Implant retrieval system

[0001] This is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/033,371, filed Oct. 19, 2001, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/435,562, filed Nov. 8, 1999, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Pat. No. 6,152,144, issued Nov. 28, 2000, the disclosures of which are incorporated in their entirety herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Embolic stroke is the nation's third leading killer for adults, and is a major cause of disability. There are over 700,000 strokes per year in the United States alone. Of these, roughly 100,000 are hemoragic, and 600,000 are ischemic (either due to vessel narrowing or to embolism). The most common cause of embolie stroke emanating from the heart is thrombus formation due to atrial fibrillation. Approximately 80,000 strokes per year are attributable to atrial fibrillation. Atrial fibrillation is an arrhythmia of the heart that results in a rapid and chaotic heartbeat that produces lower cardiac output and irregular and turbulent blood flow in the vascular system. There are over five million people worldwide with atrial fibrillation, with about four hundred thousand new cases reported each year. Atrial fibrillation is associated with a 500 percent greater risk of stroke due to the condition. A patient with atrial fibrillation typically has a significantly decreased quality of life due, in part, to the fear of a stroke, and the pharmaceutical regimen necessary to reduce that risk.

[0003] For patients who develop atrial thrombus from atrial fibrillation, the clot normally occurs in the left atrial appendage (LAA) of the heart. The LAA is a cavity which looks like a small finger or windsock and which is connected to the lateral wall of the left atrium between the mitral valve and the root of the left pulmonary vein. The LAA normally contracts with the rest of the left atrium during a normal heart cycle, thus keeping blood from becoming stagnant therein, but often fails to contract with any vigor in patients experiencing atrial fibrillation due to the discoordinate electrical signals associated with AF. As a result, thrombus formation is predisposed to form in the stagnant blood within the LAA.

[0004] Blackshear and Odell have reported that of the 1288 patients with non-rheumatic atrial fibrillation involved in their study, <b>221</b> (17%) had thrombus detected in the left atrium of the heart. Blackshear J L, Odell J A., Appendage Obliteration to Reduce Stroke in Cardiac Surgical Patients With Atrial Fibrillation. Ann Thorac. Surg., 1996.61(2):755-9. Of the patients with atrial thrombus, <b>201</b> (91%) had the atrial thrombus located within the left atrial appendage. The foregoing suggests that the elimination or containment of thrombus formed within the LAA of patients with atrial fibrillation would significantly reduce the incidence of stroke in those patients.

[0005] Pharmacological therapies for stroke prevention such as oral or systemic administration of warfarin or the like have been inadequate due to serious side effects of the medications and lack of patient compliance in taking the medication. Invasive surgical or thorascopic techniques have been used to obliterate the LAA, however, many patients are not suitable candidates for such surgical procedures due to a compromised condition or having previously undergone cardiac surgery. In addition, the perceived risks of even a thorascopic surgical procedure often outweigh the potential benefits. See Blackshear and Odell, above. See also Lindsay B D., Obliteration of the Left Atrial Appendage: A Concept Worth Testing, Ann Thorac. Surg., 1996.61(2):515.

[0006] Despite the various efforts in the prior art, there remains a need for a minimally invasive method and associated devices for reducing the risk of thrombus formation in the left atrial appendage.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] There is provided in accordance with one aspect of the present invention an adjustable occlusion device deployment system, for implanting an occlusion device within a tubular structure in the body. The system comprises an occlusion device, movable between a reduced cross section and an enlarged cross section. A deployment catheter is provided, releasably attached to the occlusion device. A releasable lock for retaining the occlusion device is provided on the catheter, along with a core, for changing the cross section of the occlusion device.

[0008] The occlusion device comprises an expandable frame, which may have at least two and preferably at least about six spokes. In one embodiment, the occlusion device has sixteen spokes. Each spoke is moveable from an axial orientation when the occlusion device is in a reduced cross section, to an inclined orientation when the occlusion device is in an enlarged cross section. Preferably, at least one tissue attachment element is provided on the occlusion device.

[0009] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an occlusion device for occluding a tubular body structure. The device comprises a plurality of spokes, which are moveable between an axial orientation and an inclined orientation. A threaded aperture is carried by the device, and a stop surface is also carried by the device. A threaded core is rotatable within the aperture, to cause the core to contact the stop surface and axially elongate the device.

[0010] In accordance with a further aspect of the present invention, there is provided an implantable device. The device comprises a radially enlargeable frame having a proximal end and a distal end. A proximally facing stop surface is provided within the frame, and a threaded aperture is positioned in the frame, proximally of the stop surface. Distal axial advancement of a threaded core through the threaded aperture distally advances the stop surface, thereby axially elongating and radially reducing the implantable device. In one embodiment, the implantable device is an occlusion device. In an alternate embodiment, the implantable device is a filter.

[0011] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an occlusion device implantation system. The system comprises a deployment catheter, having an elongate flexible body with a proximal end and a distal end. An anti-rotation lock is provided on the body. A rotatable core extends axially through the body, and a radially expandable implant is releasably connected to the distal end of the body.

[0012] In accordance with a further aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of implanting a device in the left atrial appendage. The method comprises the steps of providing a deployment catheter, having an elongate flexible body with a proximal end and a distal end, a control on the proximal end and a device removably carried by the distal end. At least a portion of the device is positioned within the left atrial appendage, and the control is manipulated to enlarge the device under positive force.

[0013] In one application of the invention, the manipulating step comprises rotating the control. In general, the device comprises an expandable frame having at least two and preferably at least about six spokes. Each spoke is movable from an axial orientation when the device is in a reduced cross section to an inclined orientation when the device is in an enlarged cross section.

