Pushing device and conveyor and conveying system having the same
By designing a closed-loop structure between the pushing and locking components of the pushing device, the problem of difficult implant release was solved, achieving stable locking and smooth release of the implant, and improving operational efficiency.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Patents(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- HANGZHOU WEIQIANG MEDICAL TECH CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2022-05-30
- Publication Date
- 2026-06-05
AI Technical Summary
Existing delivery devices often present the problem of difficulty in dislodging implants during delivery.
A pushing device is designed, including a pushing member and a locking member. The device forms a closed-loop structure by axial movement to lock the connection part of the implant, and opens the closed-loop structure by axial relative movement to release the connection part of the implant. The distal sections of the pushing member and the locking member are designed to be arc-shaped or straight-shaped to avoid sharp corners and hook-shaped parts, ensuring that the implant is smoothly released.
It achieves stable locking and easy release of the implant, is easy to operate, avoids jamming during implant release, and improves the efficiency of implant release.
Smart Images

Figure CN117179956B_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to the field of medical devices, and more specifically to a pushing device and a conveyor and conveying system having the pushing device. Background Technology
[0002] In recent years, interventional therapy has been increasingly widely used in clinical practice. Interventional therapy refers to the placement of implants and other medical devices into the heart, arteries, and veins of the body via catheters to treat corresponding diseases. For example, a vena cava filter (VCF) can be placed into the inferior vena cava through catheter intervention to capture detached thrombi and prevent them from traveling up the venous system to the heart and lungs, causing pulmonary embolism. Alternatively, a left atrial appendage occluder can be delivered to the left atrial appendage through catheter intervention to prevent thrombi caused by atrial fibrillation from ascending to the brain, causing stroke or other systemic embolisms. These implants require a delivery system to transport them to the appropriate body site, and then the delivery device within the system is detached from the implant to leave it in place. However, existing delivery devices often present technical challenges in releasing the implant, making detachment difficult. Summary of the Invention
[0003] In view of this, the present invention aims to provide a pushing device that can solve the above problems or at least alleviate the above problems to a certain extent, as well as a conveyor and a conveying system having the pushing device.
[0004] To this end, the present invention provides a pushing device for pushing an implant to a target location and releasing the implant at the target location. The implant has a first connecting portion at its proximal end for detachably connecting to the pushing device. The pushing device includes a pushing member and a locking member, and the pushing member and the locking member are axially movable relative to each other to switch the pushing device between a locked state and an unlocked state. In the locked state, a first distal segment of the pushing member and a second distal segment of the locking member together form a closed loop structure to lock the first connecting portion of the implant. In the unlocked state, the closed loop structure is opened to release the first connecting portion of the implant.
[0005] The pushing device of the present invention forms a closed-loop structure through a pushing member and a locking member, which can stably lock the first connecting portion of the implant. The closed-loop structure is opened by the axial relative movement of the pushing member and the locking member to release the first connecting portion of the implant, making operation convenient. Specifically, the closed-loop structure described herein does not require a strictly geometrically perfect ring shape, as long as neither the first distal segment of the pushing member nor the second distal segment of the locking member has any obvious hook-shaped portions with sharp angles. Therefore, when the pushing member and the locking member open the closed-loop structure through axial relative movement, the first connecting portion of the implant can smoothly detach from the pushing device along the first distal segment of the pushing member and / or the second distal segment of the locking member, and can even detach from the pushing device without any obstruction, without any hook-shaped portions with sharp angles hooking or jamming the first connecting portion of the implant, thus facilitating implant release.
[0006] On the other hand, the present invention also provides a delivery device, including a sheath and the aforementioned pushing device, the sheath having a lumen, and the pushing device being movably housed within the lumen of the sheath.
[0007] In another aspect, the present invention provides a delivery system including the aforementioned delivery device and an implant having a compression configuration housed within the lumen of the sheath and an expansion configuration released from the lumen of the sheath. Attached Figure Description
[0008] Figure 1 This is a simplified schematic diagram of the conveying system according to the first embodiment of the present invention;
[0009] Figure 2 for Figure 1 The diagram shows the structure of the pushing device in the conveying system, with the far end of the pushing device partially enlarged.
