Tissue traction bands and methods for tissue traction

Abstract

To provide a tissue traction device for an endoscopic procedure such as tissue dissection.SOLUTION: The present invention relates generally to the field of medical devices. Specifically, the present invention relates to a tissue traction device for an endoscopic procedure such as tissue dissection. For example, a tissue traction device includes first and second attachment members pivotably attached by first and second swivels to opposite ends of a stretchable traction band comprising a compliant or semi-compliant material.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of medical devices, and more particularly to tissue retraction devices and related methods of using tissue retraction devices for endoscopic surgery, such as tissue dissection. [Background technology]

[0002] A component of accurately and efficiently performing endoscopic tissue resection / dissection procedures is the ability to maintain retraction as the borders of the target tissue are dissected. Retraction systems associated with and / or provided by endoscopic caps tend to obscure the physician's view of the target tissue and interfere with accessory instruments extending along or through the endoscope. These issues can contribute to the length, complexity, and increased risk of perforation or bleeding during the procedure.

[0003] Accordingly, various beneficial medical results may be achieved with the tissue retraction devices and associated methods of use of the present invention. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In one aspect, the present invention relates to a tissue retraction / tissue traction device comprising a traction band containing a compliant or semi-compliant material, a first attachment member pivotally attached to a first end of the traction band by a first swivel, and a second attachment member pivotally attached to a second end of the traction band by a second swivel.

[0005] In the described and other embodiments, the compliant or semi-compliant material may include rubber, latex, elastic, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), or a combination thereof. The first and second attachment members may include a compressible material such as a polymer, plastic, shape memory metal, shape memory alloy, or a combination thereof. The first and second swivels may pivot about the longitudinal axis of the traction band. The traction band is configured to move between a first configuration having a length of approximately 2.5 to 4.5 cm and a second configuration having a maximum length of approximately 15.00 cm. A filament may be disposed along the length of the traction band. The filament may include a substantially non-compliant material configured to limit the maximum extended length of the traction band. The filament may include a substantially compliant or semi-compliant material configured to increase the contractile force of the traction band.

[0006] In another aspect, the present invention relates to a tissue retraction device system including a flexible elongate tubular member defining a working channel therethrough. A first endoscopic instrument is disposed within the working channel. The first endoscopic instrument includes a first tissue clip attached to a distal end of the instrument. A tissue retraction device is disposed within the working channel. A first attachment member of the tissue retraction device is engaged with the first tissue clip.

[0007] In the described and other embodiments, a first tissue clip is removably attached to a first attachment member of the tissue retraction device. The first tissue clip at a first end of the tissue retraction / tissue retraction device is positionable within a body lumen. A second tissue clip is positionable within the body lumen and attachable to a second end of the tissue retraction / tissue retraction device opposite the first end of the tissue retraction / tissue retraction device. A third tissue clip is positionable within the body lumen and attachable to a portion of the tissue retraction / tissue retraction device. The tissue retraction / tissue retraction device includes a retraction band containing a compliant or semi-compliant material. The first attachment member is pivotally attached to a first end of the retraction band via a first swivel. The second attachment member is pivotally attached to a second end of the retraction band via a second swivel. The first and second swivels allow the respective first and second attachment members to pivot about the longitudinal axis of the retraction band or move relative to the retraction band.

[0008] In various embodiments, one or more attachment members can be provided on the second end of the tissue retraction / tissue retraction device. A first tissue clip can be removably attached to a first attachment member provided on the first end of the tissue retraction / tissue retraction device. The first tissue clip and first attachment member can be engaged with target tissue within a body lumen. A second tissue clip can be positioned in the body lumen and attached to an attachment member provided on the second end of the tissue retraction / tissue retraction device. The second tissue clip and associated attachment member can engage a first portion of tissue to be secured opposite the target tissue. If it is desired to adjust the retraction force of the tissue retraction / tissue retraction device, a third tissue clip can be positioned within the body lumen and attached to a different attachment member provided on the second end of the tissue retraction / tissue retraction device. The third tissue clip and associated attachment member can engage a second portion of tissue to be secured opposite the target tissue and be spaced apart from the first portion of tissue to be secured. If desired, any attachment members at the second end of the tissue retraction / tissue retraction device may be cut to release the clips corresponding to the second end of the tissue retraction / tissue retraction device.