[0014] In accordance with a further aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of removing a device having tissue anchors thereon, from a site in the body. The method comprises the steps of positioning a retrieval catheter with respect to the device such that the anchors are within a flared distal end on the retrieval catheter. The diameter of the flared distal end is reduced, with the anchors therein. The retrieval catheter is thereafter removed from the site. In one aspect of the method, the reducing step comprises positioning the flared distal end within an outer tubular sleeve.

[0015] In accordance with a further aspect of the present invention, there is provided a retrieval catheter for retrieving a device from an implantation site within the body. The retrieval catheter comprises an elongate flexible body, having a proximal end and a distal end. A grasping structure is provided on or carried within the flexible body, for grasping the device, and a flared tubular sleeve is provided for surrounding at least a portion of the device. An outer tubular sleeve, for surrounding the flared tubular sleeve is also provided. The flared tubular sleeve in one embodiment comprises a plurality of petals, which are movable between an axial orientation and an inclined orientation.

[0016] Further features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the detailed description of preferred embodiments which follows, when considered together with the attached drawings and claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an occlusion device in accordance with the present invention.

[0018]FIG. 2 is a side elevational view of the occlusion device shown in FIG. 1.

[0019]FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the present invention.

[0020]FIG. 4 is a side elevational view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 3.

[0021]FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a further embodiment of the present invention.

[0022]FIG. 6 is a side elevational view of the embodiment of FIG. 5.

[0023]FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a support structure for a further occlusion device in accordance with the present invention.

[0024]FIG. 7A is a side elevational view of the device of FIG. 7.

[0025]FIG. 7B is an end view taken along the line <b>7</b>B-<b>7</b>B of FIG. 7A.

[0026]FIG. 8 is a schematic illustration of an inflatable balloon positioned within the occlusion device of FIG. 7.

[0027]FIG. 9 is a schematic view of a pull string deployment embodiment of the occlusion device of FIG. 7.

[0028]FIGS. 10 and 11 are side elevational schematic representations of partial and complete barrier layers on the occlusion device of FIG. 7.

[0029]FIG. 12 is a side elevational schematic view of an alternate occlusion device in accordance with the present invention.

[0030]FIG. 13 is a schematic view of a bonding layer mesh for use in forming a composite barrier membrane in accordance with the present invention.

[0031]FIG. 14 is an exploded cross sectional view of the components of a composite barrier member in accordance with the present invention.

[0032]FIG. 15 is a cross sectional view through a composite barrier formed from the components illustrated in FIG. 14.

[0033]FIG. 16 is a top plan view of the composite barrier illustrated in FIG. 15.

[0034]FIG. 17 is a schematic view of a deployment system in accordance with the present invention.

[0035]FIG. 17A is an enlarged view of a releasable lock in an engaged configuration.

[0036]FIG. 17B is an enlarged view as in FIG. 17A, with the core axially retracted to release the implant.

[0037]FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a flexible guide tube for use in the configurations of FIG. 17 and/or FIG. 19.

[0038]FIG. 19 is a schematic view of an alternate deployment system in accordance with the present invention.

[0039] FIGS. <b>19</b>A-<b>19</b>B illustrate a removal sequence for an implanted device in accordance with the present invention.

[0040]FIG. 20 is a schematic cross sectional view through the distal end of a retrieval catheter having an occlusion device removably connected thereto.

[0041]FIG. 20A is a side elevational schematic view of the system illustrated in FIG. 20, with the occlusion device axially elongated and radially reduced.

[0042]FIG. 20B is a side elevational schematic view as in FIG. 20A, with the occlusion device drawn part way into the delivery catheter.

[0043]FIG. 20C is a schematic view as in FIG. 20B, with the occlusion device and delivery catheter drawn into a transeptal sheath.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[0044] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, there is illustrated one embodiment of the occlusion device <b>10</b> in accordance with the present invention. Although the present invention will be described primarily in the context of an occlusion device, the present inventors also contemplate omitting the fabric cover or enlarging the pore size to produce implantable filters or other devices which are enlargeable at a remote implantation site.

[0045] The occlusion device <b>10</b> comprises an occluding member <b>11</b> comprising a frame <b>14</b> and a barrier <b>15</b>. In the illustrated embodiment, the frame <b>14</b> comprises a plurality of radially outwardly extending spokes <b>17</b> each having a length within the range of from about 0.5 cm to about 2 cm from a hub <b>16</b>. In one embodiment, the spokes have an axial length of about 1.5 cm. Depending upon the desired introduction crossing profile of the collapsed occlusion device <b>10</b>, as well as structural strength requirements in the deployed device, anywhere within the range of from about 3 spokes to about 40 spokes may be utilized. In some embodiments, anywhere from about 12 to about 24 spokes are utilized, and, 18 spokes are utilized in one embodiment.

[0046] The spokes are advanceable from a generally axially extending orientation such as to fit within a tubular introduction catheter to a radially inclined orientation as illustrated in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 following deployment from the catheter. In a self-expandable embodiment, the spokes are biased radially outwardly such that the occlusion member expands to its enlarged, implantation cross-section under its own bias following deployment from the catheter. Alternatively, the occlusion member may be enlarged using any of a variety of enlargement structures such as an inflatable balloon, or a catheter for axially shortening the occlusion member, as is discussed further below.

[0047] Preferably, the spokes comprise a metal such as stainless steel, Nitinol, Elgiloy, or others which can be determined through routine experimentation by those of skill in the art. Wires having a circular or rectangular cross-section may be utilized depending upon the manufacturing technique. In one embodiment, rectangular cross section spokes are cut such as by known laser cutting techniques from tube stock, a portion of which forms the hub <b>16</b>.

