Drainage device and system

Abstract

Devices, systems, and methods for treating a wound in an endoluminal space of a patient are disclosed. A device may include an elongate tube defining a proximal end, a distal end, and a lumen; an expandable member adjustably positioned at the distal end of the elongate tube; and a pull member coupled to the expandable member and extending proximally from the expandable member through the lumen to a location outside the elongate tube. The expandable member is adjustable between a delivery position within the elongated tube and a fully deployed position at least partially outside the elongated tube. The expandable member may be absorbent. The proximal end of the elongate tube may be coupled to a vacuum source to apply negative pressure at or adjacent to the expandable member. The inner member may extend through the elongate tube and be configured to adjustably engage the expandable component.

Description

Cross-reference to related applications

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 517,657, filed August 4, 2023, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure relates generally, but not in a limiting way, to drainage devices, systems, and treatment methods. More specifically, this disclosure relates to devices or systems for providing vacuum wound treatment to a patient's wound. Background Technology

[0003] A wide variety of in vivo and extracorporeal medical devices and systems have been developed for medical applications, such as endoscopic surgery. Some of these devices and systems include guidewires, catheters, catheter systems, endoscopic instruments, wound treatment systems, vacuum therapy systems, etc. These devices and systems are manufactured using any of a variety of different methods and can be used according to any of a variety of different methods. Each of the known medical devices, systems, and methods has certain advantages and disadvantages. There is a continuous need to provide alternative medical devices and systems, as well as alternative methods for manufacturing and using them. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This disclosure provides designs, materials, manufacturing methods, and alternatives for using medical devices.

[0005] In a first example, an apparatus for treating a wound in a patient's intracavitary space may include: an elongated tube defining a proximal end, a distal end, and an inner lumen; an expandable member adjustablely positioned at the distal end of the elongated tube between a delivery position within the elongated tube and a fully expanded position at least partially outside the elongated tube, wherein the expandable member is absorbent; and a traction member coupled to the expandable member and extending proximally from the expandable member through the inner lumen to the outside of the elongated tube.

[0006] Additionally or alternative to any of the above examples, the expandable component can be adjusted to a partially deployed position having a desired volume between a first volume when the expandable component is in the delivery position and a second volume when the expandable component is in the fully deployed position.

[0007] Additionally or alternative to any of the above examples, the elongated tube may be an elongated outer tube, and the device may further include: an elongated inner member configured to extend into the inner cavity of the elongated outer tube and having a proximal end located outside the elongated outer tube.

[0008] Additionally or alternative to any of the above examples, the elongated internal member may be configured to engage the proximal portion of the expandable component to adjust the volume of the expandable component that extends from the distal end of the elongated outer tube.

[0009] Additionally or alternative to any of the above examples, the elongated internal member may be an elongated inner tube defining an inner cavity, and the pulling member may extend through the inner cavity of the elongated inner tube to a location outside the elongated inner tube.

[0010] Additionally or alternative to any of the above examples, when the expandable component is in the fully extended position, the distal end of the pull member is attached to the expandable component at a position on the distal side of the distal end of the elongated tube.

[0011] Additionally or alternative to any of the above examples, the expandable component may be configured to fold outwards when it transitions between a delivery position and a fully extended position.

[0012] Additionally or alternative to any of the examples above, the expandable component may include a rod and a cap, and when the expandable component is in the fully extended position, an elongated tube may be configured to extend between the rod and the cap of the expandable component.

[0013] Additionally or alternative to any of the above examples, the device may include a lubricating layer at a location on the outer surface of the expandable member, the lubricating layer being configured to contact the distal end of the elongated tube when the expandable member is adjusted between a delivery position and a fully extended position.

[0014] Additionally or alternative to any of the above examples, the device may include one or more cavities located within the expandable component.

[0015] Additionally or alternative to any of the above examples, the expandable component may be a sponge.

[0016] Additionally or alternative to any of the above examples, the expandable component may be configured to wring out when it is positioned inside an elongated tube.

[0017] In another example, a system for treating a wound may include: a vacuum source; an elongated tube defining an inner cavity; and an expandable member configured to have a first volume associated with a delivery configuration of the expandable member and a second volume associated with a fully deployed configuration of the expandable member, the expandable member being absorbent, and wherein the expandable member may be configured to change volume as the expandable member transitions between the delivery configuration and the fully deployed configuration, and wherein the vacuum source may be in fluid communication with the inner cavity and the expandable member when the expandable member is in the delivery configuration, the fully deployed configuration, and a transitional configuration between the delivery configuration and the fully deployed configuration.

[0018] Additionally or alternative to any of the above examples, the system may also include: a pulling member coupled to the expandable member and extending proximally from the expandable member through the lumen to the outside of the elongated tube.

[0019] Additionally or alternative to any of the above examples, the elongated tube may be an elongated outer tube, and the system may further include: an elongated inner member configured to extend into the inner cavity of the elongated outer tube and engage a proximal portion of the expandable member to adjust the expandable member from a delivery configuration to at least a partially deployed configuration.

[0020] In another example, a method of positioning an expandable component at a patient's wound may include: inserting the expandable component through a body cavity, wherein the expandable component is in a delivery configuration defining a first volume, the expandable component being absorbable; unfolding the expandable component from the delivery configuration to an unfolded configuration defining a second volume, wherein the second volume is larger than the first volume; applying a vacuum pressure to the expandable component while it is in the unfolded configuration; and simultaneously applying the vacuum pressure to the expandable component while at least partially reconstraining the expandable component to a configuration defining a third volume, the third volume being smaller than the second volume.

[0021] Additionally or alternative to any of the above examples, the expandable component may be configured to fold outward when the expandable component is unfolded from the delivery mode to the unfolded mode.

[0022] Additionally or alternative to any of the above examples, the method may also include engaging the distal end of the elongated tube with the proximal portion of the expandable member so that the expandable member is turned outward when transitioning from an unfolded form to a delivery form.

[0023] Additionally or alternative to any of the above examples, the method may also include re-deploying the expandable component to a re-deployed form after re-constraining the expandable component, wherein the expandable component in the re-deployed form defines a fourth volume, which is smaller than the second volume.

[0024] Additionally or alternative to any of the above examples, the method may further include: setting a second volume equal to or greater than the volume of the wound when the expandable component is unfolded from the delivery mode to the unfolded mode, and setting a fourth volume equal to or greater than the volume of the wound when the expandable component is re-unfolded.