[0009] In yet another aspect, the present invention relates to a method including inserting a tissue retraction / tissue retraction device loaded onto a first tissue clip of a first endoscopic instrument into a body lumen, advancing the first endoscopic instrument through a working channel of an elongated tubular member and beyond a distal end of the elongated tubular member, and engaging target tissue in the body lumen with the first tissue clip to secure a first end of the tissue retraction / tissue retraction device to a wall of the body lumen.

[0010] In the described and alternative embodiments, the method further includes detaching a first tissue clip from the first endoscopic instrument. The method further includes withdrawing the first endoscopic instrument from the working channel of the elongated tubular member and attaching a second tissue clip to the distal end of the first endoscopic instrument. The method further includes advancing the first endoscopic instrument through the working channel of the elongated tubular member and past the distal end of the elongated tubular member and engaging a wall of the body lumen with the second tissue clip to secure the second end of the tissue retraction / tissue retraction device to the wall of the body lumen. The first and second tissue clips may be engaged on opposite sides of the body lumen. The method further includes detaching the second tissue clip from the first endoscopic instrument. The method further includes manipulating the target tissue with a medical device attached to the distal end of the second endoscopic instrument.

[0011] Non-limiting embodiments of the present invention are described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are schematic and are not intended to be drawn to scale. In the drawings, each identical or nearly identical component shown in the figures is typically represented by a single numeral. For clarity, not every component is labeled in every drawing, and not every component of each embodiment is shown unless illustration is necessary to enable those skilled in the art to understand the invention. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view showing a tissue traction device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2A] 1 is a perspective view showing a tissue traction device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2B] 1 is a perspective view showing a tissue traction device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3A] 1 is a perspective view showing a tissue retraction system according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 3B] 1 is a perspective view showing a tissue retraction system according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 4A] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a tissue resection procedure using a tissue retraction device according to one embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 4B] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a tissue resection procedure using a tissue retraction device according to one embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 5A] 1 is a perspective view of a tissue retraction device according to another embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 5B] 1 is a perspective view of a tissue retraction device according to another embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 6] 1 is a perspective view showing an embodiment of a tissue retraction device according to one aspect of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] The present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described herein. The terms used herein are intended only to describe specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope of the appended claims. Unless otherwise defined, all technical terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention belongs.

[0014] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described with particular reference to tissue retraction / tissue retraction devices, systems, and methods adapted to create traction forces within the gastrointestinal tract during tissue dissection / resection procedures, it should be understood that such systems and methods may be used to manipulate a variety of tissues within a variety of different body lumens and / or passageways.

[0015] As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. As used herein, the terms "comprise" and / or "comprising" or "include" and / or "including" specify the presence of stated features, regions, step elements and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, regions, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0016] As used herein, the term "distal" refers to the end of the device that is farthest from the medical professional when introducing the device into a patient, and the term "proximal" refers to the end of the device that is closest to the medical professional when introducing the device into a patient.

[0017] In various embodiments, the present invention generally relates to devices and systems configured to perform tissue retraction and cut visualization independent of an endoscope during an endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) procedure.