[0048] The barrier <b>15</b> may comprise any of a variety of materials which facilitate cellular in-growth, such as ePTFE. The suitability of alternate materials for barrier <b>15</b> can be determined through routine experimentation by those of skill in the art. The barrier <b>15</b> may be provided on either one or both axially facing sides of the occlusion member. In one embodiment, the barrier <b>15</b> comprises two layers, with one layer on each side of the frame <b>14</b>. The two layers may be bonded to each other around the spokes <b>17</b> in any of a variety of ways, such as by heat bonding with or without an intermediate bonding layer such as polyethylene or FEP, adhesives, sutures, and other techniques which will be apparent to those of skill in the art in view of the disclosure herein. The barrier <b>15</b> preferably has a thickness of no more than about 0.003″ and a porosity within the range of from about 5 μm to about 60 μm.

[0049] The barrier <b>15</b> in one embodiment preferably is securely attached to the frame <b>14</b> and retains a sufficient porosity to facilitate cellular ingrowth and/or attachment. One method of manufacturing a suitable composite membrane barrier <b>15</b> is illustrated in FIGS. <b>13</b>-<b>16</b>. As illustrated schematically in FIG. 13, a bonding layer <b>254</b> preferably comprises a mesh or other porous structure having an open surface area within the range of from about 10% to about 90%. Preferably, the open surface area of the mesh is within the range of from about 30% to about 60%. The opening or pore size of the bonding layer <b>254</b> is preferably within the range of from about 0.005 inches to about 0.050 inches, and, in one embodiment, is about 0.020 inches. The thickness of the bonding layer <b>254</b> can be varied widely, and is generally within the range of from about 0.0005 inches to about 0.005 inches. In a preferred embodiment, the bonding layer <b>254</b> has a thickness of about 0.001 to about 0.002 inches. One suitable polyethylene bonding mesh is available from Smith and Nephew, under the code SN9.

[0050] Referring to FIG. 14, the bonding layer <b>254</b> is preferably placed adjacent one or both sides of a spoke or other frame element <b>14</b>. The bonding layer <b>254</b> and frame <b>14</b> layers are then positioned in-between a first membrane <b>250</b> and a second membrane <b>252</b> to provide a composite membrane stack. The first membrane <b>250</b> and second membrane <b>252</b> may comprise any of a variety of materials and thicknesses, depending upon the desired functional result. Generally, the membrane has a thickness within the range of from about 0.0005 inches to about 0.010 inches. In one embodiment, the membranes <b>250</b> and <b>252</b> each have a thickness on the order of from about 0.001 inches to about 0.002 inches, and comprise porous ePTFE, having a porosity within the range of from about 10 microns to about 100 microns.

[0051] The composite stack is heated to a temperature of from about 200° to about 300°, for about 1 minute to about 5 minutes under pressure to provide a finished composite membrane assembly with an embedded frame <b>14</b> as illustrated schematically in FIG. 15. The final composite membrane has a thickness within the range of from about 0.001 inches to about 0.010 inches, and, preferably, is about 0.002 to about 0.003 inches in thickness. However, the thicknesses and process parameters of the foregoing may be varied considerably, depending upon the materials of the bonding layer <b>254</b> the first layer <b>250</b> and the second layer <b>252</b>.

[0052] As illustrated in top plan view in FIG. 16, the resulting finished composite membrane has a plurality of “unbonded” windows or areas <b>256</b> suitable for cellular attachment and/or ingrowth. The attachment areas <b>256</b> are bounded by the frame <b>14</b> struts, and the cross-hatch or other wall pattern formed by the bonding layer <b>254</b>. Preferably, a regular window <b>256</b> pattern is produced in the bonding layer <b>254</b>.

[0053] The foregoing procedure allows the bonding mesh to flow into the first and second membranes <b>250</b> and <b>252</b> and gives the composite membrane <b>15</b> greater strength (both tensile and tear strength) than the components without the bonding mesh. The composite allows uniform bonding while maintaining porosity of the membrane <b>15</b>, to facilitate tissue attachment. By flowing the thermoplastic bonding layer into the pores of the outer mesh layers <b>250</b> and <b>252</b>, the composite flexibility is preserved and the overall composite layer thickness can be minimized.

[0054] Referring back to FIGS. 1 and 2, the occlusion device <b>10</b> may be further provided with a bulking element or stabilizer <b>194</b>. The stabilizer <b>194</b> may be spaced apart along an axis from the occluding member <b>11</b>. In the illustrated embodiment, a distal end <b>190</b> and a proximal end <b>192</b> are identified for reference. The designation proximal or distal is not intended to indicate any particular anatomical orientation or deployment orientation within the deployment catheter. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the stabilizer <b>194</b> is spaced distally apart from the occluding member <b>11</b>.

[0055] For use in the LAA, the occluding member <b>11</b> has an expanded diameter within the range of from about 1 cm to about 5 cm, and, in one embodiment, about 3 cm. The axial length of the occluding member <b>11</b> in an expanded, unstressed orientation from the distal end <b>192</b> to the hub <b>16</b> is on the order of about 1 cm. The overall length of the occlusion device <b>10</b> from the distal end <b>192</b> to the proximal end <b>190</b> is within the range of from about 1.5 cm to about 4 cm and, in one embodiment, about 2.5 cm. The axial length of the stabilizer <b>194</b> between distal hub <b>191</b> and proximal hub <b>16</b> is within the range of from about 0.5 cm to about 2 cm, and, in one embodiment, about 1 cm. The expanded diameter of the stabilizer <b>194</b> is within the range of from about 0.5 cm to about 2.5 cm, and, in one embodiment, about 1.4 cm. The outside diameter of the distal hub <b>191</b> and proximal hub <b>16</b> is about 2.5 mm.

[0056] Preferably, the occlusion device <b>10</b> is provided with one or more retention structures for retaining the device in the left atrial appendage or other body cavity or lumen. In the illustrated embodiment, a plurality of barbs or other anchors <b>195</b> are provided, for engaging adjacent tissue to retain the occlusion device <b>10</b> in its implanted position and to limit relative movement between the tissue and the occlusion device. The illustrated anchors are provided on one or more of the spokes <b>17</b>, or other portion of frame <b>14</b>. Preferably, every spoke, every second spoke or every third spoke are provided with one or two or more anchors each.

