Stent delivery device

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a delivery device such as a pusher for delivering a medical device such as a stent through tortuous anatomy while reducing twisting or flattening. The delivery device may also aid in expansion of the medical device upon reaching a target site. The delivery device may include a core wire and one or more coils disposed around the core wire. The one or more coils may function to effectively stiffen and / or increase the outer diameter of the delivery device along certain portions of its length.

Description

STENT DELIVERY DEVICE

[0001] This application claims benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 63 / 674,146 filed July 22, 2024 entitled Stent Delivery Device, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.BACKGROUND

[0002] Stents are commonly used in a wide variety of medical procedures, including interventional procedures to treat occluded or narrowed blood vessels. Generally, stents are expandable tubes which may be implanted in vessels such as arteries or veins within the body to maintain their patency and prevent blockages.

[0003] The delivery of such stents to certain vessels has presented problems, particularly where the stent is to be delivered through a tortuous vasculature having bends. For example, the stent may become flattened at the bend of a vessel. As another example, the stent may twist as it traverses a tortuous vasculature to reach a target site. As yet another example, the stent may undergo strut or wire movement during delivery. In any of the above cases, the efficiency and efficacy of stent deployment may be negatively impacted.SUMMARY

[0004] In some aspects, the methods, devices, and / or systems shown and / or described herein relate to a delivery device for delivering a medical device through a tortuous anatomy such as turns or bends in the vasculature without twisting or flattening.

[0005] In some aspects, the methods, devices, and / or systems shown and / or described herein relate to aiding in the expansion of a medical device in situ.

[0006] In some aspects, the methods, devices, and / or systems shown and / or described herein relate to a delivery device for puffing up or propping open an expandable medical device.

[0007] In some aspects, the methods, devices, and / or systems shown and / or described herein relate to a delivery device for improving visualization of a medical device as the medical device is being delivered to a target site or retrieved from a target site.

[0008] In some aspects, the medical device may comprise a stent.

[0009] In some aspects, the medical device may comprise a flow diverter.

[0010] In some aspects, the medical device may comprise carotid artery stenting.

[0011] In some aspects, the delivery device may comprise a core wire, a first coil disposed around a first length of the core wire, and a second coil disposed around a second length of the core wire.

[0012] In some aspects, a distal end of the first coil may be spatially separated along a longitudinal axis from a proximal end of the second coil so as to expose a length of the core wire between the first and second coils.

[0013] In some aspects, a distal end of the first coil may be adjacent to a proximal end of the second coil.

[0014] In some aspects, the first and second coils may be composed of the same or different materials.

[0015] In some aspects, the first coil may be composed of stainless steel.

[0016] In some aspects, the second coil may be composed of drawn-filled-tubing, platinum, or Nitinol.

[0017] In some aspects, a first radiopaque marker may be affixed to the core wire, with a distal end of the first coil being affixed to the first radiopaque marker.

[0018] In some aspects, a second radiopaque marker may be affixed to the core wire, with a proximal end of the second coil being affixed to the second radiopaque marker.

[0019] In some aspects, an outer diameter of the second coil may be between 3 to 5 times an outer diameter of the core wire.

[0020] In some aspects, an outer diameter of the core wire may be 0.003 inch.

[0021] In some aspects, an outer diameter of the second coil may be between 0.010 inch and 0.012 inch.

[0022] In some aspects, a proximal end of the second coil may be affixed to a first stopper and / or a distal end of the second coil may be affixed to a second stopper.

[0023] In some aspects, one or both stoppers may be comprised of a radiopaque marker, a fillet, a weld, or the like.

[0024] In some aspects, both proximal and distal ends of the second coil may be affixed to the core wire.

[0025] In some aspects, a proximal end and / or a distal end of the second coil may be freely movable axially and / or rotationally with respect to the core wire.

[0026] In some aspects, the second coil may be comprised of at least two independent coil sections.

[0027] In some aspects, the at least two independent coil sections may be comprised of a first coil section and a second coil section.

[0028] In some aspects, a proximal end of the first coil section may be freely movable with respect to the core wire and a distal end of the first coil section may be affixed to a stopper or to the core wire.

[0029] In some aspects, a proximal end of the second coil section may be freely movable with respect to the core wire and a distal end of the second coil section may be affixed to a stopper or to the core wire.

[0030] In some aspects, the at least two independent coil sections may be comprised of a first coil section, a second coil section, a third coil section, and a fourth coil section.

[0031] In some aspects, a first stopper may be affixed to the core wire proximally with respect to the first coil section and / or a second stopper may be affixed to the core wire distally with respect to the second coil section.

[0032] In some aspects, each of the first, second, third, and fourth coil sections may be independently movable with respect to the core wire.

[0033] In some aspects, each of the first, second, third, and fourth coil sections may be spaced apart with respect to each other.

[0034] In some aspects, at least a portion of a length of the first and / or second coil may have an outer diameter that is substantially the same as an inner diameter of the medical device.

[0035] In some aspects, at least a portion of a length of the first and / or second coil may have an outer diameter that is about equal to an inner diameter of the medical device when collapsed for delivery.

[0036] In some aspects, at least a portion of the first and / or second coil may include an outer sleeve or jacket.

[0037] In some aspects, the outer diameter of the outer sleeve or jacket may be substantially the same or about equal to an inner diameter of the medical device when collapsed for delivery.

[0038] In some aspects, a method of delivering a medical device through a tortuous anatomy may include providing a delivery device comprising a core wire, a first coil disposed around a first portion of a length of the core wire, and a second coil disposed around a second portion of the length of the core wire; inserting the second coil of the delivery device into an interior of a medical device while the medical device is collapsed;advancing the medical device through the tortuous anatomy; and expanding the medical device.

[0039] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, including: a core wire; a first coil disposed around a first length of the core wire; and a second coil disposed around a second length of the core wire.

[0040] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, wherein a distal end of the first coil is spatially separated from a proximal end of the second coil so as to expose a length of the core wire between the first coil and the second coil.

[0041] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, wherein the first coil is composed of a first material and wherein the second coil is composed of a second material.

[0042] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, wherein the second material is included of a radiopaque material.

[0043] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, wherein a distal end of the first coil is affixed to a first radiopaque marker and wherein the first radiopaque marker is affixed to the core wire.

[0044] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, wherein a proximal end of the second coil is affixed to a second radiopaque marker and wherein the second radiopaque marker is affixed to the core wire.

[0045] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, wherein a distal end of the second coil is affixed to a fillet and wherein the fillet is affixed to the core wire.

[0046] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, wherein a proximal end of the second coil is movable with respect to the core wire.

[0047] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, wherein a distal end of the second coil is fixed with respect to the core wire.

[0048] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, wherein the second coil is included of a first coil section and a second coil section, the first coil section and the second coil section being noncontiguous.

[0049] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, wherein a proximal end of the first coil section is movable with respect to the core wire and wherein a distal end of the first coil section is fixed with respect to the core wire.

[0050] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, wherein a proximal end of the second coil section is movable with respect to the core wire and wherein a distal end of the second coil section is fixed with respect to the core wire.

[0051] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, wherein the second coil is included of a plurality of non-contiguous coil sections, each of the plurality of non-contiguous coil sections being positioned between a first stopper and a second stopper.

[0052] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, wherein each of the plurality of non-contiguous coil sections is movable with respect to the core wire.

[0053] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, wherein the second coil is movable with respect to the core wire between a first stopper and a second stopper.

[0054] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, wherein the second coil includes an outer diameter that is substantially similar to an inner diameter of the medical device in a collapsed configuration.

[0055] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, wherein the second coil includes at least one enlarged diameter section having an outer diameter that is substantially similar to an inner diameter of the medical device in a collapsed configuration.

[0056] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, further including an outer jacket encapsulating at least a portion of a length of the second coil.

[0057] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, further including a plurality of non-contiguous outer jackets, each of the plurality of non-contiguous outer jackets encapsulating a non-contiguous section of the second coil.

