Systems and methods for minimizing leakage during pump insertion

Abstract

To provide a system and method for preventing leakage across a hemostasis valve during insertion of an intracardiac pumping device.SOLUTION: An intracardiac device placement system described herein includes an intracardiac device with a pump having a pump housing, a cannula, and a rotor. The intracardiac device placement system includes: an elongate catheter extending proximally of a pump housing; a sleeve configured to be removably disposed over a portion of the pump, the sleeve covering at least one of a distal opening and a proximal opening; and an introducer including a tubular section having a hemostatic valve, the introducer configured to introduce the pump and sleeve into the patient's vasculature while preventing the sleeve from passing completely through a proximal hemostatic valve.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 747,405, filed October 18, 2018, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. [Background technology]

[0002] background An intracardiac heart pump assembly can be introduced surgically or percutaneously into the heart and is used to deliver blood from one location in the heart or circulatory system to another location in the heart or circulatory system. For example, when placed in the heart, an intracardiac pump can pump blood from the left ventricle of the heart into the aorta or from the right ventricle to the pulmonary artery. An intracardiac pump is driven by a motor located outside the patient's body or a motor located inside the patient's body. Some intracardiac blood pump systems can operate in parallel with the native heart to supplement cardiac output and partially or fully offload the heart's components. Examples of such systems include the IMPELLA® line of devices (Abiomed, Inc., Danvers, Massachusetts).

[0003] The intracardiac device placement system includes a hemostatic valve and an introducer for introduction of the intracardiac device. The intracardiac device includes a pump, a cannula, and an elongated catheter coupled at its distal end to the pump. The intracardiac device is inserted into the patient's vasculature through the hemostatic valve and the introducer. Due to blood pressure in the vasculature at the introducer site, when the intracardiac device is positioned across the hemostatic valve, its hollow cannula allows leakage of blood in a distal to proximal direction, and bodily fluids enter the intracardiac device, pass through the cannula, and exit the intracardiac device through an opening on the opposite side of the hemostatic valve. Such leakage can be inconvenient for the physician to place the device and / or dangerous to the patient. For example, leakage of pressurized fluid may cause splashing of the physician and / or a decrease in the patient's blood pressure. Summary of the Invention

[0004] overview Described herein are systems, methods and devices for preventing leakage across a hemostatic valve during insertion of an intracardiac pumping device. The intracardiac device placement system disclosed herein can prevent liquid leakage through the intracardiac device, for example, through a cannula or a distal protrusion from the cannula. One element of such an intracardiac device placement system described herein is a sleeve advantageously placed over a portion of the intracardiac device to seal at least one of the openings distal or proximal to the hemostatic valve, for example, to seal the inlet and outlet areas of the cannula. Advantageously, the sleeve seals off leak paths that exist during insertion of the intracardiac device.

[0005] In some embodiments, the intracardiac device includes a pump, a cannula, a catheter proximal to the pump, and a distal protrusion that stabilizes the pump in an intracardiac or other vascular location. A placement system for the device includes a sleeve that covers a portion of the cannula or pump, and an introducer. For example, the blood pump system may be an Impella® device from Abiomed, Inc., or any other intravascular blood pump. In some embodiments, a controller is configured to facilitate operation of the blood pump system described herein. For example, the controller may be an Automated Impella Controller (AIC)® from Abiomed, Inc., or any other suitable controller that receives input signals and converts them to operating signals to operate the pump. At least one advantage of a separate controller configured to facilitate operation of an intracardiac blood pump system is the ability to tightly control the system and obtain data related to the system.

[0006] In some embodiments, the pump comprises a housing and a rotor disposed within the housing. The rotor may have at least one blade. In particular, the rotor may include an impeller blade shaped to generate a fluid flow when subjected to a rotational force. In some embodiments, the rotor is driven by an implantable motor having a rotor and a stator. A proximal end of the rotor may be coupled to a drive shaft. In some embodiments, the motor is external to the patient and drives the rotor by an elongated mechanical power transmission element, such as a flexible drive shaft, a drive cable, or a fluid coupling.

[0007] In some embodiments, the catheter is an elongated, multi-lumen catheter having a proximal end, a distal end, and a central lumen. The distal end of the elongated, multi-lumen catheter may be adjacent to the pump housing. For example, when using the blood pump system, the pump housing is placed inside the patient's heart, and the elongated, multi-lumen catheter extends from the patient's heart through the patient's vasculature such that a first portion of the catheter is inside the patient's body and a second portion of the catheter is outside the patient's body. The catheter may include two, three, four, five, or any suitable number of lumens. For example, two separate tubes may pass through the central lumen of the catheter, thus defining a total of three lumens: a first central lumen, a lumen through the first tube, and a lumen through the second tube. Some lumens may extend the entire length of the catheter, while other lumens may extend only partially through the catheter.

[0008] In some embodiments, the catheter is a catheter coupled at its distal end to a motor. In some embodiments, the catheter is a catheter coupled at its distal end to a pump housing. In some embodiments, the catheter is coupled at its distal end to a pump housing, and the pump further comprises a drive cable extending through the catheter.

