Anchors and related systems and methods of securing the anchors to a tissue
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2026-02-03
- Publication Date
- 2026-08-13
Smart Images
Figure US2026013772_13082026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
Attorney Docket No. 27601-0098W01ANCHORS AND RELATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF SECURING THE ANCHORS TO A TISSUE CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application 63 / 753,655 filed February 4, 2025, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] This disclosure relates to anchors, such as anchors with a suture carrying attachment members that can be secured to a tissue and interlock with each other in a jammed arrangement adjacent to the tissue. Example tissues include bone and soft tissues. This disclosure further relates to associated systems and methods of securing the anchors to the tissue.BACKGROUND
[0003] Fixation techniques conventionally used to anchor soft tissues and synthetic materials to bones have certain inherent challenges that may result in suboptimal outcomes. In some examples, such techniques may involve implanting an anchor that is made entirely of a material formulation from which a typical suture is made. However, such anchors may experience undesired movements when implanted within a particularly hard bone or within a particularly soft bone. Furthermore, as a general matter, implanting conventional anchors at a desired site may be associated with a relatively high level of complexity that requires a comparable level of skill. For example, deploying interference screws and bone anchors may result in tissue damage, an inability to adjust tension, and failure of fixation. In another example, all-suture buttons require drilling to the distal cortex and x-ray confirmation as a part of the implantation procedure.Attorney Docket No. 27601-0098W01SUMMARY
[0004] This disclosure relates to anchors, such as anchors with sutures carrying attachment members. The attachment members are designed to be secured to a bone or other tissue and to interlock with each other in a jammed arrangement adjacent to the tissue. This disclosure further relates to associated systems and methods of securing the anchors to the tissue.
[0005] The anchors and attachment members discussed herein provide several advantages. For example, the attachment members are designed, by way of their shape, size, and / or material formulation, to attach to bone or another tissue (e.g., a soft tissue).Advantageously, the attachment members are also designed and arranged to couple to one another in a jammed (e.g., stuck, wedged, blocked, or otherwise immobilized), interlocked, and relatively compact arrangement when brought into contact with one another. Such jamming promotes fixation of the anchor to the bone. Furthermore, the jamming causes the suture earn ing the attachment members to ball up at an open end of a hole drilled into the bone or at the end of a closed hole, thus preventing the suture from backing out or dislodging from the bone.
[0006] Additionally, for any given anchor, the material formulation (e g., a first material formulation) of the suture is different from the material formulation (e.g., a second material formulation) of the attachment members that are coupled to the suture. Owing to the two different material formulations of the suture and the attachment members carried thereon, the anchor benefits from both advantages of the combination of materials forming the suture and advantages of the combination of materials forming the attachment members. For example, the sutures advantageously have a small diameter such that they fit within a smalldiameter drill hole, while the multiple, discreet configuration of the attachment members prevents sliding and creep of the sutures within the drill hole. Preventing such movement of the sutures within the drill holes creates improved fixation as compared to anchors that are formed solely from sutures.
[0007] In one aspect, an anchor includes a suture and multiple attachment members coupled to the suture, wherein each attachment member of the multiple attachment members is configured to securely couple to a tissue within a body and to interlock with other attachment members of the multiple attachment members in a jammed arrangement.
[0008] In some embodiments, the suture has a first material formulation and at least one attachment member of the multiple attachment members has a second material formulation that is different from the first material formulation.Attorney Docket No. 27601-0098W01
[0009] In some embodiments, the first material formulation includes one or more of a polyester and ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE).
[0010] In some embodiments, the second material formulation includes one or more of polyether ether ketone (PEEK), poly ether ketone ketone (PEKK), polylactic acid (PLA), polyglycolic acid (PGA), hydroxyapatite (HA), and titanium.
[0011] In some embodiments, the anchor further includes a sheath that surrounds the suture along a portion of the suture and multiple carrier members that surround the sheath, wherein each carrier member of the multiple carrier members supports two or more attachment members of the multiple attachment members.
[0012] In some embodiments, each carrier member of the multiple carrier members includes a ring, and the two or more attachment members are spaced apart from one another about a circumference of the carrier member.
[0013] In some embodiments, the sheath includes two tapered end portions, and each tapered end portion has a maximum diameter that is wider than an inner diameter of each carrier member to prevent the carrier member from sliding off of the sheath.
[0014] In some embodiments, the multiple carrier members include PEEK.
[0015] In some embodiments, the suture includes a first suture, wherein the portion is a first portion, wherein the anchor includes a second suture, and wherein the sheath further surrounds the second suture along a second portion of the second suture.
[0016] In some embodiments, the tissue includes a soft tissue.
[0017] In some embodiments, the tissue includes a bone, and the anchor is a bone anchor.
[0018] In some embodiments, at least one attachment member of the multiple attachment members includes one or more pointed ends.
[0019] In some embodiments, at least one attachment member of the multiple attachment members includes a barb.
[0020] In some embodiments, the suture includes one or more of a poly ester and UHMWPE.
[0021] In some embodiments, the multiple attachment members include one or more of PEEK, PEKK, PLA, PGA, hydroxyapatite (HA), and titanium.
[0022] In some embodiments, each attachment member of the multiple attachment members includes a through-hole through which the suture passes.
[0023] In some embodiments, the multiple attachment members are secured to the suture and spaced apart from one another along a length of the suture.Attorney Docket No. 27601-0098W01
[0024] In some embodiments, the multiple attachment members are slidable along the suture.
[0025] In some embodiments, the attachment member has a shape that aligns with a profile of a tetrahedron.
[0026] In some embodiments, the attachment member includes an opening along each lateral side of the attachment member.
[0027] In some embodiments, the attachment member has a shape of a dolos.
[0028] In some embodiments, the through-hole extends along a central axis of the attachment member.
[0029] In some embodiments, the attachment member includes two first elongate members extending along a first axis, two second elongate members extending along a second axis, and two third elongate members extending along a third axis, wherein each axis of the first, second, and third axes is oriented perpendicular to the other two axes of the first, second, and third axes.
[0030] In some embodiments, the through-hole extends along one of the first, second, and third axes.