[0058] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, wherein a distal end of the first coil is spatially separated from a proximal end of the second coil so as to expose a length of the core wire between the first coil and the second coil.

[0059] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, wherein a distal end of the first coil is adjacent to a proximal end of the second coil.

[0060] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, wherein the first coil is composed of a first material and wherein the second coil is composed of a second material.

[0061] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, wherein the first material is the same as the second material.

[0062] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, wherein the first material is different than the second material.

[0063] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, wherein the first material is stainless steel.

[0064] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, wherein the second material is included of platinum.

[0065] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, wherein the second material is included of drawn-filled-tubing.

[0066] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, wherein the second material is included of a radiopaque material.

[0067] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, wherein the medical device is included of a stent.

[0068] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, further including a first radiopaque marker affixed to the core wire, wherein a distal end of the first coil is affixed to the first radiopaque marker.

[0069] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, further including a second radiopaque marker affixed to the core wire, wherein a proximal end of the second coil is affixed to the second radiopaque marker.

[0070] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, wherein an outer diameter of the second coil is between 3 to 5 times an outer diameter of the core wire.

[0071] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, wherein an outer diameter of the core wire is 0.003 inch.

[0072] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, wherein an outer diameter of the second coil is between 0.010 inch and 0.012 inch.

[0073] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, wherein a proximal end of the second coil is affixed to a first stopper and wherein a distal end of the second coil is affixed to a second stopper.

[0074] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, wherein the first stopper is included of a radiopaque marker.

[0075] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, wherein the second stopper is included of a fillet.

[0076] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, wherein both a proximal end and a distal end of the second coil is affixed to the core wire.

[0077] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, wherein a proximal end of the second coil is freely movable with respect to the core wire.

[0078] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, wherein a distal end of the second coil is affixed to a stopper.

[0079] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, wherein a proximal end of the second coil is freely rotatable about the core wire.

[0080] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, wherein a distal end of the second coil is affixed to a stopper.

[0081] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, further including a radiopaque marker affixed to a distal end of the core wire.

[0082] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, wherein the second coil is included of at least two independent coil sections.

[0083] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, wherein the at least two independent coil sections are included of a first coil section and a second coil section.

[0084] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, wherein a proximal end of the first coil section is freely movable with respect to the core wire.

[0085] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, wherein a distal end of the first coil section is affixed to a stopper.

[0086] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, wherein a proximal end of the second coil section is freely movable with respect to the core wire.

[0087] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, wherein a distal end of the second coil section is affixed to a stopper.

[0088] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, wherein the at least two independent coil sections are included of a first coil section, a second coil section, a third coil section, and a fourth coil section.

[0089] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, further including a first stopper affixed to the core wire proximally with respect to the first coil section.

[0090] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, further including a second stopper affixed to the core wire distally with respect to the second coil section.

[0091] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, wherein each of the first coil section, the second coil section, the third coil section, and the fourth coil section are independently movable with respect to the core wire.

[0092] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, wherein each of the first coil section, the second coil section, the third coil section, and the fourth coil section are independently rotatable with respect to the core wire.

[0093] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device for a medical device, wherein each of the first coil section, the second coil section, the third coil section, and the fourth coil section are spaced apart with respect to each other.

[0094] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device, wherein an outer diameter of the second coil is about equal to an inner diameter of the medical device when the medical device is collapsed.

[0095] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device, wherein the second coil includes a first coil section having a first outer diameter and a second coil section having a second outer diameter.

[0096] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device, wherein the first outer diameter of the first coil section is about equal to an inner diameter of the medical device when the medical device is collapsed.

[0097] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device, wherein the second outer diameter of the second coil section is less than the first outer diameter of the first coil section.

[0098] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device, wherein at least a portion of a length of the first coil includes an outer jacket or sleeve.

[0099] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device, wherein an outer diameter of the outer jacket or sleeve is about equal to an inner diameter of the medical device when the medical device is collapsed.

[0100] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device, further including a first outer jacket or sleeve positioned around a first portion of a length of the second coil and a second outer jacket or sleeve positioned around a second portion of the length of the second coil.

[0101] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a delivery device, wherein the first outer jacket or sleeve is spatially separated from the second outer jacket or sleeve by a portion of the length of the second coil.

[0102] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a pusher, including: a core wire; a first coil means disposed around a first length of the core wire; a second coil means disposed around a second length of the core wire; a first stopper means affixed to the core wire, wherein a distal end of the first coil means is affixed to the first stopper means; and a second stopper means affixed to the core wire distally with respect to the first stopper means, wherein a proximal end of the second coil means is affixed to the second stopper means; and, wherein a length of the core wire is exposed between the first stopper means and the second stopper means.

[0103] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a method of delivering a medical device through a tortuous anatomy, including: providing a delivery device including a core wire, a first coil disposed around a first portion of a length of the core wire, and a second coil disposed around a second portion of the length of the core wire; inserting the second coil of the delivery device into an interior of a medical device while the medical device is collapsed; advancing the medical device through the tortuous anatomy; and expanding the medical device.

[0104] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a method of delivering a medical device through a tortuous anatomy, including: providing a delivery device including a core wire, a first coil disposed around a first portion of a length of the core wire, and a second coil disposed around a second portion of the length of the core wire; inserting the delivery device into an interior of a collapsed medical device; aligning a proximal end of the medical device proximal to a proximal end of the second coil; positioning the second coil within the interior of the collapsed medical device; advancing the collapsed medical device through the tortuous anatomy; and expanding the collapsed medical device.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0105] The following figures are included to illustrate certain example aspects of the present disclosure and should not be viewed as exclusive or limiting. The subject matter disclosed is capable of considerable modifications, alterations, combinations, and equivalents in form and function, as will occur to one having ordinary skill in the art and having the benefit of this disclosure. The present disclosure references the drawings as follows:

[0106] Fig. 1A illustrates a side view of a stent delivery device according to one example.

[0107] Fig. 1 B illustrates a side view of a stent delivery device and a stent according to one example.

[0108] Fig. 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a stent delivery device positioned within a collapsed medical device according to one example.

[0109] Fig. 3 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a stent delivery device with a freely movable distal coil positioned within a collapsed medical device according to one example.

[0110] Fig. 4 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a stent delivery device with multiple coil sections positioned within a collapsed medical device such as a stent according to one example.

[0111] Fig. 5 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a stent delivery device with a plurality of separate coil sections positioned within a collapsed medical device such as a stent according to one example.

[0112] Fig. 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a stent delivery device having a freely movable distal coil positioned within a collapsed medical device such as a stent according to one example.

[0113] Fig. 7A illustrates a cross-sectional view of a stent delivery device positioned within a collapsed medical device such as a stent according to one example.

[0114] Fig. 7B illustrates a cross-sectional view of a stent delivery device having a plurality of distinct coil sections with various diameters positioned within a collapsed medical device such as a stent according to one example.

[0115] Fig. 7C illustrates a cross-sectional view of a stent delivery device with an outer jacket or sleeve surrounding a distal coil positioned within a collapsed medical device such as a stent according to one example.

[0116] Fig. 7D illustrates a cross-sectional view of a stent delivery device with a plurality of outer jackets or sleeves surrounding a distal coil positioned within a collapsed medical device such as a stent according to one example.

[0117] Fig. 8 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a stent delivery device positioned within a collapsed medical device such as a stent according to one example.

[0118] Fig. 9 illustrates a side view of a stent delivery device within a stent during delivery and partial expansion according to one example.

[0119] Fig. 10 illustrates a side view of a stent delivery device within a stent during delivery and partial expansion according to one example.

[0120] Fig. 11 illustrates a side view of a stent delivery device within a stent during delivery and partial expansion according to one example.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0121] It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the present disclosure is not limited to what has been particularly shown and described herein. A variety of modifications and variations are possible in view of the teachings herein without departing their scope, spirit, or intent.

[0122] While different examples may be described in this specification, it is specifically contemplated that any of the features from the different examples can be used and brought together in any combination. In other words, the features of different examples can be mixed and matched with each other. Hence, while every permutation of features from different examples may not be explicitly shown or described, it is the intention of this disclosure to cover any such combinations, especially as may be appreciated by one of skill in the art.