[0010] Figure 3 for Figure 2 A partial cross-sectional view of the pushing device shown;
[0011] Figure 4 for Figure 2 Front view of the base and second connecting part of the push device shown;
[0012] Figure 5 for Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the base and the second connecting part shown;
[0013] Figure 6 for Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the overall structure of the locking component of the push device shown;
[0014] Figure 7 for Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the overall structure of another alternative embodiment of the locking element shown;
[0015] Figure 8 for Figure 2 A schematic diagram showing the locked state of the delivery device delivering the implant to the inferior vena cava via the left iliac vein;
[0016] Figure 9 for Figure 2 The diagram shows the unlocked state of the delivery device delivering the implant to the inferior vena cava via the left iliac vein;
[0017] Figure 10 for Figure 2 The diagram shows the unlocked state of the delivery device delivering the implant to the inferior vena cava via the right iliac vein;
[0018] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the pushing device according to the second embodiment of the present invention;
[0019] Figure 12 for Figure 11 A cross-sectional view of the pushing device shown;
[0020] Figure 13 for Figure 11 Front view of the base and second connecting part of the push device shown;
[0021] Figure 14 for Figure 13 Right view of the base and the second connecting part shown;
[0022] Figure 15 for Figure 13 A cross-sectional view of the base and the second connecting part shown;
[0023] Figure 16 for Figure 11 A schematic diagram of the overall structure of the locking component of the push device shown;
[0024] Figure 17 for Figure 16 A sectional view of the locking component shown;
[0025] Figure 18 for Figure 11 A schematic diagram showing the locked state of the delivery device delivering the implant to the inferior vena cava via the left iliac vein;
[0026] Figure 19 for Figure 11 The diagram shows the unlocked state of the delivery device delivering the implant to the inferior vena cava via the left iliac vein, where the arc-shaped section expands radially outward;
[0027] Figure 20 for Figure 11The diagram shows the unlocked state of the delivery device, which delivers the implant to the inferior vena cava via the left iliac vein, with the arc-shaped section retracted into the guide port.
[0028] Figure 21 This is a schematic diagram of the pushing device according to the third embodiment of the present invention;
[0029] Figure 22 for Figure 21 A cross-sectional view of the pushing device shown;
[0030] Figure 23 for Figure 21 Front view of the base and second connecting part of the push device shown;
[0031] Figure 24 for Figure 23 A cross-sectional view of the base and the second connecting part shown;
[0032] Figure 25 for Figure 21 A schematic diagram showing the locked state of the delivery device delivering the implant to the inferior vena cava via the left iliac vein;
[0033] Figure 26 for Figure 21 The diagram shows the unlocked state of the delivery device delivering the implant to the inferior vena cava via the left iliac vein, where the arc-shaped section expands radially outward;
[0034] Figure 27 for Figure 21 The diagram shows the unlocked state of the delivery device, which delivers the implant into the inferior vena cava via the left iliac vein, with the rod-shaped segment retracted into the guide port. Detailed Implementation
[0035] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention. Furthermore, the embodiments described below can be combined with each other as long as there is no contradiction or conflict, and the same or similar concepts or processes may not be repeated in some embodiments.
[0036] First, it should be noted that in this article, "proximal end" refers to the end of the device or component closest to the operator. "Distal end" refers to the end of the device or component furthest from the operator. "Starting end" refers to the end face of the nearest end of the device or component. "Ending end" refers to the end face of the farthest end of the device or component. "Axial direction" refers to the direction that coincides with or is parallel to the central axis of the device or component. "Radial direction" refers to the direction that is perpendicular or approximately perpendicular to the axial direction and along the radius or diameter of the device or component. "Circumferential direction" refers to the direction around the axial direction.
[0037] It is worth noting that the terms indicating orientation or positional relationship mentioned above are only for the convenience of describing the present invention and simplifying the description, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as limiting the present invention.
[0038] refer to Figure 1 The first embodiment of the present invention provides a delivery system 1, including a delivery device 2 and an implant 3. The delivery device 2 is used to deliver and release the implant 3 to a target location. Specifically, the delivery device 2 includes a sheath 4 having a lumen 40 and a pushing device 100 movably housed within the lumen 40. Specifically, the pushing device 100 is axially movable within the lumen 40. The implant 3 has a compression structure housed within the lumen 40 and an expansion structure released from the lumen 40. Preferably, the implant 3 is made of a material with shape memory function, so that the implant 3 can self-expand to its expansion structure after being released from the sheath 4. The pushing device 100 is used to push the implant 3 to the target location and release it. Specifically, the proximal end of the implant 3 is provided with a first connecting portion 30 (e.g., ...). Figure 8 (As shown), for detachable connection with the pushing device 100. Optionally, the first connecting portion 30 is hook-shaped, ring-shaped, or other shape with at least one through hole. The implant 3 includes, but is not limited to, filters, stents, heart valve clips, left atrial appendage occluders, vascular plugs, or lung volume-reducing elastomers.
[0039] refer to Figure 2 The pushing device 100 includes a pushing member 110 and a locking member 120. The pushing member 110 and the locking member 120 are axially movable relative to each other to switch the pushing device 100 between a locked state and an unlocked state. (Reference) Figure 8 In the locked state, the first distal segment 111 of the pusher 110 and the second distal segment 121 of the locking member 120 together form a closed-loop structure 130, thereby locking the first connecting portion 30 of the implant 3. (Reference) Figure 9 In the unlocked state, the closed-loop structure 130 is opened, thereby releasing the first connection portion 30 of the implant 3.
