. Furthermore, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that one or more of the components and/or features of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 22A-22E may also be incorporated in the previously described embodiments, and those components and/or features of the previously described embodiments may optionally be incorporated in the embodiment described below and in reference to FIGS. 22A-22E.

[0442] Turning to FIGS. 22A-22E, the carrier assembly 2002 can include a tube set 2605 having a carrier tube 2610, a pusher tube 2620, a splitter tube 2680, and a cover tube 2630. The carrier tube 2610, the pusher tube 2620, the splitter tube 2680, and the cover tube 2630 can be provided as a plurality of nested, telescoping tubes with a common longitudinal axis 2650 as illustrated in FIG. 22A. While the carrier assembly 2002 is described by including a tube set 2605, such tubes can be exchanged with other members with substantially similar functionalities as described herein.

[0443] As shown, the carrier tube 2610 can be configured to receive and support the closure element 2500. While being disposed on the carrier tube 2610, the closure element 2500 can be deformed from the natural, planar orientation to form the substantially tubular orientation (shown in FIGS. 6F-6G). Being disposed substantially about, and supported by, an outer periphery 2612 of the carrier tube 2610, the substantially tubular closure element 2500 can be substantially in axial alignment with the carrier tube 2610 with the tines 2520 pointed substantially distally and parallel with the tube set 2605.

[0444] Additionally, the carrier assembly 2002 can be operable with a splitter tube 2680, which includes a support tube 2640 coupled to a splitter 2070. The splitter 2070 can be configured to include at least one splitting face 2074 that can split various members of the tube set 2605. Also, the splitter 2070 can be configured to radially-dilate or outwardly expand the tines 2520 or body of the substantially tubular closure element 2500. In part, this is because the splitter 2070 can have a body that increases in dimension from the proximal end 2070a to the distal end 2070b. Also, the splitter 2070 can be moved axially by moving the splitter tube 2680 with respect to the other tubes of the tube set 2605 in order to facilitate placement of the closure element 2500. Moreover, the splitter tube 2680 can cooperate with the other tubes of the tube set 2605 that are configured to split so that the tubes can expand around the splitter and increase in outer diameter or bend outwardly as they move distally with respect to the splitter 2070, which can be useful for expanding the closure element 2500 and/or directing the tines 2520 in an outward-radial direction.

[0445] As shown in FIG. 22B, the carrier tube 2610 can have a proximal end region 2610a and a distal end region 2610b. Also, the carrier tube 2610 can include a predetermined length 2618a, a predetermined outer diameter 2618b, and a predetermined inner diameter 2618c, any of which can be of any suitable dimension. The carrier tube 2610 can be formed as a substantially rigid, semi-rigid, or flexible tubular member; however, other suitable configurations can also be employed. The carrier tube 2610 can include a body 2611 that defines a lumen 2614 that extends substantially between the proximal end region 2610a and the distal end region 2610b.

[0446] The carrier tube 2610 can include a portion 2613 of the body 2611 that is configured to radially expand either by stretching or by including slits 2052 in the portion 2613 that can separate along the lumen 2614. As shown, the slits 2052 are generally longitudinally oriented; however, other orientations can be used, such as spirals, zigzags (shown in FIG. 24A), or the like. As such, the carrier tube 2610 can have a splitting end 2046 at the distal end region 2610b configured to split and separate when interacting with the splitter 2070. The splitting end 2046 can include a plurality of slit openings 2048a-b that provide a region along which the carrier tube 2610 can separate when receiving a force, such as when the splitter 2070 moves from the distal end 2610b toward the proximal end 2610a of the carrier tube 2610. The slit openings 2048 can be spaced apart by portions of the splitting end 2046 that become carrier flap ends 2050 after being split. Additionally, the portion 2613 can include slits 2052 that extend partially down the length 2618a of the carrier tube 2610. The slits 2052 can be continuous, intermittent, or composed of perforations. The slits 2052 can (i) extend radially from the lumen 2614 to the outer periphery 2612, (ii) partially extend radially from the lumen 2614 toward the outer periphery 2612, or (iii) partially extend radially from the outer periphery 2612 toward the lumen 2614.

[0447] As shown, each of the slits 2052 can terminate at a slit end 2056. A slit end 2056 can be a member that inhibits the propagation of cracks or splitting, which can be exemplified by an aperture, hole, recess, reinforcement, dead end, or the like. For example, when the splitter 2070 interacts with the carrier tube 2610, the carrier tube 2610 splits along the slits 2052a and 2052b to form the carrier flap 2054. The carrier flap 2054 can expand radially or bend outwardly to carry the closure element 2500 during deployment.

[0448] In an alternative to other embodiments, the outer diameter 2618b of the carrier tube 2610 can be substantially uniform such that the distal end region 2610b of the carrier tube 2610 can have a cross-section similar to the proximal end region 2610a. However, it may be beneficial for the distal end region 2610b to be expandable or configured in such a way that the outer diameter 2618b can selectively expand so that the closure element 2500 and/or tines 2520 can be expanded during deployment. This can include expanding at least the distal end of the substantially tubular closure element 2500 beyond the natural cross-section when being deployed; however, the entire closure element 2500 can be expanded. The carrier flaps 2054 separate and radially expand or bend outwardly so as to expand the closure element 2500 during deployment.

[0449] As shown in FIG. 22C, the pusher tube 2620 can be configured to distally push and/or deploy the substantially tubular closure element 2500 over the carrier tube 2610. As such, the pusher tube 2620 can have a proximal end region 2620a and a distal end region 2620b and can be coupled with, and slidable relative to, the carrier tube 2610. The pusher tube 2620 can include a predetermined length 2628a, a predetermined outer diameter 2628b, and a predetermined inner diameter 2628c, any of which can be of any suitable dimension. The pusher tube 2620 can be configured to slidably receive the carrier member 2610 in a lumen 2624 such that the distal end region 2620b of the pusher tube 2620 can be offset proximally from the distal end region 2610b of the carrier tube 2610. As desired, the predetermined length 2628a of the pusher tube 2620 can be greater than or substantially equal to the predetermined length 2618a of the carrier tube 2610. The predetermined length 2628a of the pusher tube 2620, however, can be less than the predetermined length 2618a of the carrier tube 2610 such that the carrier tube 2610 and the pusher tube 2620 at least partially define a space 2660 distal to the distal end region 2620b of the pusher tube 2620 and along the periphery 2612 of the carrier tube 2610. The space 2660 can be configured for housing or containing the closure element 2500.

[0450] The pusher tube 2620 can be formed from a substantially rigid, semi-rigid, or flexible material. Also, the pusher tube 2620 can be substantially tubular and can define the lumen 2624 that extends substantially between the proximal end region 2620a and the distal end region 2620b. The lumen 2624 can be configured to slidably receive at least a portion of the carrier tube 2610 so that the inner diameter 2628c of the pusher tube 2620 is equal to or larger than the outer diameter 2618b of the carrier tube 2610. The inner diameter 2628c and the outer diameter 2628b of the pusher tube 2620 are substantially uniform.

[0451] Also, the distal end region 2620b of the pusher tube 2620 can include one or more longitudinal extensions 2625, which extend distally from the pusher tube 2620 and along the periphery 2612 of the carrier tube 2610. The longitudinal extensions 2625 can be biased such that the longitudinal extensions 2625 extend generally in parallel with a common longitudinal axis 2650. The longitudinal extensions 2625 can be sufficiently flexible to expand radially or bend outwardly and yet sufficiently rigid to inhibit buckling. Thus, the longitudinal extensions 2625 can be configured so as to engage and push the substantially tubular closure element 2500 over the carrier tube 2610 for deployment.

[0452] Additionally, the pusher tube 2620 can include a portion 2623 of a body 2621 that is configured to radially expand or bend outwardly either by stretching or by including slits 2062 in the portion 2623 along which the pusher tube 2620 can separate along the lumen 2624. As shown, the slits 2062 are generally longitudinally oriented; however, other orientations can be used, such as spirals, zigzags (shown in FIG. 24B), or the like. As such, the pusher tube 2620 can have a splitting end 2068 at the distal end region 2620b configured to split and separate, which can be induced by the splitter 2070. The splitting end 2068 can include a plurality of slit openings 2058a-b that provide a splitting region or portion along which the pusher tube 2620 can separate when receiving a force, such as when the splitter 2070 moves from the distal end 2620b to the proximal end 2620a. The slit openings 2058a-b can be spaced apart by portions of the splitting end 2068 that become pushing flap ends 2060 after being split. Additionally, the portion 2623 can include slits 2062 that extend partially down the length 2628a of the pusher tube 2620. The slits 2062 and can be continuous, intermittent, or composed of perforations. The slits 2062 can (i) extend radially from the lumen to the outer periphery 2622 of, (ii) partially extend radially from the lumen toward the outer periphery 2622, or (iii) partially extend radially from the outer periphery 2622 toward the lumen.