[0025] The above overview of some embodiments is not intended to describe every disclosed embodiment or every implementation of this disclosure. The following drawings and detailed description illustrate these embodiments in more detail. Attached Figure Description

[0026] This disclosure will be more fully understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0027] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an illustrative intracavitary vacuum therapy system is shown;

[0028] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of an illustrative apparatus for an intracavitary vacuum therapy system is shown;

[0029] Figure 3 This is a schematic partial cross-sectional view of an illustrative slender tube used in an intracavitary vacuum therapy system;

[0030] Figures 4A-4E It is a schematic cross-sectional view of an illustrative technique for deploying and recapturing expandable components of a device for an intracavitary vacuum therapy system;

[0031] Figure 5 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of an illustrative expandable component of a device for an intracavitary vacuum therapy system;

[0032] Figure 6 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of an illustrative expandable component of a device for an intracavitary vacuum therapy system;

[0033] Figure 7A and Figure 7B This is a schematic side view of an illustrative device used in an intracavitary vacuum therapy system;

[0034] Figures 8A-8E It is a schematic view illustrating the technique of using an intracavitary vacuum therapy system; and

[0035] Figure 9 This is a schematic view illustrating the technique of using an intracavitary vacuum therapy system.

[0036] While this disclosure is open to various modifications and alternatives, its specific details have been shown by way of example in the accompanying drawings and will be described in detail. However, it should be understood that this disclosure is not intended to limit it to the specific embodiments described. Rather, it is intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives that fall within the spirit and scope of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0037] The terms defined below shall apply unless otherwise specified in the claims or elsewhere in this specification.

[0038] All numerical values ​​herein are assumed to be modified by the term "about," whether explicitly indicated or not. The term "about" generally refers to a range of numbers that a person skilled in the art would consider equivalent to the stated value (e.g., having the same function or result). In many cases, the term "about" may include numerical values ​​rounded to the nearest significant figure.

[0039] Numerical ranges expressed using endpoints include all values ​​within that range (e.g., 1 to 5 includes 1, 1.5, 2, 2.75, 3, 3.80, 4, and 5).

[0040] As used in this specification and the appended claims, unless otherwise expressly stated, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural references. As used in this specification and the appended claims, the term “or” is generally used to mean “and / or”, unless otherwise expressly stated.

[0041] It should be noted that references to "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "other embodiments," etc., in the specification indicate that the described embodiments may include one or more specific features, structures, and / or characteristics. However, such descriptions do not necessarily imply that all embodiments include the specific features, structures, and / or characteristics. Furthermore, when a specific feature, structure, and / or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it should be understood that, unless explicitly stated to the contrary, such feature, structure, and / or characteristic may also be used in conjunction with other embodiments, whether explicitly described or not.

[0042] The following detailed description should be read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which similar elements in different drawings are numbered with the same numerals. These drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, depict illustrative embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure.

[0043] Patients experiencing post-gastrointestinal (GI) surgery leakage or perforation (e.g., after colectomy, bariatric surgery, esophagectomy, etc.) may have limited treatment options and high mortality rates. Existing options for treating post-operative leakage or perforation include, but are not limited to, endoscopic stent placement, endoscopic clip placement, and reoperation. Additional treatment options are needed to reduce implant migration, prevent infection localization, increase wound drainage to promote healing, and reduce morbidity and mortality.

[0044] Negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) (e.g., vacuum therapy or wound vacuum) creates an environment around a wound that promotes the healing process. Applying negative pressure to a wound helps remove wound fluid, which may include infectious material. A wound vacuum can be an example of an NPWT configured for external treatment of chronic, non-healing wounds, which applies negative pressure to the wound via a vacuum-sealed sponge, where the sponge can be replaced at regular intervals as the wound heals and closes, utilizing sponges that gradually decrease in size.

[0045] Intracavitary vacuum therapy (e.g., EVY or EVAC) can be an improved application of NPWT, which applies the NPWT concept to the gastrointestinal tract. Improved EVT or EVAC devices, systems, and methods are needed to treat wounds (e.g., anastomotic leaks, perforations, etc.) in the gastrointestinal tract and / or other suitable cavities of the body. The EVT or EVAC devices, systems, and methods disclosed herein can facilitate the treatment of wounds or leaks in the upper and / or lower gastrointestinal tracts, allowing for efficient placement and replacement of sponges (or alternative materials), and / or minimizing patient discomfort, while providing physicians with readily available devices and / or systems.

[0046] Figure 1 An illustrative system 10 for treating wounds in a patient's intracavitary space (e.g., on a surface, etc.) is schematically depicted. System 10 may include a vacuum source 12 in fluid communication with a device 14 for insertion into a patient and configured to treat wounds in an intracavitary space (e.g., on an intracavitary surface, etc.).

[0047] Vacuum source 12 can be any suitable vacuum source for applying negative pressure to a wound on the inner surface of the cavity via device 14. For example, vacuum source 12 can be a vacuum source installed in a building structure, a vacuum source movable from room to room within a building, and / or other suitable vacuum sources that can be coupled to device 14 to aid in wound treatment. Although in Figure 1 Not depicted, vacuum source 12 may be in fluid communication with waste container configured to collect liquids and / or other substances from wounds or locations adjacent to wounds.

[0048] Device 14 (configured to facilitate the treatment of wounds in a patient's intracavitary space) may include an elongated outer tube 16, an expandable member 18, and a traction member 20 configured to extend proximally from the expandable member 18 through the lumen of the outer tube 16 to the outside of the outer tube 16. The outer tube 16 may have a proximal end 22 and a distal end 24, the proximal end 22 configured to be connected to a vacuum source 12, and the distal end 24 configured to be positioned adjacent to the expandable member 18 in its deployed state, such as... Figure 1 The expansion is shown. The outer tube 16 can be connected to the vacuum source 12 such that when the expandable component 18 is in a first mode, fully expanded or a second mode, and in a transitional mode between the first mode and the fully expanded or second mode, the vacuum source 12 is in fluid communication with the inner cavity of the outer tube 16 and the expandable component 18.

[0049] The outer tube 16 can have any suitable construction. In some examples, the outer tube 16 may be a nasogastric (NG) tube, but this is not required, and other suitable tube types and / or constructions are also considered.