[0040] The pushing device 100 of this embodiment forms a closed-loop structure 130 through the pushing member 110 and the locking member 120, which can stably lock the first connecting portion 30 of the implant 3. The closed-loop structure 130 is opened by the axial relative movement of the pushing member 110 and the locking member 120 to release the first connecting portion 30 of the implant 3, which is convenient to operate. It is worth noting that the closed-loop structure 130 does not need to form a strict geometric ring, as long as neither the first distal segment 111 of the pushing member 110 nor the second distal segment 121 of the locking member 120 has obvious hook-shaped portions with sharp angles. For example, the first distal segment 111 of the pusher 110 and the second distal segment 121 of the locking member 120 can both be arc-shaped segments, or the first distal segment 111 of the pusher 110 can be an arc-shaped segment while the second distal segment 121 of the locking member 120 can be a straight segment, or the first distal segment 111 of the pusher 110 can be a straight segment while the second distal segment 121 of the locking member 120 can be an arc-shaped segment. When the pusher 110 and the locking member 120 move axially relative to each other to open the closed loop structure 130, the first connecting portion 30 of the implant 3 can smoothly disengage from the pusher device 100 along the corresponding arc-shaped or straight segments of the pusher 110 and / or the locking member 120, and in some cases can even disengage from the pusher device 100 without any obstruction, without any hook-shaped portions with sharp angles hooking the first connecting portion 30 of the implant 3, and the implant 3 is easily released.
[0041] Specifically, refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 In this embodiment, the pusher 110 includes an elongated main body 112, a base 113 connected to the distal end of the main body 112, and a second connecting portion 114 connected to the distal end of the base 113. The proximal end of the main body 112 is connected to the distal end of a handle (not shown), which is used to drive the main body 112 (and thus also drive the pusher 110) to move.
[0042] The main body 112 is generally tubular, preferably made of 304 stainless steel or nickel-titanium alloy, and has a receiving cavity 115 inside. The base 113 is generally cylindrical, preferably made of 304 stainless steel or nickel-titanium alloy, and has a through-hole 116 inside, which communicates with the receiving cavity 115. The second connecting part 114 is generally arc-shaped, preferably made of 304 stainless steel or nickel-titanium alloy, and is used to form the first distal segment 111. In other words, in this embodiment, the first distal segment 111 is constructed as an arc-shaped segment 111, with an axial gap between the distal end of the arc-shaped segment 111 and the distal end of the base 113, and an opening 117 is formed therebetween.
[0043] The distal section of the locking member 120 is rod-shaped, forming the second distal section 121. In other words, in this embodiment, the second distal section 121 is constructed as a rod-shaped section 121. A control member (not shown) is connected to the proximal end of the locking member 120, which drives the locking member 120 to move axially (without rotating). As an example, the control member may be threaded to the proximal end of the handle, and the locking member 120 can be moved axially by rotating the control member relative to the handle.
[0044] like Figure 3 As shown, in the locked state, the locking member 120 is partially received in the receiving cavity 115 and moves through the guide hole 116 of the base 113, and its rod-shaped segment 121 connects with the distal end of the arc-shaped segment 111 to form a closed loop structure 130. This can be achieved by manipulating the control member to push the locking member 120 distally. At this time, the opening 117 between the base 113 and the distal end of the arc-shaped segment 111 is closed, and the base 113, the rod-shaped segment 121, and the arc-shaped segment 111 together enclose a receiving space 118 for receiving the first connecting portion 30 of the implant 3.
[0045] like Figure 4 As shown, in the unlocked state, the rod-shaped section 121 of the locking member 120 separates from the arc-shaped section 111, thereby opening the closed-loop structure 130. This can be achieved by manipulating the handle or the control member to push the pusher 110 distally or retract the locking member 120 proximally. At this time, the opening 117 between the base 113 and the distal end of the arc-shaped section 111 is open. The arc-shaped section 111 lacks the hook-shaped portion with sharp angles that would normally hold the first connecting portion 30 of the implant 3, allowing the first connecting portion 30 of the implant 3 to smoothly disengage from the pusher 100 along the arc-shaped section 111 via the open opening 117, making implant 3 easy to release.
[0046] In this embodiment, to facilitate the installation of the locking member 120, the main body 112 and the base 113 are preferably designed as separate parts. During assembly, the locking member 120 can be partially housed in the receiving cavity 115 of the main body 112, then the distal end of the locking member 120 can be aligned with the guide hole 116 of the base 113 and pass through the guide hole 116 into the base 113, and then the main body 112 and the base 113 can be fixedly connected by welding, pressing, or bonding. It is understood that in other embodiments, the main body 112 and the base 113 can also be designed as an integral part.
[0047] To enhance the connection strength between the base 113 and the second connecting portion 114 / arc-shaped section 111, preferably, the base 113 and the second connecting portion 114 / arc-shaped section 111 are formed as a single piece; more preferably, the outer peripheral wall of the base 113 is tangent to the proximal outer wall of the second connecting portion 114 / arc-shaped section 111. It is understood that in other embodiments, the base 113 and the second connecting portion 114 / arc-shaped section 111 can also be designed separately and then fixedly connected together by welding, pressing, or bonding. It is also understood that in other embodiments, the main body 112, the base 113, and the second connecting portion 114 / arc-shaped section 111 can also be integrally formed as a single piece to improve the overall strength of the pusher 110.