[0453] As shown, the slits 2062 can terminate at a slit end 2066. A slit end 2066 can be a member that inhibits the propagation of cracks or splitting, which can be exemplified by an aperture, hole, recess, reinforcement, dead end, or the like. For example, when the splitter 2070 interacts with the pusher tube 2620, the slits 2062a and 2062b can split and separate so as to form pusher flaps 2064. The pusher flaps 2064 can then retain the pushing capability so as to push the closure element 2500 over the carrier tube 2610 during deployment.

[0454] As shown in FIGS. 22A and 22D, a cover tube 2630 can be configured to retain the substantially tubular closure element 2500 substantially within the carrier assembly 2002 prior to deployment. The cover tube 2630 can be coupled with, and slidable relative to, the pusher tube 2620. The cover tube 2630 can have a proximal end region 2630a and a distal end region 2630b. Also, the cover tube 2630 can include a predetermined length 2638a, a predetermined outer diameter 2638b, and a predetermined inner diameter 2638c, any of which can be of any suitable dimension. The cover tube 2630 can be configured substantially similarly as described in connection with FIG. 21D.

[0455] Additionally, the distal end region 2630b of the cover tube 2630 can include one or more longitudinal extensions 2635, which extend distally from the cover tube 2630 and along an outer periphery 2622 of the pusher tube 2620. Although the longitudinal extensions 2635 can extend generally in parallel with common longitudinal axis 2650, the longitudinal extensions 2635 can be biased such that the plurality of longitudinal extensions 2635 extend substantially radially inwardly. Thereby, the longitudinal extensions 2635 can at least partially close the lumen 2634 substantially adjacent to the distal end region 2630b of the cover tube 2630. To permit the substantially tubular closure element 2500 to be deployed from the annular cavity 2670, the longitudinal extensions 2635 can be sufficiently flexible to expand radially or bend outwardly so as to permit the distal end region 2610b of the carrier tube 2610 to move distally past the cover tube 2630 to open the annular cavity 2670 such that the distal end region 2630b no longer extends over the space 2660. Also, the longitudinal extensions 2635 can be sufficiently expandable so that they can expand around the splitter 2070 when moved into or out of the cover tube 2630. The splitter 2070 can also split the cover tube 2630 as described herein.

[0456] As shown in FIGS. 22A and 22E, the tube set 2605 can include a splitter tube 2680 having a support tube 2640 coupled to a splitter 2070. Also, the splitter tube 2680 can provide radial support for the other tubes within the tube set 2605. The carrier assembly 2002 can advantageously include the splitter tube 2680, for example, to provide sufficient support to the carrier tube 2610 in the instance it is not sufficiently rigid or under other circumstances in which support for the carrier tube 2610 or other tubes in the tube set 2605 might be desirable. It also will be appreciated that the splitter tube 2680 can move the splitter 2070 with respect to the other tubes in the tube set 2605. This can include moving the splitter 2070 so that it can split the carrier tube 2610, pusher tube 2620, and/or cover tube 2630.

[0457] The splitter tube 2680 can be formed as a substantially rigid, semi-rigid, or flexible tubular member. As such, the splitter tube 2680 can include a support tube 2640 having a proximal end region 2640a and a distal end region 2640b that it is coupled to the splitter 2070. The body 2642 of the support tube 2640 can define a lumen 2644 that extends substantially between the proximal end region 2640a and the distal end region 2640b. Additionally, the splitter 2070 can also include a lumen 2072 that communicates with the lumen 2644 of the support tube 2640, wherein the lumen 2072 of the splitter 2070 can be the same or different sizes. The lumens 2644 and 2072 can be configured to slidably receive and support at least a portion of a wire, a locator tube, or other type of movable member disposed therein. The support tube 2640 portion of the splitter tube 2680 can be at least partially slidably disposed within the lumen 2614 of the carrier tube 2610 such that the wire may be disposed within, and slidable relative to, the carrier tube 2610 in the manner described in more detail above. However, the splitter 2070 can be disposed distally from the splitting end 2046 of the carrier tube 2610 such that moving the splitter 2070 in a proximal direction relative to the splitting end 2046 can cause splitting of the carrier tube 2610 at the slit openings 2048 and along the slits 2052 to form carrier flaps 2054. The splitter 2070 can then be moved proximally with respect to and under the carrier flaps 2054, which can deform and bend outwardly from the splitter face 2074.

[0458] Additionally, the support tube 2640 and/or splitter tube 2680 can have a predetermined length 2648a, a predetermined outer diameter 2648b, and a predetermined inner diameter 2648c, any of which can be of any suitable dimension. Also, the outer diameter 2648b of the support tube 2640 can be substantially uniform and smaller than inner diameter 2618c of the carrier tube 2610. The inner diameter 2648c of the support tube 2640 can be larger than the size of the wire, locator tube, or other type of member that can be disposed therein.

[0459] In the instance the carrier assembly 2002 is assembled as the plurality of nested, telescoping members as shown in FIG. 22A, the support tube 2640 portion of the splitter tube 2680 can be at least partially disposed within, and slidable relative to, the lumen 2614 of the carrier tube 2610. However, unless during or after splitting the carrier tube 2610, the splitter 2070 is usually disposed distally adjacent to the carrier tube 2610. Additionally, the carrier tube 2610 can be at least partially disposed within, and slidable relative to, the lumen 2624 of the pusher tube 2620. The pusher tube 2620, in turn, can be at least partially disposed within, and slidable relative to, the lumen 2634 of the cover tube 2630. Also, the splitter 2070 can be disposed within the lumen 2634 of the cover tube 2630. In the instance a guidewire and/or locator tube to be disposed and/or slidable within the lumen 2644 of the splitter tube 2680 the longitudinal axis thereof can be substantially in axial alignment with the common longitudinal axis 2650 of the carrier tube 2610, the pusher tube 2620, the cover tube 2630, and/or the support tube 2640. Although shown and described as being substantially separate for purposes of illustration, it will be appreciated that the carrier tube 2610, the pusher tube 2620, the cover tube 2630, and/or the splitter tub 2680 can be provided, in whole or in part, as one or more integrated assemblies.

[0460] Additionally, various embodiments of tube splitters that can be used with a clip applier for sealing openings through tissue are shown in FIGS. 25A-30B. The embodiments of splitters of FIGS. 25A-30B can have various configurations to cooperate and split various tubes of the clip appliers described herein. As such, the splitters can have many identical or similar structures that perform identical or similar functions to the embodiments described above and in reference to the preceding figures. Accordingly, the description below should be considered in view of the descriptions above of the preceding embodiments of clip appliers and/or splitters. Furthermore, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that one or more of the components and/or features of the embodiments shown in FIGS. 25A-30B may also be incorporated in the previously described embodiments, such as FIGS. 21A-22E, and those components and/or features of the previously described embodiments may optionally be incorporated in the various splitter embodiments described below and in reference to FIGS. 25A-30B. Moreover, FIGS. 25A-28 can be characterized as sliding splitters because they slid into the lumen of a carrier tube in order to effect splitting. On the other hand, FIGS. 29A-30B can be characterized as expandable splitters because they expand within the lumen of the carrier tube in order to effect splitting.

[0461] FIGS. 25A-25D are schematic illustrations of different shapes of sliding splitters. While various shapes are shown, such shapes can be modified, altered, or manipulated between planar and volumetric configurations as long as the described functionality is retained (e.g., split one or more tubes of a tube set and/or expand the tines of a closure element). FIG. 25A is a representation of a polygonal splitter 2402 having a representative trapezoidal cross-sectional profile. The polygonal splitter 2402 can include a feature common with other embodiments, e.g., having a tapered cross-sectional profile. As such, the splitter 2402 can increase in cross-sectional profile from the proximal end 2402a to the distal end 2402b. The tapered cross-sectional profile allows the proximal end 2402a of the splitter 2402 to enter into the lumen of a carrier tube or other tube of a tube set. As the splitter 2402 moves proximally with respect to the tube of the tube set, the cross-sectional profile of the splitter 2402 positioned in the lumen of the tube begins to increase until it is larger than the lumen. At this point, the tube can split into separate flaps, as described above. Another common feature is the splitter being coupled to a movable member, such as a wire, tube, rod, elongate member, or the like that can move the splitter 2402 into or through a lumen of a tube of the tube set. As depicted, the splitter 2402 can be coupled at the proximal end 2402a to a wire 2414.

[0462] Alternate configurations of the splitter are illustrated in FIGS. 25B-25D. FIG. 25B shows a conical-shaped splitter 2404, FIG. 25C shows a hemispherical splitter 2406, and FIG. 25D shows a spherical splitter 2408; however, other shapes can be used.

[0463] Referring now to FIG. 26, a schematic representation of another embodiment of a splitter 2410 is illustrated. The splitter 2410 can include a passage 2411 extending therethrough. While the passage 2411 is depicted to be substantially at the longitudinal axis, it can be disposed at any location and in any orientation of the splitter 2410 that retains functionality. The passage 2411 can be configured and sized so that a wire 2414 can be passed therethrough. The wire 2414 can be used for moving the splitter 2410 proximally and/or distally with respect to any of the tubes in the tube set. In order to facilitate movement of the splitter 2410, a recess 2412 can be disposed therein that can retain a retention member 2416 coupled to the wire 2414. The retention member 2416 can be any member that is attached to the wire 2414 having a dimension that is too large to pass through the passage 2411. As such, the retention member 2416 can be trapped within the recess. Alternatively, the recess 2412 can be a substantially closed compartment, container, cavity, or other configuration configured to house the retention member 2416. The retention member 2416 can be a crimp, clamp, brace, fastener, or the like that has a diameter larger than the wire 2414 and/or the passage 2411.