[0057] The illustrated anchor is in the form of a barb, with one on each spoke for extending into tissue at or near the opening of the LAA. Depending upon the embodiment, two or three barbs may alternatively be desired on each spoke. In the single barb embodiment of FIG. 7, each barb is inclined in a proximal direction. This is to inhibit proximal migration of the implant out of the left atrial appendage. In this context, distal refers to the direction into the left atrial appendage, and proximal refers to the direction from the left atrial appendage into the heart.

[0058] Alternatively, one or more barbs may face distally, to inhibit distal migration of the occlusion device deeper into the LAA. Thus the implant may be provided with at least one proximally facing barb and at least one distally facing barb. For example, in an embodiment of the type illustrated in FIG. 12, discussed below, a proximal plurality of barbs may be inclined in a first direction, and a distal plurality of barbs may be inclined in a second direction, to anchor the implant against both proximal and distal migration.

[0059] One or more anchors <b>195</b> may also be provided on the stabilizer <b>194</b>, such that it assists not only in orienting the occlusion device <b>10</b> and resisting compression of the LAA, but also in retaining the occlusion device <b>10</b> within the LAA. Any of a wide variety of structures may be utilized for anchor <b>195</b>, either on the occluding member <b>11</b> or the stabilizer <b>194</b> or both, such as hooks, barbs, pins, sutures, adhesives, ingrowth surfaces and others which will be apparent to those of skill in the art in view of the disclosure herein.

[0060] In use, the occlusion device <b>10</b> is preferably positioned within a tubular anatomical structure to be occluded such as the left atrial appendage. In a left atrial appendage application, the occluding member <b>11</b> is positioned across or near the opening to the LAA and the stabilizer <b>194</b> is positioned within the LAA. The stabilizer <b>194</b> assists in the proper location and orientation of the occluding member <b>11</b>, as well as resists compression of the LAA behind the occluding member <b>11</b>. The present inventors have determined that following deployment of an occluding member <b>11</b> without a stabilizer <b>194</b> or other bulking structure to resist compression of the LAA, normal operation of the heart may cause compression and resulting volume changes in the LAA, thereby forcing fluid past the occluding member <b>11</b> and inhibiting or preventing a complete seal. Provision of a stabilizer <b>194</b> dimensioned to prevent the collapse or pumping of the LAA thus minimizes leakage, and provision of the barbs facilitates endothelialization or other cell growth across the occluding member <b>11</b>.

[0061] The stabilizer <b>194</b> is preferably movable between a reduced cross-sectional profile for transluminal advancement into the left atrial appendage, and an enlarged cross-sectional orientation as illustrated to fill or to substantially fill a cross-section through the LAA. The stabilizing member may enlarge to a greater cross section than the (pre-stretched) anatomical cavity, to ensure a tight fit and minimize the likelihood of compression. One convenient construction includes a plurality of elements <b>196</b> which are radially outwardly expandable in response to axial compression of a distal hub <b>191</b> towards a proximal hub <b>16</b>. Elements <b>196</b> each comprise a distal segment <b>198</b> and a proximal segment <b>202</b> connected by a bend <b>200</b>. The elements <b>196</b> may be provided with a bias in the direction of the radially enlarged orientation as illustrated in FIG. 2, or may be radially expanded by applying an expansion force such as an axially compressive force between distal hub <b>191</b> and proximal hub <b>16</b> or a radial expansion force such as might be applied by an inflatable balloon. Elements <b>196</b> may conveniently be formed by laser cutting the same tube stock as utilized to construct the distal hub <b>191</b>, proximal hub <b>16</b> and frame <b>14</b>, as will be apparent to those of skill in the art in view of the disclosure herein. Alternatively, the various components of the occlusion device <b>10</b> may be separately fabricated or fabricated in subassemblies and secured together during manufacturing.

[0062] As a post implantation step for any of the occlusion devices disclosed herein, a radiopaque dye or other visualizable media may be introduced on one side or the other of the occlusion device, to permit visualization of any escaped blood or other fluid past the occlusion device. For example, in the context of a left atrial appendage application, the occlusion device may be provided with a central lumen or other capillary tube or aperture which permits introduction of a visualizable dye from the deployment catheter through the occlusion device and into the entrapped space on the distal side of the occlusion device. Alternatively, dye may be introduced into the entrapped space distal to the occlusion device such as by advancing a small gauge needle from the deployment catheter through the barrier <b>15</b> on the occlusion device, to introduce dye.

[0063] Modifications to the occlusion device <b>10</b> are illustrated in FIGS. <b>3</b>-<b>4</b>. The occlusion device <b>10</b> comprises an occlusion member <b>11</b> and a stabilizing member <b>194</b> as previously discussed. In the present embodiment, however, each of the distal segments <b>198</b> inclines radially outwardly in the proximal direction and terminates in a proximal end <b>204</b>. The proximal end <b>204</b> may be provided with an atraumatic configuration, for pressing against, but not penetrating, the wall of the left atrial appendage or other tubular body structure. Three or more distal segments <b>198</b> are preferably provided, and generally anywhere within the range of from about 6 to about 20 distal segments <b>198</b> may be used. In one embodiment, 9 distal segments <b>198</b> are provided. In this embodiment, three of the distal segments <b>198</b> have an axial length of about 5 mm, and 6 of the distal segments <b>198</b> have an axial length of about 1 cm. Staggering the lengths of the distal segments <b>198</b> may axially elongate the zone in the left atrial appendage against which the proximal ends <b>204</b> provide anchoring support for the occlusion device.