[0048] refer to Figures 3 to 5 Preferably, the starting and ending ends of the arc-shaped segment 111 are located on opposite sides of the central axis L1 of the pusher 110, providing sufficient receiving space 118 for the first connecting portion 30 of the implant 3. More preferably, the arc-shaped segment 111 is arc-shaped, with the central angle α formed between its starting and ending ends preferably in the range of 90° to 180°, and the arc length h1 formed between its starting and ending ends preferably in the range of 2.5-5 mm. Optionally, the radius of the arc-shaped segment 111 is equal to or approximately equal to the diameter of the base 113.
[0049] To improve the connection reliability between the arc-shaped segment 111 and the rod-shaped segment 121 and prevent the implant 3 from accidentally falling out of the delivery device 100, preferably, the arc-shaped segment 111 and the rod-shaped segment 121 are movably inserted into each other. Specifically, the distal end of the arc-shaped segment 111 is provided with an insertion hole 119. The insertion hole 119 extends from the inner side of the arc-shaped segment 111 near the base 113 toward the distal end, preferably axially penetrating the distal end of the arc-shaped segment 111. Understandably, in other embodiments, the insertion hole 119 may also be formed as a blind hole, i.e., not penetrating the distal end of the arc-shaped segment 111. In the locked state, the rod-shaped segment 121 and the insertion hole 119 are inserted into each other to form a closed-loop structure 130. In the unlocked state, the rod-shaped segment 121 is released from the insertion hole 119 to open the closed-loop structure 130.
[0050] To facilitate the axial movement of the rod-shaped segment 121 to be inserted into or released from the insertion hole 119, preferably, the central axis of the insertion hole 119 coincides with the central axis of the rod-shaped segment 121, and both are parallel to the central axis L1 of the pusher 110. As mentioned above, since the insertion hole 119 is located at the distal end of the arc-shaped segment 111, and the distal end of the arc-shaped segment 111 is offset from the central axis L1 of the pusher 110, it is easily understood that the central axis of the insertion hole 119 and the central axis of the rod-shaped segment 121 are also offset from the central axis L1 of the pusher 110.
[0051] Understandably, in other embodiments, the arc-shaped segment 111 and the rod-shaped segment 121 may also employ other connection methods. For example, the insertion hole 119 may be omitted, and the rod-shaped segment 121 may directly abut against the inner side of the arc-shaped segment 111 near the base 113 to form a closed-loop structure. Alternatively, the rod-shaped segment 121 may abut against any sidewall of the arc-shaped segment 111 adjacent to its inner side to form a closed-loop structure.
[0052] Preferably, the guide hole 116 of the base 13 includes a first guide hole 116A and a second guide hole 116B that communicate with each other, wherein the central axis of the first guide hole 116A is parallel to the central axis L1 of the pusher 110 and aligned with the insertion hole 119, and the central axis of the second guide hole 116B is inclined relative to the central axis L1 of the pusher 110 and communicates with the receiving cavity 115 of the main body 112. More preferably, the inclination angle W1 of the central axis of the second guide hole 116B relative to the central axis L1 of the pusher 110 is in the range of 15° to 20°. A portion of the locking member 120 passes through the first guide hole 116A and the second guide hole 116B.
[0053] The design of the second guide hole 116B allows the proximal end of the locking member 120 to be aligned with the handle, facilitating the rotatable connection of the control member used to drive the locking member 120 to the center of the handle. Furthermore, when releasing the first connecting portion 30 of the implant 3, after the locking member 120 is retracted or the pusher 110 is pushed forward until the opening 117 between the base 113 and the distal end of the arc-shaped section 111 is fully open, at least a portion of the locking member 120 remains within the second guide hole 116B, thereby effectively preventing the locking member 120 from completely falling into the receiving cavity 115 of the main body 112. Thus, even if the implant 3 is not released to the target position or its shape needs to be readjusted, the locking member 120 can be easily pushed further to the distal end again, allowing the locking member 120 to travel along the second guide hole 116B and the first guide hole 116A to be inserted into the insertion hole 119, thereby locking the first connecting portion 30 of the implant 3 again and adjusting the implant 3.
[0054] Understandably, in other embodiments, the second guide hole 116B may be omitted, and only a guide hole extending axially through itself is provided in the base 113. In this case, a portion of the locking member 120 is received within the receiving cavity 115 of the main body 112, and the distal end of the locking member 120 passes through the guide hole in the base 113 to engage with the insertion hole 119 to form a closed-loop structure, thereby locking the first connection portion of the implant 3. When it is necessary to release the implant 3, the locking member 120 can be retracted or the pusher 110 can be pushed forward to retract the distal end of the locking member 120 back into the guide hole.
[0055] Preferably, in this embodiment, the locking member 120 is made of an elastic material with an elastic modulus in the range of 60 to 120 GPa, such as 304 stainless steel or nickel-titanium alloy, so that the locking member 120 can adapt to terrain deformation to pass through the second guide hole 116B and the first guide hole 116A.