[0464] Referring now to FIGS. 27A-27C, schematic diagrams of embodiments of splitters configured to take hold of or grab a portion of tissue to the splitter. With tissue held by the splitter, or the splitter selectively receiving or securing tissue, the tissue around the opening in the vessel to be closed by the closure element can be pulled. The splitter can optionally function as a locator to aid with positioning the device.

[0465] Turing to FIG. 27A, depicted is a toothed splitter 2420. The toothed splitter 2420 can include one or more teeth 2422 extending from a body of the splitter 2420. The teeth 2422 can have various orientations and can be pointed toward the proximal end 2420a, normal, or toward the distal end 2420b of the toothed splitter 2420. Any number of teeth 2422 can be used in any arrangement.

[0466] FIG. 27B depicts another configuration of the splitter that can take hold of or grab a portion of tissue. The barbed splitter 2430 of FIG. 27B can include one or more barbs 2432. The barbs 2432 can be directed toward the proximal end 2430a of the splitter 2430. Additionally, any number of barbs 2432 can be used in any arrangement; however, having barbs at the distal end 2430b is particularly beneficial. In part, barbs 2432 at the distal end 2430b can be particularly advantageous for grabbing and selectively securing tissue from around the opening of the vessel toward the clip applier and the closure element (e.g., clip) that will close the opening.

[0467] FIG. 27C depicts yet another configuration of a splitter that can take hold of or grab a portion of tissue. This toothed-barbed splitter 2440 can have both teeth 2422 and barbs 2432. In one configuration, the teeth 2422 can be disposed from the proximal end 2440a toward the distal end 2440b, and the barbs 2432 can be disposed at the most distal end 2440b of the splitter 2440. It will be understood, however, that teeth can be disposed at the ends of the splitter, while the barbs are disposed between the teeth. In still other configurations, the teeth and barbs can be disposed at any location of the splitter and in any number and orientation.

[0468] While various embodiments of splitters to take hold of or grab a portion of tissue during a procedure have been depicted and described, modifications can be made thereto that retain the desired functionality.

[0469] FIG. 28 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a series of splitters 2450 configured to nest or combine together and expand for use with a clip applier. The series of splitters 2450 can include a first splitter 2452, a second splitter 2458, and a third splitter 2466; however, any number of splitters can be used. As depicted, the first splitter 2452 can include a first slit 2454 having a first slit opening 2456 that is configured to receive a proximal end 2460 of the second splitter 2458, and the second splitter 2458 can include a second slit 2462 having a second slit opening 2464 configured to receive the proximal end 2468 of the third splitter 2466. As the proximal end 2460 of the of the second splitter 2458 contacts the first slit opening 2456, the first slit 2454 opens to receive the second splitter 2458 therein. As such, the first slit 2454 can be configured as a hole, recess, aperture, cavity, or the like. When the second splitter 2458 enters the first slit 2454, the first splitter radially expands so as to increase in size. Additionally, the second splitter 2458 and third splitter cooperate so that the second splitter 2458 expands. Moreover, as the second splitter 2458 expands, the first splitter 2452 can further expand for a larger size. Thus, the splitter 2474 can include the following: the first splitter 2452 opened so as to have a cavity 2470 receiving the second splitter 2458; and the second splitter 2458 opened so as to have a cavity 2472 receiving the third splitter 2466.

[0470] While only one embodiment of a series of splitters 2450 configured to combine and expand is illustrated, various other configurations can be used that include more than one splitter combining so as to expand or further expand the proximally disposed splitters. The splitters can be configured to be moved independently or in combination with each other by being coupled to a guidewire, tube, rod, elongate element, or the like that can be slidably disposed within a lumen or aperture of other splitters in the series.

[0471] A clip applier apparatus in accordance with the present invention can include an expandable element. An expandable element can be used in place of any of the slidable tube splitters described herein or in addition thereto. Also, an expandable element can be selectively expanded in order to split the tubes described herein. An expandable element can be selectively expanded so that a clip is expanded prior or during deployment, which can be beneficial for expanding the clip from a retaining orientation that has a narrow orthogonal cross-sectional profile. As such, an expandable element can be located at a distal end of the clip applier apparatus, which may be within the lumen of a distal end portion of a carrier tube and/or support tube, and can be selectively expanded when the clip is disposed thereon and/or being deployed therefrom.

[0472] FIGS. 29A-29B illustrate an embodiment of an expandable member 2100 that can be selectively expanded so that the entire expandable member or a portion thereof can be expanded. Accordingly, the expandable member 2100 can be configured to be substantially tubular in shape. The expandable member 2100 can include a plurality of annular elements 2110a-2110c that can have a plurality of crossbars 2120 that are connected together by elbows 2130 and intersections 2140. More particularly, circumferentially-adjacent crossbars 2120 can be coupled at an elbow 2130 and four or more circumferentially-adjacent crossbars 2120 can be coupled together at an intersection 2140. With this configuration, crossbars 2120, intersections 2140, and elbows 2130 can cooperate so as to form a structure 2170 that allows for flexibility as each structure 2170 can expand or collapse in order for the expandable member to be selectively expanded and/or collapsed. In the illustrated configuration, the structure 2170 has a generally diamond shape that can provide the identified flexibility to the expandable member 2100. Thus, each annular element 2110 can have a series of circumferentially-interconnected flexible structures 2170, such as, but not limited to, diamond structures, that can expand or collapse under the influence of a balloon or change of temperature.

[0473] It will be understood that structure 2170 can have other configurations while providing flexibility to the endoprosthesis 2100. For instance, structure 2170 could be replaced with a repeating “V”, a repeating “U”, or other structures well known in the art of stents. As such, the expandable element 2100 can be substantially similar to a stent and can have the various components and functionalities well known to be used in stents, which can allow for selective expansion from a collapsed orientation.

[0474] FIG. 29A shows the expandable element 2100a in a collapsed orientation so that the annular elements 2110a-2110c are contracted toward each other, which can be beneficial for use within a tube set of a clip applier. In the contracted position, the structure 2170 enables each of the annular elements 2110a-2110c to flex in the longitudinal, and cross directions. Also, the structure 2170 can allow for each of the first annular element 2110a, second annular element 2110b, and/or third annular element 2110c to be selectively expanded.

[0475] FIG. 29B shows the expandable member 2100b in a selectively expanded orientation so that the annular elements 2110a-c are outwardly expanded. As shown, the first annular element 2110a is partially expanded with a first end 2102 not expanding or being expanded less than a second end 2104 so as to have a substantially conical shape. Similarly, the second annular element 2110b and third annular element 2110c are selectively expanded with conical shapes. As such, the expandable member 2100b in a selectively expanded orientation can have a substantially conical shape with the proximal end 2102 (i.e., first end) being less expanded compared to the distal end 2104 (i.e., second end). In the instance the first end 2102 of the first annular element 2110a does not expand, the crossbars 2120 or elbows 2130 at the first end 2102 can be coupled together or integrally formed into a continuous annular end.

[0476] Additionally, an expandable member can be used as a tube in a tube set. This can include the entire tube being selectively expandable as described herein, or a portion of the tube having the expandable member. For example, a support tube and/or a carrier tube can have a distal portion configured as an expandable member, which can be exemplified by either of the tubes being coupled to an end of the expandable member.

[0477] FIGS. 30A-30B show an embodiment of a selectively expandable carrier tube 2600 having a carrier tube 2310 coupled to an expandable member 2100. As such, the selectively expandable carrier tube 2180 can have any of the characteristics and elements described herein with respect to a carrier tube 2310, and can have any of the characteristics and elements described herein with respect to an expandable member 2100 (see FIGS. 29A-29B). FIG. 30A shows the selectively expandable carrier tube 2180 in a collapsed orientation, and FIG. 30B shows the selectively expandable carrier tube 2180 in a selectively expanded orientation. The selectively expandable carrier tube 2180 can be characterized by a proximal end 2102 of the expandable member 2100 being coupled to a distal portion 2610b of the carrier tube 2610 through a coupling 2106. The coupling 2106 can hold the proximal end 2102 of the expandable member 2100 so that it does not expand. This can allow for the expandable element to expand into a conical shape.