[0018] Referring to FIG. 1 , in one embodiment, the device 100 of the present invention is a tissue retraction / tissue retraction (alternatively used, or simply referred to as “retraction” for brevity and without any intention of limitation) device. The device includes a traction band 110 (e.g., an elastic band, a tether, a stretchable elongate member, etc.) formed of or including various compliant or semi-compliant materials. The traction band 110 is an elongated cylindrical tube and may be hollow or solid. By way of non-limiting example, such materials may include flexible / stretchable rubber, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), plastic, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), etc. A first attachment member 112 (e.g., a loop, hook, ring, mini-snare, etc.) is pivotally attached to a first end of the traction band 110, and a second attachment member 114 (e.g., a loop, hook, ring, mini-snare, etc.) is pivotally attached to a second end of the traction band 110. In various embodiments, the first and second attachment members 112, 114 may comprise various flexible and / or compressible materials configured to compress or collapse when placed, for example, within the working channel of an endoscopic instrument. Non-limiting examples of such flexible / compressible materials may include flexible plastic, hard rubber, shape memory metals and / or alloys, etc. In one embodiment, the first attachment member 112 is pivotally attached to a first end of the traction band 110 by a first swivel 116, and the second attachment member 114 is pivotally attached to a second end of the traction band 110 by a second swivel 118. In various embodiments, the first and second attachment members 112, 114 may swivel, pivot, or rotate about or move relative to the longitudinal axis of the traction band 110. Additionally or alternatively, the first and second mounting members 112, 114 may rotate or pivot about an axis perpendicular to the traction band 110, an axis parallel to the traction band 110, and / or any plane or orientation angle between the axis perpendicular to the traction band 110 and the longitudinal axis.As described below, the first and second swivels 116, 118 are configured to reduce or prevent torsional strain on the opposing walls of the target tissue or body lumen when the margins of the target tissue are incised. In various embodiments, the ends of the first and second swivels are attached to the respective ends of the traction band using a suitable glue, adhesive, or resin, as commonly known in the art. In some embodiments, the first and second swivels 116, 118 are secured to opposite ends of the traction band 110 by an interference fit. For example, a portion of each of the first and second swivels 116, 118 is disposed in a hollow end portion of the traction band 110. In some embodiments, the first and second swivels 116, 118 are integrally formed with the traction band 110. In another embodiment, the first and second swivels 116 , 118 are secured to opposite ends of the tow band 110 by internal connecting elements disposed within and extending along the tow band 110 .

[0019] In one embodiment, the traction band 110 is configured to move (e.g., stretch) from a first position (e.g., a relaxed, or untensioned, position) to a second position (e.g., a stretched, tensioned, position). As a non-limiting example, when the traction band 110 is in the first position, it may have a length of about 2.5 to 4.5 cm and move to a second position having a maximum length of about 15.00 cm.

[0020] 2A-2B. In one embodiment, the filament 120 (e.g., a wire, connector, band, etc.) is disposed along all or a portion of the length of the traction band 110 (e.g., along the longitudinal axis of the traction band between the first and second swivels 116, 118). In various embodiments, the filament 120 is attached to the outer surface of the traction band 110 using a suitable glue, resin, or adhesive. Additionally or alternatively, the filament is embedded within or integrally formed with the material comprising the traction band 110. In some embodiments, the filament 120 is secured to the first and / or second swivels 116, 118.

[0021] In one embodiment, filament 120 comprises a generally non-compliant (e.g., rigid or non-stretchable) material configured to limit the maximum length to which traction band 110 can be stretched. Filament 120 may prevent traction band 110 from being overstretched beyond a predetermined break point. Non-limiting examples of such non-compliant materials may include hard plastic, non-compliant rubber or polymer, metal, etc. In another embodiment, filament 120 comprises a generally compliant or semi-compliant material configured to increase (e.g., add to) the traction force imparted by traction band 110 when stretched.

[0022] Although Figures 2A-2B show a single filament 120 arranged in a linear configuration (e.g., when stretched) along the length of the traction band 110, in various embodiments, multiple filaments can be arranged along the traction band in various patterns and / or configurations (e.g., zigzag pattern, braided pattern, spirally wound around the traction band).