[0056] refer to Figure 6 Preferably, in its natural state, i.e., without external force constraint, the locking member 120 is generally rod-shaped and gradually tapers from its proximal end to its distal end; that is, the diameter of the locking member 120 gradually decreases from its proximal end to its distal end. Thus, the larger diameter proximal end of the locking member 120 can effectively increase the connection area with the control element, while its smaller diameter distal end allows for a smaller radial dimension of the base 113 and makes it easier to accommodate deformations of the second guide hole 116B and the first guide hole 116A. Preferably, the locking member 120 is formed as a single piece. It can be understood that in other embodiments, such as... Figure 7 As shown, the locking component 120' can also be formed from multiple stages of different diameters, and then connected by welding, pressing, riveting, etc.
[0057] refer to Figure 8 and Figure 9 This embodiment uses an inferior vena cava filter as an example to illustrate the implant 3. The proximal end of the inferior vena cava filter is provided with the first connecting portion 30. The first connecting portion 30 is constructed as a curved retrieval hook. When connecting the implant 3, the first connecting portion 30 of the implant 3 can be hooked onto the second connecting portion 114 / arc section 111 of the pushing device 100. Then, the locking member 120 is pushed distally so that the locking member 120 passes through the base 113 until it is inserted into the insertion hole 119 to form a closed loop structure 130. At this time, the first connecting portion 30 of the implant 3 is firmly locked by the closed loop structure 130, thereby effectively preventing the implant 3 from falling off the pushing device 100.
[0058] During delivery, the pushing device 100 and the implant 3 can be housed within the sheath 4. The implant 3 is then delivered to the inferior vena cava via the left iliac vein. Pushing the pushing device 100 forward or retracting the sheath 4 releases the implant 3 from the sheath 4, causing the implant 3 to expand to its expanded state. Once the implant 3 is positioned at the target location, the locking member 120 is retracted or the pushing member 110 is pushed forward to open the closed-loop structure 130. Then, the pushing device 100 is withdrawn as a whole. At this point, the first connecting portion 30 of the implant 3 gradually moves away from the base 113 along the arc-shaped section 111 until it disengages from the opening 117, thus completing the complete release of the implant 3.
[0059] refer to Figure 10As can be seen, the sheath 4 with implant 3 and pusher 100 can also be delivered to the inferior vena cava via the right iliac vein. At this time, since the opening 117 faces the right iliac vein and the main body 112 of the pusher 110 (located inside the sheath 4) forms a bend at the junction of the right iliac vein and the inferior vena cava, the arc-shaped section 111 will automatically sway to the left under the action of the bend of the main body 112, reducing the contact between the first connecting part 30 and the arc-shaped section 111. Compared with the case of entering the inferior vena cava from the left iliac vein, the first connecting part 30 is more likely to dislodge from the opening 117.
[0060] refer to Figures 11 to 12 The similarities between the pushing device 200 of the second embodiment of the present invention and the pushing device 100 of the first embodiment will not be repeated here. The main difference between the pushing device 200 of the second embodiment of the present invention and the pushing device 100 of the first embodiment is that the first distal section 211 (i.e. the second connecting part 214) of the pushing member 210 in this embodiment is formed as a rod-shaped section 211, while the second distal section 221 of the locking member 220 is formed as an arc-shaped section 221. The rod-shaped section 211 and the arc-shaped section 221 are suitable for insertion and engagement to form a closed-loop structure 230.
[0061] Specifically, the pusher 210 includes the main body 112, the base 113 connected to the distal end of the main body 112, and the second connecting part 214 connected to the distal end of the base 113, wherein the main body 112 has the receiving cavity 115 and the base 113 has the guide hole 116.
[0062] refer to Figures 12 to 15 The guide hole 116 also includes a first guide hole 116A and a second guide hole 116B that are connected to each other. The central axis of the first guide hole 116A is parallel to the central axis L1 of the pusher 210, and the central axis of the second guide hole 116B is inclined relative to the central axis L1 of the pusher 210 and communicates with the receiving cavity 115. The inclination angle W2 of the central axis of the second guide hole 116B relative to the central axis L1 of the pusher 210 is preferably in the range of 15° to 20°. The second connecting portion 214 / rod-shaped section 211 and the first guide hole 116A are both offset from the central axis L1 of the pusher 210 and are located on both sides of the central axis L1 of the pusher 210, respectively.
[0063] The locking member 220 is partially housed within the receiving cavity 115 and passes through the second guide hole 116B and the first guide hole 116A. The distal end of the arcuate section 221 of the locking member 220 has a insertion hole 229 for engaging with the rod-shaped section 211 to form a closed-loop structure 230.
[0064] Preferably, refer to Figures 16 to 17At least the arc-shaped section 221 of the locking member 220 is made of a shape memory material, more preferably of a shape memory alloy such as a nickel-titanium alloy with an elastic modulus of 60-120 GPa, and the arc-shaped section 221 has the following properties in its natural state (i.e., a state not constrained by external forces): Figure 16 The predetermined shape shown (e.g., obtained through heat treatment). In the predetermined shape, the end of the arc-shaped section 221 and the beginning of the arc-shaped section 221 are located on the same side of the central axis L2 of the straight rod-shaped proximal section 222 of the locking member 220.