[0478] Additionally, various methods of using a clip applier having a splittable tube and splitter for delivering closure elements into tissue openings are shown in FIGS. 31A-32D. The methods can utilize embodiments of clip appliers and splitters shown in the previous figures. As such, the use of splitters in delivering a clip can be used as shown, and can have many identical or similar structures that perform identical or similar functions to the embodiments described above and in reference to the preceding figures. For example, the splitter can be configured to move proximally with respect to the carrier tube carrying the closure element by being coupled with a wire, a tube, or another element that can manipulate the orientation of the splitter with respect to the clip appliers. Accordingly, the description below should be considered in view of the descriptions above of the preceding embodiments of clip appliers and splitters and methods of using the same. Furthermore, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that one or more of the uses, components, and/or features of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 31A-32D may also be incorporated in the previously described embodiments, and those components and/or features of the previously described embodiments may optionally be incorporated in the various splitter embodiments described below and in reference to FIGS. 31A-32D. While slidable splitters are depicted and described in connection with FIGS. 31A-32B, expandable splitters may be similarly used where modifications in using such expandable splitters are well within the capabilities of one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0479] Turning to FIG. 31A, a sheath 640 may be inserted or otherwise positioned through skin 650 and tissue 630 and within the blood vessel 600 or other body lumen via the opening 610. The sheath 640 can be formed from a substantially flexible or semi-rigid tubular member. Additionally, the sheath 640 has a proximal end region 640a and a distal end region 640b and includes a predetermined length and a predetermined cross-section, both of which can be of any suitable dimension. The sheath 640 can form a lumen 644 that extends along a longitudinal axis of the sheath 640 and substantially between the proximal and distal end regions 640a, 640b. The lumen 644 can have any suitable internal cross-section and is suitable for receiving one or more devices (not shown), such as a catheter, a guide wire, locator, or the like. The lumen 644 can be configured to slidably receive the tubular body 210 of the locator assembly 200 (shown in FIG. 4A) and/or the tube set 2605 of the carrier assembly 2002 (shown in FIGS. 22A-22E).

[0480] Since the internal cross-section of the sheath 640 typically is less than or substantially equal to the predetermined outer diameter of the cover member 2630, the sheath 640 may be configured to radially expand, such as by stretching, to receive the tube set 2605. Alternatively, or in addition, the sheath 640 can be advantageously configured to split, as described in connection to the carrier tube 2610 and/or pusher tube 2620. The tube set 2605 can be received by, and advanced within, the lumen 644 of the sheath 640, thereby permitting the apparatus 2002 to access the blood vessel wall 620. To facilitate the splitting, the sheath 640 can include one or more splits (not shown), such as longitudinal splits, each split being provided in the manner known in the art. Each split can be configured to split the sheath 640 in accordance with a predetermined pattern, such as in a longitudinal, zigzag, spiral, or like pattern. It will be appreciated that, when the internal cross-section of the sheath 640 is greater than the predetermined cross-section of the cover member 2630, it may not be necessary for the sheath 640 to be configured to radially expand and/or split. In addition to, or as an alternative to, the apparatus 2002 may include a splitting means, such as a splitter 2070, which initiates a tear line or split in the sheath when the sheath is engaged with the distal end of the apparatus. The sheath 640 can be placed, deployed, and used as described herein or well known in the art.

[0481] After the sheath 640 is placed proximate to the blood vessel 600, the locator assembly 2200 can be received by the lumen 644 of the sheath 640. Being in the unexpanded state, the distal end region 2210b of the tubular body 2210 of the locator assembly 2200 can be slidably received by the lumen 644 and atraumatically advanced distally into the blood vessel 600. Once the distal end region 2210b of the tubular body 2210 can extend into the blood vessel 600, the distal end region 2210b can transition from the unexpanded state to the expanded state by activating the switching system of the locator assembly 2200.

[0482] The locator assembly 2200 and the sheath 640 can be retracted proximally until the distal end region 2210b is substantially adjacent to an inner surface 620b of the blood vessel wall 620. The distal end region 2210b can thereby draw the blood vessel wall 620 taut and maintains the proper position as the blood vessel 600 pulsates. Since the expanded cross-section of the distal end region 2210b is greater than or substantially equal to the cross-section of the opening 610 and/or the cross-section of the lumen 644, the distal end region 2210b remains in the blood vessel 600 and engages the inner surface 620b of the blood vessel wall 620. The distal end region 2210b can frictionally engage the inner surface 620b of the blood vessel wall 620, thereby securing the locator assembly 2200 to the blood vessel 600. The sheath 640 can be retracted proximally such that the distal end region 640b of the sheath 640 is substantially withdrawn from the blood vessel 600 permitting the tube set 2605 to access the blood vessel wall 620.

[0483] Once the distal end region 2210b of the locator assembly 2200 contacts the inner surface 620b of the blood vessel wall 620, the splitter tube 2680 can be advanced distally toward the outer surface 620a of the blood vessel wall 620. The splitter tube 2680 can be moved relative to the other tubes in the tube set 2605 by the support tube 2640 that is coupled to the splitter 2070. As illustrated by the dashed lines in FIGS. 31A-31B, the splitter 2070 can abut against the outer surface 620a of the vessel 620 such that the locator assembly 2200 and splitter 2070 can cooperate to hold the vessel wall 620. After the splitter 2070 is at a distal position, the other tubes in the tube set 2605 can then be advanced distally and received within the lumen 644 of the sheath.

[0484] Alternatively, the splitter tube 2680 can be coupled to the other tubes in the tube set 2605. Being coupled, the carrier tube 2610, the pusher tube 2620, the cover tube 2630, and the splitter tube 2680 each advance distally and approach the first predetermined position. The tubes in the tube set 2605 can be decoupled at any time so that any of which can be moved and positioned independently.

[0485] Upon reaching the first predetermined position, the tube set 2605 can be disposed substantially adjacent to the outer surface 620a of the blood vessel wall 620 and adjacent to the opening 610 such that the splitter 2070 and blood vessel wall 620 are disposed substantially between the expanded distal region 2210b of the locator assembly 2200 and the tube set 2605. The cover member 2630 and the splitter tube 2680 can each decouple from the carrier tube 2610 and the pusher tube 2620. Thereby, the cover tube 2630 can be inhibited from further axial movement and remain substantially stationary as the carrier tube 2610 and the pusher tube 2620 each remain coupled and axially slidable. Additionally, the splitter tube 2680 can be moved independently or with the carrier tube 2610 until placement adjacent to the vessel wall 620.

[0486] When the tube set 2605 is in the second predetermined position, the carrier tube 2610 can decouple from the pusher tube 2620. As such, the carrier tube 2610 can be advanced toward the splitter 2070 so that the proximal end 2070a of the splitter enters the lumen 2614 (FIG. 22B) of the carrier tube 2610. After the carrier tube 2610 engages with the splitter 2070, opposing movement by either element can cause the carrier tube 2610 to split. For example, moving the splitter tube 2680 or splitter 2070 proximally with respect to the carrier tube 2610 can cause the distal end 2610b of the carrier tube 2610 to move up a splitting face 2074 of the splitter 2070. Alternatively, moving the carrier tube 2610 distally towards the splitter tube 2680 or splitter 2070 can also cause the distal end 2610b of the carrier tube 2610 to move up the splitting face 2074. In some instances, such as when the splitter 2070 cooperates with the locator assembly 2200 to hold the vessel wall 620, the carrier tube 2610 can be configured to move distally with respect to the splitter tube 2680 or splitter 2070. In other instances, such as when the carrier tube 2610 is at a maximum distal location, the splitter tube 2680 can be moved proximally with respect to the carrier tube 2610.

[0487] Accordingly, the carrier tube 2610 can be split by the splitter 2070 so that the split distal end 2610b of the carrier tube 2610 expands radially or bends outwardly around the splitter 2070. This can be by the carrier tube 2610 having slits 2052 (FIG. 22B) that can separate along the lumen 2614 as the carrier tube 2610 is advanced over the splitter 2070. For example, when the carrier tube 2610 is advanced over the splitter 2070, the carrier tube 2610 can split and separate so as to form carrier flaps 2054. The carrier flaps 2054 can then carry the closure element 2500 for delivery to the blood vessel wall 620.

[0488] As shown in FIG. 31B, the pusher tube 2620 can engage with the closure element 2500 for delivery. After the carrier tube 2610 is split around the splitter 2070, the pusher tube 2620 can be pushed distally so that the distal end region 2620b contacts and pushes the substantially tubular closure element 2500. As such, the pusher tube 2620 can displace the substantially tubular closure element 2500 from the space 2660 and toward the blood vessel wall 620. The pusher tube 2620 can direct the substantially tubular closure element 2500 over the distally-increasing cross-section of the split distal end region 2610b of the substantially-stationary carrier member 2610 and over the splitter 2070 such that the cross-section (shown in FIGS. 6A-6G) of the substantially tubular closure element 2500 begins to radially expand in a substantially uniform manner. As the substantially tubular closure element 2500 traverses the distally-increasing cross-section of the distal end region 2610b and the splitter 2070, the cross-section of the substantially tubular closure element 2500 radially expands beyond the natural cross-section (shown in FIGS. 6A-6G) of the closure element 2500. This allows the tines 2520 to project in a more outward direction while being advanced past the splitter 2070. After passing the splitter 2070 and moving distal with respect thereto, the tines 2520 can then penetrate the blood vessel wall 620 and contract inwards, as described above in connection to other embodiments. Optionally, the pusher tube 2620 can split as shown in FIG. 22C so as to expand around the splitter 2070 and facilitate deployment of the closure element 2500.

[0489] Referring now to FIGS. 32A-32D, methods of using a guidewire splitter 2004 in accordance with the present invention will be described. The guidewire splitter 2004 can be used in conjunction with the carrier assembly 2000 depicted and described in connection with FIGS. 21A-21E.