[0031] In some embodiments, the attachment member further comprises an additional through-hole that extends through a center point of the attachment member.
[0032] In some embodiments, the through-hole extends through a center point of the attachment member.
[0033] In some embodiments, each elongate member of the first, second, and third elongate members has a frustoconical outer shape.
[0034] In some embodiments, the multiple attachment members include a first attachment member having a first shape and a second attachment member having a second shape that is different from the first shape.
[0035] In some embodiments, the suture forms a loop to which the multiple attachment members are coupled.
[0036] In some embodiments, the suture is tied in a slip knot.
[0037] In some embodiments, a knot is disposed on the suture along each side of each attachment member of the multiple attachment members.
[0038] In some embodiments, a knot is disposed on the suture along outer ends of each end attachment member of the multiple attachment members.
[0039] In some embodiments, the anchor does not include any knots disposed on the suture.Attorney Docket No. 27601-0098W01
[0040] In another aspect, a method of securing an anchor to a tissue within a body includes grasping a portion of the anchor, wherein the anchor includes multiple attachment members coupled to a suture. The method further includes positioning at least the portion of the anchor within a hole in the tissue, pulling the suture of the anchor away from the tissue, causing at least one attachment member of the multiple attachment members to couple to the tissue, and causing at least two attachment members of the multiple attachment members to interlock with each other in a jammed arrangement adjacent to the tissue.
[0041] In some embodiments, the method further includes causing the at least one attachment member to dig into the tissue.
[0042] In some embodiments, one or more attachment members of the multiple attachment members includes a barb.
[0043] In some embodiments, the suture has a first material formulation and at least one attachment member of the multiple attachment members has a second material formulation that is different from the first material formulation.
[0044] In some embodiments, the first material formulation includes one or more of a polyester and UHMWPE.
[0045] In some embodiments, the second material formulation includes one or more of PEEK, PEKK, PLA, PGA, hydroxyapatite (HA), and titanium.
[0046] In some embodiments, the suture includes one or more of a polyester and UHMWPE.
[0047] In some embodiments, the multiple attachment members include one or more of PEEK, PEKK, PLA, PGA, hydroxyapatite (HA), and titanium.
[0048] In some embodiments, the method further includes preventing the suture from sliding out of the hole within the tissue.
[0049] In some embodiments, the tissue includes a soft tissue.
[0050] In some embodiments, the tissue includes a bone, and the anchor is a bone anchor.
[0051] In another aspect, an attachment member includes a triangular base and three lateral members. The lateral members extend from the base toward a vertex and define three open sides of the attachment member. The attachment member includes one or more through-holes configured to allow passage of a suture, and the attachment member is configured to be secured to a bone.Attorney Docket No. 27601-0098W01
[0052] The details of one or more embodiments are set forth in the accompanying drawings and description. Other features, aspects, and advantages of the embodiments will become apparent from the description, drawings, and claims.DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0053] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an example anchor.
[0054] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of a collar of the anchor of FIG. 1.
[0055] FIG. 3 is a cutaway view of the anchor of FIG. 1 placed at a bottom end of a drill hole within a bone with an insertion tool.
[0056] FIG. 4 is a cutaway view of the anchor of FIG. 1 with a suture of the anchor in a tensioned state within the drill hole of the bone and with the insertion tool removed from the bone.
[0057] FIG. 5 is a front perspective view' of an example anchor.
[0058] FIG. 6 is an enlarged front perspective view of an attachment member supported on a suture of the anchor of FIG. 5.
[0059] FIG. 7 is a cutaway view of the anchor of FIG. 5 placed at a bottom end of a drill hole within a bone with an insertion tool.
[0060] FIG. 8 is a cutaw ay view of the anchor of FIG. 5 placed at the bottom end of the drill hole within the bone with the insertion tool removed from the bone.
[0061] FIG. 9 is a cutaway view of the anchor of FIG. 5 with a suture of the anchor in a tensioned state within the drill hole of the bone.
[0062] FIG. 10 is a top view of an example attachment member of an example anchor.
[0063] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the attachment member of FIG. 10.
[0064] FIG. 12 is a side view of the attachment member of FIG. 10.
[0065] FIG. 13 is a side view of the attachment member of FIG. 10.
[0066] FIG. 14 is a side perspective view7of an example attachment member of an example anchor.
[0067] FIG. 15 is a side perspective view of a first jammed arrangement of several of the attachment members of FIG. 14.
[0068] FIG. 16 is a side perspective view7of a second jammed arrangement of several of the attachment members of FIG. 14.
[0069] FIG. 17 is a side perspective view of an example anchor including several of the attachment members of FIG. 14.Attorney Docket No. 27601-0098W01
[0070] FIG. 18 is a side perspective view of an example attachment member of an example anchor.
[0071] FIG. 19 is a side perspective view of an example anchor including several of the attachment members of FIG. 18.
[0072] FIG. 20 is a side perspective view of an example attachment member of an example anchor.
[0073] FIG. 21 is a side perspective view of an example attachment member of an example anchor.
[0074] FIG. 22 is a side perspective view of an example nested arrangement of several of the attachment members of FIG. 21.
[0075] FIG. 23 is a side perspective view of an example anchor including one or more of the attachment members of FIG. 14 and one or more of the attachment members of FIG.18.DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0076] FIGS. 1-4 illustrate an example anchor 101 that can be secured to a tissue 111 wi thin a human body for carrying out a surgical procedure. In some instances, the tissue 111 is a soft tissue. In some instances, the tissue 111 is a bone. Example bones to which the anchor 101 may be secured for carrying out a surgical procedure include bones of the hip, knee, ankle, elbow, hand, and shoulder. Example surgical procedures in which the anchor 101 may be utilized include a rotator cuff repair of the shoulder, an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) repair of the knee, and other procedures. The anchor 101 includes a suture 103, a sheath 105 that surrounds the suture 103 along a portion of the suture 103, and multiple collars 107 that are supported on the sheath 105. The suture 103 (e.g., a thread, stitch, string, or other wire-like structure) is typically made of one or more materials, such as polyester and ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). The selection of the one or more materials from which the suture 103 is made may be considered a material formulation of the suture 103. The suture 103 typically has a thickness that is less than about 0.5 mm and typically has a length of about 7 cm to about 10 cm.