[0065] Therefore, when the rod-shaped section 211 is released from the insertion hole 229 of the arc-shaped section 221 by retracting the pusher 210 or pushing the locking member 220, the arc-shaped section 221 deforms itself to restore its predetermined shape, that is, it expands radially outward to move away from the central axis L1 of the pusher 210 until the end of the arc-shaped section 221 and the beginning of the arc-shaped section 221 are on the same side of the central axis L1 of the pusher 210. At this time, the pusher 200 can be retracted as a whole so that the first connecting part 30 of the implant 3 gradually moves away from the base 113 along the arc-shaped section 221 until it is completely separated from the arc-shaped section 221, that is, the implant 3 is completely released. In this configuration, because the arc-shaped segment 221 automatically expands radially outward so that its end and initial end are on the same side of the central axis L1 of the pusher 210, the probability of contact between the first connecting portion 30 of the implant 3 and the arc-shaped segment 221 is reduced. Therefore, the first connecting portion 30 of the implant 3 is easier to release. Preferably, in the unlocked state, the distance between the end of the arc-shaped segment 221 and the end of the rod-shaped segment 211 is 1-2 times the diameter of the first connecting portion 30 of the implant 3. This ensures that the first connecting portion 30 of the implant 3 can be released smoothly, while the end of the arc-shaped segment 221 does not expand outward too far and become difficult to retrieve. It is worth noting that the diameter of the first connecting portion 30 of the implant 3 refers to the distance between the two opposing sidewalls of the first connecting portion 30 located between the first distal segment 211 of the pusher 210 and the second distal segment 221 of the locking member. For example, if the first connecting portion 30 is a hook or ring formed by bending a metal rod, the diameter of the first connecting portion 30 is the diameter of the metal rod.
[0066] Specifically, when the rod-shaped segment 211 is released from the insertion hole 229 of the arc-shaped segment 221 by retracting the pusher 210 or pushing the lock 220, the arc-shaped segment 221 automatically expands radially outward. At this time, the lock 220 can be further retracted or the pusher 210 can be further pushed forward to retract the arc-shaped segment 221 back into the guide hole 116. At this time, only the rod-shaped segment 211 is in contact with the first connecting portion 30 of the implant 3. The straight rod-shaped segment 211 will not cause any obstruction to the relative movement of the first connecting portion 30 of the implant 3, making it easier to release the first connecting portion 30 of the implant 3.
[0067] Preferably, the locking member 220 further includes a connecting section 223 for connecting its proximal section 222 and the arcuate section 221. In the unlocked state, the connecting section 223 drives the arcuate section 221 away from the central axis L1 of the pusher 210. Preferably, the locking member 220 is made entirely of a shape memory material, more preferably of a shape memory alloy such as a nickel-titanium alloy with an elastic modulus of 60-120 GPa.
[0068] Furthermore, in its natural state, the connecting segment 223 is arc-shaped, more preferably circular, and preferably tangent to the distal end of the proximal segment 222. The connecting segment 223 gradually moves away from the central axis L1 of the pusher 210 from its proximal end to its distal end; that is, the line connecting each point on the connecting segment 223 to its corresponding center of circle deviates from the central axis L1 of the pusher 210. The arc length h2 of the circular arc formed between the starting and ending ends of the connecting segment 223 is preferably 1.2-2.5 mm. The central angle b formed between the starting and ending ends of the connecting segment 223 is preferably in the range of 40° to 90°.
[0069] Furthermore, in its natural state, the arc-shaped segment 221 is driven by the connecting segment 223 to make its end offset further from the central axis L1 of the pusher 210 relative to its starting end. However, the line connecting each point on the arc-shaped segment 221 to its corresponding center points towards the central axis L1 of the pusher 210. The proximal end of the arc-shaped segment 221 is preferably tangent to the distal end of the connecting segment 223. The arc length h3 of the arc formed between the starting and ending ends of the arc-shaped segment 221 is preferably 2.5-5 mm. The central angle c formed between the starting and ending ends of the arc-shaped segment 221 is preferably in the range of 90° to 180°.
[0070] refer to Figures 18 to 20 After the sheath 4, which houses the pushing device 200 and the implant 3 of this embodiment, delivers the implant 3 to the inferior vena cava via the left iliac vein, the pushing device 200 is pushed forward or the sheath 4 is retracted to release the implant 3 from the sheath 4, causing the implant 3 to expand to its expanded structure. Once the implant 3 is positioned at the target location, the pushing member 210 is retracted or the locking member 220 is pushed forward to open the closed-loop structure 230, as... Figure 19 As shown, the arc-shaped section 221 automatically expands radially outward at this time, allowing the entire pushing device 200 to be retracted to release the first connecting portion 30 of the implant 3. However, it is preferable to further retract the locking member 220 or push the pushing member 210 forward so that the arc-shaped section 221 retracts into the guide hole 116, as shown. Figure 20As shown. At this point, only the rod-shaped segment 211 remains in contact with the first connecting portion 30 of the implant 3. As mentioned earlier, the straight rod-shaped segment 211 will not cause any obstruction to the relative movement of the first connecting portion 30 of the implant 3, making it easier for the first connecting portion 30 of the implant 3 to disengage.