[0490] Referring now to FIG. 32A, there is shown a vessel 600 disposed below a patient's tissue 630 and skin 650, wherein a guidewire 2010 is disposed through an opening 610 formed in the vessel 620 and tissue 630 as described above such that a splitter 2430 coupled to the guidewire 2010 is located within the vessel 600. The guidewire 2010 having a splitter 2430 may be introduced into the blood vessel for the sole purpose of using a splitter 2430 with the carrier assembly 2000 to deploy the closure element 2500. Alternatively, the guidewire 2010 having the splitter 2430 may have already been present from a previously completed interventional procedure. That is, the guidewire splitter 2004 can be adapted to be used in place of a standard guidewire.

[0491] Referring now to FIG. 32B, the guidewire 2010 is shown to be refracted from the vessel 600 so that the splitter 2430 interacts with the inner wall 620b of the vessel 600. As such, the splitter 2430 can be configured as a tissue-grabbing splitter by having a plurality of barbs 2432 disposed thereon (see, FIG. 27B). Accordingly, as the splitter 2430 is advanced toward the opening 610 in the vessel 600, the barbs 2432 can gather tissue from the inner wall 620b of the vessel 600, and pull such tissue toward the opening 610. After the splitter 2430 has grabbed and pulled some tissue toward the opening 610, the splitter 2430 can be used substantially similar as a locator assembly. Briefly, the splitter 2430 can be pulled taut by pulling the guidewire 2010, which can be useful for aiding in deploying the closure element as described herein.

[0492] Referring now to FIG. 32C, the tube set 2305 can be positioned adjacent to the outer wall 620a of the blood vessel 600 as described herein. Briefly, the tube set 2305 can be moved distally down the guidewire 2010 toward the vessel 600. Upon reaching a first predetermined position, the tube set 2305 can be disposed substantially adjacent to the outer surface 620a of the blood vessel wall 620 and adjacent to the opening 610 such that a proximal end 2430a of the splitter 2430 can be disposed between the blood vessel wall 620 and the tube set 2305. The cover member 2330 and the support tube 2340 can each decouple from the carrier tube 2310 and the pusher tube 2320. Thereby, the cover tube 2330 and support tube 2340 can be inhibited from further axial movement and remain substantially stationary as the carrier tube 2310 and the pusher tube 2320 each remain coupled and axially slidable.

[0493] When the tube set 2305 is in a second predetermined position, carrier tube 2310 can decouple from the pusher tube 2320. As such, the carrier tube 2310 can be advanced toward the splitter 2430 so that the proximal end 2430a of the splitter 2430 enters the lumen 2314 (FIG. 21B) of the carrier tube 2310. After the carrier tube 2310 engages with the splitter 2430, opposing movement by either element can cause the carrier tube 2310 to split. For example, pulling the splitter 2430 proximally with respect to the carrier tube 2310 can cause the distal end 2310b of the carrier tube 2310 to be split by the barbs 2432 or the splitting face 2434. Alternatively, moving the carrier tube 2310 distally towards the splitter 2430, which is held taut, can also cause the distal end 2310b of the carrier tube 2310 to split and move up the splitting face 2434.

[0494] Accordingly, the carrier tube 2310 can be split by the splitter 2430 so that the split distal end 2310b of the carrier tube 2310 expands radially or bends outwardly around the splitter 2430. This can be by slits 2022 (FIG. 21B) that can separate along the lumen 2314 as the carrier tube 2310 is advanced over the splitter 2430. For example, when the carrier tube 2310 is advanced over the splitter 2430, the carrier tube 2310 can split and separate so as to form carrier flaps 2024. The carrier flaps 2024 can then carry the closure element 2500 over the splitter 2430 for delivery to the blood vessel wall 620.

[0495] Additionally, the pusher tube 2320 can engage with the closure element 2500 for delivery. After the carrier tube 2310 is split around the splitter 2430, the pusher tube 2320 can be pushed distally so that the distal end region 2320b contacts the tubular closure element 2500. As such, the pusher tube 2320 can displace the tubular closure element 2500 from the space 2360 and toward the blood vessel wall 620. To facilitate delivery of the closure element 2500, the pusher tube 2320 can split while moving over the carrier flaps 2024 of the carrier tube 2310. Since the space 2360 is substantially radially exposed, the pusher tube 2320 can direct the tubular closure element 2500 over the split distally-increasing cross-section of the split distal end region 2310b of the substantially-stationary carrier member 2310 and over the splitter 2430 such that the cross-section (shown in FIGS. 6A-6G) of the tubular closure element 2500 begins to radially expand in a substantially uniform manner. As the tubular closure element 2500 traverses the split distally-increasing cross-section of the distal end region 2310b and the splitter 2430, the cross-section of the tubular closure element 2500 radially expands beyond the natural cross-section (shown in FIGS. 6A-6G) of the closure element 2500. This allows the tines 2520 to project in a more outward direction while being advanced over the splitter 2430. After passing the splitter 2430 and moving distal with respect thereto, the tines 2520 can then penetrate the blood vessel wall 620 and contract inwards, as described above in connection to other embodiments.

[0496] Upon being directed over the distally-increasing cross-section of the distal end region 2310b by the pusher member 2320, the tubular closure element 2500 can be distally deployed. When the tubular closure element 2500 is deployed, the tines 2520 can pierce and otherwise engage a significant amount of the blood vessel wall 620 and/or tissue 630 adjacent to the opening 610. For example, the tines 2520 can engage a significant amount of the blood vessel wall 620 and/or tissue 630 because the cross-section of the tubular closure element 2500 is expanded beyond the natural cross-section of the closure element 2500 during deployment.

[0497] Turning to FIG. 32D, as the closure element 2500 is being deployed into the tissue of the vessel 600, the splitter 2430 can be pulled through the opening 610 and out of the vessel 600. As this occurs, the tissue held by the barbs 2432 can be pulled inwardly so that the tines 2520 of the closure element can penetrate the tissue further away from the opening 610. Since the cross-section of the tubular closure element 2500 is expanded beyond the natural cross-section of the closure element 2500 and the splitter 2430 has pulled tissue toward the opening, a significant amount of the blood vessel wall 620 and/or tissue can be drawn into the channel 2540 of the closure element 2500 and engaged by the tines 2520. The tines 2520 cause the closure element 2500 to revert to a substantially planar and deployed orientation. This can occur substantially simultaneously, before, or after the splitter 2430 is pulled from the opening 610.

[0498] Accordingly, closure element 2500, once deployed, transitions from the tubular orientation, returning to the natural, planar orientation with opposing tines 2520 and a natural cross-section of the closure element 2500. The closure element 2500 substantially uniformly transitions from the tubular configuration to the natural, planar orientation. Rotating axially inwardly, the tines 2520 draw the tissue into the channel 2540 as the closure element 2500 closes the opening 610. Thereby, the opening 610 in the blood vessel wall 620 can be drawn substantially closed and/or sealed via the closure element 2500 as illustrated. Also, after the closure element 2500 has been deployed into the vessel 600, the splitter 2430 can be retracted along with the tube set 2305.

[0499] Another alternative embodiment of a clip applier for sealing openings through tissue is shown in FIGS. 33A-43D. The embodiment of FIGS. 33A-43D, as described below, has many identical and/or similar structures that perform identical and/or similar functions to the embodiments described above and in reference to the preceding Figures, and associated configurations of inventions. Accordingly, the description below should be considered in view of the descriptions above of the preceding embodiments. Furthermore, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that one or more of the components, functions and/or features of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 33A-43D may also be incorporated in the previously described embodiments, as those components, functions, and/or features of the previously described embodiments may optionally be incorporated in the embodiment described below and in reference to FIGS. 33A-43D.

[0500] Generally, a clip applier in accordance with the present invention can include a clip disposed therein for delivery to a tissue surrounding an opening in the tissue. The clip, which can also be referred to as a closure element, can be any type of clip that can be used to close an opening in a tissue as described herein or well known in the art. In one configuration, the clip can have a relaxed orientation that is substantially annular or a curved variation thereof. Also, the clip can have a retaining and deploying configuration that is substantially tubular and/or offset. The clip can be made of various materials, which can include, but not limited to, metals, plastics, ceramics, biodegradable materials, bioreabsorbable materials, shape memory materials, combinations thereof, and/or other materials that provide the desired characteristics of properties of the described clip. Optionally, the clip can be heat set so as to have any of the configurations described herein, which can include offset or curved configurations so as to conform with the tubular shape of the external wall of a blood vessel when deployed and relaxed. Additionally, examples of clips can be reviewed in the incorporated references.