[0064] The occlusion device <b>10</b> illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4 is additionally provided with a hinge <b>206</b> to allow the longitudinal axis of the occlusion member <b>11</b> to be angularly oriented with respect to the longitudinal axis of the stabilizing member <b>194</b>. In the illustrated embodiment, the hinge <b>206</b> is a helical coil, although any of a variety of hinge structures can be utilized. The illustrated embodiment may be conveniently formed by laser cutting a helical slot through a section of the tube from which the principal structural components of the occlusion device <b>10</b> are formed. At the distal end of the hinge <b>206</b>, an annular band <b>208</b> connects the hinge <b>206</b> to a plurality of axially extending struts <b>210</b>. In the illustrated embodiment, three axial struts <b>210</b> are provided, spaced equilaterally around the circumference of the body. Axial struts <b>210</b> may be formed from a portion of the wall of the original tube stock, which portion is left in its original axial orientation following formation of the distal segments <b>198</b> such as by laser cutting from the tubular wall.

[0065] The occlusion member <b>11</b> is provided with a proximal zone <b>212</b> on each of the spokes <b>17</b>. Proximal zone <b>212</b> has an enhanced degree of flexibility, to accommodate the fit between the occlusion member <b>11</b> and the wall of the left atrial appendage. Proximal section <b>212</b> may be formed by reducing the cross sectional area of each of the spokes <b>17</b>, which may be provided with a wave pattern as illustrated.

[0066] Each of the spokes <b>17</b> terminates in a proximal point <b>214</b>. Proximal point <b>214</b> may be contained within layers of the barrier <b>15</b>, or may extend through or beyond the barrier <b>15</b> such as to engage adjacent tissue and assist in retaining the occlusion device <b>10</b> at the deployment site.

[0067] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, a further variation on the occlusion device <b>10</b> illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 is provided. The occlusion device <b>10</b> is provided with a proximal face <b>216</b> on the occlusion member <b>11</b>, instead of the open and proximally concave face on the embodiment of FIGS. 1 and 2. The proximal face <b>216</b> is formed by providing a proximal spoke <b>218</b> which connects at an apex <b>220</b> to some or all of the distal spokes <b>17</b>. The proximal spoke <b>218</b>, and corresponding apex <b>220</b> and distal spoke <b>17</b> may be an integral structure, such as a single ribbon or wire, or element cut from a tube stock as has been discussed.

[0068] Proximal spokes <b>218</b> are each attached to a hub <b>222</b> at the proximal end <b>192</b> of the occlusion device <b>10</b>. The barrier <b>15</b> may surround either the proximal face or the distal face or both on the occlusion member <b>11</b>. In general, provision of a proximal spoke <b>218</b> connected by an apex <b>220</b> to a distal spoke <b>17</b> provides a greater radial force than a distal spoke <b>17</b> alone, which will provide an increased resistance to compression if the occlusion member <b>11</b> is positioned with the LAA.

[0069] Referring to FIGS. <b>7</b>-<b>12</b>, alternate structures of the occlusion device in accordance with the present invention are illustrated. In general, the occlusion device <b>10</b> comprises an occluding member but does not include a distinct stabilizing member as has been illustrated in connection with previous embodiments. Any of the embodiments previously disclosed herein may also be constructed using the occluding member only, and omitting the stabilizing member as will be apparent to those of skill in the art in view of the disclosure herein.

[0070] The occluding device <b>10</b> comprises a proximal end <b>192</b>, a distal end <b>190</b>, and a longitudinal axis extending therebetween. A plurality of supports <b>228</b> extend between a proximal hub <b>222</b> and a distal hub <b>191</b>. At least two or three supports <b>228</b> are provided, and preferably at least about ten. In one embodiment, sixteen supports <b>228</b> are provided. However, the precise number of supports <b>228</b> can be modified, depending upon the desired physical properties of the occlusion device <b>10</b> as will be apparent to those of skill in the art in view of the disclosure herein, without departing from the present invention.

[0071] Each support <b>228</b> comprises a proximal spoke portion <b>218</b>, a distal spoke portion <b>17</b>, and an apex <b>220</b> as has been discussed. Each of the proximal spoke portion <b>218</b>, distal spoke portion <b>17</b> and apex <b>220</b> may be a region on an integral support <b>228</b>, such as a continuous rib or frame member which extends in a generally curved configuration as illustrated with a concavity facing towards the longitudinal axis of the occlusion device <b>10</b>. Thus, no distinct point or hinge at apex <b>220</b> is necessarily provided.

[0072] At least some of the supports <b>228</b>, and, preferably, each support <b>228</b>, is provided with one or two or more barbs <b>195</b>. In the illustrated configuration, the occlusion device <b>10</b> is in its enlarged orientation, such as for occluding a left atrial appendage or other body cavity or lumen. In this orientation, each of the barbs <b>195</b> projects generally radially outwardly from the longitudinal axis, and is inclined in the proximal direction. One or more barbs may also be inclined distally, as is discussed elsewhere herein. In an embodiment where the barbs <b>195</b> and corresponding support <b>228</b> are cut from a single ribbon, sheet or tube stock, the barb <b>195</b> will incline radially outwardly at approximately a tangent to the curve formed by the support <b>228</b>.