[0050] The outer tube 16 may include one or more cavities configured to facilitate the application of a negative pressure from the vacuum source 12 to the expandable member 18 and to adjust the pulling member 20 to move the expandable member 18 adjacent to the distal end 24 of the outer tube 16. In some examples, the outer tube 16 may have a single cavity 36, for example... Figure 2 As depicted in the illustration. In some examples, the outer tube 16 may have two or more inner lumens.

[0051] Figure 3 A schematic cross-sectional view is depicted at an axial position of the receiving portion 30 of an illustrative outer tube 16 having a first inner cavity 38 and a second inner cavity 40, wherein the outer tube 16 is curved upward. The first inner cavity 38 may be larger than the second inner cavity 40, but this is not required. In some examples, the first inner cavity 38 may be configured to receive an expandable component 18, an internal member or pusher, a puller 20, and / or other suitable components. Additionally or alternatively, the second inner cavity 40 may be configured to communicate with a vacuum source 12, and when communicated with a vacuum source 12, the second inner cavity 40 may facilitate the application of vacuum pressure to the expandable component 18 and / or the target location.

[0052] The outer tube 16 may be formed of any suitable biocompatible material suitable for passing through a body cavity. For example, the outer tube 16 may be formed of: flexible materials, materials shaped to be flexible, materials having the desired pushability for advancing the device 14 through a body cavity, metallic materials, polymeric materials, combinations of metallic and polymeric materials, and / or other suitable materials.

[0053] The outer tube 16 may include one or more openings or ports. For example, the outer tube 16 may include: a proximal opening or port at or near the proximal end 22, configured to engage with the vacuum source 12 and / or other suitable components; a distal opening or port at or near the distal end 24, configured to receive the expandable component 18; and an intermediate opening or port 26 (e.g., a lateral port) between the proximal end 22 and the distal end 24. In some cases, the intermediate opening or port 26 may be configured on the outer tube 16 such that when the distal end 24 of the outer tube 16 is positioned at the target site, the intermediate opening or port 26 is located outside the patient.

[0054] One or more lumens of the outer tube 16 may be in fluid communication with one or more of the proximal port, distal port, and intermediate port 26. In some examples, the expandable member 18 may retract through the lumen of the outer tube (e.g., lumen 36 of a single-lumen outer tube 16, first lumen 38 of a double-lumen outer tube 16, etc.) to allow replacement of the expandable member 18 by fully retracting the expandable member 18 through the lumen of the outer tube 16 and exiting from the intermediate opening or port 26, and then inserting a new expandable member 18 through the lumen of the outer tube 16 through the intermediate opening or port 26.

[0055] The intermediate opening or port 26 may include or be coupled to an adapter 28, but this is not required. When an adapter 28 is included, the adapter 28 may be configured to selectively or adjustably allow or prevent fluid flow through the intermediate opening or port 26, and / or be configured to secure (e.g., lock) the pull member 20 and / or other components relative to the outer tube 16. The adapter 28 may be any suitable type of adapter, including but not limited to Touhy-Borst adapters, pinch valves, self-sealing valves, and / or other suitable types of adapters or valves.

[0056] When adapter 28 is included, adapter 28 may be an integral part of outer tube 16 and / or may be connected to outer tube 16 in any suitable manner. For example, adapter 28 may be permanently connected to the intermediate opening or port 26 of outer tube 16, or adjustablely connected to the intermediate opening or port 26. When adjustablely connected to the intermediate opening or port 26, adapter 28 may be adjustablely connected in any suitable manner, including but not limited to a Luer lock connection and / or other suitable connection methods.

[0057] The distal end 24 of the outer tube 16 may include a receiving portion 30 configured to receive the expandable member 18 in a first configuration (e.g., a delivery or constraint configuration). The receiving portion 30 may be elongated and may have an inner diameter configured to receive all or at least a portion of the expandable member 18.

[0058] The receiving portion 30 may have a first portion 30a and a second portion 30b, but this is not necessary. In some examples, the first portion 30a may have a diameter (e.g., inner and / or outer diameter) that tapers proximally to the core portion 32 of the outer tube 16, and the second portion 30b may extend distally from the first portion 30a and may have a constant or substantially constant inner and / or outer diameter, sized to receive the expandable member 18 in the first configuration. In some cases, the distal end of the second portion 30b may have a circumferential flange extending radially outward distally, which may facilitate re-constraint of the expandable member 18, mitigate tearing of the expandable member during re-constraint, and / or allow for a larger expandable member 18 than would be without the flange. Other suitable configurations of the receiving portion 30 are also conceivable.

[0059] The traction member 20 can be any suitable type of traction member connected to the expandable member 18 and can have sufficient length to extend to the outside of the patient when the device 14 is positioned at or near a target site within the patient's body (e.g., a wound). The traction member 20 can be and / or can include one or more of tubes, wires, threads, ropes, shafts, and / or have one or more other suitable constructions. In some cases, the traction member 20 can be configured to be flexible, configured to be under tension, configured to have sufficient pushability to adjust the expandable member 18 from a first configuration within the outer tube 16 to an adjusted configuration (e.g., at least partially expanded or relaxed, unfolded configuration or position), wherein the expandable member 18 is at least partially outside the outer tube 16, and / or configured in one or more ways.

[0060] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a device 14 utilizing an outer tube 16 having a single inner lumen 36 is depicted, wherein an inner member 34 (e.g., an elongated inner member, a pusher, a deploying and / or reconstraining conduit, and / or other suitable inner member) and a pull member 20 extend within the inner lumen 36 of the outer tube 16. In some cases, the inner member 34 may include one or more lumens through which the pull member 20 may extend. The inner member 34 may extend through an intermediate opening or port 26 and be adjustably locked in place relative to the outer tube 16 via an adapter 28.

[0061] In some cases, the internal member 34 may be a shaft with a solid cross-section. Additionally or alternatively, the internal member 34 may be tubular and / or otherwise have one or more cavities. When the internal member 34 includes cavities, the traction member 20 may extend from the expandable member 18 through the cavity of the internal member 34 to a position proximal to the proximal end of the internal member 34 and external to the patient when the device 14 is positioned inside the patient.

