System and method for retaining vaso-occlusive devices within an aneurysm

Abstract

The present invention is directed to systems for occluding an aneurysm having an aneurysmal neck and an aneurysmal inner wall. Generally, a device in accordance with the present invention includes a mesh-like structure that is integrally composed of a shape-memory alloy such as NiTi. The device is deployed within the aneurysm through the aneurysmal neck. The device is configured to be in a deployed state and an undeployed state, and is configured to transition from the undeployed state to the deployed state by exposure to a higher temperature and/or by being unconstrained. The device may function to retain finer vaso-occlusive devices such as vaso-occlusive coils and/or embolic liquids. Furthermore, the device itself may function as a vaso-occlusive device.

Description

RELATED APPLICATION DATA [0001] The present application is a continuation of co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10 / 121,980 filed Apr. 12, 2002, which is hereby incorporated by reference.FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0002] The present invention relates generally to vaso-occlusion, and more particularly to systems and methods for retaining vaso-occlusive devices within an aneurysm. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0003] Different implantable medical devices have been developed for treating a number of ailments associated with body lumens. In particular, occlusive devices are useful in filling vascular or other body spaces. Some body spaces, such as vascular aneurysms, are formed due to a weakening in the wall of an artery. Often these aneurysms are the site of internal bleeding and stroke. A variety of different embolic agents are known to be, at least arguably, suitable for treatment of these anomalies. These treatments are commonly known as “artificial vaso-occlusion.”[0004] Over the...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0016] In accordance with a first aspect of the present invention, at least one of the proximal and distal ends of the mesh-like structure is configured to be inserted through the aneurysmal neck when in an undeployed state,

Problems solved by technology

Often these aneurysms are the site of internal bleeding and stroke.

As noted above, aneurysms present a particularly acute medical risk due to the dangers of potential rupture of the thin wall inherent in such aneurysms.

However, after, or perhaps during, delivery of the coil into the aneurysm, there is a specific risk that a portion of the coil might migrate out of the aneurysm entrance zone and into the feeding vessel.

The presence of the coil in that feeding vessel may cause a highly undesirable occlusion there.

Also, there is a quantifiable risk that the blood flow in the vessel and aneurysm may induce movement of the coil farther out of the

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