[0073] The occlusion device <b>10</b> constructed from the frame illustrated in FIG. 7 may be constructed in any of a variety of ways, as will become apparent to those of skill in the art in view of the disclosure herein. In one method, the occlusion device <b>10</b> is constructed by laser cutting a piece of tube stock to provide a plurality of axially extending slots in-between adjacent supports <b>228</b>. Similarly, each barb <b>195</b> can be laser cut from the corresponding support <b>228</b> or space in-between adjacent supports <b>228</b>. The generally axially extending slots which separate adjacent supports <b>228</b> end a sufficient distance from each of the proximal end <b>192</b> and distal end <b>190</b> to leave a proximal hub <b>222</b> and a distal hub <b>191</b> to which each of the supports <b>228</b> will attach. In this manner, an integral cage structure may be formed. Alternatively, each of the components of the cage structure may be separately formed and attached together such as through soldering, brazing, heat bonding, adhesives, and other fastening techniques which are known in the art. A further method of manufacturing the occlusion device <b>10</b> is to laser cut a slot pattern on a flat sheet of appropriate material, such as a flexible metal or polymer, as has been discussed in connection with previous embodiments. The flat sheet may thereafter be rolled about an axis and opposing edges bonded together to form a tubular structure.

[0074] The apex portion <b>220</b> which carries the barb <b>195</b> may be advanced from a low profile orientation in which each of the supports <b>228</b> extend generally parallel to the longitudinal axis, to an implanted orientation as illustrated, in which the apex <b>220</b> and the barb <b>195</b> are positioned radially outwardly from the longitudinal axis. The support <b>228</b> may be biased towards the enlarged orientation, or may be advanced to the enlarged orientation under positive force following positioning within the tubular anatomical structure, in any of a variety of manners.

[0075] For an example of enlarging under positive force, referring to FIG. 8, an inflatable balloon <b>230</b> is positioned within the occlusion device <b>10</b>. Inflatable balloon <b>230</b> is connected by way of a removable coupling <b>232</b> to an inflation catheter <b>234</b>. Inflation catheter <b>234</b> is provided with an inflation lumen for providing communication between an inflation media source <b>236</b> outside of the patient and the balloon <b>230</b>. Following positioning within the target body lumen, the balloon <b>230</b> is inflated, thereby engaging barbs <b>195</b> with the surrounding tissue. The inflation catheter <b>234</b> is thereafter removed, by decoupling the removable coupling <b>232</b>, and the inflation catheter <b>234</b> is thereafter removed. The balloon <b>230</b> may be either left in place within the occlusion device <b>10</b>, or deflated and removed by the inflation catheter <b>234</b>.

[0076] In an alternate embodiment, the supports <b>228</b> are radially enlarged such as through the use of a deployment catheter <b>238</b>. See FIG. 9. Deployment catheter <b>238</b> comprises a lumen for movably receiving a deployment element such as a flexible line <b>240</b>. Deployment line <b>240</b> extends in a loop <b>244</b> formed by an aperture or slip knot <b>242</b>. As will be apparent from FIG. 9, proximal retraction on the deployment line <b>240</b> while resisting proximal movement of proximal hub <b>222</b> such as by using the distal end of the catheter <b>238</b> will cause the distal hub <b>191</b> to be drawn towards the proximal hub <b>222</b>, thereby radially enlarging the cross-sectional area of the occlusion device <b>10</b>. Depending upon the material utilized for the occlusion device <b>10</b>, the supports <b>228</b> will retain the radially enlarged orientation by elastic deformation, or may be retained in the enlarged orientation such as by securing the slip knot <b>242</b> immovably to the deployment line <b>240</b> at the fully radially enlarged orientation. This may be accomplished in any of a variety of ways, using additional knots, clips, adhesives, or other techniques known in the art.

[0077] A variety of alternative structures may be utilized, to open or enlarge the occlusion device <b>10</b> under positive force. For example, Referring to FIG. 9, a pullwire <b>240</b> may be removably attached to the distal hub <b>191</b> or other distal point of attachment on the occlusion device <b>10</b>. Proximal retraction of the pullwire <b>240</b> while resisting proximal motion of the proximal hub <b>222</b> such as by using the distal end of the catheter <b>238</b> will cause enlargement of the occlusion device <b>10</b> as has been discussed. The pullwire <b>240</b> may then be locked with respect to the proximal hub <b>222</b> and severed or otherwise detached to enable removal of the deployment catheter <b>238</b> and proximal extension of the pullwire <b>240</b>. Locking of the pullwire with respect to the proximal hub <b>222</b> may be accomplished in any of a variety of ways, such as by using interference fit or friction fit structures, adhesives, a knot or other technique depending upon the desired catheter design.

[0078] Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, the occlusion device <b>10</b> may be provided with a barrier <b>15</b> such as a mesh or fabric as has been previously discussed. Barrier <b>15</b> may be provided on only one hemisphere such as proximal face <b>216</b>, or may be carried by the entire occlusion device <b>10</b> from proximal end <b>192</b> to distal end <b>190</b>. The barrier may be secured to the radially inwardly facing surface of the supports <b>228</b>, as illustrated in FIG. 11, or may be provided on the radially outwardly facing surfaces of supports <b>228</b>, or both.

[0079] A further embodiment of the occlusion device <b>10</b> is illustrated in FIG. 12, in which the apex <b>220</b> is elongated in an axial direction to provide additional contact area between the occlusion device <b>10</b> and the wall of the tubular structure. In this embodiment, one or two or three or more anchors <b>195</b> may be provided on each support <b>228</b>, depending upon the desired clinical performance. The occlusion device <b>10</b> illustrated in FIG. 12 may also be provided with any of a variety of other features discussed herein, such as a partial or complete barrier <b>15</b>. In addition, the occlusion device <b>10</b> illustrated in FIG. 12 may be enlarged using any of the techniques disclosed elsewhere herein.

[0080] Referring to FIG. 17, there is schematically illustrated a further aspect of the present invention. An adjustable implant deployment system <b>300</b> comprises generally a catheter <b>302</b> for placing a detachable implant <b>304</b> within a body cavity or lumen, as has been discussed. The catheter <b>302</b> comprises an elongate flexible tubular body <b>306</b>, extending between a proximal end <b>308</b> and a distal end <b>310</b>. The catheter is shown in highly schematic form, for the purpose of illustrating the functional aspects thereof. The catheter body will have a sufficient length and diameter to permit percutaneous entry into the vascular system, and transluminal advancement through the vascular system to the desired deployment site. For example, in an embodiment intended for access at the femoral artery and deployment within the left atrial appendage, the catheter <b>302</b> will have a length within the range of from about 50 cm to about 150 cm, and a diameter of generally no more than about 15 French. Further dimensions and physical characteristics of catheters for navigation to particular sites within the body are well understood in the art and will not be further described herein.