[0062] The inner member 34 can have any suitable configuration to adjust and engage the expandable member 18 relative to the outer tube 16, allowing the expandable member 18 to advance and / or retract relative to the outer tube 16. While not strictly necessary, one or more ends of the inner member 34 may flare radially outward. In some examples, the proximal end of the inner member 34 may extend radially outward in a proximal direction to facilitate manipulation of the traction member 20 and / or for other purposes. Additionally or alternatively, the distal end of the inner member 34 may extend radially outward in a distal direction to facilitate receiving the traction member 20, engaging with the expandable member 18, and / or for other purposes.

[0063] The distal end of the tension member 20 can be coupled to the expandable member 18. The connection between the tension member 20 and the expandable member 18 can be achieved in any suitable manner, including but not limited to adhesives, knots, nails, rivets, fusion bonding, fusion bonding, anchors, embedding in the expandable member, and / or other suitable connection mechanisms. Furthermore, the tension member 20 can be coupled to the expandable member 18 at any suitable location.

[0064] In some cases, the tension member 20 may engage the anchor 42 at any suitable location along the expansion member 18, a location configured to facilitate engagement of the tension member 20 to or relative to the anchor 42. In some examples, the tension member 20 may engage the anchor 42 at any location along the expandable member 18, a location configured distal to the distal end (e.g., the distal end) of the outer tube 16 when the expandable member 18 is in its deployed state and / or within the outer diameter of the outer tube 16, to facilitate re-constraint of the expandable member 18 within the outer tube 16, as described in more detail below. In some examples, such as Figure 2 As depicted, the tension member 20 can be connected to the anchor 42 at the distal end of the expandable member 18.

[0065] Anchor 42 may be or may include any suitable component configured to facilitate securing the tension member 20 relative to the expandable member 18. In some examples, anchor 42 may be a washer, stop, knot, ball, and / or other suitable component configured to prevent or mitigate pull-out of the tension member 20 relative to the expandable member 18.

[0066] In some cases, the expandable component 18, the traction member 20, and / or the internal member 34 may include one or more indicators at one or more locations to indicate the size of the expandable component 18 (e.g., diameter, volume, length, etc.). In some examples, the traction member 20 and / or the internal member 34 may include one or more indicators or markers at one or more longitudinal locations configured to extend outside the patient to indicate the current size of the expandable component 18 exposed to the target site of the patient from the distal end of the outer tube 16 or other components of the device 14. In some examples, the expandable component 18 may include one or more radiopaque markers that can be used to determine the current size of the expandable component 18 based on images of the device 14 within the patient.

[0067] The expandable member 18 can have any suitable shape or configuration configured to expand when deployed from the outer tube 16 and compress when constrained within the outer tube 16 (e.g., within the receiving portion 30 of the outer tube 16 and / or other suitable portions of the outer tube 16). Figure 2 As depicted, the expandable member 18 may have a first portion 44 and a second portion 46, but other suitable configurations are also conceivable. The first portion 44 (e.g., a rod, etc.) may be elongated and configured to extend within the outer tube 16 when the expandable member 18 is constrained within the outer tube 16 and / or when the expandable member 18 is fully extended from the outer tube 16. The second portion 46 of the expandable member 18 (e.g., a cap) may be configured to have a first shape when constrained within the outer tube 16 and an adjustable shape when at least partially extended from the outer tube 16. In some examples, the second portion 46 of the expandable member 18 is configured to fold outwards when adjusted between the first and second shapes (e.g., a fully extended shape), as per [reference to...]. Figures 4A-4E More detailed discussion. Although not required, the first portion 44 and the second portion 46 of the expandable component 18 can form a mushroom-shaped component.

[0068] In some cases, the expandable component 18 may include one or more cavities, gaps, or spaces 48 (e.g., empty spaces, or spaces filled with a material that is less dense or more flexible than other portions of the expandable component 18). When included, one or more gaps or spaces 48 may help constrain and / or reconstrain the expandable component 18 within the receiving portion 30 of the outer tube 16 by providing space for material consumption by the expandable component 18 when it is in or transitions to a first configuration. Furthermore, in some cases, when in or transitioning to an adjusted configuration or a second configuration, one or more gaps or spaces 48 may help define the shape of the expandable component 18, because the gaps or spaces 48 may have a predetermined expandable shape or may be part of a predetermined expandable shape of the expandable component 18.

[0069] The expandable component 18 can be formed of any suitable one or more biocompatible materials. For example, the expandable component 18 can be formed of flexible materials, absorbent materials (e.g., liquid-absorbing materials), polymeric materials, synthetic absorbable polymers (e.g., poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid), polydioxanone (PDO), etc.), foams, sponge materials, open-cell foams, polyurethane foams, hydrogels, alginates, chitosan, cellulose-based materials, silk-based materials, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) materials, collagen-based materials, hyaluronic acid materials, wringable materials, fabrics, and / or other suitable biocompatible materials. Additionally or alternatively, the expandable component 18 can be made of a material configured to be housed within the outer tube 16 or other suitable component of the device 14 and to self-expand to a predetermined shape when in an adjusted or second shape. In some examples, the expandable component 18 can be and / or may include sponges and / or other suitable absorbent and wringable materials.

[0070] Figures 4A-4E A schematic cross-sectional view is depicted of the expandable component 18 relative to the receiving portion 30 of the outer tube 16. (See attached image.) Figures 4A-4E As shown, the expandable component 18 is connected to the tension component 20 via the anchor 42, but this is not necessary and other connection configurations are also possible.

[0071] Figure 4A An expandable member 18 in a first configuration (e.g., a constrained configuration) is depicted within a receiving portion 30 of an outer tube 16. The expandable member 18 may have a first volume defined by the outer circumference of the expandable member 18 (e.g., defined by the outer circumference of at least a second portion 46 of the expandable member 18).

[0072] In the first configuration, the second portion 46 of the expandable member 18 can be fully accommodated within the receiving portion 30 of the outer tube 16, wherein the distal end of the expandable member 18 (e.g., the first surface 19 at the distal end of the expandable member 18) can define an opening 50 configured to face distally and / or towards the target portion, and can lead to the distal end of the outer tube 16. The opening 50 can be larger than... Figure 4A The smaller or larger depicted, and in some cases, due to the limitation of the expandable part 18. Figure 4A The first edges or surfaces 19 of the opening 50 are close to each other and in some cases in contact with each other; the opening 50 may be completely or substantially omitted. Furthermore, when the expandable member 18 is constrained, the gap or space 48 can be compressed, such as... Figure 4A As depicted, the surfaces defining the gap or space 48 can approach each other and, in some cases, contact each other. In the first configuration, the second surface 21 may define the outer surface of the expandable member 18.