[0009] In some embodiments, the sleeve is configured to be removably positioned over a portion of the pump or cannula, covering at least one of the distal and proximal openings of the pump or cannula. In some embodiments, the cannula is covered by the sleeve and inserted with the distal portion of the sleeve through the hemostatic valve and through the introducer into the patient's vasculature. In some embodiments, the proximal opening may be the pump proximal opening and the distal opening may be the pump inlet opening, such that during operation of the device, blood flows into the device through the distal opening and out of the device through the proximal opening. The flexible tip is positioned distal to a distal end of the inflow cage that defines the distal opening. The sleeve may cover the distal opening, the proximal opening, or both. The distal opening may be positioned between the flexible tip and the distal end of the cannula, and the sleeve may cover such opening.

[0010] In some embodiments, the sleeve is configured to prevent leakage across the hemostatic valve. In some embodiments, the inner diameter of the proximal end of the sleeve substantially matches the outer diameter of the elongated catheter such that the sleeve is fluid-tight at its proximal end when placed on the pump. The sleeve may form a lumen having a cross-sectional diameter. The cross-sectional diameter may taper from the distal end to the proximal end. For example, the cross-sectional diameter may taper linearly from the distal end to the proximal end. As another example, the cross-sectional diameter may begin to taper from the middle of the sleeve to the proximal end. At least one advantage of tapering the sleeve is that the sleeve may be tapered to fit snugly around the elongated catheter to prevent fluid from leaking out of the sleeve.

[0011] In some embodiments, the sleeve is configured to prevent fluid from exiting from one of the distal opening or the proximal opening. In some embodiments, the sleeve covers the distal opening such that when the pump is positioned across the hemostatic valve and the flexible atraumatic projection is positioned distal to the hemostatic valve but the distal opening is positioned proximal to the hemostatic valve, the sleeve prevents fluid from exiting from the patient's vasculature through the lumen of the flexible atraumatic projection and out the proximal opening. For example, the sleeve may cover the proximal opening or the distal opening, or both, to prevent fluid from flowing in a distal to proximal direction. In some embodiments, the sleeve covers the proximal opening such that when the pump is positioned across the hemostatic valve and the distal opening is positioned distal to the hemostatic valve but the proximal opening is positioned proximal to the hemostatic valve, the sleeve prevents fluid from exiting from the patient's vasculature through the distal opening and out the proximal opening. For example, the sleeve may cover the proximal opening to prevent fluid from flowing in a distal to proximal direction. At least one advantage of preventing fluid exit from one of the distal or proximal openings located proximal to the hemostasis valve (i.e., in a distal to proximal direction) during insertion of the intracardiac device is that it prevents bodily fluids, such as blood, from spurting toward the medical professional performing the insertion.

[0012] The sleeve may be made of any suitable material, including thermoplastic. In some embodiments, a portion of the sleeve is stiffer than the elongate catheter. In some embodiments, a portion of the sleeve is stiffer than the cannula. At least one advantage of having a portion of the sleeve stiffer than the cannula is that the increased stiffness of the cannula-sleeve combination makes it easier to insert the intracardiac device into the patient's vasculature. For example, during axial insertion where the insertion angle is greater, a stiffer sleeve and cannula assembly may be easier to insert without buckling or kinking.

[0013] In some embodiments, the sleeve may include a lip. The sleeve may include a lip at a proximal end of the sleeve. In some embodiments, the sleeve includes a lip extending from an inner surface of the proximal end of the sleeve, the lip defining an inner diameter that approximates an outer diameter of the elongated catheter. For example, the inner diameter of the lip may be sized to form a snug fit with the elongated catheter. In some embodiments, the sleeve includes a lip extending from an outer surface of the sleeve, the lip being sized and shaped to abut the hemostasis valve. When the intracardiac device is inserted into the vasculature of the patient, the sleeve may slide in a proximal to distal direction with the movement of the insertion of the intracardiac device. At a certain point in the sliding motion, the lip of the sleeve contacts the proximal side of the hemostasis valve. The lip prevents the proximal end of the sleeve from advancing through the hemostasis valve. In some embodiments, the lip may be in continuity with the sleeve. The lip may be made of the same material as the sleeve. The lip may be made from a material that is rigid enough to prevent deformation of the lip (i.e., ensure that the lip does not bend, break, or cause any other deformation that would allow the sleeve to be fully inserted into the introducer). At least one advantage of the lip is that it ensures that the sleeve is never fully inserted into the introducer (i.e., is therefore removable).

[0014] In some embodiments, the intracardiac device placement system may include a handle. For example, the handle may be made from the same material as the sleeve. In some embodiments, the intracardiac device placement system comprises an ergonomic handle positioned over a portion of the sleeve. In some embodiments, the handle is integrally molded with the sleeve. At least one advantage of configuring the intracardiac device to include a handle is that it increases the stiffness of the placement system, including the sleeve and cannula, thereby allowing the intracardiac device to be more easily placed within the patient's vasculature.

[0015] In some embodiments, the handle is formed of at least two pieces and is removable from the sleeve. For example, the two pieces of the handle may be configured to clamp the sleeve (e.g., like a clamshell). For example, the two pieces may be configured to snap together around the sleeve. In some embodiments, the at least two pieces of the handle are held in place around the sleeve by a removable pin. For example, removing the pin allows the two separate components to be separated and removed from the sleeve. In some embodiments, the at least two pieces of the handle are held in place around the sleeve by a retaining ring that threads onto at least one of the at least two pieces of the handle. In some embodiments, the handle may be configured as two separate pieces that are connected around the sleeve 800 that split when slid in a proximal to distal direction toward the proximal side of the hemostasis valve 120. At least one advantage of a handle having two pieces is that the handle can be split to either side of the sleeve to remove the handle from the sleeve, thereby allowing for more flexibility during the insertion procedure.