[0023] 3A-3B . In one embodiment, the tissue retraction device 100 of the present invention is configured for use with a first endoscopic instrument 130. In various embodiments, the first endoscopic instrument 130 includes a handle 132 operably attached to a proximal end of a flexible elongate sheath 134 (e.g., a catheter, etc.) and a first tissue clip 136 removably attached to a distal end of the flexible elongate sheath 134. The first endoscopic instrument 130 may be configured for use with an endoscope, bronchoscope, colonoscope, duodenoscope, ureteroscope, catheter, diagnostic or therapeutic instrument or device, or another type of medical device. In one embodiment, the first tissue clip 136 includes first and second arms, or jaws 136 a, 136 b, configured to move between a first position (e.g., closed) and a second position (e.g., open) upon actuation of the handle 132. In various embodiments, in the closed position, arms or jaws 136a, 136b of first tissue clip 136 may engage target tissue 160 within a body lumen, such as target tissue in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. In various additional embodiments, handle 132 may be further actuated to decouple (e.g., detach) first tissue clip 136 from the distal end of sheath 134, such that first tissue clip 136 remains engaged with target tissue 160 after first endoscopic instrument 130 is removed from the patient's body.

[0024] In one embodiment, a tissue retraction system 200 of the present invention includes a first endoscopic instrument 130 slidably disposed within a working channel of a flexible elongate member 140 (e.g., an endoscope; FIGS. 4A-4B). For example, a sheath 134 extends through the working channel of the endoscope to deploy a clip 136 within the patient's body. As described above, the first endoscopic instrument 130 includes a first tissue clip 136 attached to the distal end of the flexible elongate sheath 134. In one embodiment, a tissue retraction device 100 of the present invention is attached to the first tissue clip 136 within the working channel of the flexible elongate member 140. For example, the tissue retraction system 200 of the present invention is assembled by advancing a first endoscopic instrument within the working channel of the flexible elongate tubular member 140 so that a first tissue clip 136 attached to the distal end of the sheath 134 of the first endoscopic instrument 130 extends distally beyond the distal end of the flexible elongate tubular member 140. The handle 132 of the first endoscopic instrument 130 is actuated to move the first tissue clip 136 from a first position to a second position, e.g., such that the first and second arms 136 a, 136 b are opened / separated in a Y-shape. Next, either the first or second arms 136 a, 136 b are advanced through the opening in the first mounting member 112 of the tissue retraction device 100. The handle 132 is then actuated, for example, to move the first tissue clip 136 from the second position to the first position so that the first tissue clip 136 and the tissue retraction device 100 are positioned (e.g., protected, shielded, concealed) within the working channel of the elongated tubular member 140, and the first endoscopic instrument 130 is retracted proximally to load the tissue clip and the tissue retraction device into the working channel of the elongated tubular member.

[0025] 4A , tissue retraction system 200 is then advanced through a patient's body lumen and the distal end of flexible elongated tubular member 140, which is positioned adjacent to target tissue 160. First endoscopic instrument 130 is then advanced distally through the working channel to deploy tissue retraction device 100 and first tissue clip 136 attached to tissue retraction device 100 over the distal end of elongated tubular member 140. Handle 132 is then actuated to move first tissue clip 136 from a first position to a second position, placing open arms 136 a, 136 b in contact with the surface of target tissue 160 (e.g., either first or second arms 136 a, 136 b extend through an opening in first mounting member 112 of tissue retraction device 100). Next, the handle 132 is actuated to move the first tissue clip 136 from the second position to the first position, engaging (e.g., clamping) the first tissue clip 136 and the first attachment member 112 of the tissue retraction device 100 attached to the first tissue clip 136 with the target tissue 160. In one embodiment, the first tissue clip 136 is directly engaged with the portion of the target tissue 160 on which the procedure will be performed (e.g., the tissue to be dissected). Alternatively, the first tissue clip 136 is engaged with the target tissue 160 adjacent to the portion on which the procedure will be performed (e.g., the portion to be incised). Next, the handle 132 is actuated to detach the first tissue clip from the sheath 134 of the first endoscopic instrument 130.