[0073] The expandable member 18 can be advanced to the target site on the patient when in the first configuration. Once the target site is reached, the internal member 34 or other suitable component of the device 14 can be advanced distally within the lumen 36 of the outer tube 16 in the direction of arrow D, and over the traction member 20 extending through the lumen 52 of the internal member 34, wherein the distal end of the internal member 34 can engage the proximal end or proximal portion of the expandable member 18 (e.g., the proximal end of the first portion 44 of the expandable member 18) to at least partially push the expandable member 18 out of the receiving portion 30 of the outer tube 16 to achieve an adjusted configuration (e.g., a partially restrained or partially unfolded and / or expanded configuration), such as... Figure 4B As depicted. In the adjusted configuration, the expandable component may have a first radial width R1 at its widest cross-section (e.g., at its widest diameter) and an adjusted volume associated with the first radial width R1, which may vary as the expandable component 18 is adjusted between a first configuration and a second configuration.

[0074] As the expandable member 18 extends distally into the receiving portion 30 of the outer tube 16, the second portion 46 of the expandable member 18 self-expands radially outward (e.g., radially outward biased) or otherwise automatically expands radially relative to a constrained position within the receiving portion 30. Alternatively or additionally, the expandable member 18 can be manually expanded using one or more instruments to achieve expansion as needed. As the second portion 46 of the expandable member 18 expands radially, the opening 50 (when included) and / or one or more gaps or spaces 48 may also expand radially outward, such as... Figure 4B Compared to Figure 4A What is depicted.

[0075] Figure 4C The diagram depicts the expandable member 18 being fully extended out of the receiving portion 30 of the outer tube 16 by further advancing the inner member 34 distally along the direction of arrow D, such that the expandable member 18 can be in a second configuration (e.g., a fully extended configuration), wherein the expandable member 18 is in a fully expanded, relaxed position and has a second volume defined by the expandable member 18 (e.g., at least the outer circumference of the second portion 44 of the expandable member 18). In some cases, the second volume may be larger than the first volume.

[0076] about Figure 4B and Figure 4CThe inner member 34 is depicted as advancing distally to engage the proximal end of the expandable member 18 (e.g., the first portion 44 of the expandable member 18), but this is not required. In some examples, the inner member 34 may be omitted, and the tension member 20 or other suitable member may advance distally in the direction of arrow D to push the expandable member 18 out of the outer tube 16, wherein the tension member 20 or other suitable member may have sufficient column strength or buckling load to push the expandable member 18 out of the outer tube 16 without buckling.

[0077] In the second configuration, the expandable member 18 may have a second radial width R2 at its widest cross-section (e.g., at its widest diameter). The second radial width R2 may be less than, greater than, or equal to the first radial width R1 of the expandable member 18 in the partially deployed or partially constrained position. In some cases, a second volume of the expandable member 18 may be associated with the second radial width R2. When partially deployed, the expandable member 18 can be adjusted to a position having a desired volume between the first and second volumes, wherein the desired volume may be associated with the partially deployed expandable member and the radial width R1.

[0078] like Figure 4C As depicted, in response to the expandable member 18 being biased into the second configuration and exposed from the outer tube 16, the expandable member 18 everts itself relative to the first configuration (e.g., a receiving or partially receiving configuration). With the eversion of the expandable member 18, the gap or space 48 can be relative to... Figure 4B The gap or space 48 depicted in the diagram is constructed to be everted outwards. When the expandable member 18 is in the second configuration, the anchor 42 may be located at the distal end of the expandable member 18, but this is not necessary, and the anchor 42 may be located at other locations along the expandable member 18, on the distal side of the expandable member 18, where, when the expandable member 18 is re-constrained, the distal end of the outer tube 16 initially engages with the expandable member 18 between the first portion 44 and the second portion 46.

[0079] In the second configuration, the opening 50 defined by the expandable member 18 now faces proximal or toward the outer tube 16. In some cases, the outer tube 16 may be located between the first portion 44 and the second portion 46 of the expandable member 18. Furthermore, in the second configuration of the expandable member 18, the second surface 21 now defines the opening 50, and the first surface 19 may define the outer surface of the expandable member 18.

[0080] When in the second configuration or any configuration that is at least partially restrained or partially expanded, the expandable component 18 can be positioned at or within a wound on the subject. In some cases, the amount of expansion or restraint of the expandable component 18 can be appropriately adjusted in size based on the wound into which the expandable component 18 can be inserted. Furthermore, the sizing and / or expansion of the expandable component 18 can be determined at or within the wound where the expandable component 18 will be placed, and / or prior to positioning the expandable component 18 at or within the wound.

[0081] Figure 4D and Figure 4E The reconstraint of the expandable component 18 is schematically depicted. The expandable component 18 can be reconstrained for a variety of reasons, including but not limited to: for removing the expandable component 18 and / or device 14 from the patient; for readjusting the size of the expandable component 18 over time to better fit the wound due to wound healing and / or wound deterioration; for wringing out (e.g., drying) the absorbent material from the expandable component 18; and / or for other suitable purposes. In some cases, during the reconstraint of the expandable component 18, the vacuum source 12 may be activated such that the negative pressure from the vacuum source 12 draws out all material absorbed by the expandable component 18 and wringed out by the reconstraint of the expandable component 18 through the outer tube 16 and out of device 14.

[0082] To initiate re-constraint of the expandable member 18, the pull member 20 can be retracted or advanced in the proximal direction of arrow P. Pulling the pull member 20 may cause the second surface 21 of the expandable member 18 to engage the distal end of the outer tube 16, such that, in response to the tension on the pull member 20, the anchor 42 and the distal end of the expandable member 18 are acted to pull the expandable member 18 into the outer tube 16, causing the expandable member 18 to fold outward around the distal end of the outer tube 16. When folded outward in response to pulling the pull member 20, the opening 50 defined by the expandable member 18 can face distally, similar to... Figure 4B The gap or space 48 described and discussed in the text can be relative to... Figure 4C The image shows an outward flip.