[0016] In some embodiments, the intracardiac device placement system may include a locking mechanism configured to prevent the sleeve from freely sliding over the pump or a portion of the pump. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism comprises a ring configured to rotate from a first unlocked position to a second locked position, the ring constricting the sleeve, the elongate catheter, or both when in the second locked position. In some embodiments, a handle positioned over a portion of the sleeve comprises the locking mechanism.

[0017] In some embodiments, the locking mechanism includes a plurality of tabs, each of which includes a living hinge and a protrusion configured to at least partially fit within the distal opening, the proximal opening, or both, such that the plurality of tabs snap into a locked position at the distal opening, the proximal opening, or both. The tabs are configured inside the proximal end of the sleeve to form a locking mechanism to prevent the proximal end of the sleeve from passing through the hemostasis valve. The tabs may be made of a material that is sufficiently hard to prevent deformation of the tabs (i.e., to ensure that the tabs do not bend, fold, break, or cause any other deformation that would allow the sleeve to be fully inserted into the introducer). In some embodiments, the tabs are configured to be released from the locked position by applying a radially inward force to the distal portion of the sleeve. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of tabs is sized and shaped to cover one of the distal openings in the locked position, and each opening of the distal opening is covered by one of the plurality of tabs. In some embodiments, each tab of the plurality of tabs is sized and shaped to cover one of the proximal openings in the secured position, and each opening of the proximal opening is covered by one tab of the plurality of tabs. At least one advantage of including an inner tab for securing within the distal opening, the proximal opening, or both the distal and proximal openings is that the secured position provides a stable seal so that fluid does not leak between the opening and the tab when relatively high fluid pressures and forces are applied during insertion.

[0018] In some embodiments, the introducer comprises a tubular section having a hemostasis valve and is configured to introduce the pump and sleeve into the patient's vasculature while preventing the sleeve from passing completely through the proximal hemostasis valve. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0019] [Figure 1]1 illustrates a placement system including an introducer configured to introduce an intracardiac device into a patient's vasculature, according to some embodiments. [Diagram 2] 1 illustrates a placement system including an introducer configured to introduce an intracardiac device into a patient's vasculature, according to some embodiments. [Diagram 3] 1 illustrates a placement system including a sleeve having a tapered inner diameter configured to fit snugly around an elongated catheter, according to certain embodiments. [Figure 4] 1 illustrates a mounting system including a sleeve having a lip extending radially outward from an outer surface of the sleeve, according to certain embodiments. [Diagram 5] 1 illustrates a mounting system including a sleeve having an inner lip, according to certain embodiments. [Figure 6] 1 illustrates a mounting system including a sleeve having a securing feature extending radially outward from an outer surface of the sleeve, according to some embodiments. [Figure 7] 1 illustrates a mounting system including a sleeve having a locking mechanism and a handle extending radially outward from an outer surface of the sleeve, according to some embodiments. [Figure 8] 1 illustrates a mounting system including a sleeve having a locking mechanism and a handle extending radially outward from an outer surface of the sleeve, according to some embodiments. [Figure 9] 1 illustrates a mounting system including a sleeve having internal tabs extending radially inward from an inner surface of the sleeve, according to certain embodiments. [Figure 10] 1 illustrates a flow diagram for preventing leakage across a hemostasis valve, according to certain embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0020] Detailed Description In order to provide a general understanding of the systems, methods and devices described herein, certain exemplary embodiments are described. Although the embodiments and features described herein are specifically described for use in connection with a blood pump system, it will be understood that all components and other features outlined below may be combined with each other in any suitable manner and may be adapted and applied to other types of cardiac therapy and cardiac assist devices, including cardiac assist devices implanted using a surgical incision. In addition, although the application of the pump elements is described herein with respect to blood pumps, it should be understood that the pump elements may be applied to other pumps in which any type of fluid flow delivered distally may flow proximally and damage electronic components. Although the embodiments and features described herein are specifically described for use in connection with an intracardiac blood pump system, it will be understood that the blood pump system according to the embodiments and features described herein may be used in any vasculature and / or in combination with other systems. For example, the sleeve systems and placements described below may be used in urinary or bladder catheter placement systems, right heart cardiac assist systems, intra-aortic balloon pumps, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation devices, left ventricular assist devices, renal assist systems such as cardiac assist devices for regulating renal autoregulation, infusion systems, central venous catheters, or any other suitable system.

[0021] FIGURE 1 illustrates a placement system with an introducer 118 configured to introduce an intracardiac device 122 into a patient's vasculature, according to some embodiments. The placement system includes a sleeve 100, an introducer 118, and a hemostatic valve 120. FIGURE 1 illustrates an exemplary positioning of the introducer 118 with the intracardiac device 122 inserted into the introducer 118, with a distal end of the intracardiac device 122 already within the introducer 118, while a proximal end of the intracardiac device 122 has not yet entered the introducer. The introducer 118 is positioned such that a distal end of the introducer 118 is within the patient's vasculature, while a proximal end of the introducer 118 is outside the patient's body. Once the introducer 118 is positioned within the patient's vasculature, an intracardiac device may be inserted into and through the proximal end of the introducer 118 so that the device enters the patient's vasculature.