[0123] The terminology used in this disclosure should be interpreted in a permissive manner and is not intended to be limiting. In the drawings, like numbers refer to like elements. Unless otherwise noted, all of the accompanying drawings are not to scale. Unless otherwise noted, the term “about” is defined to mean plus-or-minus 10% of a stated value, inclusive.

[0124] The terms distal or distally generally refer to a direction or area towards an end of a device within a patient (e.g., away from a physician / clinician), while the terms proximal or proximally refer to a direction or area toward an end of a device that remains outside of a patient (e.g., toward or closer to a physician / clinician or handle / hub of a device).

[0125] Aspects of example stents and pushers are generally disclosed below and intended to be described in an inclusive, holistic manner such that any of these aspects are interchangeable or may be used together in any combination or permutation. The figures describe specific example combinations of some of these aspects but should not be interpreted to limit the present disclosure to only those combinations.

[0126] Generally, the present disclosure includes a delivery device, such as a pusher, comprising a core wire around which is wound at least one coil. The at least one coil may stiffen and / or effectively increase an outer diameter of the core wire along one or more portions of its length.

[0127] Increasing an outer diameter of the pusher at one or more portions along its length may provide a number of benefits, particularly when traversing through tortuous anatomies such as bends or turns in vessels.

[0128] A medical device, such as a stent that is in a collapsed configuration, being delivered by the delivery device may be less prone to flattening upon traversing a bend in a vessel.

[0129] In examples in which a stent or other expandable medical device is delivered, the increased outer diameter of the delivery device may aid in puffing up or propping open the expandable medical device.

[0130] In examples in which the at least one coil is comprised of a radiopaque material, the delivery device may be manipulated under fluoroscopy to aid with opening of the expandable medical device as needed.

[0131] In examples in which a stent, such as a collapsed or crimped stent, is delivered, the delivery device may reduce twisting by, e.g., functioning as a rigid core to the stent as it traverses tortuous anatomy via a delivery catheter towards a target site. A reduction in twisting of the stent may aid with stent opening or expansion since the stent will not have to overcome any twisting prior to opening itself.

[0132] In examples in which a stent having struts is delivered, the delivery device may aid in maintaining the struts in a linear or straightened configuration even when collapsed or crimped to provide better transmission of force on the stent body during advancing or retracting.

[0133] The delivery device may comprise a pusher including a core wire. A first coil may be disposed around a first length of the core wire and a second coil may be disposed around a second length of the core wire, with the first length of the core wire being proximal to the second length of the core wire. A gap (e.g., a length of the core wire over which neither coil is disposed) may be defined between the first coil and the second coil.

[0134] A distal end of the first coil may be spatially separated from a proximal end of the second core wire by a length of exposed core wire such that a gap is defined between the first and second coils. The presence of such a gap, which is optional and may be omitted in some examples, may allow for extra room to accommodate other materials, such as markers on the stent. Where a gap is omitted, the delivery device may comprise only a single coil along at least a portion of its length, or the delivery device may comprise two or more coils which are adjacent to each other to form a combined, singular coil.

[0135] To aid in visualization, the delivery device may include one or more radiopaque markers. As an example, the distal end of the first coil may include a radiopaque marker, such as a first marker band, and the proximal end of the second coil may include a radiopaque marker, such as a second marker band.

[0136] The core wire may be composed of various materials, including stainless steel and / or Nitinol. As an example, a proximal portion of the core wire may be composed ofstainless steel and a distal portion of the core wire may be composed of Nitinol. As another example, the entire length of the core wire may be composed of the same material (stainless steel, Nitinol, or other materials).

[0137] The first and second coils may be composed of the same or different materials. For example, the first coil may be composed of stainless steel and the second coil may be composed of drawn-filled-tubing (DFT), platinum, Nitinol, or the like. The use of a second coil composed of DFT may provide additional resistance to bending.

[0138] The delivery device, and particularly the second (e.g., distal) coil of the delivery device, may be positioned under a collapsed medical device during delivery and / or retrieval. The increased outer diameter of the delivery device along its length including the second coil may aid with opening or expansion of the delivery device. By way of example, the second coil may increase the outer diameter of the delivery device as compared to its core wire by a factor of between about 3 and 5. As a specific, non-limiting example, the outer diameter of the second coil may comprise between about 0.010 inch and 0.012 inch, with the underlying core wire having an outer diameter of about 0.003 inch.

[0139] The delivery device may also reduce twisting of the delivery device as it traverses tortuous anatomies towards a target site by providing a rigid core to the collapsed or compressed medical device and thereby resisting or minimizing twisting of the medical device. This can also aid in opening or expansion of the medical device as the medical device traverses tortuous anatomies by reducing or eliminating the need to overcome twisting before the medical device can open or expand.

[0140] In an example, the second coil may be affixed to the core wire such that the second coil may not be movable with respect to the core wire. For example, a first, proximal end of the second coil may be affixed, such as by bonding, to a marker band and a second, distal end of the second coil may be affixed, such as by bonding, directly to the core wire. However, in other examples, the reverse configuration may be utilized; with the first end of the second coil being bonded to the core wire itself and the secondend of the second coil being bonded to a marker. In yet other examples, both ends of the core wire may be bonded directly to the core wire, or both ends of the core wire may be bonded to markers; with the markers themselves being bonded directly to the core wire.

[0141] In an example, one or more ends of the second coil may “float” and thus be movable with respect to the underlying core wire. In a first example, a first, proximal end of the second coil may not be bonded to any structure and thus freely movable, while a second, distal end of the second coil may be bonded to the core wire, to a marker, or via a fillet. In a second example, the reverse configuration may be utilized; with the first end of the second coil being bonded and the second end of the second coil being freely movable. In a third example, both ends of the second coil may be freely movable. The use of any of the above examples may allow at least a portion or an end of the second coil to spin or rotate freely about the core wire.

[0142] In an example, the second coil may comprise multiple, interconnected coil sections, such as a first coil section and a second coil section. The use of multiple coil sections for the second coil may allow free movement of individual sections of the second coil to resist twisting force only applied to certain portion of the medical device being delivered by the delivery device.

[0143] In an example, each of the coil sections may have an outer diameter which may be substantially the same, or within about 90-99% of, an inner diameter of the medical device when the medical device is collapsed for delivery, such as through a delivery device.

[0144] In an example, one or more of the coil sections may have an outer diameter which is greater than one or more of the remaining coil sections.

[0145] In an example, the first coil and / or the second coil may have an outer jacket or sleeve which surrounds the first coil and / or the second coil.

[0146] In an example, the outer jacket or sleeve may have an outer diameter which is substantially the same, or within between about 90-99% of, an inner diameter of themedical device when the medical device is collapsed for delivery, such as through a delivery device.

[0147] In an example embodiment, one or more coil sections may include a jacket or a sleeve, and one or more remaining coil sections may not include a jacket or sleeve.

[0148] A proximal end of the first coil section may be freely movable (e.g., rotatable) and thus not bonded to any structure such as the core wire. A distal end of the first coil section may be bonded directly to the core wire, bonded to a marker, and / or bonded via a fillet. A proximal end of the second coil section may be adjacent to the distal end of the first coil section and may be bonded or freely movable. A distal end of the second coil section may also be freely movable, or may be bonded directly to the core wire, bonded to a marker, and / or bonded via a fillet.

[0149] In an example, multiple, freely movable coil sections may be utilized. Such an example may aid in advancing the medical device in addition to pushing the medical device from its proximal end (e.g., proximal end loops). The coil sections may minimize wire or strut movement of the medical device by providing support underneath the medical device when collapsed during delivery or retrieval. For example, the medical device may comprise a single layer flow diverter stent with higher picks per inch in its middle section, or where stent body support is necessary as it traverses tortuous anatomies through various bends and / or curvatures to reach a target site.