[0083] When the expandable component 18 is in its second configuration at the wound site, the first surface 19 can engage with the patient tissue at the wound site, resulting in a shear force between the first surface 19 and the patient tissue when the traction member 20 and the distal end of the expandable component 18 are initially withdrawn. When present, this shear force can at least temporarily hold the first surface 19 relative to the patient tissue and facilitate the withdrawal of the distal central portion of the expandable component 18 toward the outer tube 16. Withdrawal of the distal central portion of the expandable component 18 toward the outer tube 16, and engagement of the distal end of the outer tube 16 with the second surface 21 of the expandable component 18, can result in a radially inward (e.g., laterally inward) force that pulls the first surface 19 along the axial central direction of the expandable component 18 (e.g., in the direction of arrow I) and away from the sidewall of the patient tissue, causing the expandable component 18 to evert into a partially constrained configuration, e.g. Figure 4D As depicted in the text.

[0084] The construction of the device 14, which generates radial or lateral inward forces, allows the expandable member 18 to remain in or at the wound site for a longer period of time, compared to a sponge construction that does not generate radial or lateral inward forces acting on the expandable member 18. This is because the radial or lateral inward forces are transverse to the shear force and help overcome the shear force between the expandable member 18 and the increased tissue ingrowth at the wound site due to the longer placement of the expandable member 18 at the wound site. For example, typical tubes and sponge devices are removed every three to five days and new sponges and tubes are inserted during wound healing, while the disclosed system 10 or device 14 with the expandable member 18 can be used during the wound healing process (e.g., typically longer than three to five days) without replacement.

[0085] Once the expandable part 18 has been turned outward from the second form, as Figure 4D As depicted, the tension member 20 can be further retracted in the direction of arrow P, and the expandable member 18 can be completely re-constrained within the outer tube 16, as... Figure 4E As depicted, but not required, and it is conceivable that the expandable component 18 can be resized and re-expanded without complete re-restraint. Once the expandable component 18 is re-restrained and optionally wrung or squeezed dry, the expandable component 18 can be re-expanded or withdrawn from the patient. If re-expanded, the size of the expandable component 18 can be reduced to accommodate the reduced size of the wound cavity, and the expandable component 18 can be completely or at least substantially dry due to wringing and removal of material from the device 14 by the vacuum source 12.

[0086] As described above, the device 14 and expandable component 18 can be adapted to wounds of different sizes (e.g., oral cavity, etc.). Furthermore, the device 14 and expandable component 18 can be used with intraluminal cavities, extraluminal cavities, gastric cavities, duodenal cavities, colonic cavities, and / or cavities located in one or more other suitable locations. The expandable component 18 can be adjustable in size, shape, and / or otherwise configured to fill the space of different cavities (e.g., different anastomotic cavities) as needed.

[0087] Figure 5 A schematic cross-sectional view depicting an illustrative configuration of the expandable member 18 in a second configuration is shown, wherein the expandable member 18 includes a layer or coating 54 (e.g., a lubricating layer or coating and / or other suitable layer or coating) applied thereon. In some cases, the coating 54 may form entirely or at least partially a second surface 21 that defines an opening 50 in the second configuration of the expandable member 18 (e.g., a fully deployed configuration). In some cases, the coating 54 may be applied at additional and / or alternative locations on the expandable member 18, including but not limited to one or more locations forming the first surface 19. Furthermore, as a supplement to or alternative to positioning the coating 54 on the expandable member 18, the coating 54 may be applied to other locations along the device 14, including but not limited to the distal end of the outer tube 16 that interacts with the expandable member 18.

[0088] Coating 54 can be any suitable type of coating. Coating 54 may have lubricating properties to reduce friction between the expandable part 18 and the distal end of the outer tube 16, but this is not required. In some examples, coating 54 can be a flexible material, a lubricating material, a biocompatible material, a polymer material, silicone, polyurethane (PU), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), an elastomer, a hydrogel, and / or other suitable types of material.

[0089] Figure 6 A schematic cross-sectional view depicting the illustrative construction of the expandable member 18 in a second configuration is shown, wherein the expandable member 18 includes a plurality of cavities, gaps, or spaces 48. When the expandable member 18 has a circular cross-section, the gaps or spaces 48 may extend circumferentially, either fully or partially, around a central axis. Although in Figure 6 The expandable component 18 is depicted to include a coating 54, but this is not necessary, and the coating 54 may be omitted or used in other suitable locations on the expandable component 18.

[0090] In some examples, the second portion 46 of the expandable member 18 may have: a first gap or space 48a, located between the distal end of the first portion 44 of the expandable member 18 and the distal end of the second portion 46 of the expandable member 18 when the expandable member 18 is in the second configuration; a second gap or space 48b, located on a first lateral side of the first gap or space 48a; and a third gap or space 48c, located on a second lateral side of the first gap or space 48a. The gaps or spaces 48 may facilitate compression or reconstraint of the expandable member 18 to allow for adjustment of the expandable member 18 to fit the size of the wound, and / or may be configured to facilitate eversion of the expandable member 18.

[0091] The first gap or space 48a can contribute to the longitudinal and / or lateral or radial flexibility of the expandable member 18. In some cases, in the tension member 20 ( Figure 6 (Not depicted in the text) When pulled proximally and the distal end of the outer tube 16 engages the second surface 21, due to the first gap or space 48a (e.g., relative to in) Figure 6 In the case where no space or gap is provided at the location of the first gap or space 48a depicted in the figure), the increased flexibility of the distal end of the expandable member helps to: in response to a proximal force applied to the expandable member 18, cause the distal end of the expandable member 18 to bend proximally to initiate the outward folding of the expandable member 18.

[0092] The second and third gaps or spaces 48b, 48c may be elongated and extend along the side of the first gap or space 48a, but this is not necessary. In some examples, the second and third gaps or spaces 48b, 48c may facilitate the lateral or radial inward bending of the expandable member 18 to adjust its dimensions. Furthermore, the construction of the second and third gaps or spaces 48b, 48c may facilitate the outward flaring and re-constraint of the expandable member 18.

[0093] Figure 7A and Figure 7B The distal portion of an illustrative configuration of device 14 is depicted, wherein device 14 includes an outer sheath 56 (shown in cross-sectional view) that extends over and is adjustable relative to an outer tube 16. In some examples, the outer sheath 56 may be configured to adjust longitudinally about the axis of the outer tube 16 to cover and / or expose the expandable component 18.

[0094] Figure 7A The device 14 is depicted in a first configuration, wherein an outer sheath 56 extends over or otherwise covers the expandable member 18 to hold the expandable member 18 in a fully restrained or covered position. In some cases, the expandable member 18 may be in the first configuration upon delivery to the target site or wound, but this is not necessary.