[0026] In one embodiment, the first endoscopic instrument 130 is then withdrawn from the working channel of the flexible elongated tubular member 140, and the second tissue clip 137 is attached to the distal end of the sheath 134. The first endoscopic instrument 130 is then advanced back through the working channel, positioning the second tissue clip 137 beyond the distal end of the flexible elongated tubular member 140. The handle 132 of the first endoscopic instrument 130 is then actuated to move the second tissue clip 137 from the first position to the second position, e.g., opening / separating the first and second arms 137a, 137b in a Y-shape. Either the first or second arm 137a, 137b is then advanced through the opening in the second attachment member 114 of the tissue retraction device 100 within the body lumen. Next, the first endoscopic instrument 130 is advanced distally through the working channel so that the retraction band 110 of the tissue retraction device 100, engaged with the first or second arm 137a, 137b of the second tissue clip 137, moves from the first position to the extended / stretched second position. The arms 137a, 137b of the second tissue clip 137 are then placed in contact with the wall of the body lumen opposite the target tissue 160. The handle 132 is then actuated to move the second tissue clip 137 from the second position to the first position, thereby engaging (e.g., clamping) the second tissue clip 137 and the second attachment member 114 of the tissue retraction device 100 attached to the second tissue clip 137 against the wall of the body lumen opposite the target tissue 160. Handle 132 is then actuated to disengage second tissue clip 137 from sheath 134 of first endoscopic instrument 130, placing target tissue 160 under tension / traction by stretched retraction band 110 of tissue retraction device 100. Retraction band 110 may have a maximum second (e.g., extended) length of approximately 15.00 cm, although in various embodiments, sufficient traction can be created with a retraction band having a second length of approximately 8.0 to 9.0 cm.

[0027] In various embodiments, the first endoscopic instrument 130 is then removed (cleared) from the working channel of the elongated tubular member 140, and a second endoscopic instrument 170 is advanced through the working channel to position a second medical device 175 (e.g., an electrocautery knife, a resection instrument, etc.) attached to the distal end of the second endoscopic instrument adjacent to the target tissue 160. The second medical device 175 is then used to perform surgery on the target tissue 160 (e.g., dissect the target tissue) while the tissue retraction device 100 applies tension / traction to the target tissue 160. For example, the tissue retraction device 100 can apply tension / traction in a direction away from the cutting plane and without obstructing / blocking visualization from the distal end of the flexible elongated tubular member 140.

[0028] See FIG. 4B. In one embodiment, the direction, angle, or amount of traction can be adjusted intraoperatively using third tissue clip 138. For example, third tissue clip 138 is attached to the distal end of sheath 134 of first endoscopic instrument 130, and the first endoscopic instrument is advanced through the second working channel of elongated tubular member 140 to position third tissue clip 138 beyond the distal end of elongated tubular member 140. Next, handle 132 of first endoscopic instrument 130 is actuated to move third tissue clip 138 from the first position to the second position, causing first and second arms 138 a, 138 b to open / separate in a Y-shape. Next, first endoscopic instrument 130 is manipulated to place the extended traction band (e.g., engaged with the wall of the body lumen by first and second tissue clips 136, 137) between first and second arms 138a, 138b of third tissue clip 138. Next, arms 138a, 138b of third tissue clip 138 are placed in contact with another / second portion of the wall of the body lumen opposite target tissue 160 and pull a portion of traction band 110 toward the another / second portion of the wall of the body lumen, applying a traction force to target tissue 160. Next, handle 132 is actuated to move third tissue clip 138 from the second position to the first position, causing third tissue clip 138 (and traction band 110) to engage (e.g., clamp) the another / second portion of the wall of the body lumen opposite target tissue 160. Handle 132 may then be actuated to disengage third tissue clip 138 from sheath 134 of first endoscopic instrument 130, thereby applying traction to the target tissue in a different direction or plane.