[0022] The intracardiac device includes a pump 107 and a cannula 106. The pump 107 includes a pump housing 109, a rotor (not shown), a proximal opening 110, and a distal opening 112 that is positioned proximal to the pump housing 109. The pump is configured to be actuated by a motor in a motor housing 111. An elongate catheter 114 is coupled at its distal end to the motor housing 111. The elongate catheter 114 defines a central lumen therein. In some embodiments, the elongate catheter 114 may be coupled to the pump housing 109. A proximal end of the cannula 106 connects to a distal end of the pump housing 109. A distal end of the cannula 106 connects to a pump inflow cage that defines the distal opening 112. The cannula 106 defines a lumen therein. In some embodiments, the proximal opening 110 may be a pump proximal opening and the distal opening 112 may be a pump distal opening such that blood flows into the device through the distal opening 112 and out of the device through the proximal opening 110 during operation of the device. The flexible tip 116 is positioned distal to the distal end of the inflow cage that defines the distal opening 112. The intracardiac device defines at least one lumen therethrough, i.e., the central lumen of the elongate catheter 114 may be in fluid communication with the interior lumen of the cannula 106 (e.g., via a purge system such as that described below) during operation of the device.

[0023] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 1, the motor may be "built-in" and located inside the patient's body during operation of the pump, and may be configured with electrical leads that transmit power to the motor to drive the pump. Alternatively, the motor may be located outside the patient's body and actuate the rotor via a drive shaft, drive cable, or power transmission. For example, the motor may be located in the handle of the intracardiac device. In some instances, the drive cable may extend through the elongated catheter body 114 to the rotor located near the proximal end of the cannula 106. In some embodiments, the drive shaft, drive cable, or power transmission operates in combination with a purge fluid delivery system.

[0024] The introducer 118 includes a hemostatic valve 120. The hemostatic valve 120 is part of the introducer 118 and is designed to have a medical device inserted therein and to be removable in-line from the inserted medical device. The intracardiac device is positioned across the hemostatic valve 120 such that the distal opening 112 is distal to the hemostatic valve 120 and the proximal opening 110 is proximal to the hemostatic valve 120. This configuration may occur, for example, when passing a device through the hemostatic valve 120 during insertion of the intracardiac device into the patient's vasculature.

[0025] In some embodiments, a purge fluid may flow through the pump to prevent blood cells from entering the pump. Alternatively or additionally, the purge fluid may function as a lubricant for the pump's bearings (not shown) or as a coolant to dissipate heat generated by the electromagnetic motor coils of the motor stator. The purge fluid may be a lubricant, a coolant, a drug, or any suitable blood compatible fluid. For example, the purge fluid may be saline, Ringer's solution, glucose solution, heparin, or any other suitable fluid. The purge fluid prevents blood from entering the motor housing 111 during operation of the pump 107. The purge fluid may also prevent blood from entering the elongated catheter body 114. In some embodiments, a highly viscous purge fluid, such as a glucose solution, is used to lubricate the bearings inside the pump 107. In other embodiments, a purge fluid with high viscosity, such as a glucose solution, is used to lubricate the bearings inside the pump 107. In other embodiments, a pharmacological agent is used as a purge fluid to purge blood from the pump and to serve a medical purpose. For example, the purge fluid may include heparin to prevent blood clotting. The purge fluid flows through the lumen of the elongated catheter body 114 and exits the pump 107 at the proximal opening 110. The purge fluid disperses safely into the patient's bloodstream.

[0026] In some embodiments, during insertion of an intracardiac device into a patient's vasculature, a flow path exists that allows fluid to flow in a distal to proximal direction as the device passes through hemostasis valve 120. This is particularly true for assisted insertion of an intracardiac device, where blood pressure is higher than during, for example, femoral insertion.

[0027] For example, there are two notable leak paths during insertion. These leak paths are created when the device is inserted in a proximal to distal direction through the introducer 118. The first leak path occurs when the flexible tip 116 is positioned distal to the hemostatic valve 120 during insertion and both the proximal opening 110 and the distal opening 112 are proximal to the hemostatic valve 120. A lumen through the flexible tip 116 to the distal opening 112 may create a path for fluid to leak through the hemostatic valve 120. The second leak path occurs when the distal opening 112 is distal to the hemostatic valve 120 but the proximal opening 110 is proximal to the hemostatic valve 120 during insertion. Bodily fluids such as blood may pass through the distal opening 112, through the cannula 106, and out the proximal opening 110. The first passage is shown / discussed in relation to FIG. 1, and the second passage is shown / discussed in relation to FIG.

[0028] 1 shows the intracardiac device when, during insertion, the distal opening is distal and the proximal opening is proximal to the hemostasis valve, thereby forming a first type of leak path. This configuration may occur, for example, when passing the intracardiac device through the hemostasis valve 120 during insertion of the device into the patient's vasculature. The sleeve 100 covers the proximal opening 110. The sleeve 100 covers the proximal opening 110 such that fluid cannot flow through the distal opening 112, through the cannula 106, to the proximal opening 110 and leak out of the intracardiac device through the proximal opening 110.