[0081] The tubular body <b>306</b> is further provided with a handle <b>309</b> generally on the proximal end <b>308</b> of the catheter <b>302</b>. The handle <b>309</b> permits manipulation of the various aspects of the implant deployment system <b>300</b>, as will be discussed below. Handle <b>309</b> may be manufactured in any of a variety of ways, typically by injection molding or otherwise forming a handpiece for single-hand operation, using materials and construction techniques well known in the medical device arts.

[0082] The implant <b>304</b> may be in the form of any of those described previously herein, as modified below. In general, the implant is movable from a reduced crossing profile to an enlarged crossing profile, such that it may be positioned within a body structure and advanced from its reduced to its enlarged crossing profile to obstruct bloodflow or perform other functions while anchored therein. The implant <b>304</b> may be biased in the direction of the enlarged crossing profile, may be neutrally biased or may be biased in the direction of the reduced crossing profile. Any modifications to the device and deployment system to accommodate these various aspects of the implant <b>304</b> may be readily accomplished by those of skill in the art in view of the disclosure herein.

[0083] In the illustrated embodiment, the distal end <b>314</b> of the implant <b>304</b> is provided with an implant plug <b>316</b>. Implant plug <b>316</b> provides a stopping surface <b>317</b> for contacting an axially movable core <b>312</b>. The core <b>312</b> extends axially throughout the length of the catheter body <b>302</b>, and is attached at its proximal end to a core control <b>332</b> on the handle <b>309</b>.

[0084] The core <b>312</b> may comprise any of a variety of structures which has sufficient lateral flexibility to permit navigation of the vascular system, and sufficient axial column strength to enable reduction of the implant <b>304</b> to its reduced crossing profile. Any of a variety of structures such as hypotube, solid core wire, “bottomed out” coil spring structures, or combinations thereof may be used, depending upon the desired performance of the finished device. In one embodiment, the core <b>312</b> comprises stainless steel tubing.

[0085] The distal end of core <b>312</b> is positioned within a recess or lumen <b>322</b> defined by a proximally extending guide tube <b>320</b>. In the illustrated embodiment, the guide tube <b>320</b> is a section of tubing such as metal hypotube, which is attached at the distal end <b>314</b> of the implant and extends proximally within the implant <b>304</b>. The guide tube <b>320</b> preferably extends a sufficient distance in the proximal direction to inhibit buckling or prolapse of the core <b>312</b> when distal pressure is applied to the core control <b>332</b> to reduce the profile of the implant <b>304</b>. However, the guide tube <b>320</b> should not extend proximally a sufficient distance to interfere with the opening of the implant <b>304</b>.

[0086] As will be appreciated by reference to FIG. 17, the guide tube <b>320</b> may operate as a limit on distal axial advancement of the proximal end <b>324</b> of implant <b>304</b>. Thus, the guide tube <b>320</b> preferably does not extend sufficiently far proximally from the distal end <b>314</b> to interfere with optimal opening of the implant <b>304</b>. The specific dimensions are therefore relative, and will be optimized to suit a particular intended application. In one embodiment, the implant <b>304</b> has an implanted outside diameter within the range of from about 5 mm to about 45 mm, and an axial implanted length within the range of from about 5 mm to about 45 mm. The guide tube <b>320</b> has an overall length of about 3 mm to about 35 mm, and an outside diameter of about 0.095 inches.

[0087] An alternate guide tube <b>320</b> is schematically illustrated in FIG. 18. In this configuration, the guide tube <b>320</b> comprises a plurality of tubular segments <b>321</b> spaced apart by an intervening space <b>323</b>. This allows increased flexibility of the guide tube <b>320</b>, which may be desirable during the implantation step, while retaining the ability of the guide tube <b>320</b> to maintain linearity of the core <b>312</b> while under axial pressure. Although three segments <b>321</b> are illustrated in FIG. 18, as many as 10 or 20 or more segments <b>321</b> may be desirable depending upon the desired flexibility of the resulting implant.

[0088] Each adjacent pair of segments <b>321</b> may be joined by a hinge element <b>325</b> which permits lateral flexibility. In the illustrated embodiment, the hinge element <b>325</b> comprises an axially extending strip or spine, which provides column strength along a first side of the guide tube <b>320</b>. The guide tube <b>320</b> may therefore be curved by compressing a second side of the guide tube <b>320</b> which is generally offset from the spine <b>325</b> by about 180°. A limit on the amount of curvature may be set by adjusting the axial length of the space <b>323</b> between adjacent segments <b>321</b>. In an embodiment having axial spines <b>325</b>, each axial spine <b>325</b> may be rotationally offset from the next adjacent axial spine <b>325</b> to enable flexibility of the overall guide tube <b>320</b> throughout a 360° angular range of motion.

[0089] Alternatively, the flexible hinge point between each adjacent segment <b>321</b> may be provided by cutting a spiral groove or plurality of parallel grooves in a tubular element in between what will then become each adjacent pair of segments <b>321</b>. In this manner, each tubular element <b>321</b> will be separated by an integral spring like structure, which can permit flexibility. As a further alternative, the entire length of the guide tube <b>320</b> may comprise a spring. Each of the forgoing embodiments may be readily constructed by laser cutting or other cutting from a piece of tube stock, to produce a one piece guide tube <b>320</b>. Alternatively, the guide tube <b>320</b> may be assembled from separate components and fabricated together using any of a variety of bonding techniques which are appropriate for the construction material selected for the tube <b>320</b>.