[0029] See Figures 5A and 5B. In another embodiment, the direction, angle, or amount of traction force can be adjusted intraoperatively by using a third tissue clip and moving the position of the second end of the traction band (opposite the first end coupled to the target tissue). In various embodiments, when the first attachment member 212 (shown in cross section with the jaws of the first tissue clip 236 extending therethrough) is coupled to the target tissue 160, for example via the first tissue clip 236, the second end of the traction band 210 is extended to couple the second attachment member 214 of the second end of the traction band 210 to another / second portion of the wall of the body lumen opposite the target tissue 160 to apply traction force to the target tissue 160. As shown in Figures 5A and 5B, one or more second attachment members 210 are directly or indirectly coupled to the second end of the traction band. FIG. 5A illustrates a tissue retraction device 200 having at least two attachment members 210a, 214b, such as hoop or loop shapes, that can be coupled to the second end of the retraction band 210. In FIG. 5B, each attachment member 214a', 214b' is coupled to the retraction band 210 via a respective stem 215a, 215b. Additional attachment members, with or without stems, may be provided, and are not shown solely for purposes of simplifying the illustration of the embodiment and are not intended to limit the invention. The first attachment member 214a, 214a' is initially coupled to a first, securing tissue position (similar to that shown in FIG. 4A). If the retraction force needs to be changed, a third clip (such as the third clip 138 described with reference to FIG. 4B) is used to engage a different attachment member (such as attachment member 214a, 214a') at the second end of the retraction band, such as attachment member 215b, 215b'. Next, the first attachment member at the second end of the traction band is cut either through the loop of attachment member 214a (such as in the embodiment shown in FIG. 5A) or through the stem element 215a connecting attachment member 214'a to traction band 210 (such as in the embodiment shown in FIG. 5B).The third clip and subsequent attachment member then engage another / second portion of the wall of the body lumen to apply traction to the target tissue 160 from a different direction / angle, or with increased tension, etc.

[0030] In various embodiments, the multiple attachment members coupled to the second end of the tissue retraction device are separately coupled to each other and / or to the tissue retraction device. Thus, each attachment member can function independently of the other attachment members. In some embodiments, one or more of the multiple attachment members are coupled to the tissue retraction device via a swivel connection that allows the attachment member to pivot, rotate, or move relative to the longitudinal axis of the tissue retraction device.

[0031] In various embodiments, an overtube, such as the alignment member described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0263614, filed March 19, 2018, and entitled "Tissue Retraction Device and Delivery System," which is incorporated herein by reference, may be provided over at least a portion of the retraction band of a tissue retraction device formed in accordance with the present invention. In FIG. 6 , an overtube 380 is provided over the retraction band 310 (shown in an extended configuration for applying a traction force) of the tissue retraction device 300. The overtube 380 is provided to facilitate delivery of the tissue retraction device 300 through the working channel of the flexible elongate member 140, such as by inhibiting or preventing the retraction band 310 from folding or wrapping (e.g., folding back on itself) on itself during advancement and / or manipulation of the tissue retraction device 300 through the working channel. The overtube 380 may cover most or all of the retraction band 310 during advancement of the tissue retraction device 310. However, when the first attachment member 312 (shown in cross section with the jaws of the first tissue clip 336 extending through it) is coupled to the target tissue 160, such as with the first tissue clip 336, and the second end of the retraction band 310 is coupled to another / second portion of the wall of the body lumen opposite the target tissue 160 and stretched to apply traction to the target tissue 160, the retraction band 310 may extend beyond the end of the overtube 380, as shown in FIG. 6. In various embodiments, the overtube is secured adjacent the first end of the tissue retraction device 300 (e.g., adjacent the first attachment member 312 to which the first clip 336 is pre-loaded or later coupled to attach the first attachment member to the target tissue), such as by crimping (to the retraction band or a swivel that couples the attachment member to the retraction band or another end element of the tissue retraction device), adhesive, or another connection known to those skilled in the art. Such fixation may be useful for ensuring secure placement of the overtube, such as when the target tissue is located over the endoscope.