[0029] In some configurations, for example, the flexible tip 116 is distal to the hemostatic valve 120 such that the flexible tip 116 may be in fluid communication with the patient's vasculature. The distal opening 112 may be proximal to the hemostatic valve 120 such that the distal opening 112 is on the opposite side of the hemostatic valve 120 relative to the flexible tip 116. The diameter of the flexible tip 116 is smaller than the diameter of the distal opening 112, thereby creating an opening between the intracardiac device and the hemostatic valve 120 such that at this connection a path may be opened for fluid (e.g., purging fluid, blood, bodily fluids) to flow proximally out of the hemostatic valve 120. The sleeve 100 covers the proximal and distal openings 110, 112 such that fluid cannot flow through the opening created by the change in diameter between the flexible tip 116 and the distal opening 110. As shown in FIGS. 1-2 , the intracardiac device cannot enter completely into the introducer 118 (i.e., a portion of the intracardiac device (e.g., the proximal end of the elongate catheter 114) is always proximal to the hemostatic valve 120 and introducer 118). At least one advantage of configuring the intracardiac device to include a sleeve 100 is that it prevents fluid from leaking out of the hemostatic valve 120 through the introducer 118. At least one other advantage is that it increases the stiffness of the placement system (particularly the stiffness of the cannula 106), thereby allowing the intracardiac device to be more easily placed into the patient's vasculature.

[0030] In various embodiments described below, the sleeve 100 is effectively prevented from passing through the hemostasis valve 120. In some configurations, for example, the sleeve 100 may have an outer lip (shown in FIG. 4 and described below) or a locking mechanism (shown in FIG. 6 and described below) that prevents the sleeve 100 from passing through the hemostasis valve 120. Various embodiments of sleeves and placement systems are further described below in connection with FIGS. 2-9.

[0031] FIG. 2 illustrates an intracardiac device during insertion with the flexible tip distal and the distal opening proximal to the hemostatic valve, thereby forming a first type of leak path, according to some embodiments. The sleeve 100 covers the proximal opening 110. The sleeve 100 covers the proximal opening 110 such that fluid cannot flow through the distal opening 112, via the cannula 106, to the proximal opening 110 and leak out of the intracardiac device through the proximal opening 110. This configuration may occur, for example, during insertion of the intracardiac device into the vasculature of a patient to prevent a person inserting the intracardiac device from being splashed with fluid during insertion. The proximal end of the sleeve 100 is tapered to fit snugly around the catheter 114. For example, the tapered proximal end of the sleeve 100 may include an O-ring to form a fluid-tight bond between the proximal end of the sleeve 100 and the catheter 114. This configuration can ensure, for example, that liquid does not exit the juncture of the proximal end of catheter 110 and the proximal end of sleeve 100. In some embodiments, sleeve 100 can be slidably disposed over the intracardiac device. Sleeve 100 can be made from a thermoplastic or any other suitable material.

[0032] FIG. 3 illustrates a sleeve 300 having a tapered inner diameter configured to fit snugly around an elongated catheter 314, according to certain embodiments. The placement system includes a sleeve 300 having an outer diameter 301 and an inner diameter 303, an elongated catheter 314, and a proximal opening 110. The sleeve 300 has a lumen having a cross-section. In some embodiments, the cross-section of the lumen may taper from a wider distal end to a narrower proximal end. To prevent fluid from leaking out of the connection point between the proximal end of the sleeve 300 and the elongated catheter 314, the lumen may taper such that the narrower proximal end fits snugly around the elongated catheter 314. As illustrated in FIG. 3, in some embodiments, the outer diameter 301 of the sleeve 300 may be constant. In some embodiments, the outer diameter 301 of the sleeve 300 may taper in the same direction or in the opposite direction as the inner diameter 303 of the sleeve 300. For example, in some configurations, the outer diameter 301 of the sleeve 300 may taper at the same angle that the inner diameter 303 of the sleeve 300 tapers, thereby allowing the sleeve 300 to have a constant width throughout.

[0033] In some embodiments, the taper 305 extends the entire length of the sleeve. For example, the inner diameter 303 of the sleeve 300 may taper linearly from a wider distal end to a narrower proximal end. The inner diameter 303 of the sleeve 300 may be larger than the diameter of the distal opening 110 such that the distal opening may slide distally through the sleeve 300 without friction (e.g., friction caused by contact between the distal end of the sleeve 300 and the distal opening 110).

[0034] In some embodiments, only a portion of the inner diameter 303 is tapered. For example, in some configurations, the inner diameter 303 may begin to taper from the midpoint of the sleeve. As another example, in some configurations, the inner diameter 303 may begin to taper from a location where an entire intracardiac device may fit inside the sleeve proximal to the hemostasis valve 120.

[0035] 4 illustrates a sleeve 400 having a lip 402 extending radially outward from an outer surface of the sleeve 400 having an outer diameter 401 and an inner diameter 403, according to certain embodiments. The lip 402 is configured on a proximal end of the sleeve 400 to prevent the proximal end of the sleeve 400 from passing through the hemostasis valve 120. The lip 402 may be made from the same material as the sleeve 400. The lip 402 may be made from a material that is rigid enough to prevent deformation of the lip 402 (i.e., ensuring that the lip 402 does not bend, break, or cause any other deformation that would allow the sleeve 400 to be fully inserted into the introducer 118). The outer diameter of the lip 402 may be any length that allows the lip 402 to prevent the sleeve 400 from being fully inserted into the introducer 118.