[0077] The sheath 105 provides a support structure for the attachment collars 107 and surrounds the suture 103 along the portion of the suture 103 that is to be placed within a small-diameter hole 109 that has been drilled into the tissue 111, which will hereinafter be referred to as a bone 111. Accordingly, the suture 103 passes through open ends 113 of the sheath 105. The sheath 105 is not attached to the suture 103, such that the sheath 105 is freeAttorney Docket No. 27601-0098W01to slide axially with respect to (e.g., along a length of) the suture 103. The sheath 105 has a generally tubular shape (e.g., has a circular cross-sectional shape), but with a diameter that varies along the length of the sheath 105. For example, the sheath 105 has a substantially constant diameter along a central segment 115 of the sheath 105 and a variable diameter along opposing end segments 117 of the sheath 105. In some embodiments, the diameter along each opposing end segment 117 gradually increases from the central segment 115 to a respective end 113 of the sheath 105. Thus, the end segments 117 have a tapered shape, and the sheath 105 has a maximum diameter at its opposing ends 113. The relatively wide ends 113 of the sheath 105 are wider than a diameter of the collars 107 and therefore serve to prevent the collars 107 from sliding off of the sheath 105.
[0078] In some embodiments, the central segment 115 of the sheath 105 has an outer diameter of about 1.7 mm to about 2.7 mm (e.g., about 2.3 mm) and a length of about 0.7 cm to about 1.2 cm (e.g., about 0.9 cm). In some embodiments, the end segments 117 increase in outer diameter from that of the central segment 115 to about 2.3 mm to about 3.2 mm (e.g., about 2.7 mm) at the ends 113. In some embodiments, each end segment 117 has a length of about 1.0 cm to about 1.7 cm (e.g., about 1.4 cm). In some embodiments, the sheath 105 may be made of one or more materials, such as polypropylene and one or more polyesters. In some embodiments, the sheath 105 and the suture 103 may be made of the same one or more materials. In other embodiments, the sheath 105 and the suture 103 may be made of a different set of one or more materials. Owing to slack between an inner diameter of the sheath 105 and a thickness of the suture 103, the suture 103 is able to move radially within an interior region (e.g., a lumen) of the sheath 105.
[0079] Still referring to FIGS. 1-4, the anchor 101 includes multiple collars 107 (e.g., four collars 107, as shown, or a different number of collars 107) that are slidable along at least a portion (e.g., along at least the central segment 115) of the sheath 105. The collars 107 are located on each side of the sheath 105, spaced axially apart along the sheath 105, and spaced apart from the ends 113 of the sheath 105. Each collar 107 includes a carrier member 121 (e.g., a ring) and multiple (e.g., two or more) attachment members 125 (e.g., fastening, connection, coupling, or other attachment members 125 ) that are attached to and supported by the carrier member 121. Each collar 107 may be equipped with four attachment members 125, as show n, or with a different number of attachment members 125.
[0080] In some embodiments, the carrier members 121 have an inner diameter that is less than the outer diameter at the ends 113 of the sheath 105 such that the carrier members 121 are retained on the sheath 105 (e.g., the carrier members 121 are prevented from slidingAttorney Docket No. 27601-0098W01off of the ends 113 of the sheath 105). In some embodiments, the carrier members 121 have a solid (e.g., non-hollow) core. In some embodiments, the carrier members 121 are made of polyether ether ketone (PEEK).
[0081] The attachment members 125 are designed, by way of their shape, size, and / or material formulation, to attach to the bone 111 (e.g., affix to, dig into, hook onto or into, become integrated in, become enmeshed in, grasp, or otherwise attach to the bone 111). The attachment members 125 are also designed and arranged to couple to one another in a jammed (e.g., stuck, wedged, blocked, or otherwise immobilized), interlocked, and relatively compact arrangement when brought into close proximity to one another to effect contact among the attachment members 125, as will be discussed in more detail below with respect to FIGS. 3 and 4. In some embodiments, the attachment members 125 have pointed ends that effect attachment to the bone 111. For example, in some embodiments, the attachment members 125 are embodied as barbs or as various tetrahedral-shaped members having points or ridges that promote jamming of the attachment members 125 with each other and with one or more surrounding bones and soft tissues.
[0082] In some embodiments, each attachment member 125 may be made of one or more materials, such as PEEK (e.g., deconstructed PEEK), poly ether ketone ketone (PEKK), polylactic acid (PLA), poly glycolic acid (PGA), hydroxyapatite (HA) or other crystals, other polymers, and metals (e.g., titanium). The selection of the one or more materials from which the attachment members 125 are made may be considered a material formulation of the attachment members 125. Each attachment member 125 typically has a thickness within a range of about 1.4 mm to about 2.3 mm.
[0083] FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate a process for implanting the anchor 101 within the drilled hole 109 of the bone 111. Once an implantation site on the bone 111 has been determined and the hole 109 has been drilled into the bone 111, an insertion tool 123 is used to place the anchor 101 (e.g., at least the sheathed portion of the anchor 101) near a bottom end 127 of the hole 109. For example, a grasping element 135 of the insertion tool 123 is operated to grasp the anchor 101 around the central segment 115 of the sheath 105, and a handle 137 of the insertion tool 123 is used to move the insertion tool 123, carrying the anchor 101, into the drill hole 109. Once the anchor 101 is placed at the bottom end 127 of the hole 109, the grasping element 135 is operated to release the sheath 105, and the insertion tool 123 is removed from the hole 109. The insertion tool 123 and the anchor 101 together form an anchor system 133.Attorney Docket No. 27601-0098W01
[0084] Next, a tension is applied to both proximal ends of the suture 103 (e.g., the suture 103 is pulled upward at both ends) to set the anchor 101 within the bone 111, as shown in FIG. 4. For example, the anchor 101 is lifted upward toward the open end 129 of the hole 109, causing the sheath 105 to widen (e.g., extend radially outward) towards an inner surface 131 of the hole 109. As the anchor 101 is lifted and the sheath 105 widens, the collars 107 migrate (e.g.. slide) upward along the sheath 105 and laterally outward with the sheath 105, causing the attachment members 125 of the collars 107 to stick into the bone 109 to set the anchor 101 at the bone 109. Advantageously, as the collars 107 migrate, the attachment members 125 may also interlock with and / or stick into each other in a relatively compact, jammed arrangement. The width (e.g., outer diameter) of the ends 113 of the sheath 105 prevents the collars 107 from sliding off of the sheath 105.