[0501] FIGS. 33A-33B illustrate an embodiment of a clip 3500a in a relaxed configuration in accordance with the present invention. As shown in FIG. 33A, the clip 3500a can include a body 3502 that defines central aperture 3504. Additionally, the body 3502 can include tines 3520 that are interconnected by struts 3508 and elbows 3510. The struts 3508a-b and elbows 3510 provide structural flexibility that allows the elbow 3510 to bend so that adjacent struts 3508a-b can move with respect to each other. Also, each tine 3520 can include a tip 3522 that is configured for penetrating and/or grabbing tissue. As such, oppositely disposed tines 3520a-b can be positioned so that tissue on opposite sides of a hole can be grabbed and/or pulled together as tine 3520a is drawn inwardly toward tine 3520b. It will be understood, however, that tine 3520b can move toward tine 3520a or a combination of movement of both tines 3520a-b can also operate to grab, pull, or otherwise close the opening in the tissue.

[0502] As shown in FIG. 33B, the clip 3500a in the relaxed configuration has a longitudinal profile 3540 that is substantially planar; however, the profile can be bent or curved so as to conform to a blood vessel as described below. Also, the clip 3500a in the relaxed configuration can have a dimension 3530 extending from a first body side 3502a to a second body side 3502b. The dimension 3530 can be modulated by stretching or compressing the clip 3500a; however, the dimension 3530 can be substantially the same when the clip 3500a is in the relaxed orientation before being inserted into a clip applier and after being applied to tissue in order to close an opening or hole in the tissue. That is, the clip 3500a can revert to having the relaxed dimension 3530 after being applied to close an opening or hole in a tissue. The clip 3500a can be heat set into any of a variety of relaxed shapes that the clip can return to after being deployed, such as being substantially planar, bent, curved, or offset.

[0503] FIGS. 34A-34B illustrate the clip 3500a of FIGS. 33A-33B; however, the clip 3500b is in a deploying configuration such as when being deployed from a clip applier. As shown in FIG. 34A, the elbows 3510 are bent such that the struts 3508a-b, tines 3520, and tips 3522 are substantially aligned with the body 3502. As such, the tines 3520a-b are no longer directed inwardly toward the aperture 3504, which opens the aperture 3504 to have a larger orthogonal cross-sectional profile. Accordingly, the clip 3500b in the deploying configuration positions the body 3502 to have an orthogonal cross-sectional profile that is substantially more annular or ring-like compared to the relaxed configuration. The clip 3500a can be heat set in a relaxed configuration different from the deploying configuration so that the clip passes from the deploying configuration to the relaxed configuration after being deployed into a blood vessel.

[0504] As shown in FIG. 34B, the clip 3500b in the deploying configuration positions the body 3502 so as to have a longitudinal profile 3542 that is substantially rectangular or tubular, which can be substantially not offset. That is, the clip 3500b has a central axis 3560 within the aperture 3504, and the body 3502 forms a tube therearound such that the aperture 3504 is a lumen of the tube that has an even or symmetrical profile. The tubular shape is formed by bending the tines 3520 from pointing inwardly, as in the relaxed configuration, to pointing substantially longitudinally and distally in the deploying configuration. Accordingly, the tines 3520 project from a proximal end 3552 of the clip 3500b toward a distal end 3550, which positions the tips 3522 to be at the distal end 3550. Additionally, when the clip 3500b is in the deploying configuration, the tines 3520a-b and tips 3522 are positioned substantially even with each other so that a line 3562 from any of the tines 3520a-b or tips 3522 is orthogonal with respect to the central axis 3560. As such, the line 3562 forms an angle α with the central axis 3560, wherein the angle α is substantially 90 degrees when the clip 3500b is in the deploying configuration. This can be seen by tine 3520a being substantially even with tine 3520b. Although reference is made to the angular orientation of line 3562 and central axis 3560, one skilled in the art would understand that the angular orientation of less than or greater than substantially 90 degrees is possible.

[0505] Also, the clip 3500b in the deploying configuration has a dimension 3532 extending from a first tine 3520a to a second tine 3520b. The dimension 3532 can be modulated by stretching or compressing the clip 3500b; however, the dimension 3532 can be substantially the same or different compared to instances when the clip 3500a is in the relaxed configuration.

[0506] FIGS. 35A-35B illustrate the clip 3500a of FIGS. 33A-33B; however, the clip 3500c is in a retaining configuration such as when being retained within a clip applier. As shown in FIG. 35A, the elbows 3510 are bent such that the struts 3508a-b, tines 3520, and tips 3522 are substantially aligned with the body 3502. As such, the tines 3520a-b are no longer directed inwardly toward the aperture 3504, which opens the aperture 3504 to have a larger orthogonal cross-sectional profile compared to the clip 3500a in the relaxed configuration. Accordingly, the clip 3500c in the retaining configuration can position the body 3502 to have an orthogonal cross-sectional profile that is substantially more annular or ring-like compared to the relaxed configuration. The orthogonal cross-sectional profile of the body 3502 in the retaining configuration can be smaller in at least one dimension compared to the deploying configuration.

[0507] As shown in FIG. 35B, the clip 3500c in the retaining configuration positions the body 3502 so as to have a longitudinal profile 3544 that is substantially an offset parallelogram or tubular. That is, the clip 3500c has a central axis 3560 within the aperture 3504, and the body 3502 forms an offset tube therearound such that the aperture 3504 is a lumen of the tube. The offset tubular shape (e.g., retaining configuration) can be formed by bending the tines 3520 from pointing inwardly, as in the relaxed configuration, to pointing substantially longitudinally and distally, as in the deploying configuration, and then longitudinally and distally stretching a first tine 3520a compared to a second tine 3520b. Accordingly, the first tine 3520a projects from a proximal end 3552 of the clip 3500c toward a distal end 3550 so as to be more distally located compared to the second tine 3520b. As such, the tip 3522a of the first tine 3520a can be positioned more distally compared to the tip 3522b of the second tine 3520b. Additionally, when the clip 3500c is in the retaining configuration, the tines 3520a-b and tips 3522a-b can be offset from each other. That is, the first tine 3520a and tip 3522a can be positioned more distally, and the second tine 3520b and tip 3522b can be positioned more proximally. As such, a line 3562 from any of the tines 3520a-b or tips 3522 can be offset with respect to the central axis 3560. As such, the line 3562 can form an angle γ with the central axis 3560, wherein the angle γ can be substantially less than 90 degrees when the clip 3500c is in the retaining configuration. This can be seen by tine 3520a being substantially offset with respect to tine 3520b. The clip 3500c in the retaining configuration can have various angular orientations. In this manner, the outside diameter of the clip can be reduced and so the outside diameter of the clip applier used to deploy the clip can also be reduced. In one configuration, the angle γ can be about 20 to about 70 degrees. In another configuration, the angle γ can be about 30 to about 60 degrees. In still another configuration, the angle γ can be about 50 degrees or about 45 degrees.

[0508] Optionally, the retaining configuration as described herein can also be the deploying configuration described in connection to FIGS. 33A-33B. That is, a clip 3500c in the retaining configuration can revert to the relaxed configuration without passing through the symmetrical, tubular deploying configuration of FIGS. 33A-33B, and can retain some of the offset character. As such, the clip 3500c can be heat set in a configuration similarly as shown in FIG. 33A with the exception the body 3502 is offset at an angle γ from the axis 3560, which allows the retaining configuration to also be in an offset deploying configuration.

[0509] With continued reference to FIG. 35B, the clip 3500c in the retaining configuration can have a dimension 3534 extending from a first tine 3520a to a second tine 3520b. The dimension 3534 can be modulated by stretching or compressing the clip 3500c; however, the dimension 3534 can be smaller compared to when the clip 3500a is in the relaxed configuration or when the clip 3500b is in the deploying configuration. As such, the dimension 3534 can be narrowed when retained within a clip applier so that the dimensions of the clip applier can be similarly reduced. Thus, longitudinally stretching a first tine 3520a away from the opposite second tine 3520b can facilitate the clip 3500c to have a smaller orthogonal cross-sectional profile in at least one dimension.

[0510] FIG. 36A is a schematic representation of the change in dimensions when a clip 3500b in the deploying configuration is longitudinally stretched at opposing tines 3520a-b into the clip 3500c in the retaining configuration. While the body 3502 of the clip 3500b is shown to being generally circular, the tines, struts, and elbows can skew portions of the body 3502. As such, the generally circular depiction is merely for convenience and simplicity. The body 3502 of the clip 3500b in the deploying configuration can have an outer dimension 3570, and can define an aperture 3504a that has an orthogonal cross-sectional profile with at least one inner dimension 3572. Additionally, it can be seen that the distance between the first tine 3520a and the second tine 3520b can be substantially the same as the inner dimension 3572 of the aperture 3504a.

[0511] After the clip 3500b in the deploying configuration is stretched into the clip 3500c in the retaining configuration, some of the dimensions change. As such, the body 3502 of the clip 3500c in the retaining configuration can have an outer dimension 3574 that is smaller than the outer dimension 3570 when the clip 3500b is in the deploying configuration. Additionally, the aperture 3504b defined by the body 3502 of the clip 3500c in the retaining configuration can have an inner dimension 3576 that is smaller than the dimension 3572 of the aperture 3504a of the clip 3500b in the deploying configuration. The distance between the first tine 3520a and the second tine 3520b can be substantially the same as the inner dimension 3576. The reduced outer dimension 3574 and the inner dimension 3576 of the clip 3500c in the retaining configuration can be achieved by longitudinally and distally stretching the first tine 3520a away from the second tine 3520b and/or longitudinally and proximally stretching the second tine 3520b away from the first tine 3520a. Moreover, the aperture 3504a of the clip 3500b in the deploying configuration and of the clip 3500c in the retaining configuration can be generally circular. This allows a tube in the clip applier assembly to be generally circular so that the clip 3500c can be retained therein and deployed therefrom.