[0032] In various embodiments, the first tissue clip 136, 336 is directly engaged with the portion of the target tissue 160 (e.g., tissue to be excised) where the procedure is to be performed, and after the procedure is completed (e.g., after the tissue is dissected), the second tissue clip 137 (or the second and third tissue clips 137, 138) are removed from the wall facing the body lumen. In some embodiments, the clip arms are separated (e.g., using forceps, etc.) by applying a sufficient amount of force to either the jaws and / or proximal end to disengage the arms of the tissue clip. The excised target tissue 160 and attached tissue clip are then passed through the working channel of the elongated tubular member 140 and removed from the patient's body. Alternatively, the retraction band 110, 210, 310 or the swivel 116, 118 can be cut (e.g., using the second medical instrument 175) and the second tissue clip (or the second and third tissue clips 137, 138) can be left in the body lumen and removed from the patient's body through the body's natural processes, or the second attachment member 114, 214a, 214b, 214a', 214b', 314 or their stems 215a, 215b can be cut to detach the tissue retraction device 200, 300 therefrom.

[0033] The present invention is not limited to tissue retraction device 100, 200, 300 being attached to first tissue clip 136, 236, 336 of first endoscopic instrument 130 and loaded / pre-loaded within the working channel of elongated tubular member 140. In various embodiments, some steps involved in assembling the tissue retraction device and tissue clip occur outside the patient's body, while some other steps involved in assembling the tissue retraction device and tissue clip occur inside the patient's body. The particular order and / or timing of any or all of these steps is not limiting to the description of the present invention and may be performed at a variety of different stages before, during, or after a medical procedure. For example, in one embodiment, the tissue retraction device 100, 200, 300 of the present invention is loaded into the flexible elongate sheath 134 of the first endoscopic instrument 130, advanced through the working channel of the elongate tubular member 140, and deployed within the body lumen by distally advancing the first tissue clip 136, 236, 336 within the sheath 134. The first and second attachment members 112, 114, 214a, 214b, 214a', 214b', 314 of the tissue retraction device 100, 200, 300 are then engaged by the respective first and second tissue clips 136, 137, 236, 336 within the body lumen, engaging (e.g., clamping) the target tissue and opposing walls of the body lumen as described above. Alternatively, the tissue retraction device 100, 200, 300 of the present invention is pre-loaded into a biopsy cap. The pre-loaded biopsy cap is secured to the proximal end of the elongated tubular member 140 and then advanced distally onto / along the outer surface of the elongated tubular member to seal the working channel at the distal end of the elongated tubular member 140. The biopsy port and tissue retraction device 100, 200, 300 is then detached from the biopsy cap within the body lumen using the first tissue clip 136, 236, 336.

[0034] In various embodiments, the second medical instrument of the present invention is not limited to tissue resection elements (e.g., electrosurgical knives, etc.), but may include various medical instruments configured to manipulate target tissue under traction (e.g., resection elements, biopsy needles, injection needles, scissors, graspers, etc.).

[0035] In various additional embodiments, the traction bands of the present invention are not limited to elongated (e.g., rectangular) and / or planar (e.g., flat) configurations, but may include a variety of different shapes and / or configurations. For example, the traction bands of the present invention may include coiled or spiral shapes; circular, rectangular, or spherical shapes; square shapes; triangular shapes, etc.