[0036] 3, the inner diameter 403 of the sleeve 400 is tapered to fit snugly around the elongated catheter 414. The inner diameter of the sleeve 400 may be tapered in the manner described above with respect to FIG.

[0037] FIG. 5 illustrates a sleeve 500 having an inner lip 502, according to certain embodiments. FIG. 5 illustrates an alternative embodiment to FIGS. 3-4, where instead of having a sleeve with a tapered inner diameter, the sleeve 500 is configured to have two different diameters. The sleeve 500 may have a wider diameter across a distal portion of the sleeve 500 and a narrower diameter across a proximal portion of the sleeve 500. The narrower diameter may be approximately equal to the outer diameter of the elongated catheter 514, thereby providing a snug fit between the sleeve 500 and the elongated catheter 514. In some configurations, the embodiment of FIG. 5 may be combined with the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4.

[0038] 5, in some embodiments, the distal outer and inner diameters of sleeve 500 may be constant and may be wider than the proximal outer and inner diameters of sleeve 500. In some configurations, for example, the transition point from the wider distal diameter to the narrower proximal diameter of sleeve 500 may be at a location on sleeve 500 that allows the entire intracardiac device to fit within the portion of the sleeve having the wider diameter.

[0039] FIG. 6 illustrates a placement system including a sleeve 600 having a handle 602 extending radially outward from an outer surface of the sleeve 600, with an opening through the fixation mechanism 602 (e.g., a Tuohy Borst fixation mechanism) configured for an elongated catheter 614 to slide through. The placement system includes a sleeve 600, a fixation mechanism 602, a cannula 606, and an elongated catheter 614. The fixation mechanism 602 is configured to fit snugly around the elongated catheter 614 to minimize leakage of fluid from the hemostasis valve 120 through the introducer 118. In some configurations, for example, the fixation mechanism 602 may be configured to fit snugly around the elongated catheter 614 by rotating the fixation mechanism 602 (e.g., rotating clockwise) such that the fixation mechanism 602 clamps the sleeve 600 or elongated catheter 614 and prevents the sleeve 600 from sliding freely over the intracardiac device.

[0040] In some configurations, for example, the fixation mechanism 602 may be removable from the sleeve 600. The fixation mechanism 602 may be removed from the sleeve 600 by rotating (e.g., unscrewing) the fixation mechanism 602 until it separates from the sleeve 600. In some configurations, for example, the fixation mechanism 602 may separate into two pieces by a sliding action, as further described in FIG. 8. In some embodiments, the fixation mechanism 602 may further include a handle that extends distally on the sleeve 600, as described in FIGS. 7-8. At least some advantages of configuring the fixation mechanism 602 to fit snugly around the elongated catheter 614 include minimizing fluid flow from the distal opening 112 to the proximal opening 110 through the hemostatic valve 120 to prevent leakage.

[0041] FIG. 7 illustrates a placement system including a sleeve 700 having a fixation mechanism 702 extending radially outward from an outer surface of the sleeve 700 and a handle 704, with an opening through the fixation mechanism 702 (e.g., a Tuohy-Borst fixation mechanism) configured for an elongated catheter 714 to slide through. The placement system includes a sleeve 700, a fixation mechanism 702, a handle 704, a cannula 706, and an elongated catheter 714. The handle 704 may be made from the same material as the fixation mechanism 702. In some embodiments, for example, the handle 704 may be integrally molded with the sleeve. In some embodiments, the handle 704 may be ergonomically sized (i.e., sized so that a person's hand may fit comfortably around it (e.g., the size of a pencil grip)).

[0042] In some configurations, for example, the handle 704 may be removable. For example, the handle 704 may be configured to clamp the sleeve 700 (e.g., like a clamshell). In some configurations, for example, the handle 704 may be configured to be peeled away from the sleeve 700 in a manner similar to how the introducer 118 is decoupled from the hemostasis valve 120.

[0043] In some configurations, for example, the handle 704 may be integral to the fixation mechanism 702. The handle 704 may be made from the same material as the sleeve fixation mechanism 702 so as to form a continuous structure. The handle 704 may be made from a material that is stiff enough to prevent deformation of the handle 704. At least one benefit of configuring the intracardiac device to include a handle 704 is that the stiffness of the placement system, including the sleeve 700 and the cannula 706, is increased, thereby allowing the intracardiac device to be more easily placed within the patient's vasculature.

[0044] FIG. 8 illustrates a placement system including a sleeve 800 having a locking mechanism 802 extending radially outward from an outer surface of the sleeve 800 and a handle 804, with an opening through the locking mechanism 802 (e.g., a Tuohy-Borst locking mechanism) configured for an elongated catheter 814 to slide through. The placement system includes a sleeve 800, a locking mechanism 802, a handle 804, a cannula 806, and an elongated catheter 814. The handle 804 may be configured as two separate pieces that are coupled together around the sleeve 800 to form the handle 804. In some embodiments, for example, the two separate pieces may be coupled together by being configured to snap-fit ​​together around the sleeve 800. In some embodiments, for example, the two separate pieces may be coupled together around the sleeve 800 via a ring that threads axially onto the two handle pieces (e.g., the two halves of the handle). In some embodiments, for example, the two separate pieces may be coupled together and held in place around the sleeve 800 via a removable pin that secures the two halves in place. Removing the pin allows the two separate pieces to separate and be removed from the sleeve 800. In some embodiments, the handle 804 may be configured as two separate pieces coupled around the sleeve 800 that split when moved distally in a sliding motion toward the proximal side of the hemostasis valve 120. At least one benefit of a handle having two pieces is that it can be detached from the sleeve, thereby allowing for more flexibility during the insertion procedure.