[0512] Additionally, the clip 3500c can be heat set in a manner that results in the body having the offset orientation shown in FIG. 36A such that the clip 3500c does not revert to a symmetrical deploying configuration as shown by clip 3500b. That is, the clip 3500b can be stretched to be offset before the tines 3520 are extended (e.g., while still pointing inwardly toward the aperture 3504), which allows the clip 3500b to retract to an offset relaxed configuration.

[0513] FIG. 36B is another schematic representation of the change in dimensions when a clip 3500b in the deploying configuration is longitudinally stretched at opposing tines 3520a-b into the clip 3500d in a generally oval retaining configuration. As before, while the body 3502 of the clip 3500b is shown to be generally circular, the tines, struts, and elbows can skew portions of the body 3502. The body 3502 of the clip 3500b in the deploying configuration can have an outer dimension 3580, and can define an aperture 3504a that has an orthogonal cross-sectional profile that is generally circular with a first inner dimension 3578 that is substantially the same as an orthogonal second inner dimension 3578. Additionally, it can be seen that the distance between the first tine 3520a and the second tine 3520b can be substantially the same as the inner dimension 3578 of the aperture 3504a.

[0514] After the clip 3500b in the deploying configuration is stretched into the clip 3500d in the generally oval retaining configuration, some of the dimensions can change. As such, the body 3502 of the clip 3500d in the generally oval retaining configuration can have an outer dimension 3584 that is smaller than the outer dimension 3580 when the clip 3500b is in the deploying configuration. Additionally, the aperture 3504c defined by the body 3502 of the clip 3500d in the generally oval retaining configuration can have a first inner dimension 3582 that is smaller than the first inner dimension 3578 of the aperture 3504a of the clip 3500b in the deploying configuration. Also, the aperture 3504c defined by the body 3502 of the clip 3500d in the generally oval retaining configuration can have a second inner dimension 3578 substantially the same as the second inner dimension 3578 of the aperture 3504a of the clip 3500b in the deploying configuration. The distance 3586 between the first tine 3520a and the second tine 3520b can be substantially the same as the smaller first inner dimension 3582 of the clip 3500d in the generally oval retaining configuration. The reduced outer dimension 3584 and the reduced inner dimension 3582 of the clip 3500d in the generally oval retaining configuration can be achieved by longitudinally and distally stretching the first tine 3520a from the second tine 3520b and/or longitudinally and proximally stretching the second tine 3520b from the first tine 3520a. Moreover, the aperture 3504c of the clip 3500d in the generally oval retaining configuration can be generally oval and narrower in one dimension compared to an orthogonal second dimension. This allows a tube in the clip applier assembly to be generally oval so that the clip 3500d can be retained therein and deployed therefrom.

[0515] Additionally, the clip 3500d can be heat set in a manner that results in the body having an oval and offset orientation shown in FIG. 36B such that the clip 3500d does not revert to a symmetrical deploying configuration as shown by clip 3500b. That is, the clip 3500d can be stretched to be oval and offset before the tines 3520 are extended (e.g., while still pointing inwardly toward the aperture 3504), which allows the clip 3500b to retract to an oval and offset relaxed configuration.

[0516] Additionally, a clip in accordance with the present invention can be reduced in size compared to previous clips. In addition to reducing the size of each component of a clip, the number of tines, struts, and elbows can be reduced so that the overall size of the clip can be smaller. For example, the clip can be configured to have two or more tines, and corresponding struts and elbows. Also, the clip can have a reduced number of tines, struts, and/or elbows so that the tines are offset, which can provide a clip having an odd number of tines.

[0517] As shown in FIG. 37A, the clip 3500e can be heat set in the relaxed configuration that has a curved longitudinal profile, which can be dimensioned to conform to the shape of an external wall of a blood vessel. Also, the clip 3500e in the curved relaxed configuration can have a dimension 3530e that defines the length of the body 3502e. The dimension 3530e can be modulated by stretching or compressing the clip 3500e or by changing the angle of the curve; however, the dimension 3530e can be substantially the same when the clip 3500e is in the curved relaxed orientation before being inserted into a clip applier and after being applied to tissue in order to close an opening or hole in the tissue. That is, the clip 3500e can revert to having the curved relaxed dimension 3530e after being applied to close an opening or hole in a tissue so that the clip 3500e has a similar shape as the blood vessel. The clip 3500e can be heat set so that the tines 3520e, which are shown by the dashed lines within the body 3502e, follow the contour or curve of the body 3520e.

[0518] As shown in FIG. 37B, the clip 3500f can be heat set in the relaxed configuration that has a curved “C” shaped longitudinal profile, which can be dimensioned to conform to the shape of an external wall of a blood vessel. Also, the clip 3500f in the “C” relaxed configuration can have a dimension 3530e that defines the length of the body 3502f. The dimension 3530e can be modulated by stretching or compressing the clip 3500f or by changing the angle of the “C” shaped curve; however, the dimension 3530f can be substantially the same when the clip 3500f is in the curved relaxed orientation before being inserted into a clip applier and after being applied to tissue in order to close an opening or hole in the tissue. That is, the clip 3500f can revert to having the “C” shaped relaxed dimension 3530f after being applied to close an opening or hole in a tissue so that the clip 3500f has a similar shape as the blood vessel. The clip 3500f can be heat set so that the tines 3520f point inwardly so as to aid in forming the “C” shape as shown.

[0519] FIG. 37C illustrates an embodiment of a clip 3500g in a retaining and deploying orientation that has been heat set in and reverts to an offset relaxed configuration as shown by 3500h so that the tines 3520 do not point towards each other. As shown, the retaining and deploying configuration of the clip 3500g has the body 3502g in an offset or angled orientation with respect to the tines 3520g such that when released, the tines 3520g return to being inwardly pointing tines 3520h while the body 3502h retains the offset or angled shape. That is, the body 3502h in the relaxed configuration is offset so as to be substantially the same as the body 3502g in the retaining and deploying configuration. Also, the tines 3520h are offset so that they do not point inwardly to the same point, which allows the inwardly pointing tines 3520h to grab different sections of tissue to be pulled toward the body 3502h in different distances so that one tine 3520h is more distal compared to a substantially opposite tine 3520h.

[0520] FIG. 37D illustrates an embodiment of a clip 3500i in a retaining and deploying orientation that has been heat set in and reverts to an offset relaxed configuration as shown by 3500j so that the tines 3520j point towards each other. As shown, the retaining and deploying configuration of the clip 3500i has the body 3502i in an offset or angled orientation with respect to the tines 3520i such that when released, the tines 3520i return to being inwardly pointing tines 3520j that point towards each other while the body 3502j retains the offset or angled shape. That is, the body 3502j in the relaxed configuration is offset so as to be substantially the same as the body 3502i in the retaining and deploying configuration.

[0521] Also, the outer dimension of a clip in the symmetrical, tubular retaining and/or deploying configuration when the clip is at about 90 degrees with respect to a central axis can be about 0.17 inch. However, the same clip in the offset or angled retaining and/or deploying orientation when the clip is at about 45 degrees with respect to the central axis can have the outer diameter reduced to about 0.12 inch. Accordingly, this can correspond with a clip at about 90 degrees with respect to the central axis having a circumference of about 13.56 mm, which is commonly referred to as 13F, and the clip at about 45 degrees with respect to the central axis can have a circumference of 1.56 mm, which is commonly referred to as 11F. Accordingly, a clip in a retaining configuration can have a smaller dimension as well as a smaller circumference when having a generally circular orthogonal cross-sectional profile or a generally oval orthogonal cross-sectional profile. Also, the orthogonal cross-sectional profile can be fixed, such as by heat setting, as oval, square, rectangular or other shape so that the clip is substantially devoid of reverting to a circular shape when relaxed, and stays in the heat set shape when relaxed. It will be understood that the above-described angular orientations and dimensions are only illustrative of certain configurations of the clip of the presently described invention. It will be understood that other angular orientations and dimensions are possible.

[0522] Turning to FIGS. 38A-38F, the carrier assembly 3000 can include a tube set 3305, including a carrier tube 3310, a pusher tube 3320, a support tube 3340, and a cover tube 3330. The carrier tube 3310, the pusher tube 3320, the support tube 3340, and the cover tube 3330 can be provided as a plurality of nested, telescoping tubes with a common longitudinal axis 3350 as illustrated in FIG. 38A. While the carrier assembly 3000 is described as including a tube set 3305, such tubes can be exchanged with other members with substantially similar functionalities as described herein. The carrier tube 3310 can be configured to receive and support the clip 3500 in an offset orientation (e.g., retaining configuration). While being disposed on the carrier tube 3310, the clip 3500 can be deformed from the natural, planar orientation (e.g., relaxed configuration) and selectively stretched to form the substantially offset-tubular shape (e.g., retaining configuration, which is shown in FIGS. 35A-35B). Being disposed substantially about and supported by an outer periphery 3312 of the carrier tube 3310, the substantially offset-tubular clip 3500 can be substantially in axial alignment with the carrier tube 3310 with the tines 3520 pointed substantially distally and parallel with the tube set 3305. Thus, the first tine 3520a being more distally disposed compared to the second tine 3520b.