[0095] When the expandable member 18 is held in the first configuration by the outer sheath 56, the expandable member 18 can be coupled to the distal end of the outer tube 16 in any suitable manner, and the tension member 20 and / or the internal member 34 can be omitted from the device 14. Alternatively and / or additionally, when the expandable member 18 is coupled to the outer tube 16, the tension member 20 and / or other suitable structures may be included with the device 14 to allow the expandable member 18 to be turned outward upon re-constraint and / or for other suitable purposes.

[0096] In some cases, when using the outer sleeve 56, the expandable member 18 can be coupled to the traction member 20 and adjustable relative to the outer tube 16. In such cases, the outer tube 16, the traction member 20, and / or the outer sleeve 56 can be used in combination and / or individually to facilitate the outward turning and re-restraint of the expandable member 18.

[0097] Figure 7B The device 14 is depicted in a second configuration, wherein the outer sheath is retracted proximally in the direction of arrow P, which allows the expandable component 18 to fold outward and fully expand.

[0098] As described above, over time, the size of the wound or wound cavity will decrease as the wound heals and negative pressure is applied to the body tissue at and / or around the wound to remove fluids and / or other substances from the wound site. As the size of the wound or wound cavity decreases, it may be necessary to periodically re-constrain the expandable component 18 within the outer tube 16 (and / or outer sheath 56) to prevent or mitigate tissue growth into the expandable component 18.

[0099] Figures 8A-8E Illustrative steps of an illustrative technique for inserting, positioning, re-restraining, and repositioning an expandable component 18 at a patient's wound or oral cavity are described. Additional or alternative steps may be considered for positioning the expandable component 18 at a subject's wound or oral cavity.

[0100] Figure 8A A schematic diagram depicts the insertion of the outer tube 16 of the device 14 through the nasal cavity 62 of the patient 60 and into the esophagus 64 (e.g., body cavity) of the patient 60. Expandable component 18 ( Figure 8A (Not shown) can be in a first configuration within a first volume defined by an outer tube 16. Although the device 14 is depicted as being inserted through the nasal cavity 62 of the patient 60, the device 14 can also be inserted into the patient 60 through the oral cavity opening 66 and / or other suitable openings.

[0101] Figure 8B A schematic diagram of the esophagus 64 is depicted, in which the distal end 24 of the outer tube 16 approaches the target site 68 having an injured oral cavity 70. When the device 14 is delivered to the target site 68, the expandable component 18 ( Figure 8B (Not depicted in the text) can be constrained within the receiving portion 30 of the outer tube 16 in the first configuration. Figure 8B The oral cavity 70 depicted may be defined by an inner wall 72 and may have a first transverse length L1 extending from the esophageal wall.

[0102] Figure 8C A schematic diagram of the esophagus 64 is depicted, wherein the distal end 24 of the outer tube 16 is located at the target site 68, and the expandable component 18 is in a second fully expanded configuration defining a second volume and positioned within the wound cavity 70. When positioned within the wound cavity 70, a vacuum or negative pressure can be applied to the expandable component to remove liquids and / or other substances from the vicinity of the wound cavity 70.

[0103] In some cases, the expandable member 18 can be adjusted to a specific size suitable for the wound cavity 70 and then positioned within the expandable member 18. Alternatively, the expandable member 18 can be initially released from the outer tube 16 and expand while within the wound cavity 70.

[0104] Markings and / or indicators on the proximal end of device 14 can help the user determine the size of the expandable member 18 at least partially exposed within or at the wound cavity 70, ensuring that the expandable member 18 is sized to fit the wound cavity 70. When properly sized and positioned within the wound cavity 70, the first surface 19 of the expandable member 18 can engage the inner wall 72 of the wound cavity to facilitate the absorption of fluids and / or other substances along the wound cavity 70, and to prevent or mitigate shear stress between the first surface 19 and the inner wall 72 from exiting the expandable member from the wound cavity 70.

[0105] The dimensions of the expandable component 18 (e.g., length, diameter, and / or other suitable dimensional measurements) can be configured to be the same as or slightly larger than the dimensions of the wound cavity 70 to establish good contact between the expandable component 18 and the walls of the wound cavity 70. Good contact between the expandable component 18 and the walls of the wound cavity can facilitate the absorption of fluids and / or other substances from the wound cavity 70 or the target site 68 by the expandable component and the removal of these substances by the negative pressure in the device 14.

[0106] Figure 8D A schematic diagram of the esophagus 64 is depicted, in which the expandable member 18 is partially reconstrained within the receiving portion 30 of the outer tube 16, at which location the expandable member 18 has a third volume smaller than the second volume, the purpose of which is to readjust the size of the expandable member 18 due to changes in the size of the oral cavity 70 over time (e.g., changes in size since the expandable member 18 was initially placed in the oral cavity 70). Figure 8D As shown, due to the healing of the wound cavity 70, the length of the wound cavity 70 has increased from the first transverse length L1 (e.g., as...). Figure 8B(As shown) Reduced to a second lateral length L2 extending from the wall of the esophagus 64. During reconstraint of the expandable component 18, a vacuum or negative pressure from the vacuum source 12 may continue to be applied. In some cases, three to five days or other suitable time intervals may pass between the initial placement of the expandable component 18 and the dimensional adjustment of the expandable component 18 to accommodate changes in the size of the wound cavity 70.

[0107] When the expandable member 18 is reconstrained, it can retract from its central portion into the outer tube 16, such that a radially inward force (e.g., in the direction of arrow I) pulls the first surface 19 away from the inner wall 72 of the wound cavity 70 as the expandable member everts. In some cases, the distal end 24 of the outer tube 16 may engage the second surface 21. Figure 8D (Not shown in the image) to facilitate the eversion of the expandable member 18 and generate a radially inward force. The radially inward force helps to overcome the shear force between the first surface 19 and the inner wall 72 of the wound cavity 70, which is caused by tissue ingrowth and / or other contact between the expandable member 18 and the wound cavity 70.