[0085] Other embodiments are also possible. For example, while the anchor 101 has been described and illustrated as including one suture 103 that passes through the sheath 105, in some embodiments, an anchor that is otherwise substantially similar in construction and function to the anchor 101 may include two or more sutures 103 that pass through the sheath 105 and that may be tensioned at their proximal ends to set the anchor.
[0086] FIGS. 5-9 illustrate an example anchor 201 that can be secured to a tissue 211 within a human body. The tissue 211 may be a soft tissue or a bone, as discussed above with respect to the tissue 111. The tissue 211 will hereinafter be referred to as a bone 211. The anchor 201 includes the suture 103 and multiple attachment members 225 that are supported on the suture 103. In some embodiments, the anchor 201 includes two or more (e g., four or five) attachment members 225. Like the attachment members 125, the attachment members 225 are designed, by w ay of their shape, size, and / or material formulation, to attach to the bone 211. The attachment members 225 are also designed and arranged to couple to one another in a jammed (e.g., stuck, wedged, blocked, or otherwise immobilized), interlocked, and relatively compact arrangement when brought into close proximity to one another to effect contact among the attachment members 225.
[0087] In some embodiments, each attachment member 225 has an elongate base 205 and multiple (e.g., two or more) pointed projections 207 that extend outward from the base 205. Accordingly, the projections 207 can effect attachment to the bone 211. In some embodiments, the attachment members 225 are embodied as barbs or as various tetrahedralshaped members having points or ridges, as discussed above with respect to the attachment members 125. The base 205 has a through-hole 213 through which the suture 103 passes. In some embodiments, the attachment members 225 are secured to the suture 103. For example,Attorney Docket No. 27601-0098W01the suture 103 may be tied into a knot on each side of each attachment member 225, thereby constraining a position of the attachment member 225 along the length of the suture 103. In such embodiments, the attachment members 225 may be approximately equally spaced along the suture 103. In other such embodiments, the attachment members 225 may be unequally spaced along the suture 103. In some embodiments, the attachment members 225 are spaced axially apart along the length of the suture 103 by a distance of about 2 mm to about 3 mm. In some embodiments, the suture 103 may be tied into a knot only on an outer side of each of the outer (e.g., end) attachment members 225. Two example knots 275 are shown for the sake of illustration in FIG. 5. The knots 275 are positioned on opposite sides of an end attachment member 225'. In other embodiments, axial positions of the attachment members 225 with respect to the suture 103 are not limited by suture knots (e.g., knots are not present) such that the attachment members 225 are free to slide along the length of the suture 103.
[0088] The attachment members 225 may be made of a selection of the same one or more materials as discussed above with respect to the attachment members 125. The attachment members 225 typically have a maximum width (e g., at the ends of the projections 207) of about 1 mm to about 4 mm (e.g., about 2 mm), a minimum width (e.g., along the base 205) of about 0.5 mm to about 2 mm (e.g., about 1 mm), and a length (e.g., extending along the suture 103) of about 1 mm to about 5 mm (e.g., about 3 mm).
[0089] FIGS. 7-9 illustrate a process for implanting the anchor 201 within a smalldiameter hole 209 that has been drilled into the bone 211. Referring particularly to FIG. 7, once an implantation site on the bone 211 has been determined and the hole 209 has been drilled into the bone 211, the insertion tool 123 is used to place the anchor 201 near a bottom end 227 of the hole 209. For example, the grasping element 135 of the insertion tool 123 is operated to grasp the anchor 201 along a portion of the suture 103 carrying the attachment members 225, and the handle 137 of the insertion tool 123 is used to move the insertion tool 123, carrying the anchor 201, into the drill hole 209. Referring particularly to FIG. 8, once the portion of the anchor 201 is placed at the bottom end 227 of the drill hole 209, the grasping element 135 is operated to release the suture 103, and the insertion tool 123 is removed from the hole 209. The insertion tool 123 and the anchor 201 together form an anchor system 233.
[0090] Referring particularly to FIG. 9, a tension is applied to both ends of the suture 103 (e.g., the suture 103 is pulled upward at both ends) to set the anchor 201 within the bone 211. For example, the anchor 201 is lifted upward towards an open end 229 of the hole 209. causing the attachment members 225 to move closer together to effect contact with oneAttorney Docket No. 27601-0098W01another and accumulate near the open end 229 of the hole 209. As the attachment members 225 are lifted towards the open end 229. the attachment members 225 stick into an inner surface 231 of the bone 209 and also advantageously interlock with and / or stick into each other in a relatively compact, jammed arrangement. As a result, the suture 103 balls up at the open end 229 of the hole 209. Jamming of the attachment members 225 in the compact arrangement prevents the suture 103 from sliding through the holes 213 of the attachment members 225 upward out of the hole 209. In this mannerjamming of the attachment members 225 prevents backout, sliding, creep, or other dislodgement of the suture 103.
[0091] In some embodiments, an anchor that is similar in construction and / or function to the anchor 101 or the anchor 201 may include a different type of attachment member. For example. FIGS. 10-13 illustrate an attachment member 100 that may be used as an alternative or addition to one or more of the attachment members 225 of the anchor 201. The attachment members 100 may be embodied as barbs. The attachment members 100 may be secured to the suture 103 and spaced apart along the length of the suture 103 in the same manners as described above with respect to the attachment members 225 (e.g., with knots between adjacent attachment members or with knots adjacent an outer side of only the end attachment members). Alternatively, the attachment members 100 may be free to slide along the length of the suture 103, as described above with respect to the attachment members 225.