[0150] In an example, two or more freely rotatable coil sections may be positioned between a pair of stoppers (e.g., fillets, markers, or the like) which may function to restrict axial movement of the coil sections along a length of an underlying core wire. Such coil sections may be free to rotate in either direction and may function to minimize movement of the structural elements (e.g., struts, wires, etc.) of the medical device when collapsed during delivery or retrieval. The coil sections may be composed of DFT to promote visualization.

[0151] In an example, a single, elongated coil section may be freely rotatable between a pair of stoppers, with a gap (e.g., a small gap) between the respective ends of the elongated coil section and the stoppers themselves. Thus, the single, elongated coil section may float between a pair of bonded ends formed by the stoppers. However, in such an example, one end of the single, elongated coil section may be bonded to one of the stoppers (e.g., the proximal end of the single, elongated coil section may be bonded to a proximal stopper or the distal end of the single, elongated coil section may be bonded to a distal stopper). In another example, both ends of the single, elongated coil section may be bonded to a respective stopper.

[0152] Specific examples of the previously described delivery device and / or stent are further described below in connection with the figures. However, it is the intent of this disclosure to encompass delivery devices and / or stents with any combination of the aspects disclosed in this specification, and therefore the disclosure should not be strictly limited to the specific combination of the figures.

[0153] Fig. 1A illustrates a side view of a stent delivery device 100 according to one example. As shown in Fig. 1A, the stent delivery device 100 may comprise a core wire 110 around which may be wound a pair of coils 120, 130. A proximal coil 120 may be disposed around a proximal portion of the core wire 110 and a distal coil 130 may be disposed around a distal portion of the core wire 110. In some examples, by disposing the coils 120, 130 around the core wire 110, the delivery device 100 and / or stent (see, e.g., Fig. 2, stent 150) may be less prone to flattening or twisting upon traversing a bend in a vessel. In some examples, disposing the coils 120, 130 around the core wire 110 may aid in puffing up or propping open an expandable medical device. It should be appreciated, however, that the proximal coil 120 may not extend fully to the proximal end of the core wire 110 and / or that the distal coil 130 may not extend fully to the distal end of the core wire 110. Thus, an exposed length of the core wire 110 may extend proximally from the proximal coil 120 and / or distally from the distal coil 130.

[0154] As shown in Fig. 1A, a distal end of the proximal coil 120 may include or be attached to a proximal marker 125 such as a proximal marker band which may be affixed to or disposed around the core wire 110. A proximal end of the distal coil 130 may include or be attached to a distal marker 135 such as a distal marker band which may be affixed to or disposed around the core wire 110.

[0155] In the example illustrated in Fig. 1A, it can be seen that the distal end of the proximal coil 120 may be spatially separated from the proximal end of the distal coil 130 by a gap 115 (e.g. , a length of exposed core wire 110). The length of the gap 115 between the proximal and distal coils 120, 130 may vary in different examples, and thus should not be construed as limited by the examples shown in the figures. The inclusion of such a gap 115 may accommodate certain structures of a medical device 150 (see Figs. 2-8 below), such as markers 155 (see Figs. 2-8 below), which may protrude inwardly from the medical device 150 when collapsed and thus require additional space. However, in some examples, the proximal and distal coils 120, 130 may be adjacent to each other or bonded to each other. In additional examples, the proximal and distal coils 120, 130 may be integrally formed from a unitary, continuous coil. In such examples, no gap 115 may be defined between the coils 120, 130.

[0156] The configuration of each of the respective coils 120, 130 may vary in different examples. For example, the outer diameter and / or the length of each respective coil 120, 130 may be the same or may be different in different examples (e.g., the proximal coil 120 may have a greater outer diameter and / or greater length than the distal coil 130, or vice versa).

[0157] The material(s) forming the respective coils 120, 130 may vary in different examples. The proximal coil 120 may be composed of the same or a different material than the distal coil 130. In an example, the proximal coil 120 may be composed of stainless steel and the distal coil 130 may be composed of drawn-filled-tubing (DFT), platinum, Nitinol, or other materials.

[0158] The radiopacity of the respective coils 120, 130 may also vary in different examples. In some examples, both of the coils 120, 130 may be radiopaque. In other examples, neither of the coils 120, 130 may be radiopaque. In yet other examples, one of the coils 120, 130 may be radiopaque, and the remaining coil may radiolucent.

[0159] An example DFT which may be utilized to form one or more coils 120, 130 is shown and described in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2020 / 0155732, entitled “Radiopaque Vascular Prosthesis”, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0160] In examples in which DFT is utilized for one or more coils 120, 130, the DFT coils or segments may be composed of a variety of different materials with different cross- sectional thicknesses. For example, a DFT coil or segment may comprise an inner core composed of a first material and an outer jacket or tube composed of a second material. In another example, the outer jacket may alternately be composed of multiple layers of different material (e.g., two or more layers over inner core). Either the inner core and the outer jacket may be composed of radiopaque materials (such as platinum, gold, tantalum, palladium, or similar known radiopaque materials). Either the inner core and the outer jacket may be composed of non-radiopaque materials (i.e. , materials with a relatively low or no radiopaque properties). Such non-radiopaque materials may include, e.g., stainless steel, cobalt-chromium, or shape memory alloys such as Nitinol. In one example, the inner core may be composed of radiopaque material(s) and the outer jacket may be composed of non-radiopaque materials. In another example, the inner core may be composed of non-radiopaque materials and the outer jacket may be composed of non- radiopaque materials.

[0161] In one example, the inner core may be composed of a radiopaque material and the outer jacket may be composed of a shape memory material (e.g., an alloy) such as Nitinol. The radiopaque material may promote visualization of the DFT, while the outer jacket may allow for improved pliability and the ability to have a memorized shape (e.g., via being heat-set). In another example, the inner core may be composed of platinum or tantalum, while the outer jacket may be composed of Nitinol-1 or Nitinol-2.

[0162] The inner core may have a cross-sectional shape that is circular, elliptical, or ovular, though a variety of other shapes can be used, such as rectangular, triangular, or the like. The outer jacket may be tubular in shape with an inner diameter that closely matches the outer diameter of the inner core. Put differently, the outer jacket may include an internal lumen through which the inner core may extend.

[0163] The respective outer diameters of the core wire 110, proximal coil 120, and / or distal coil 130 may vary in different examples. In an example, the distal coil 130 may have an outer diameter that is between about 3 and 5 times the outer diameter of the underlying core wire 110. For example, the core wire 110 may comprise an outer diameter of about 0.003 inch and the distal coil 130 may comprise an outer diameter of between about .010 inch and 0.012 inch.

[0164] The manner by which the coil(s) 120, 130 may be affixed to the core wire 110 may vary in different examples. In an example, the coil(s) 120, 130 may be welded to the core wire 110. In another example, the coil(s) 120, 130 may be bonded to the core wire 110 such as through use of an adhesive or the like. In yet another example, the coil(s) 120, 130 may be affixed to the core wire 110 utilizing one or more separate structures, connectors, collars, or the like.

[0165] An entire length of each coil 120, 130 may be affixed to the core wire 110 or, in some examples, only portion(s) of the length of each coil 120, 130 may be affixed to the core wire 110 (e.g., in some examples, only the proximal and distal ends of each coil 120, 130 may be affixed to the core wire 110).

[0166] Fig. 1 B illustrates a side view of a stent delivery device and a stent according to one example. As shown in Fig. 1 B, the proximal end of the medical device 150 may be positioned at or proximal to the proximal end of the distal coil 130 during delivery. The stent delivery device 100 may be positioned within a medical device 150 such as a stent. The medical device 150 may be in a collapsed configuration. Although not shown, it should be appreciated that the stent delivery device 100 and collapsed medical device 150 may be positioned within a catheter or other sheath during delivery.

[0167] Fig. 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a stent delivery device 100 positioned within a collapsed medical device 150 such as a stent according to one example. As shown, the delivery device 100 may comprise a proximal coil 120 and a distal coil 130; each being disposed around a core wire 110. The distal end of the proximal coil 120 may be affixed to a proximal radiopaque marker 125 such as a marker band. The proximal end of the distal coil 130 may be affixed to a distal radiopaque marker 135 such as a marker band. The proximal and distal coils 120, 130 may be separated by a portion of exposed core wire 110 defining a gap between the proximal and distal markers 125, 135.