[0045] FIG. 9 illustrates a sleeve 900 having an inner tab 906 extending radially inward from an inner surface of the sleeve 900, according to certain embodiments. The inner tab 906 is configured inside the proximal end of the sleeve 900 to form a locking mechanism to prevent the proximal end of the sleeve 900 from passing through the hemostasis valve 120. The inner tab 906 may be made from a material that is rigid enough to prevent deformation of the inner tab 906 (i.e., to ensure that the inner tab 906 does not bend, fold, break, or cause any other deformation that would allow the sleeve 900 to be fully inserted into the introducer 118). The inner tab 906 may include one or more tabs. The length of the inner tab 906 may be any length that allows the inner tab 906 to prevent the sleeve 900 from being fully inserted into the introducer 118 while still allowing an intracardiac device to pass through the opening between the inner tabs 906.

[0046] In some embodiments, the inner tab 906 includes multiple tabs, where each tab includes a living hinge and a protrusion configured to fit within the proximal opening 110. In some configurations, for example, the inner tab 906 may be configured to be snapped into a fixed position at the proximal opening 110. In some configurations, for example, the inner tab 906 may be configured to be snapped into a fixed position at the distal opening 112. And in some configurations, for example, the inner tab 906 may be configured to be snapped into a fixed position at both the proximal opening 110 and the distal opening 112. The inner tab 906 may be configured to be released from the fixed position by applying a radially inward force to a distal portion of the sleeve 900.

[0047] In some embodiments, each of the inner tabs 906 may be sized and shaped to cover an opening at the distal opening 112 or the proximal opening 110 when in the secured position. In some configurations, for example, each opening at the distal opening 112 or the proximal opening 110 may be covered by one of the inner tabs 906. At least one advantage of including the inner tab 906 is that when secured in the distal opening 112, the proximal opening 110, or both the distal opening 112 and the proximal opening 110, the inner tab prevents fluid from exiting the proximal side of the hemostasis valve 120, thereby preventing fluid leakage from exiting the hemostasis valve 120. At least one further advantage of including the inner tab 906 for securing in the distal opening 112, the proximal opening 110, or both the distal opening 112 and the proximal opening 110 is that the secured position provides a very stable seal so that fluid does not leak out of the hemostasis valve when high pressures and forces are applied during insertion.

[0048] FIG. 10 illustrates a flow diagram for preventing leakage across a hemostasis valve, according to certain embodiments. Method 1000 begins with step 1002 of placing a sleeve over an elongated catheter of an intracardiac device. As described above with respect to FIGS. 1-9, the sleeve is configured to fit snugly around the intracardiac device. For example, as described above with respect to FIGS. 3-4, the sleeve may be tapered at a proximal end of the sleeve to provide a snug connection with the elongated catheter. As another example, as described above with respect to FIGS. 6-9, the sleeve may have a fixation mechanism configured to fix onto the elongated catheter at a proximal end of the catheter. Following step 1002, in step 1004, a distal end of an introducer is placed through the hemostasis valve, entering from the proximal side of the hemostasis valve and exiting through the distal side of the hemostasis valve. The introducer is positioned through the hemostasis valve to introduce the intracardiac device into the vasculature of the patient. This process is illustrated in FIGS. 1-2, as described above. At step 1006, where fluid travels from the distal opening through the cannula and the proximal opening toward the distal side of the hemostasis valve, a potential leak path exists, as described with respect to FIG. 1. For example, as discussed above with respect to FIG. 1, a potential leak path occurs when the flexible tip is positioned distal to the hemostasis valve during insertion and both the proximal and distal openings are proximal to the hemostasis valve. A lumen through the flexible tip to the distal opening may form a path for fluid to leak through the hemostasis valve. As another example, as discussed above with respect to FIG. 2, a potential leak path occurs when the distal opening is distal to the hemostasis valve and the proximal opening is proximal to the hemostasis valve during insertion. Fluid passes through the distal opening, through the cannula, and out the proximal opening, forming a path for fluid to leak through the hemostasis valve. The sleeve blocks said fluid from exiting the hemostasis valve and prevents fluid from leaking (and spurting) out of the hemostasis valve through the introducer. After the intracardiac device is inserted into the patient's vasculature, the proximal end of the introducer is detached from the hemostatic valve, in step 1008. Although the steps of method 1000 are described in a particular order, the steps may be completed in any order.

[0049] The foregoing is merely illustrative of the principles of the present disclosure, and the device may be practiced in other than the aspects of the present description, which are presented for purposes of illustration and not limitation. It should be understood that while the device disclosed herein has been shown for use in percutaneous insertion of a blood pump, it may also be applied to devices in other applications requiring hemostasis.