[0071] refer to Figures 21 to 23 The similarities between the pushing device 300 of the third embodiment of the present invention and the pushing device 100 of the first embodiment will not be repeated here. The main difference between the pushing device 300 of the third embodiment of the present invention and the pushing device 100 of the first embodiment is that the second connecting part 314 (i.e., the first distal section 311 / arc section 311) of the pushing member 310 in this embodiment is made of shape memory material, preferably made of shape memory alloy such as nickel-titanium alloy with an elastic modulus of 60-120 GPa, and the arc section 311 has a predetermined shape (e.g., obtained by heat treatment) in a natural state (i.e., a state without external force constraint). In the predetermined shape, the end of the arc section 311 and the beginning of the arc section 311 are located on the same side of the central axis L1 of the pushing member 310.
[0072] Therefore, when the rod-shaped segment 121 is released from the insertion hole 119 of the arc-shaped segment 311 by retracting the locking member 120 or pushing the pusher 310, the arc-shaped segment 311 deforms itself to return to its predetermined shape, that is, it expands radially outward to move away from the central axis L1 of the pusher 310 until the end of the arc-shaped segment 311 and the beginning end of the arc-shaped segment 311 are on the same side of the central axis L1 of the pusher 310. At this time, the pusher 300 can be retracted as a whole so that the first connecting part 30 of the implant 3 gradually moves away from the base 113 along the arc-shaped segment 311 until it is completely detached from the arc-shaped segment 311, that is, the implant 3 is completely released. In this case, since the arc-shaped segment 311 automatically expands radially outward so that its end and the beginning end are on the same side of the central axis L1 of the pusher 310, the probability of contact between the first connecting part 30 of the implant 3 and the arc-shaped segment 311 is reduced, so the first connecting part 30 of the implant 3 is more easily released. Preferably, in the unlocked state, the distance between the end of the arc-shaped segment 311 and the end of the rod-shaped segment 121 is 1-2 times the diameter of the first connecting portion 30 of the implant 3, so as to ensure that the first connecting portion 30 of the implant 3 can be easily released.
[0073] Specifically, when the rod-shaped segment 121 is released from the insertion hole 119 of the arc-shaped segment 311 by retracting the locking member 120 or pushing the pusher 310, the arc-shaped segment 311 automatically expands radially outward. At this time, the locking member 120 can be further retracted or the pusher 310 can be further pushed forward to retract the rod-shaped segment 121 into the guide hole 116. At this point, only the arc-shaped segment 311 has the possibility of contacting the first connection portion 30 of the implant 3, making the release of the first connection portion 30 of the implant 3 easier. Figure 24 As shown, the guide hole 116 in this embodiment, like in the first embodiment, includes a first guide hole 116A and a second guide hole 116B that are connected to each other. The central axis of the first guide hole 116A is parallel to the central axis L1 of the pusher 110, and the central axis of the second guide hole 116B is inclined relative to the central axis L1 of the pusher 110 and communicates with the receiving cavity 115. The inclination angle W3 of the central axis of the second guide hole 116B relative to the central axis L1 of the pusher 110 is preferably in the range of 15° to 20°.
[0074] refer to Figure 23 and Figure 24 Preferably, the pusher 310 further includes a connecting section 313 for connecting the base 113 and the arc-shaped section 311. In the unlocked state, the connecting section 313 drives the arc-shaped section 311 away from the central axis L1 of the pusher 310. Preferably, the connecting section 313 is also made of a shape memory material, more preferably of a shape memory alloy such as a nickel-titanium alloy with an elastic modulus of 60-120 GPa.
[0075] Furthermore, in its natural state, the connecting segment 313 is arc-shaped, more preferably circular, and the connecting segment 313 gradually moves away from the central axis L1 of the pusher 310 from its proximal end to its distal end; that is, the line connecting each point on the connecting segment 313 to its corresponding center of circle deviates from the central axis L1 of the pusher 310. The arc length h4 of the arc formed between the starting and ending ends of the connecting segment 313 is preferably 1.2-2.5 mm. The central angle d formed between the starting and ending ends of the connecting segment 313 is preferably in the range of 40° to 90°.
[0076] Furthermore, in its natural state, the arc-shaped segment 311 is driven by the connecting segment 313 to make its end more offset from the central axis L1 of the pusher 310 relative to its starting end. However, the line connecting each point on the arc-shaped segment 311 to its corresponding center of circle points towards the central axis L1 of the pusher 310. The proximal end of the arc-shaped segment 311 is preferably tangent to the distal end of the connecting segment 313. The arc length h5 of the arc formed between the starting and ending ends of the arc-shaped segment 311 is preferably 2.5-5 mm. The central angle e formed between the starting and ending ends of the arc-shaped segment 311 is preferably in the range of 90° to 180°.