[0168] As shown in Fig. 2, during delivery and / or retrieval, a proximal end of a medical device 150 having its own markers 155 may be positioned over the gap having the exposed core wire 110. As noted above, in this manner, the reduced outer diameter of the core wire 110 relative to the outer diameters of the respective proximal and distal coils 120, 130 may provide additional space to accommodate any markers 155 on the proximal end of the medical device 150.

[0169] In the example shown in Fig. 2, the entire length of the distal coil 130 may be positioned entirely within an interior of the length of the medical device 150 to provide any of the benefits previously discussed, e.g., to aid with stent 150 opening during deployment maneuverability, to reduce stent 150 twisting as it tracks to a target site by providing a rigid core to the crimped stent 150 to resist or minimize twisting, to maintain the stent 150 struts in a straightened configuration in a crimped, collapsed, or compressed state to help with stent tracking / pushing, and / or to provide improved resistance to bending.

[0170] The distal end of the distal coil 130 may be affixed to a fillet 140 as illustrated so as to restrict axial movement of the distal coil 130 in examples in which the distal coil 130 may be movable, or may alternatively be affixed directly to the core wire 110 (e.g., through welding, bonding, etc.) or to a separate marker (not shown). The distal tip 145 of the core wire 110 may include a radiopaque coil or marker to aid in visualization as illustrated.

[0171] Fig. 3 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a stent delivery device 100 with a freely movable distal coil 130 positioned within a collapsed medical device 150 according to one example. In the example shown in Fig. 3, it can be seen that the proximal end of the distal coil 130 may not be affixed to any structure and thus may be freely movable (e.g., freely rotatable and / or freely slidable along a longitudinal axis of the core wire 110) so as to, e.g., prevent twisting of the distal coil 130.

[0172] The distal end of the distal coil 130 may be affixed to a fillet 140 as shown or may be affixed by other methods such as by affixing directly to the core wire 110 or affixing to a separate marker or structure (not shown). Such a configuration may allow rotation, spinning, or sliding of the distal coil 130, with the distal coil 130, which may be composed of shape memory material such as DFT or Nitinol, reverting back to its original orientation and position absent application of force.

[0173] Fig. 4 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a stent delivery device 100 with multiple coil sections 130A, 130B positioned within a collapsed medical device 150 such as a stent 150 according to one example. In the example shown in Fig. 4, it can be seen that the distal coil 130 may be split into a pair of separate, non-contiguous coil sections 130A, 130B so as to, e.g., allow the stent 150 to more easily unwind if twisted and / or to minimize stent twisting.

[0174] A first coil section 130A may be positioned proximally with respect to a separate and distinct second coil section 130B. A proximal end of the first coil section 130A may be freely movable (e.g., rotatable and / or slidable) and a distal end of the first coil section 130A may be affixed or bonded to a structure such as a fillet 140A, the core wire 110 itself, or to a marker or other structure (not shown).

[0175] A proximal end of the second coil section 130B may be freely movable (e.g., rotatable and / or slidable) and a distal end of the second coil section 130B may be affixed or bonded to a structure such as a fillet 1406, the core wire 110 itself, or to a marker or other structure (not shown).

[0176] The use of such separate coil sections 130A, 130B may allow independent movement (e.g., rotation and / or sliding) of each coil section 130A, 130B if twisting force is applied only to certain segments of the delivery device 100 and / or medical device 150 during delivery / retrieval.

[0177] Fig. 5 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a stent delivery device 100 with a plurality of separate coil sections 130A, 130B, 130C, 130D positioned within a collapsed medical device such as a stent 150 according to one example. As shown in Fig. 5, the distal coil 130 may comprise a plurality of separate, non-contiguous coil sections 130A, 130B, 130C, 130D. Each of the coil sections 130A, 130B, 130C, 130D may be freely movable axially and / or rotatably so as to, e.g., provide rigid support under the stent 150, provide independent sections 130A, 130B, 130C, 130D to accommodate longer stent 150 lengths, minimize stent 150 wire movement by filling its hollow core, and minimize twisting of the stent 150. Thus, as shown in Fig. 5, a first coil section 130A may be spaced apart from a second coil section 130B, which may be spaced apart from a third coil section 130C, which may be spaced apart from a fourth coil section 130D.

[0178] Stoppers 140A, 1406, such as fillets, markers, or other enlargements formed on or affixed to the core wire 110, may be positioned on either side of the grouping of coil sections 130A, 130B, 130C, 130D so as to restrict axial movement of the coil sections 130A, 130B, 130C, 130D to a predefined length of the core wire 110. Thus, a first stopper 140A may be positioned proximally with respect to the proximal-most coil section 130A and a second stopper 1406 may be positioned distally with respect to the distal-most coil section 130D. It can also be seen that, in such an example, the distal tip 145 of the delivery device 100 may extend out or past the distal end of the medical device 150. Such a configuration may be preferable for use with medical devices 150 such as CAS or FD stents having a longer length.

[0179] Fig. 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a stent delivery device 100 having a freely movable distal coil 130 positioned within a collapsed medical device 150 such as a stent 150 according to one example. As shown in Fig. 6, in some examples, the distalcoil 130 may comprise a single, unified, contiguous, elongated section. The distal coil 130 may be freely movable (rotatably and / or axially) with respect to the underlying core wire 110.

[0180] A pair of stoppers 140A, 140B may be positioned on either end of the distal coil 130; with a first stopper 140A being positioned proximally with respect to a proximal end of the distal coil 130 and a second stopper 140B being positioned distally with respect to a distal end of the distal coil 130.

[0181] Each stopper 140A, 140B may be comprised of an enlarged region which functions to limit axial movement of the distal coil 130 along a predetermined length of the core wire 110; with the predetermined length being defined as the axial length between the pair of stoppers 140A, 1406. Each stopper 140A, 140B may comprise a separate structure attached (e.g., bonded) to the core wire 110 or a portion of the core wire 110 having an increased diameter with respect to the remainder of the length of the core wire 110. The entire length of the distal coil 130 may be positioned within an interior of the medical device 150 during delivery, deployment, and / or retrieval.

[0182] Fig. 7A illustrates a cross-sectional view of a stent delivery device 100 positioned within a collapsed medical device 150 such as a stent 150 according to one example. As shown in Fig. 7A, the distal coil 130 may have an outer diameter which is substantially the same as, or about equal to, an inner diameter of the medical device 150 when the medical device 150 is collapsed for delivery and / or retrieval.

[0183] In this manner, the likelihood of the medical device 150 twisting, flattening, or the like may be reduced or eliminated during delivery and / or retrieval, particularly when traversing a tortuous vasculature because the struts of the medical device 150 are maintained in a more linear or more straightened configuration. Although the figures illustrate that the stoppers 140A, 140B have an outer diameter which substantially matches that of the distal coil 130, it should be appreciated that the outer diameter of the stoppers 140A, 140B may be less than that of the distal coil 130 in some examples so long as axial movement of the distal coil 130 is restricted to the length between thestoppers 140A, OB. As previously discussed, each stopper 140A, MOB may comprise a separate structure attached (e.g., bonded) to the core wire 110 or may comprise an enlarged region of the core wire 110 itself.

[0184] Fig. 7B illustrates a cross-sectional view of a stent delivery device 100 having a plurality of distinct coil sections 130A, 130B, 130C, 130D, 130E, 130F, 130G with various diameters positioned within a collapsed medical device 150 such as a stent 150 according to one example. Fig. 7B illustrates an example in which the distal coil 130 may comprise a plurality of distinct, non-contiguous coil sections 130A, 130B, 130C, 130D, 130E, 130F, 130G. The coil sections 130A, 130B, 130C, 130D, 130E, 130F, 130G may comprise varying outer diameters. In the example shown in Fig. 7B, it can be seen that coil sections 130B, 130D, 130F may each have an outer diameter that is substantially the same as, or about equal to, an inner diameter of the medical device 150 when the medical device 150 is collapsed for delivery and / or retrieval. The remaining coil sections 130A, 130C, 130E, 130G may have a smaller outer diameter.