[0050] Variations and modifications will occur to those skilled in the art after reviewing this disclosure. The disclosed features may be implemented in any combination and subcombination (including multiple subcombinations and subcombinations) with one or more other features described herein. The various features described or illustrated above, including any components thereof, may be combined or integrated into other systems. Furthermore, certain features may be omitted or not implemented.

[0051] Examples of changes, substitutions, and alterations are ascertainable by one skilled in the art and can be made without departing from the scope of the information disclosed herein. All references cited herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety and made a part of this application.

Claims

1. below: an intracardiac device comprising a pump and a cannula, the pump having a pump housing, a rotor, and an opening located proximally of the pump housing, the cannula having a proximal end connecting to a distal end of the pump housing and a distal end having at least one distal opening, the pump configured to be actuated by a motor; an elongate catheter extending proximally of the pump housing; a sleeve configured to be removably disposed over a portion of the pump and covering at least one of the distal opening and the proximal opening; and an introducer including a tubular section having a hemostasis valve configured to introduce the pump and the sleeve into the patient's vasculature while preventing the sleeve from passing completely through a proximal hemostasis valve; An intracardiac device placement system comprising:

2. 10. The placement system of claim 1, further comprising a flexible protrusion extending distally from a distal end of the cannula, a distal opening forming a window positioned between the flexible protrusion and the distal end of the cannula, and a sleeve configured to be removably positioned over the window.

3. The placement system of claim 2 , wherein the sleeve covers the distal and proximal openings.

4. 10. The placement system of claim 9, wherein the sleeve has a proximal end and a distal end, the inner diameter of the proximal end of the sleeve approximating an outer diameter of the elongate catheter such that the sleeve is fluid-tight at its proximal end when placed on the pump.

5. 20. The delivery system of claim 19, wherein the sleeve defines a lumen having a cross-sectional diameter that tapers from the distal end to the proximal end.

6. 2. The delivery system of claim 1, wherein the elongate catheter is coupled at a distal end to a pump housing, the pump further comprising a drive cable extending through the elongate catheter.

7. 20. The delivery system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein a portion of the sleeve is stiffer than at least one of the elongate catheter or the cannula.

8. 20. The mounting system of claim 1, wherein the sleeve is configured to prevent fluid from exiting one of the inlet opening or the outlet opening.

9. 10. The placement system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein when the pump is positioned across a hemostatic valve and the flexible atraumatic projection is positioned distal to the hemostatic valve but the inlet opening is positioned proximal to the hemostatic valve, the sleeve covers the inlet opening such that the sleeve prevents fluid from flowing from the patient's vasculature through the lumen of the flexible atraumatic projection and out the outlet opening.

10. 10. The placement system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein when the pump is positioned across a hemostasis valve and the inlet opening is positioned distal to the hemostasis valve but the outlet opening is positioned proximal to the hemostasis valve, the sleeve covers the outlet opening such that the sleeve prevents fluid from flowing out of the patient's vasculature through the lumen of the flexible atraumatic projection or the inlet opening and out of the outlet opening.

11. 20. The installation system of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising an ergonomic handle positioned over a portion of the sleeve.

12. 12. The mounting system of claim 11, wherein the handle is integrally molded with the sleeve.

13. 12. The mounting system of claim 11, wherein the handle is formed from at least two pieces and is detachable from the sleeve.

14. 14. The mounting system of claim 13, wherein the at least two pieces of the handle are held in place around a sleeve by a removable pin.

15. 14. The mounting system of claim 13, wherein the at least two pieces of the handle are held in place around the sleeve by a retaining ring that threads onto at least one of the at least two pieces of the handle.

16. 20. The delivery system of claim 19, wherein the sleeve includes a lip extending from an inner surface of a proximal end of the sleeve, the lip defining an inner diameter that approximates an outer diameter of the elongate catheter.

17. 20. The deployment system of claim 19, wherein the sleeve includes a lip extending from an exterior surface of the sleeve, the lip being sized and shaped to abut the hemostasis valve.

18. 20. The mounting system of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a locking mechanism configured to prevent the sleeve from freely sliding over the pump or a portion of the pump.

19. 20. The placement system of claim 18, wherein the locking mechanism comprises a ring configured to rotate from a first unlocked position to a second locked position, the ring clamping the sleeve, the elongate catheter, or both, in the second locked position.

20. 20. The installation system of claim 18, wherein a handle positioned on a portion of the sleeve comprises a locking mechanism.

21. 20. The mounting system of claim 18, wherein the securing mechanism comprises a plurality of tabs, each tab of the plurality of tabs comprising a living hinge and a protrusion configured to fit at least partially within the entrance opening, the exit opening, or both, such that the plurality of tabs are snapped into a fixed position at the entrance opening, the exit opening, or both.

22. 22. The mounting system of claim 21, wherein the tabs are configured to be released from the secured position by application of a radially inward force to the distal portion of the sleeve.

23. 22. The mounting system of claim 21, wherein each tab of the plurality of tabs is sized and shaped to cover one of the inlet openings in the fixed position, each opening of the inlet opening being covered by one tab of the plurality of tabs.

24. 22. The mounting system of claim 21, wherein each tab of the plurality of tabs is sized and shaped to cover one of the outlet openings in the fixed position, each opening of the outlet opening being covered by one tab of the plurality of tabs.

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