[0077] refer to Figures 25 to 27 After the sheath 4, which houses the pushing device 300 and the implant 3 of this embodiment, delivers the implant 3 to the inferior vena cava via the left iliac vein, the pushing device 300 is pushed forward or the sheath 4 is retracted to release the implant 3 from the sheath 4, causing the implant 3 to expand to its expanded structure. Once the implant 3 is positioned at the target location, the pushing member 310 is pushed forward or the locking member 120 is retracted to open the closed-loop structure 130. Figure 26 As shown, the arc-shaped section 311 automatically expands radially outward at this time, allowing the entire pushing device 300 to be retracted to release the first connecting portion 30 of the implant 3. However, it is preferable to further retract the locking member 120 or push the pushing member 310 forward so that the rod-shaped section 121 retracts into the guide hole 116. Figure 27 As shown, at this point, only the arc-shaped section 311 has the potential to contact the first connecting portion 30 of the implant 3. When the entire pushing device 300 is withdrawn, the first connecting portion 30 of the implant 3 can gradually move away from the base 113 without any obstruction (i.e., when the first connecting portion 30 of the implant 3 does not contact the arc-shaped section 311, for example, when the arc-shaped section 311 automatically expands radially outward to the point that there is a radial gap between its end and the first connecting portion 30) or smoothly move away from the base 113 along the arc-shaped section 311 (when the first connecting portion 30 of the implant 3 contacts the arc-shaped section 311, for example, when the arc-shaped section 311 automatically expands radially outward, but there is no radial gap between its end and the first connecting portion 30) until it detaches from the arc-shaped section 311, making the release of the implant 3 easier.
[0078] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The scope of protection of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments listed above. Any simple changes or equivalent substitutions of the technical solutions that can be obviously obtained by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in the present invention shall fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.
Claims
1. A pushing device for pushing an implant to a target location and releasing the implant at the target location, wherein the implant has a first connecting portion at its proximal end for detachably connecting to the pushing device, characterized in that, The pushing device includes a pushing member and a locking member, and the pushing member and the locking member are axially movable relative to each other so that the pushing device switches between a locked state and an unlocked state; in the locked state, the first distal segment of the pushing member and the second distal segment of the locking member together form a closed loop structure to lock the first connecting portion of the implant; in the unlocked state, the closed loop structure is opened to release the first connecting portion of the implant.
2. The pushing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The pusher includes a main body, a base connected to the distal end of the main body, and a second connecting portion connected to the distal end of the base. The main body has a receiving cavity, and the second connecting portion has a first distal section. In the locked state, the locking member is received in the receiving cavity and passes through the base to connect with the second connecting portion.
3. The pushing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, In the locked state, one of the first distal segment of the pusher and the second distal segment of the locking member is an arc-shaped segment, and the other of the first distal segment of the pusher and the second distal segment of the locking member is a rod-shaped segment. The arc-shaped segment and the rod-shaped segment together form the closed-loop structure.
4. The pushing device according to claim 3, characterized in that, In the locked state, the starting end and the ending end of the arc-shaped section are located on opposite sides of the central axis of the pusher, and the central angle formed between the starting end and the ending end of the arc-shaped section is in the range of 90° to 180°.
5. The pushing device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The arc-shaped section is provided with a plug-in hole; In the locked state, the rod-shaped section is inserted into the insertion hole to form the closed-loop structure; in the unlocked state, the rod-shaped section is released from the insertion hole to open the closed-loop structure.
6. The pushing device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The central axis of the insertion hole coincides with the central axis of the rod-shaped section, and both are parallel and offset from the central axis of the pusher.
7. The pushing device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The pusher has a first guide hole, the central axis of which is parallel to the central axis of the pusher. In the locked state, part of the locking member passes through the first guide hole.
8. The pushing device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The pusher is further provided with a second guide hole. The central axis of the second guide hole is inclined relative to the central axis of the pusher, and the distal end of the second guide hole is connected to the proximal end of the first guide hole. In the locked state, part of the locking member passes through the second guide hole and the first guide hole.
9. The pushing device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The locking element is made of an elastic material with an elastic modulus in the range of 60 to 120 GPa, so that the locking element can adapt to terrain deformation to pass through the second guide hole and the first guide hole.
10. The pushing device according to claim 8, characterized in that, In its natural state, the locking element is rod-shaped, and its diameter gradually decreases from the proximal end to the distal end.
11. The pushing device according to any one of claims 3 to 10, characterized in that, The arc-shaped section is made of shape memory material. In the unlocked state, the arc-shaped section deforms itself to move away from the central axis of the pusher until the end of the arc-shaped section and the beginning of the arc-shaped section are on the same side of the central axis of the pusher.
12. The pushing device according to claim 11, characterized in that, The arc-shaped section is connected to a connecting section at its proximal end. The connecting section is made of shape memory material. In the unlocked state, the connecting section moves the arc-shaped section away from the central axis of the pusher.
13. The pushing device according to claim 12, characterized in that, In its natural state, the connecting section is arc-shaped, and the connecting section gradually moves away from the central axis of the pusher from its proximal end to its distal end. The central angle formed between the starting end and the end end of the connecting section is in the range of 40° to 90°.
14. A conveyor, characterized in that, It includes a sheath and a pushing device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, the sheath having a lumen and the pushing device being movably housed within the lumen of the sheath.
15. A conveying system, characterized in that, The device includes the delivery device and the implant according to claim 14, the implant having a compression configuration housed within the lumen of the sheath and an expansion configuration released from the lumen of the sheath.