[0092] The attachment members 225 may be made of a selection of the same one or more materials as discussed above with respect to the attachment members 125, 225. In some embodiments, the attachment member 100 is generally shaped like a tetrahedron (e.g., substantially aligning with a profde that includes four triangular faces, six edges, and four vertices). Accordingly, the attachment member 100 has a bottom side 102 and three lateral sides 104 that are inclined from the bottom side 102 towards a common vertex 106 (e.g.. spaced apart from the attachment member 100).
[0093] The attachment member 100 includes a generally triangular shaped base 108 that defines a plane of the bottom side 102. The base 108 defines a central, triangular-shaped through-hole 110. The attachment member 100 also includes three lateral members 112 that together define planes of the lateral sides 104. Additionally, adjacent pairs of lateral members 112 form triangular openings 126 along each of the lateral sides 104. Each lateral member 112 has four walls 114 that together provide the lateral member 112 with a polyhedral cross-sectional shape. In other embodiments, functionally similar lateral members may have a different cross-sectional shape (e.g.. a circular or triangular cross-sectional shape). Instead of extending to the vertex 106, the lateral members 112 define respectiveAttorney Docket No. 27601-0098W01concave surfaces 116 at free (e.g., unattached), pointed ends 118. In other embodiments, the pointed ends 118 may be cut off such that the lateral members 112 have flat ends. The concave surfaces 116 together form a curved pocket 120 and surround a central through-hole 122 of the attachment member 100. The through-holes 110, 122 are both centered along an axis 124 of the attachment member 100 and together define a passageway for the suture 103 to pass through the attachment member 225. In some embodiments, the base 108 has a length of about 1 mm to about 4 mm (e.g., about 2 mm) along each side 104 of the attachment member 100. In some embodiments, each lateral member 112 has a length (e.g., extending from the bottom side 102 to the respective free end 118) of about 1 mm to about 5 mm (e.g., about 3 mm).
[0094] An anchor including the attachment members 100 may be implanted within a bone in substantially the same manner as that described above with respect to the attachment members 225. For example, with respect to the bone 209, once the suture 103 has been placed in the hole 209, the suture 103 is subsequently lifted upward towards the open end 229 of the hole 209. This causes the attachment members 100 to move closer together and into contact with one another to accumulate near the open end 229 of the hole 209. As the attachment members 100 are lifted towards the open end 229, the attachment members 100 stick into the inner surface 231 of the bone 209 and also advantageously interlock with and / or stick into each other in a relatively compact, jammed arrangement. As a result, the suture 103 balls up at the open end 229 of the hole 209 and is thus prevented from backing out of or dislodging from the hole 209. Jamming of the attachment members 100 in the compact arrangement prevents the suture 103 from sliding through the suture passageway of the attachment members 225 and upward out of the hole 209. Furthermore, the bone 209 may grow into the lateral openings 126 of the attachment members 100 over time, thus further securing the anchor to the bone 209.
[0095] FIG. 14 illustrates an attachment member 200 that may be used as an alternative or an addition to one or more of the attachment members 225 of the anchor 201. The attachment members 200 may be secured to the suture 103 and spaced apart along the length of the suture 103 in the same manners as described above with respect to the attachment members 100, 225 (e.g., with knots between adjacent attachment members or with knots adjacent an outer side of only the end attachment members). Alternatively, the attachment members 200 may be free to slide along the length of the suture 103, as described above with respect to the attachment members 100, 225. The attachment members 200 mayAttorney Docket No. 27601-0098W01be made of a selection of the same one or more materials as discussed above with respect to the attachment members 100, 125. 225.
[0096] In some embodiments, the attachment member 200 generally has a shape of a dolos. Accordingly, the attachment member 200 has a first elongate member 202 extending along a first axis 204 and a second elongate member 206 oriented transverse to the first elongate member 202 and extending along a second axis 208. The attachment member 200 also has a third elongate member 210 extending between the first and second elongate members 202, 206 along a third axis 212, which itself is a central axis of the entire attachment member 200. The third elongate member 210 is oriented transverse to both the first and second elongate members 202, 206. Accordingly, each of the members 202, 206, 210 and its associated axis 204, 208. 212 is oriented transverse to each of the other two members 202, 206, 210 and its associated axis 204, 208, 212. In some embodiments, the attachment member 200 may be integrally formed from the members 202, 206, 210 as a single piece.
[0097] Each of the first and second elongate members 202, 206 respectively has a central portion 214, 216 and two tapered end portions 218, 220 extending in opposite directions from the central portions 214, 216. The third elongate member 210 extends between the central portions 214, 216 of the first and second members 202, 206. Each of the central portions 214, 216, the tapered portions 218, 220, and the third members 210 are multifaceted. For example, in the illustration of FIG. 13, each portion 214. 216, 218, 220, 210 has eight lateral exterior faces such that each portion 214, 216, 218, 220, 210 has an octagonal, outer cross-sectional shape. In other embodiments, the portions 214, 216, 218, 220, 210 may have a different number of exterior faces that form a different outer cross-sectional shape. The first and second members 202, may have the same length or different lengths. In some embodiments, each attachment member 200 has a total width of about 1 mm to about 4 mm (e.g., about 2 mm) and a total length of about 1 mm to about 5 mm (e.g., about 3 mm).
[0098] The attachment member 200 defines a through-hole 222 that extends along the third axis 212 and sequentially through each of the first, third, and second elongate members 202, 210, 206. The through-hole 214 provides a passageway for the suture 103 to pass through the attachment member 200. In some embodiments, the through-hole 222 has a diameter of about 0.1 mm to about 0.5 mm (e.g., about 0.4 mm).
[0099] An anchor including the attachment members 200 may be implanted within a bone in a manner similar to that described above with respect to the attachment members 225.Attorney Docket No. 27601-0098W01For example, with respect to the bone 209, once the suture 103 has been placed in the hole 209, the suture 103 is subsequently lifted upward towards the open end 229 of the hole 209. This causes the attachment members 200 to move closer together and into contact with one another to accumulate near the open end 229 of the hole 209. As the attachment members 200 are lifted towards the open end 229, the attachment members 200 dig into the inner surface 231 of the bone 209 and also advantageously interlock with each other in a relatively compact, jammed arrangement. As a result, the suture 103 balls up at the open end 229 of the hole 209. Jamming of the attachment members 200 in a compact arrangement prevents the suture 103 from sliding through the holes 222 of the attachment members 200 and upward out of the hole 209 of the bone 211.