[0108] Figure 8E A schematic diagram of the esophagus 64 is depicted, in which the expandable component 18 is in an extended state, but relative to... Figure 8C The expandable component that unfolds has reduced dimensions (e.g., diameter, volume, etc.) (e.g., expandable component 18 may have a fourth volume, wherein the fourth volume may be smaller than...). Figure 4C The second volume depicted is equal to or greater than the volume of the oral cavity 70 when the expandable component 18 is re-expanded. To reduce the size of the expanded expandable component 18, a portion of the second part 46 of the expandable component 18 may be retained in or retracted into the receiving portion 30 of the outer tube 16. When the expandable component 18 is re-expanded, a vacuum or negative pressure from the vacuum source 12 may continue to be applied to the expandable component 18.

[0109] Although not essential, the size of the oral cavity adjusts over time. Figure 8C The same expandable component 18 can be used to treat the injured oral cavity 70. Because the expandable component 18 has an adjustable size, it is not necessary to remove the device 14 from the patient when different sizes of expandable components 18 are needed to treat the injured oral cavity 70.

[0110] Figure 9A schematic diagram depicts the insertion of the outer tube 16 of the device 14 through the nasal cavity 62 of a patient 60, wherein the outer tube 16 may have a detachable receiving portion 30. The outer tube 16 may have a detachable receiving portion 30 to facilitate the use of an expandable member 18, which, in a first configuration (e.g., delivery configuration), has a larger diameter than is comfortably accommodated through the patient's nasal cavity 62. The larger diameter expandable member 18 can be used for larger diameter wounds and / or other suitable purposes.

[0111] When the outer tube 16 has a replaceable receiving portion 30, the traction member 20 and the expandable member 18 can be adjustably added to and / or removed from the core portion 32 of the outer tube after the core portion 32 has passed through the nasal cavity 62 of the patient 60. In operation, the core portion 32 of the outer tube 16 can be inserted through the nasal cavity 62 and exit through the oral cavity opening 66. Once the core portion 32 extends out of the oral cavity opening 66, it is coupled to the expandable member 18 (…). Figure 9 The tension member 20 (not shown in the figure) can pass through the core portion 32, and the receiving portion 30 can be connected to the core portion 32.

[0112] The receiving portion 30 can be connected to the core portion 32 of the outer tube 16 in any suitable manner. In some examples, the receiving portion 30 can be connected to the core portion 32 by snap-fit ​​connection, ball-end positioning connection, threaded connection, Luer lock connection and / or other suitable connection methods.

[0113] Once the core portion 32 is engaged with the receiving portion 30 and the expandable component 18 is in the first configuration, the outer tube 16 can be partially withdrawn from the patient 60, such that the receiving portion 30 of the outer tube 16 is withdrawn into the oral cavity opening 66 of the patient 60 and aligned with the esophagus 64. Once aligned with the esophagus 64, the outer tube 16 can be further inserted through the nasal cavity until the receiving portion 30 and / or the distal end of the outer tube 16 is adjacent to the target site. Once positioned at the target site, the expandable component 18 can be deployed and / or re-restrained (e.g., by adjusting the internal member 34 passing through the core portion 32 and the receiving portion 30 of the outer tube 16, adjusting the traction member 20 and / or one or more other suitable components of the adjustment device 14).

[0114] It should be understood that this disclosure is merely illustrative in many respects. Changes in detail may be made, particularly in terms of shape, size, and arrangement of steps, without departing from the scope of this disclosure. This may include, where appropriate, applying any feature of one exemplary embodiment to other embodiments. The scope of this disclosure is, of course, defined by the language expressed in the appended claims.

Claims

1. An apparatus for treating wounds in an intracavitary space of a patient, the apparatus comprising: A slender tube that defines the proximal end, distal end, and lumen; An expandable component is adjustablely positioned at the distal end of the elongated tube between a delivery position within the elongated tube and a fully extended position, at least partially outside the elongated tube, wherein the expandable component is absorbent. as well as A tension member, which is connected to the expandable member and extends proximally through the cavity to the outside of the elongated tube.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The expandable component is adjustable to a partially deployed position, the partially deployed position having a desired volume between a first volume when the expandable component is in the delivery position and a second volume when the expandable component is in the fully deployed position.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The elongated tube is an elongated outer tube, and the device further includes: An elongated internal member configured to extend into the inner cavity of the elongated outer tube and having a proximal end located outside the elongated outer tube.

4. The apparatus according to claim 3, wherein, The elongated internal member is configured to engage the proximal portion of the expandable component to adjust the volume of the expandable component as it extends from the distal end of the elongated outer tube.

5. The apparatus according to claim 3 or 4, wherein, The elongated internal member is an elongated inner tube defining an inner cavity, and the pulling member extends through the inner cavity of the elongated inner tube to a position outside the elongated inner tube.

6. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1-5, wherein, When the expandable component is in the fully extended position, the distal end of the traction member is connected to the expandable component at a position on the distal side of the distal end of the elongated tube.

7. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1-6, wherein, The expandable component is configured to fold outwards when it transitions between the delivery position and the fully extended position.

8. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1-7, wherein, The expandable component includes a rod and a cap, and when the expandable component is in the fully extended position, the elongated tube is configured to extend between the rod and the cap of the expandable component.

9. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1-8, further comprising: A lubricating layer is located on the outer surface of the expandable member, the lubricating layer being configured to contact the distal end of the elongated tube when the expandable member is adjusted between the delivery position and the fully extended position.

10. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1-9, further comprising: One or more cavities located within the expandable component.

11. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1-10, wherein, The expandable component is a sponge.

12. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1-11, wherein, The expandable component is configured to wring dry when it is positioned inside the elongated tube.

13. A system for treating wounds, the system comprising: Vacuum source; A long, slender tube that defines its internal cavity; as well as An expandable component, configured to have a first volume associated with a delivery configuration and a second volume associated with a fully deployed configuration, wherein the expandable component is absorbent, and The expandable component is configured to change its volume as it transitions between the conveying mode and the fully expanded mode. When the expandable component is in the conveying mode, the fully expanded mode, and the transition mode between the conveying mode and the fully expanded mode, the vacuum source is in fluid communication with the inner cavity and the expandable component.

14. The system of claim 13, further comprising: A tension member, which is connected to the expandable member and extends proximally from the expandable member through the cavity to the outside of the elongated tube.

15. The system according to claim 13 or 14, wherein, The elongated tube is an elongated outer tube, and the system further includes: An elongated internal member configured to extend into the inner cavity of the elongated outer tube and engage a proximal portion of the expandable member to adjust the expandable member from the delivery configuration to at least a partially deployed configuration.

Images