[0523] As shown in FIG. 38B, the carrier tube 3310 can have a proximal end region 3310a and a distal end region 3310b. Also, the carrier tube 3310 can include a predetermined length 3318a, a predetermined outer diameter 3318b, and a predetermined inner diameter 3318c, any of which can be of any suitable dimension. In one configuration, the carrier tube 3310 can be formed as a substantially rigid, semi-rigid, or flexible tubular member; however, other suitable configurations can also be employed. However, the carrier tube 3310 can be a selectively expandable carrier as described in more detail below. The carrier tube 3310 can define a lumen 3314 that extends substantially between the proximal end region 3310a and the distal end region 3310b, and can be configured to slide relative to the other tubes in the tube set 3305. The carrier tube 3310 can have a distal end 3014 that is optionally tapered from a first portion 3014a to a second portion 3014b, which allows for releasing the clip 3500 in the substantially offset-tubular orientation. Alternatively, the distal end 3014 can be blunt as described in connection with other embodiments. Additionally, the carrier tube 3310 can include a body 3311 that is configured to radially expand.

[0524] The orthogonal cross-sectional profile of the carrier tube 3310 can be generally circular or generally oval, which can correspond to the orthogonal cross-sectional profile of the clip 3500 in the retaining configuration, but can alternatively have configurations other than generally circular or generally oval while still receiving the clip 3500. Also, the outer diameter 3318b of the carrier tube 3310 can be substantially uniform such that the distal end region 3310b of the carrier tube 3310 has an orthogonal cross-section similar to the proximal end region 3310a. However, it may be beneficial for the distal end region 3310b to be expandable or configured in such a way that the outer diameter 3318b can selectively expand or bend outwardly so that the closure element 3500 and/or tines 3520 can be outwardly oriented. This can include expanding at least the distal end of the offset-tubular closure element 3500 beyond the natural cross-section when being deployed; however, the entire closure element 3500 can be expanded with the distal end being expanded before the proximal end.

[0525] As shown in FIG. 38C, the clip 3500 can be disposed on the carrier tube 3310 in an offset tubular orientation (e.g., retaining configuration). As such, the elbows 3510 can be stretched so that the struts 3508 are separated away from each other. This allows for the first tine 3520a and first tip 3522a to be more distally oriented with respect to the second tine 3520b and second tip 3522b.

[0526] As shown in FIG. 38D, the pusher tube 3320 can be configured to distally push and/or deploy the substantially offset-tubular clip 3500. As such, the pusher tube 3320 can have a proximal end region 3320a and a distal end region 3320b and can be coupled with, and slidable relative to, the carrier tube 3310. The pusher tube 3320 can include a predetermined length 3328a, a predetermined outer diameter 3328b, and a predetermined inner diameter 3328c, any of which can be of any suitable dimension. The pusher tube 3320 can be configured to slidably receive the carrier tube 3310 such that the distal end region 3320b of the pusher tube 3320 can be offset proximally from the distal end region 3310b of the carrier tube 3310. As desired, the predetermined length 3328a of the pusher tube 3320 can be greater than or substantially equal to the predetermined length 3318a of the carrier tube 3310. The pusher tube 3320 can be positioned in the tube set 3305 with respect to the carrier tube 3310 such that the carrier tube 3310 and the pusher tube 3320 at least partially define a space 3360 distal to the distal end region 3320b of the pusher tube 3320 and along the periphery 3312 of the carrier tube 3310. The space 3360 can be configured for housing or containing the offset-tubular clip 3500.

[0527] The pusher tube 3320 can be formed from a substantially rigid, semi-rigid, or flexible material. Also, the pusher tube 3320 can be substantially tubular and have a body 3321 defining a lumen 3324 that extends substantially between the proximal end region 3320a and the distal end region 3320b. The pusher tube 3320 can be configured to slidably receive at least a portion of the carrier tube 3310 so that the inner diameter 3328c of the pusher tube 3320 is equal to or larger than the outer diameter 3318b of the carrier tube 3310. The outer diameter 3328b and/or inner diameter 3328c of the pusher tube 3320 can be substantially uniform, and have a complementary cross-sectional profile to that of the carrier tube 3310 and/or the clip 3500. For example, when the carrier tube 3310 and/or the clip 3500 have orthogonal cross-sectional profiles that are either generally circular or generally oval, the outer diameter 3328b and/or inner diameter 3328c of the pusher tube 3320 can be either generally circular or generally oval.

[0528] Also, the distal end region 3320b of the pusher tube 3320 can include one or more longitudinal extensions 3325, which extend distally from the pusher tube 3320 and along the periphery 3312 of the carrier tube. The longitudinal extensions 3325 can be configured to push the clip 3500 during deployment. As such, the longitudinal extensions can include a first extension 3325a, a second extension 3325b, and a third extension 3325c, where the first extension 3325a is more distally disposed compared to the second extension 3325b that is more distally disposed compared to the third extension 3325c. Accordingly, the extensions 3325a-c can be offset so as to facilitate deployment of an offset-tubular clip 3500. Alternatively, the extensions 3325a-c can be blunt as described in connection with other embodiments. The longitudinal extensions 3325a-c can be biased such that the longitudinal extensions 3325a-c extend generally in parallel with a common longitudinal axis 3350. The longitudinal extensions 3325a-c can be sufficiently flexible to expand radially or bend outwardly, and yet sufficiently rigid to inhibit buckling, as the distal end region 3320b is directed distally along the carrier tube 3310 and engages the substantially offset-tubular clip 3500 for deployment.

[0529] As shown in FIGS. 38A and 38E, a cover tube 3330 can be configured to retain the substantially offset-tubular clip 3500 substantially within the carrier assembly 3000 prior to deployment. Being coupled with, and slidable relative to, the pusher tube 3320, the cover tube 3330 can have a proximal end region 3330a and a distal end region 3330b. Also, the cover tube 3330 can include a predetermined length 3338a, a predetermined outer diameter 3338b, and a predetermined inner diameter 3338c, any of which can be of any suitable dimension.

[0530] The cover tube 3330 can be formed as a substantially rigid, semi-rigid, or flexible tubular member. Also, the cover tube 3330 can have an outer periphery 3332 and have a body 3331 that defines a lumen 3334. The lumen 3334 can extend substantially between the proximal and distal end regions 3330a, 3330b of the cover tube 3330, and it can be configured to slidably receive at least a portion of the pusher tube 3320 or any member of the tube set 3305. When the cover tube 3330 is properly positioned with respect to the other tubes in the tube set 3305, the distal end region 3330b can be configured to extend over the space 3360, thereby defining an annular cavity 3370 for receiving, retaining, and deploying the offset-tubular closure element 3500. The outer diameter 3338b and/or inner diameter 3338c of the cover tube 3330 can be substantially uniform along the length 3338a, or vary in dimensions as desired. Also, the cross-sectional profile of the cover tube 3330 can be complementary to any of the tubes or structures of the tube set 3305 and/or the clip 3500. For example, when tubes or structures of the tube set and/or the clip are generally circular or generally oval, the cross-sectional profile of the cover tube 3330 can be generally circular or generally oval.

[0531] Additionally, the distal end region 3330b of the cover tube 3330 can include one or more longitudinal extensions 3335, which extend distally from the cover tube 3330 and along an outer periphery 3322 of the pusher tube 3320. Although the longitudinal extensions 3335 can extend generally in parallel with a common longitudinal axis 3350, the longitudinal extensions 3335 can be biased such that the plurality of longitudinal extensions 3335 extends substantially radially inwardly. Thereby, the longitudinal extensions 3335 can at least partially close the lumen 3334 substantially adjacent to the distal end region 3330b of the cover tube 3330. To permit the substantially offset-tubular clip 3500 to be deployed from the annular cavity 3370, the longitudinal extensions 3335 can be sufficiently flexible to expand or bend radially outward so as to permit the distal end region 3310b of the carrier tube 3310 to move distally past the cover tube 3330 to open the annular cavity 3370 such that the distal end region 3330b no longer extends over the space 3360. Also, the longitudinal extensions 3335 of the cover tube 3330 can be configured substantially similar to the longitudinal extensions 3325 of the pusher tube 3320.

[0532] As shown in FIGS. 38A and 38F, the tube set 3305 can include a support tube 3340. The support tube 3340 can be configured to slidably receive a wire (e.g., guidewire), locator, or the like. Also, the support tube 3340 can provide radial support for the other tubes within the tube set 3305. The carrier assembly 3000 can advantageously include the support tube 3340, for example, to provide sufficient support to the carrier tube 3310 in the instance it is not sufficiently rigid or under other circumstances in which support for the carrier tube 3310 or other tubes in the tube set 3305 might be desirable. Also, the support tube 3340 can be configured to be expandable.