[0185] Thus, in the illustrated example, the coil sections 130A, 130B, 130C, 130D, 130E, 130F, 130G may alternate in width / diameter along the length of the core wire 110. However, it should be appreciated that the specific arrangement shown in Fig. 7B is merely for illustrative purposes, and various other configurations may be utilized such as, for example, by varying which coil sections 130A, 130B, 130C, 130D, 130E, 130F, 130G have a larger outer diameter and which coil sections 130A, 130B, 130C, 130D, 130E, 130F, 130G have a smaller outer diameter.

[0186] It should also be appreciated, with respect to any of the foregoing or following examples having multiple coil sections 130A, 130B, 130C, 130D, 130E, 130F, 130G, that the respective lengths of the coil sections 130A, 130B, 130C, 130D, 130E, 130F, 130G may vary with respect to each other. Thus, one or more of the coil sections 130A, 130B, 130C, 130D, 130E, 130F, 130G may have a length which is different from one or more of the remaining coil sections 130A, 130B, 130C, 130D, 130E, 130F, 130G.

[0187] Fig. 7C illustrates a cross-sectional view of a stent delivery device 100 with an outer jacket or sleeve 131 surrounding a distal coil 130 positioned within a collapsed medical device 150 such as a stent 150 according to one example. As shown in Fig. 7C, the distal coil 130 may include an outer jacket or sleeve 131 which surrounds and / or encapsulates at least a portion of the length of the distal coil 130. The outer jacket or sleeve 131 may provide one or more contact points or sections which aid in moving the stent 150 in its middle portion rather than pushing only from the end loop(s). Although not illustrated, it should be appreciated that the proximal coil 120 may, in some examples, additionally or alternatively include an outer jacket or sleeve along at least a portion of its length.

[0188] Fig. 7D illustrates a cross-sectional view of a stent delivery device 100 with a plurality of outer jackets or sleeves 131 A, 131 B, 131 C surrounding a distal coil 130 positioned within a collapsed medical device 150 such as a stent 150 according to one example. The plurality of outer jackets or sleeves 131 A, 131 B, 131 C, which may be noncontiguous as illustrated, may provide contact points or sections which aid in moving the stent 150 in its middle portion rather than pushing only from the end loop(s).

[0189] As shown in Fig. 7D, portions of the length of the distal coil 130 may include an outer jacket or sleeve 131. In the illustrated example, a first outer jacket or sleeve 131 A may be positioned around a first portion of the distal coil 130, a second outer jacket or sleeve 131 B may be positioned around a second portion of the distal coil 130, and a third outer jacket or sleeve 131 C may be positioned around a third portion of the distal coil 130. The intervening gaps may be utilized to accommodate various features of the medical device 150, such as markers or the like, which may impede into the interior channel of the medical device 150 when collapsed for delivery and / or retrieval. It should be appreciated that the number, length, and / or spacing of the respective outer jackets or sleeves 131 A, 131 B, 131 C may vary in different examples and thus should not be construed as limited in scope by the example shown in Fig. 7D.

[0190] Fig. 8 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a stent delivery device 100 positioned within a collapsed medical device 150 such as a stent 150 according to one example. As shown in Fig. 8, a single continuous distal coil 130 may be positioned within an interior of the medical device 150 during delivery, deployment, and / or retrieval. A proximal end of the distal coil 130 may be free-floating (e.g., not bonded to any structure) and a distal end of the distal coil 130 may be affixed to a fillet 140, to the core wire 110 itself, or to a marker (not shown). In this manner, the proximal end portion of the distal coil 130 may freely move (e.g., rotatably and / or axially) with respect to the underlying core wire 110.

[0191] In any of the preceding embodiments, it should be appreciated that the effective increase in the width of the delivery device 100 (e.g., through the use of the coil(s) 120, 130, jacket(s) 131 , or the like) may provide contact points or sections which may contact or engage with interior surfaces of the medical device 150 to aid in moving the medical device 150 from its middle portion, rather than pushing from only an end (e.g., end loop(s)) of the medical device 150. This may aid in dragging the medical device 150 forward or backward from within the body (e.g., a central region) of the medical device 150.

[0192] Fig. 9 illustrates a side view of a stent delivery device 100 within a stent 150 during delivery and partial expansion according to one example. As shown, the distal coil 130 of the delivery device 100 may be positioned within an interior of a medical device 150 such as a stent when the medical device 150 is delivered, retrieved, and / or expanded. The distal coil 130 may provide additional resistance to bending that would not be found in the core wire 110 alone. The portion of the core wire 110 around which the distal coil 130 is disposed may be composed of Nitinol, with the distal coil 130 being composed of DFT. In some examples, a proximal section of the core wire 110 may comprise a different material from its distal section, such as stainless steel.

[0193] Fig. 10 illustrates a side view of a stent delivery device 100 within a stent 150 during delivery and partial expansion according to one example. As shown, the portion of the core wire 110 which is exposed in the gap between the proximal and distal coils 120, 130 may be positioned within or near a proximal end of the medical device 150during delivery, retrieval, and / or expansion. The length of the distal coil 130 may be positioned within the remaining interior of the medical device 150 and, in some examples, may extend for a length past the distal end of the medical device 150.

[0194] Fig. 11 illustrates a side view of a stent delivery device 100 within a stent 150 during delivery and partial expansion according to one example. As shown, the distal end of the distal coil 130 may terminate within an interior of the medical device 150 (e.g., the distal end of the distal coil 130 may not extend out of the medical device 150). Such a configuration may be useful in combination with a medical device 150 such as a stent which includes one or more markers 155 at its distal end; with the absence of the distal coil 130 providing additional space for such marker(s) 155 when the medical device 150 is collapsed, compressed, or crimped during delivery and / or retrieval.

[0195] Claim Bank.

[0196] Clause 1 . A delivery device for a medical device, comprising: a core wire; a first coil disposed around a first length of the core wire; and a second coil disposed around a second length of the core wire.

[0197] Clause 2. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 1 , wherein a distal end of the first coil is spatially separated from a proximal end of the second coil so as to expose a length of the core wire between the first coil and the second coil.

[0198] Clause 3. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 1 , wherein the first coil is composed of a first material and wherein the second coil is composed of a second material.

[0199] Clause 4. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 3, wherein the second material is comprised of a radiopaque material.

[0200] Clause 5. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 1 , wherein a distal end of the first coil is affixed to a first radiopaque marker and wherein the first radiopaque marker is affixed to the core wire.

[0201] Clause 6. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 1 , wherein a proximal end of the second coil is affixed to a second radiopaque marker and wherein the second radiopaque marker is affixed to the core wire.

[0202] Clause 7. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 6, wherein a distal end of the second coil is affixed to a fillet and wherein the fillet is affixed to the core wire.

[0203] Clause 8. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 1 , wherein a proximal end of the second coil is movable with respect to the core wire.

[0204] Clause 9. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 8, wherein a distal end of the second coil is fixed with respect to the core wire.

[0205] Clause 10. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 1 , wherein the second coil is comprised of a first coil section and a second coil section, the first coil section and the second coil section being non-contiguous.

[0206] Clause 11. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 10, wherein a proximal end of the first coil section is movable with respect to the core wire and wherein a distal end of the first coil section is fixed with respect to the core wire.

[0207] Clause 12. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 11 , wherein a proximal end of the second coil section is movable with respect to the core wire and wherein a distal end of the second coil section is fixed with respect to the core wire.

[0208] Clause 13. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 1 , wherein the second coil is comprised of a plurality of non-contiguous coil sections, each of the plurality of non-contiguous coil sections being positioned between a first stopper and a second stopper.

[0209] Clause 14. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 13, wherein each of the plurality of non-contiguous coil sections is movable with respect to the core wire.