[0100] FIGS. 15 and 16 illustrate example j ammed arrangements of attachment members 200 below an example surface, which may represent a bone. FIG. 17 illustrates an example anchor 250 that includes the suture 103 and multiple attachment members 200 carried on the suture 103. In the example embodiment of FIG. 17, the suture 103 has been tied in a slip knot 252, thereby causing the suture 103 to form a loop that can be tightened as the ends of the suture 103 are tensioned (e.g., pulled). The loop increases an effective diameter of the anchor 250 (e.g., as compared to a substantially linear or non-looped configuration of the suture 103), which increases the extent of interference between the attachment members 200 and the surrounding bone 211 when the anchor 250 is disposed within the drill hole 209 of the bone.
[0101] FIG. 18 illustrates an attachment member 300 that may be used as an alternative or an addition to one or more of the attachment members 225 of the anchor 201. In some examples, the attachment members 300 may be embodied as barbs or tapered struts. The attachment members 300 may be secured to the suture 103 and spaced apart along the length of the suture 103 in the same manners as described above with respect to the attachment members 100, 200, 225 (e.g., with knots between adjacent attachment members or with knots adjacent an outer side of only the end attachment members). Alternatively, the attachment members 300 may be free to slide along the length of the suture 103, as described above with respect to the attachment members 200, 225. The attachment members 300 may be made of a selection of the same one or more materials as discussed above with respect to the attachment members 100, 125, 200, 225.
[0102] The attachment member 300 includes two first elongate members 302 extending along a first axis 304 and two second elongate members 306 oriented transverse to the first elongate members 302 and extending along a second axis 308. The attachmentAttorney Docket No. 27601-0098W01member 300 also includes two third elongate members 310 extending along a third axis 312. The third elongate members 310 are oriented transverse to both the first and second elongate members 302, 306. Accordingly, the members 302, 306, 310 and their associated axis 304, 308, 312 are oriented transverse to each of the other members 302, 306, 310 and their associated axis 304, 308, 312. The members 302, 306, 310 extend radially outward from a central portion 314. The attachment member 300 may be integrally formed from the members 302, 306. 310 as a single piece or formed as an assembly of separate members 302, 306, 310 and central portion 314.
[0103] Each member 302, 306, 310 has a tapered, frustoconical shape. The members 302, 306, 310 may have the same length or different lengths. In some embodiments, each attachment member 300 has a total width of about 1 mm to about 4 mm (e.g., about 2 mm) and a total length of about 1 mm to about 5 mm (e.g., about 3 mm). The attachment member 300 defines a through-hole 322 that extends along the third axis 312 and through the third members 310 and central portion 314. The through-hole 322 provides a passageway for the suture 103 to pass through the attachment member 300. In some embodiments, the through-hole 322 has a diameter of about 0.1 mm to about 0.5 mm (e.g., about 0.4 mm).
[0104] An anchor including the attachment members 300 may be implanted within a bone in a manner similar to that described above with respect to the attachment members 225. For example, with respect to the bone 209, once the suture 103 has been placed in the hole 109, the suture 103 is subsequently lifted upward towards the open end 229 of the hole 209. This causes the attachment members 300 to move closer together and into contact with one another to accumulate near the open end 229 of the hole 209. As the attachment members 300 are lifted towards the open end 229, the attachment members 300 dig into the inner surface 231 of the bone 209 and also advantageously interlock with each other in a relatively compactjammed arrangement. As a result, the suture 103 balls up at the open end 229 of the hole 209. Jamming of the attachment members 300 in a compact arrangement prevents the suture 103 from sliding through the holes 322 of the attachment members 300 and upward out of the hole 209.
[0105] FIG. 19 illustrates an example anchor 350 that includes the suture 103 and multiple attachment members 300 carried on the suture 103. In the example embodiment of FIG. 19, the suture 103 has been tied in a slip knot 352, thereby causing the suture 103 to form a loop that can be tightened as the ends of the suture 103 are tensioned (e.g., pulled). The loop increases an effective diameter of the anchor 350 (e.g., as compared to a substantially linear or non-looped configuration of the suture 103), which increases the extentAttorney Docket No. 27601-0098W01of interference between the attachment members 300 and the surrounding bone 211 when the anchor 350 is disposed within the drill hole 209 of the bone.
[0106] FIG. 20 illustrates an attachment member 400 that may be used as an alternative or an addition to one or more of the attachment members 225 of the anchor 201. The attachment member 400 is substantially similar in construction and function to the attachment member 300. except that the attachment member 400 includes an additional through-hole 430 that extends through a center point of the attachment member 400.Accordingly, the attachment member 400 includes the two first elongate members 302 extending along the first axis 304, the two second elongate members 306 extending along the second axis 308, and the two third elongate members 310 extending along the third axis 312 and defining the through-hole 322.
[0107] In some embodiments, the through-hole 430 provides an alternative passageway for the suture 103 to pass through the attachment member 400. The hole 430 extends through the attachment member 400, along a fourth axis 432, at an angle of about 45 degrees with respect to the third axis 312. In some embodiments, the angle may be slightly larger than or slightly less than about 45 degrees. In some embodiments, the through-hole 430 has a diameter of about 0.1 mm to about 0.5 mm (e g., about 0.4 mm). The attachment members 400 may be secured to the suture 103 and spaced apart along the length of the suture 103 in the same manners as described above with respect to the attachment members 100, 200. 225, 300 (e.g.. with knots between adjacent attachment members or with knots adjacent an outer side of only the end attachment members) or may be free to slide along the length of the suture 103, as described above with respect to the attachment members 200, 225, 300. The attachment members 400 may be made of a selection of the same one or more materials as discussed above with respect to the attachment members 100, 125. 200, 225, 300.
