Methods and Devices for Placing a Conduit in Fluid Communication with a Target Vessel

Abstract

Methods and devices for placing a conduit in fluid communication with a target vessel and a source of blood, such as the aorta or a heart chamber. The device may be actuated using one hand to place the conduit. The invention allows air in the conduit to be removed prior to placement of the conduit. The invention deploys the conduit in the target vessel by moving a sheath in a distal direction and then in a proximal direction. A conduit is provided with a reinforcing member to prevent kinking of the conduit, and a structure for preventing blockage of the conduit by tissue. A vessel coupling may be used to secure a conduit to a target vessel so as to preserve native blood flow through the vessel, and the conduit may be placed in fluid communication with a target vessel via a laparoscopic or endoscopic procedure.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09 / 850,883, filed May 7, 2001, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09 / 304,149, filed May 3, 1999, which is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 09 / 232,103, filed on Jan. 15, 1999 and entitled “Methods and Devices for Forming Vascular Anastomoses,” the entire subject matter of which is incorporated herein by reference. This application is also a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 09 / 232,062, filed on Jan. 15, 1999 and entitled “Methods and Devices For Bypassing an Obstructed Target Vessel by Placing the Vessel in Communication with a Heart Chamber Containing Blood,” the entire subject matter of which is also incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]1. Field of the Invention[0003]The invention relates to methods and devices for placing a conduit in fluid communication with a lumen of a target vessel, an...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

Despite the considerable advances that have been realized in cardiology and cardiovascular surgery, heart disease remains the leading cause of death throughout much of the world.

Some of the challenges associated with such procedures include proper positioning of the conduit in the myocardium as well as correct placement of the conduit in a coronary artery.

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