[0036] In various additional embodiments, the first and second attachment members 112, 114, 212, 214, 312, 314 can engage a variety of different hemostatic clips (e.g., Resolution® clips, Boston Scientific Corporation, Marlborough, Massachusetts) and non-hemostatic clips configured to secure / engage the disclosed tissue retraction device to the wall of a body lumen. For example, tissue clips contemplated for use with the disclosed tissue retraction device can include a naturally open / biased configuration configured to move to a closed / clamped configuration upon actuation by the handle assembly. Additionally or alternatively, tissue clips contemplated for use with the disclosed tissue retraction device can include a naturally closed / biased configuration configured to move to an open configuration upon actuation by the handle assembly. Additionally or alternatively, fasteners other than the disclosed tissue clips can be used to secure / engage the first and second attachment members of the disclosed tissue retraction device to the wall of a body lumen.Examples of fasteners include, but are not limited to, U.S. Priority Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 847,599, filed May 14, 2019, entitled "Tissue Clip Device, System, and Retraction Method," U.S. Priority Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 506,780, filed May 16, 2017, entitled "Tissue Retraction Device and Delivery System," in conjunction with U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0263614, filed March 19, 2018, entitled "Tissue Retraction Device and Delivery System," U.S. Priority Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 437,957, filed March 20, 2017, entitled "Tissue Retraction Device," and U.S. Priority Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 437,957, filed March 19, 2018, entitled "Tissue Retraction Device and Delivery System." No. 15 / 925,110, entitled "CLIP DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR ENGAGING TISSUE," filed October 30, 2019, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 0129181, entitled "CLIP DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR ENGAGING TISSUE," and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 8,062,311, entitled "ENDOSCOPIC HEMOSTATIC CLIPPING DEVICE," filed on even date herewith, [Attorney Docket No. 8150.0596], all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties and for all purposes. Other elements and aspects of these patents and patent applications, as well as U.S. patent application Ser. No. __________, filed on even date herewith and entitled "Tissue Traction Band and Method for Tissue Traction" [Attorney Docket No. 8150.0603], and U.S. patent application Ser. No. __________, filed on even date herewith and entitled "Tethered Traction System and Method of Use Thereof" [Attorney Docket No. 8150.0567], are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for all purposes and may supplement and be used in conjunction with the devices and methods of the present invention.

[0037] All of the devices and / or methods disclosed and claimed herein can be made and executed without undue experimentation in light of the specification. While the devices and methods of the present invention have been described in terms of preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that changes can be applied to the devices and / or methods, and to the steps, or the sequence of steps, invented herein without departing from the concept, spirit, and scope of the invention. All such similar substitutes and modifications apparent to those skilled in the art are deemed to be within the spirit, scope, and concept of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. a traction band comprising a compliant or semi-compliant material; a first attachment member pivotally attached to the first end of the tow band by a first swivel; a second attachment member pivotally attached to the second end of the tow band by a second swivel; a filament disposed along the length of the traction band; A tissue traction device comprising:

2. 10. The tissue retraction device of claim 1, wherein the compliant or semi-compliant material comprises rubber, latex, elastomer, and TPE, or a combination thereof.

3. 3. The tissue retraction device of claim 1, wherein the first and second attachment members comprise a compressible material made of a polymer, a plastic, a shape memory metal, a shape memory alloy, or a combination thereof.

4. The tissue traction device of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first and second attachment members rotate about the longitudinal axis of the traction band via the first and second swivels, respectively.

5. The tissue retraction device of any one of claims 1 to 4, configured to move between a configuration having a length of 2.5 to 4.5 cm and a second configuration having a maximum length of 15.00 cm.

6. The tissue retraction device of claim 1 , wherein the filament comprises a non-compliant material that limits a maximum extended length of the retraction band.

7. The tissue retraction device of claim 1 , wherein the filaments comprise a compliant or semi-compliant material that increases the traction force of the retraction band.

8. 2. The tissue retraction device of claim 1, wherein the tissue retraction device is configured to be positioned within a working channel extending through the interior of a flexible elongated tubular member, and the first attachment member is engaged with a first tissue clip attached to a distal end of a first endoscopic instrument positioned within the working channel.

9. The tissue retraction device of claim 8 , wherein the first tissue clip is removably attachable to the first attachment member of the tissue retraction device.

10. 10. The tissue retraction device of claim 8, wherein the first tissue clip at a first end of the tissue retraction device is positionable within a body lumen, and the second tissue clip is positionable within the body lumen and attachable to a second end of the tissue retraction device opposite the first end.

11. The tissue retraction device of any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein a third tissue clip is positionable within a body lumen and attachable to a portion of the tissue retraction device.

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