[0108] An anchor including the attachment members 400 may be implanted within a bone in a manner similar to that described above with respect to the attachment members 225, 300. For example, with respect to the bone 209, once the suture 103 has been placed in the hole 109, the suture 103 is subsequently lifted upward towards the open end 229 of the hole 209. This causes the attachment members 400 to move closer together and into contact with one another to accumulate near the open end 229 of the hole 209. As the attachment members 400 are lifted towards the open end 229, the attachment members 400 dig into the inner surface 231 of the bone 209 and also advantageously interlock with each other in a relatively compact, jammed arrangement. As a result, the suture 103 balls up at the open endAttorney Docket No. 27601-0098W01229 of the hole 209. Jamming of the attachment members 400 in a compact arrangement prevents the suture 103 from sliding through the holes 430 or holes 322 of the attachment members 400 and upward out of the hole 209. The position and orientation of the through-hole 430 allows the attachment members 400 to interlock with each other in a tighter jammed arrangement (e.g., with the attachment members 400 being adjacent to one another in different orientations along the exterior edges of the central through-holes 430 to form a nested arrangement), as compared to the alternative arrangement (e.g., a tip-to-tip arrangement) that may be achieved when the suture 103 is instead passed through the through-holes 322 of the attachment members 400 or attachment members 300. An example of such a nested arrangement is illustrated in FIG. 22 with respect to attachment members 600, as will be discussed further below.
[0109] Advantageously, the tighter jammed arrangement imparts an improved (e.g., increased) pullout strength to an anchor including a suture that has been threaded through the angled, central holes 430 of the attachment members 400, as compared to the pullout strength of an anchor including a suture that has been threaded through the holes 322 of the attachment members 300 or attachment members 400. In some examples, the pullout strength is the force (e.g., tension) that must be applied to the ends of the suture to pull the anchor out of the bone.
[0110] Referring to FIG. 21, in some embodiments, an attachment member 600 that is otherwise substantially similar in construction and function to the attachment member 400 includes the through-hole 430, but does not include the through-hole 322. In other words, the through-hole 430 is the only through-hole of such an attachment member 600. Multiple attachment members 600 are illustrated in an example nested arrangement in FIG. 22. The attachment members 600 may be secured to the suture 103 and spaced apart along the length of the suture 103 in the same manners as described above with respect to the attachment members 225 (e.g., with knots between adjacent attachment members or with knots adjacent an outer side of only the end attachment members). Alternatively, the attachment members 600 may be free to slide along the length of the suture 103, as described above with respect to the attachment members 225.
[0111] In general, an anchor that is otherwise similar in construction and function to any of the anchors 201, 250, 350 may include the suture 103 and a combination of any of the above-discussed attachment members 125, 225, 100, 200, 300, 400, 600. Such attachment members 125, 225. 100, 200, 300. 400, 600 may be secured to the suture 103 in the manners described above and according to the spacings along the suture 103 as described above orAttorney Docket No. 27601-0098W01permitted to slide freely along the length of the suture 103. For example, FIG. 23 illustrates an example anchor 550 that includes the suture 103. one or more attachment members 200 carried on the suture 103, and one or more attachment members 300 carried on the suture 103. In the example embodiment of FIG. 23, the suture 103 has been tied in a slip knot 552, thereby causing the suture 103 to form a loop that can be tightened as the ends of the suture 103 are tensioned (e.g., pulled). The loop increases an effective diameter of the anchor 550 (e.g., as compared to a substantially linear or non-looped configuration of the suture 103), which increases the extent of interference between the attachment members 200, 300 and the surrounding bone 211 when the anchor 550 is disposed within the drill hole 209 of the bone.
[0112] Additionally, an anchor that is otherwise similar in construction and function to the anchor 101 may include a combination of any of the above-discussed attachment members 125, 225, 100, 200, 300, 400, 600 or attachment members that are substantially similar to any of the above-discussed attachment members 125, 225, 100, 200, 300, 400, 600 (e.g., like the attachment members 125, 225, 100, 200, 300, 400, 600 but excluding through-holes for a suture). Accordingly, such an anchor may additionally include the suture 103, the sheath 105. and collars with the carrier member 121 that supports the attachment members. Such attachment members may be secured to the carrier members in the manners described above and according to the spacings on the carrier member 121 as described above.
[0113] In all of the above-discussed anchor embodiments, both the design of the above-discussed attachment members 125, 225. 100, 200. 300, 400, 600 and their presence as multiple, discreet components along the length of the suture 103 together facilitate jamming, even while the anchors as a whole are advantageously, minimally sized to fit within smalldiameter drill holes. Such jamming promotes a consistent fixation strength and also minimizes the likelihood of the attachment members 125. 225, 100, 200, 300, 400, 600 slipping past one another, which would lead to a loss of fixation.
[0114] Additionally, for any given anchor, the material formulation (e.g., a first material formulation) of the suture 103 is different from the material formulation (e.g., a second, non-suture material formulation) of the attachment members 125, 225, 100, 200. 300, 400, 600 that are coupled to the suture 103. Owing to the two different material formulations of the suture and the attachment members carried thereon, any of the above-discussed anchors may be considered a hybrid anchor that benefits from both advantages of the combination of materials forming the suture and advantages of the combination of materials forming the attachment members. As discussed above, the sutures advantageously have a small diameter such that they fit within a small-diameter drill hole, while the multiple,Attorney Docket No. 27601-0098W01discreet configuration of the attachment members prevents sliding and creep of the sutures within the drill hole. Preventing such movement of the sutures within the drill holes creates improved fixation as compared to anchors that are formed solely from sutures.
[0115] While the anchors 101, 201 and attachment members 125, 225, 100, 200, 300, 400, 600 have been described and illustrated with respect to certain dimensions, sizes, shapes, arrangements, materials, and methods, in some embodiments, an anchor or attachment member that is otherwise respectively similar in construction and / or function to any of the anchors 101, 201, 250, 350, 550 or attachment members 125, 225, 100, 200, 300, 400, 600 may include one or more different dimensions, sizes, shapes, arrangements, configurations, or materials, or be used according to different methods
[0116] Accordingly, other embodiments are within the scope of the following claims.
Claims
Attorney Docket No. 27601-0098W01WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:
1. An anchor comprising:a suture; andmultiple attachment members coupled to the suture.wherein each attachment member of the multiple attachment members is configured to securely couple to a tissue within a body and to interlock with other attachment members of the multiple attachment members in a jammed arrangement.