[0210] Clause 15. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 1 , wherein the second coil is movable with respect to the core wire between a first stopper and a second stopper.

[0211] Clause 16. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 15, wherein the second coil comprises an outer diameter that is substantially similar to an inner diameter of the medical device in a collapsed configuration.

[0212] Clause 17. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 1 , wherein the second coil comprises at least one enlarged diameter section having an outer diameter that is substantially similar to an inner diameter of the medical device in a collapsed configuration.

[0213] Clause 18. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 1 , further comprising an outer jacket encapsulating at least a portion of a length of the second coil.

[0214] Clause 19. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 1 , further comprising a plurality of non-contiguous outer jackets, each of the plurality of noncontiguous outer jackets encapsulating a non-contiguous section of the second coil.

[0215] Clause 20. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 1 , wherein a distal end of the first coil is spatially separated from a proximal end of the second coil so as to expose a length of the core wire between the first coil and the second coil.

[0216] Clause 21. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 1 , wherein a distal end of the first coil is adjacent to a proximal end of the second coil.

[0217] Clause 22. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 1 , wherein the first coil is composed of a first material and wherein the second coil is composed of a second material.

[0218] Clause 23. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 22, wherein the first material is the same as the second material.

[0219] Clause 24. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 22, wherein the first material is different than the second material.

[0220] Clause 25. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 22, wherein the first material is stainless steel.

[0221] Clause 26. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 25, wherein the second material is comprised of platinum.

[0222] Clause 27. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 25, wherein the second material is comprised of drawn-filled-tubing.

[0223] Clause 28. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 22, wherein the second material is comprised of a radiopaque material.

[0224] Clause 29. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 1 , wherein the medical device is comprised of a stent.

[0225] Clause 30. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 1 , further comprising a first radiopaque marker affixed to the core wire, wherein a distal end of the first coil is affixed to the first radiopaque marker.

[0226] Clause 31. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 30, further comprising a second radiopaque marker affixed to the core wire, wherein a proximal end of the second coil is affixed to the second radiopaque marker.

[0227] Clause 32. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 1 , wherein an outer diameter of the second coil is between 3 to 5 times an outer diameter of the core wire.

[0228] Clause 33. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 32, wherein an outer diameter of the core wire is 0.003 inch.

[0229] Clause 34. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 33, wherein an outer diameter of the second coil is between 0.010 inch and 0.012 inch.

[0230] Clause 35. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 1 , wherein a proximal end of the second coil is affixed to a first stopper and wherein a distal end of the second coil is affixed to a second stopper.

[0231] Clause 36. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 35, wherein the first stopper is comprised of a radiopaque marker.

[0232] Clause 37. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 36, wherein the second stopper is comprised of a fillet.

[0233] Clause 38. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 1 , wherein both a proximal end and a distal end of the second coil is affixed to the core wire.

[0234] Clause 39. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 1 , wherein a proximal end of the second coil is freely movable with respect to the core wire.

[0235] Clause 40. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 39, wherein a distal end of the second coil is affixed to a stopper.

[0236] Clause 41. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 1 , wherein a proximal end of the second coil is freely rotatable about the core wire.

[0237] Clause 42. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 41 , wherein a distal end of the second coil is affixed to a stopper.

[0238] Clause 43. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 1 , further comprising a radiopaque marker affixed to a distal end of the core wire.

[0239] Clause 44. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 1 , wherein the second coil is comprised of at least two independent coil sections.

[0240] Clause 45. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 44, wherein the at least two independent coil sections are comprised of a first coil section and a second coil section.

[0241] Clause 46. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 45, wherein a proximal end of the first coil section is freely movable with respect to the core wire.

[0242] Clause 47. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 46, wherein a distal end of the first coil section is affixed to a stopper.

[0243] Clause 48. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 46, wherein a proximal end of the second coil section is freely movable with respect to the core wire.

[0244] Clause 49. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 47, wherein a distal end of the second coil section is affixed to a stopper.

[0245] Clause 50. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 44, wherein the at least two independent coil sections are comprised of a first coil section, a second coil section, a third coil section, and a fourth coil section.

[0246] Clause 51. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 50, further comprising a first stopper affixed to the core wire proximally with respect to the first coil section.

[0247] Clause 52. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 51 , further comprising a second stopper affixed to the core wire distally with respect to the second coil section.

[0248] Clause 53. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 50, wherein each of the first coil section, the second coil section, the third coil section, and the fourth coil section are independently movable with respect to the core wire.

[0249] Clause 54. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 50, wherein each of the first coil section, the second coil section, the third coil section, and the fourth coil section are independently rotatable with respect to the core wire.

[0250] Clause 55. The delivery device for a medical device of clause 50, wherein each of the first coil section, the second coil section, the third coil section, and the fourth coil section are spaced apart with respect to each other.

[0251] Clause 56. The delivery device of clause 1 , wherein an outer diameter of the second coil is about equal to an inner diameter of the medical device when the medical device is collapsed.

[0252] Clause 57. The delivery device of clause 1 , wherein the second coil comprises a first coil section having a first outer diameter and a second coil section having a second outer diameter.

[0253] Clause 58. The delivery device of clause 57, wherein the first outer diameter of the first coil section is about equal to an inner diameter of the medical device when the medical device is collapsed.

[0254] Clause 59. The delivery device of clause 58, wherein the second outer diameter of the second coil section is less than the first outer diameter of the first coil section.

[0255] Clause 60. The delivery device of clause 1 , wherein at least a portion of a length of the first coil includes an outer jacket or sleeve.

[0256] Clause 61 . The delivery device of clause 60, wherein an outer diameter of the outer jacket or sleeve is about equal to an inner diameter of the medical device when the medical device is collapsed.

[0257] Clause 62. The delivery device of clause 1 , further comprising a first outer jacket or sleeve positioned around a first portion of a length of the second coil and asecond outer jacket or sleeve positioned around a second portion of the length of the second coil.

[0258] Clause 63. The delivery device of clause 62, wherein the first outer jacket or sleeve is spatially separated from the second outer jacket or sleeve by a portion of the length of the second coil.

[0259] Clause 64. A pusher, comprising: a core wire; a first coil means disposed around a first length of the core wire; a second coil means disposed around a second length of the core wire; a first stopper means affixed to the core wire, wherein a distal end of the first coil means is affixed to the first stopper means; and a second stopper means affixed to the core wire distally with respect to the first stopper means, wherein a proximal end of the second coil means is affixed to the second stopper means; and, wherein a length of the core wire is exposed between the first stopper means and the second stopper means.

[0260] Clause 65. A method of delivering a medical device through a tortuous anatomy, comprising: providing a delivery device comprising a core wire, a first coil disposed around a first portion of a length of the core wire, and a second coil disposed around a second portion of the length of the core wire; inserting the second coil of the delivery device into an interior of a medical device while the medical device is collapsed; advancing the medical device through the tortuous anatomy; and expanding the medical device.

[0261] Clause 66. A method of delivering a medical device through a tortuous anatomy, comprising: providing a delivery device comprising a core wire, a first coil disposed around a first portion of a length of the core wire, and a second coil disposed around a second portion of the length of the core wire; inserting the delivery device into an interior of a collapsed medical device; aligning a proximal end of the medical device proximal to a proximal end of the second coil; positioning the second coil within the interior of the collapsed medical device; advancing the collapsed medical device through the tortuous anatomy; and expanding the collapsed medical device.

[0262] Although the invention has been described in terms of particular embodiments and applications, one of ordinary skill in the art, in light of this teaching, can generate additional embodiments and modifications without departing from the spirit of or exceeding the scope of the claimed invention. Accordingly, it is to be understood that the drawings and descriptions herein are proffered by way of example to facilitate comprehension of the invention and should not be construed to limit the scope thereof.

Claims

What is claimed is:1 . A delivery device for a medical device, comprising: a core wire; a first coil disposed around a first length of the core wire; and a second coil disposed around a second length of the core wire.

2. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 1 , wherein a distal end of the first coil is spatially separated from a proximal end of the second coil so as to expose a length of the core wire between the first coil and the second coil.

3. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 1 , wherein the first coil is composed of a first material and wherein the second coil is composed of a second material.

4. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 3, wherein the second material is comprised of a radiopaque material.

5. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 1 , wherein a distal end of the first coil is affixed to a first radiopaque marker and wherein the first radiopaque marker is affixed to the core wire.

6. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 1 , wherein a proximal end of the second coil is affixed to a second radiopaque marker and wherein the second radiopaque marker is affixed to the core wire.

7. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 6, wherein a distal end of the second coil is affixed to a fillet and wherein the fillet is affixed to the core wire.

8. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 1 , wherein a proximal end of the second coil is movable with respect to the core wire.

9. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 8, wherein a distal end of the second coil is fixed with respect to the core wire.

10. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 1 , wherein the second coil is comprised of a first coil section and a second coil section, the first coil section and the second coil section being non-contiguous.11 . The delivery device for a medical device of claim 10, wherein a proximal end of the first coil section is movable with respect to the core wire and wherein a distal end of the first coil section is fixed with respect to the core wire.

12. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 11 , wherein a proximal end of the second coil section is movable with respect to the core wire and wherein a distal end of the second coil section is fixed with respect to the core wire.

13. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 1 , wherein the second coil is comprised of a plurality of non-contiguous coil sections, each of the plurality of noncontiguous coil sections being positioned between a first stopper and a second stopper.

14. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 13, wherein each of the plurality of non-contiguous coil sections is movable with respect to the core wire.

15. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 1 , wherein the second coil is movable with respect to the core wire between a first stopper and a second stopper.

16. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 15, wherein the second coil comprises an outer diameter that is substantially similar to an inner diameter of the medical device in a collapsed configuration.

17. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 1 , wherein the second coil comprises at least one enlarged diameter section having an outer diameter that issubstantially similar to an inner diameter of the medical device in a collapsed configuration.

18. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 1 , further comprising an outer jacket encapsulating at least a portion of a length of the second coil.

19. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 1 , further comprising a plurality of non-contiguous outer jackets, each of the plurality of non-contiguous outer jackets encapsulating a non-contiguous section of the second coil.

20. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 1 , wherein a distal end of the first coil is spatially separated from a proximal end of the second coil so as to expose a length of the core wire between the first coil and the second coil.21 . The delivery device for a medical device of claim 1 , wherein a distal end of the first coil is adjacent to a proximal end of the second coil.

22. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 1 , wherein the first coil is composed of a first material and wherein the second coil is composed of a second material.

23. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 22, wherein the first material is the same as the second material.

24. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 22, wherein the first material is different than the second material.

25. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 22, wherein the first material is stainless steel.

26. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 25, wherein the second material is comprised of platinum. l ' l . The delivery device for a medical device of claim 25, wherein the second material is comprised of drawn-filled-tubing.

28. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 22, wherein the second material is comprised of a radiopaque material.

29. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 1 , wherein the medical device is comprised of a stent.

30. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 1 , further comprising a first radiopaque marker affixed to the core wire, wherein a distal end of the first coil is affixed to the first radiopaque marker.31 . The delivery device for a medical device of claim 30, further comprising a second radiopaque marker affixed to the core wire, wherein a proximal end of the second coil is affixed to the second radiopaque marker.

32. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 1 , wherein an outer diameter of the second coil is between 3 to 5 times an outer diameter of the core wire.

33. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 32, wherein an outer diameter of the core wire is 0.003 inch.

34. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 33, wherein an outer diameter of the second coil is between 0.010 inch and 0.012 inch.

35. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 1 , wherein a proximal end of the second coil is affixed to a first stopper and wherein a distal end of the second coil is affixed to a second stopper.

36. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 35, wherein the first stopper is comprised of a radiopaque marker.

37. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 36, wherein the second stopper is comprised of a fillet.

38. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 1 , wherein both a proximal end and a distal end of the second coil is affixed to the core wire.

39. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 1 , wherein a proximal end of the second coil is freely movable with respect to the core wire.

40. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 39, wherein a distal end of the second coil is affixed to a stopper.41 . The delivery device for a medical device of claim 1 , wherein a proximal end of the second coil is freely rotatable about the core wire.

42. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 41 , wherein a distal end of the second coil is affixed to a stopper.

43. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 1 , further comprising a radiopaque marker affixed to a distal end of the core wire.

44. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 1 , wherein the second coil is comprised of at least two independent coil sections.

45. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 44, wherein the at least two independent coil sections are comprised of a first coil section and a second coil section.

46. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 45, wherein a proximal end of the first coil section is freely movable with respect to the core wire.

47. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 46, wherein a distal end of the first coil section is affixed to a stopper.

48. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 46, wherein a proximal end of the second coil section is freely movable with respect to the core wire.

49. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 47, wherein a distal end of the second coil section is affixed to a stopper.

50. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 44, wherein the at least two independent coil sections are comprised of a first coil section, a second coil section, a third coil section, and a fourth coil section.

51. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 50, further comprising a first stopper affixed to the core wire proximally with respect to the first coil section.

52. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 51 , further comprising a second stopper affixed to the core wire distally with respect to the second coil section.

53. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 50, wherein each of the first coil section, the second coil section, the third coil section, and the fourth coil section are independently movable with respect to the core wire.

54. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 50, wherein each of the first coil section, the second coil section, the third coil section, and the fourth coil section are independently rotatable with respect to the core wire.

55. The delivery device for a medical device of claim 50, wherein each of the first coil section, the second coil section, the third coil section, and the fourth coil section are spaced apart with respect to each other.

56. The delivery device of claim 1 , wherein an outer diameter of the second coil is about equal to an inner diameter of the medical device when the medical device is collapsed.

57. The delivery device of claim 1 , wherein the second coil comprises a first coil section having a first outer diameter and a second coil section having a second outer diameter.

58. The delivery device of claim 57, wherein the first outer diameter of the first coil section is about equal to an inner diameter of the medical device when the medical device is collapsed.

59. The delivery device of claim 58, wherein the second outer diameter of the second coil section is less than the first outer diameter of the first coil section.

60. The delivery device of claim 1 , wherein at least a portion of a length of the first coil includes an outer jacket or sleeve.61 . The delivery device of claim 60, wherein an outer diameter of the outer jacket or sleeve is about equal to an inner diameter of the medical device when the medical device is collapsed.

62. The delivery device of claim 1 , further comprising a first outer jacket or sleeve positioned around a first portion of a length of the second coil and a second outer jacket or sleeve positioned around a second portion of the length of the second coil.

63. The delivery device of claim 62, wherein the first outer jacket or sleeve is spatially separated from the second outer jacket or sleeve by a portion of the length of the second coil.

64. A pusher, comprising: a core wire; a first coil means disposed around a first length of the core wire; a second coil means disposed around a second length of the core wire; a first stopper means affixed to the core wire, wherein a distal end of the first coil means is affixed to the first stopper means; and a second stopper means affixed to the core wire distally with respect to the first stopper means, wherein a proximal end of the second coil means is affixed to the second stopper means; and, wherein a length of the core wire is exposed between the first stopper means and the second stopper means.

65. A method of delivering a medical device through a tortuous anatomy, comprising: providing a delivery device comprising a core wire, a first coil disposed around a first portion of a length of the core wire, and a second coil disposed around a second portion of the length of the core wire; inserting the second coil of the delivery device into an interior of a medical device while the medical device is collapsed; advancing the medical device through the tortuous anatomy; and expanding the medical device.

66. A method of delivering a medical device through a tortuous anatomy, comprising: providing a delivery device comprising a core wire, a first coil disposed around a first portion of a length of the core wire, and a second coil disposed around a second portion of the length of the core wire; inserting the delivery device into an interior of a collapsed medical device; aligning a proximal end of the medical device proximal to a proximal end of the second coil; positioning the second coil within the interior of the collapsed medical device; advancing the collapsed medical device through the tortuous anatomy; and expanding the collapsed medical device.

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