2. The anchor of claim 1, wherein the suture has a first material formulation and at least one attachment member of the multiple attachment members has a second material formulation that is different from the first material formulation.
3. The anchor of claim 2, wherein the first material formulation comprises one or more of a polyester and ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE).
4. The anchor of claim 2, wherein the second material formulation comprises one or more of poly ether ether ketone (PEEK), poly ether ketone ketone (PEKK), poly lactic acid (PLA), poly glycolic acid (PGA), hydroxyapatite (HA), and titanium.
5. The anchor of claim 1, further comprising:a sheath that surrounds the suture along a portion of the suture; andmultiple carrier members that surround the sheath, wherein each carrier member of the multiple carrier members supports two or more attachment members of the multiple attachment members.
6. The anchor of claim 5. wherein each carrier member of the multiple carrier members comprises a ring, and wherein the two or more attachment members are spaced apart from one another about a circumference of the carrier member.
7. The anchor of claim 5, wherein the sheath comprises two tapered end portions, and wherein each tapered end portion has a maximum diameter that is wider than an inner diameter of each carrier member to prevent the carrier member from sliding off of the sheath.Attorney Docket No. 27601-0098W018. The anchor of claim 5, wherein the multiple carrier members comprise polyetheretherketone (PEEK).
9. The anchor of claim 5, wherein the suture comprises a first suture, wherein the portion comprises a first portion, wherein the anchor comprises a second suture, and wherein the sheath further surrounds the second suture along a second portion of the second suture.
10. The anchor of claim 1, wherein the tissue comprises a soft tissue.
11. The anchor of claim 1, wherein the tissue comprises a bone, and wherein the anchor comprises a bone anchor.
12. The anchor of claim 1, wherein at least one attachment member of the multiple attachment members comprises one or more pointed ends.
13. The anchor of claim 1, wherein at least one attachment member of the multiple attachment members comprises a barb.
14. The anchor of claim 1, wherein the suture comprises one or more of a polyester and UHMWPE.
15. The anchor of claim 1, wherein the multiple attachment members comprise one or more of PEEK. PEKK, PLA, PGA, hydroxyapatite (HA), and titanium.
16. The anchor of claim 1, wherein each attachment member of the multiple attachment members comprises a through-hole through which the suture passes.
17. The anchor of claim 16, wherein the multiple attachment members are secured to the suture and spaced apart from one another along a length of the suture.
18. The anchor of claim 16, wherein the multiple attachment members are slidable along the suture.Attorney Docket No. 27601-0098W0119. The anchor of claim 16, wherein the attachment member has a shape that aligns with a profile of a tetrahedron.
20. The anchor of claim 18, wherein the attachment member comprises an opening along each lateral side of the attachment member.
21. The anchor of claim 16, wherein the attachment member has a shape of a dolos.
22. The anchor of claim 21, wherein the through-hole extends along a central axis of the attachment member.
23. The anchor of claim 16, wherein the attachment member comprises two first elongate members extending along a first axis, two second elongate members extending along a second axis, and two third elongate members extending along a third axis, wherein each axis of the first, second, and third axes is oriented perpendicular to the other two axes of the first, second, and third axes.
24. The anchor of claim 23, wherein the through-hole extends along one of the first, second, and third axes.
25. The anchor of claim 24, further comprising an additional through-hole that extends through a center point of the attachment member.
26. The anchor of claim 23, wherein the through-hole extends through a center point of the attachment member.
27. The anchor of claim 23, wherein each elongate member of the first, second, and third elongate members has a frustoconical outer shape.
28. The anchor of claim 1, wherein the multiple attachment members comprise a first attachment member having a first shape and a second attachment member having a second shape that is different from the first shape.Attorney Docket No. 27601-0098W0129. The anchor of claim 1, wherein the suture forms a loop to which the multiple attachment members are coupled.
30. The anchor of claim 29, wherein the suture is tied in a slip knot.
31. The anchor of claim 1, wherein a knot is disposed on the suture along each side of each attachment member of the multiple attachment members.
32. The anchor of claim 1, wherein a knot is disposed on the suture along outer ends of each end attachment member of the multiple attachment members.
33. The anchor of claim 1, wherein the anchor does not include any knots disposed on the suture.
34. A method of securing an anchor to a tissue within a body, the method comprising: grasping a portion of the anchor, wherein the anchor comprises multiple attachment members coupled to a suture;positioning at least the portion of the anchor within a hole in the tissue;pulling the suture of the anchor away from the tissue;causing at least one attachment member of the multiple attachment members to couple to the tissue; andcausing at least two attachment members of the multiple attachment members to interlock with each other in a jammed arrangement adjacent to the tissue.
35. The method of claim 34, further comprising causing the at least one attachment member to dig into the tissue.
36. The method of claim 34, wherein one or more attachment members of the multiple attachment members comprises a barb.
37. The method of claim 34, wherein the suture has a first material formulation and at least one attachment member of the multiple attachment members has a second material formulation that is different from the first material formulation.Attorney Docket No. 27601-0098W0138. The method of claim 37, wherein the first material formulation comprises one or more of a polyester and UHMWPE.
39. The method of claim 37, wherein the second material formulation comprises one or more of PEEK, PEKK, PLA, PGA, hydroxyapatite (HA), and titanium.
40. The method of claim 34, wherein the suture comprises one or more of a polyester and UHMWPE.
41. The method of claim 34, wherein the multiple attachment members comprise one or more of PEEK, PEKK, PLA, PGA, hydroxyapatite (HA), and titanium.
42. The method of claim 34, further comprising preventing the suture from sliding out of the hole within the tissue.
43. The method of claim 34, wherein the tissue comprises a soft tissue.
44. The method of claim 34, wherein the tissue comprises a bone, and wherein the anchor comprises a bone anchor.
45. An attachment member comprising:a triangular base; andthree lateral members extending from the base toward a vertex and defining three open sides of the attachment member,wherein the attachment member comprises one or more through-holes configured to allow passage of a suture, andwherein the attachment member is configured to be secured to a bone.