[0090] Various distal end <b>314</b> constructions may be utilized, as will be apparent to those of skill in the art in view of the disclosure herein. In the illustrated embodiment, the distal implant plug <b>316</b> extends within the implant <b>304</b> and is attached to the distal end of the guide tube <b>320</b>. The implant plug <b>316</b> may be secured to the guide tube <b>320</b> and implant <b>304</b> in any of a variety of ways, depending upon the various construction materials. For example, any of a variety of metal bonding techniques such as a welding, brazing, interference fit such as threaded fit or snap fit, may be utilized. Alternatively, any of a variety of bonding techniques for dissimilar materials may be utilized, such as adhesives, and various molding techniques. In one construction, the implant plug <b>316</b> comprises a molded polyethylene cap, and is held in place utilizing a distal cross pin <b>318</b> which extends through the implant <b>304</b>, the guide tube <b>320</b> and the implant plug <b>316</b> to provide a secure fit against axial displacement.

[0091] The proximal end <b>324</b> of the implant <b>304</b> is provided with a releasable lock <b>326</b> for attachment to a release element such as pull wire <b>328</b>. Pull wire <b>328</b> extends proximally throughout the length of the tubular body <b>306</b> to a proximal pull wire control <b>330</b> on the handle <b>309</b>.

[0092] As used herein, the term pull wire is intended to include any of a wide variety of structures which are capable of transmitting axial tension or compression such as a pushing or pulling force with or without rotation from the proximal end <b>308</b> to the distal end <b>310</b> of the catheter <b>302</b>. Thus, monofilament or multifilament metal or polymeric rods or wires, woven or braided structures may be utilized. Alternatively, tubular elements such as a concentric tube positioned within the outer tubular body <b>306</b> may also be used as will be apparent to those of skill in the art.

[0093] In the illustrated embodiment, the pull wire <b>328</b> is releasably connected to the proximal end <b>324</b> of the implant <b>304</b>. This permits proximal advancement of the proximal end of the implant <b>304</b>, which cooperates with a distal retention force provided by the core <b>312</b> against the distal end of the implant to axially elongate the implant <b>304</b> thereby reducing it from its implanted configuration to its reduced profile for implantation. The proximal end of the pull wire <b>328</b> may be connected to any of a variety of pull wire controls <b>330</b>, including rotational knobs, levers and slider switches, depending upon the design preference.

[0094] The proximal end <b>324</b> of the implant <b>304</b> is thus preferably provided with a releasable lock <b>326</b> for attachment of the pullwire <b>328</b> to the deployment catheter. In the illustrated embodiment, the releasable lock is formed by advancing the pullwire distally around a cross pin <b>329</b>, and providing an eye or loop which extends around the core <b>312</b>. As long as the core <b>312</b> is in position within the implant <b>304</b>, proximal retraction of the pullwire <b>328</b> will advance the proximal end <b>324</b> of the implant <b>304</b> in a proximal direction. See FIG. 17A. However, following deployment, proximal retraction of the core <b>312</b> such as by manipulation of the core control <b>332</b> will pull the distal end of the core <b>312</b> through the loop on the distal end of the pullwire <b>328</b>. The pullwire <b>328</b> may then be freely proximally removed from the implant <b>304</b>, thereby enabling detachment of the implant <b>304</b> from the deployment system <b>300</b> within a treatment site. See FIG. 17B.

[0095] The implant. deployment system <b>300</b> thus permits the implant <b>304</b> to be maintained in a low crossing profile configuration, to enable transluminal navigation to a deployment site. Following positioning at or about the desired deployment site, proximal retraction of the core <b>312</b> enables the implant <b>304</b> to radially enlarge under its own bias to fit the surrounding tissue structure. Alternatively, the implant can be enlarged under positive force, such as by inflation of a balloon or by a mechanical mechanism as is discussed elsewhere herein. Once the clinician is satisfied with the position of the implant <b>304</b>, such as by injection of dye and visualization using conventional techniques, the core <b>312</b> is proximally retracted thereby releasing the lock <b>326</b> and enabling detachment of the implant <b>304</b> from the deployment system <b>300</b>.

[0096] If, however, visualization reveals that the implant <b>304</b> is not at the location desired by the clinician, proximal retraction of the pull wire <b>328</b> with respect to the core <b>312</b> will radially reduce the diameter of the implant <b>304</b>, thereby enabling repositioning of the implant <b>304</b> at the desired site. Thus, the present invention permits the implant <b>304</b> to be enlarged or reduced by the clinician to permit repositioning and/or removal of the implant <b>304</b> as may be desired.

[0097] In an alternate construction, the implant may be radially enlarged or reduced by rotating a torque element extending throughout the deployment catheter. Referring to FIG. 19, the elongate flexible tubular body <b>306</b> of the deployment catheter <b>302</b> includes a rotatable torque rod <b>340</b> extending axially therethrough. The proximal end of the torque rod <b>340</b> may be connected at a proximal manifold to a manual rotation device such as a hand crank, thumb wheel, rotatable knob or the like. Alternatively, the torque rod <b>340</b> may be connected to a power driven source of rotational energy such as a motor drive or air turbine.

[0098] The distal end of the torque rod <b>340</b> is integral with or is connected to a rotatable core <b>342</b> which extends axially through the implant <b>304</b>. A distal end <b>344</b> of the rotatable core <b>342</b> is positioned within a cavity <b>322</b> as has been discussed.

[0099] The terms torque rod or torque element are intended to include any of a wide variety of structures which are capable of transmitting a rotational torque throughout the length of a catheter body. For example, solid core elements such as stainless steel, nitinol or other nickel titanium alloys, or polymeric materials may be utilized. In an embodiment intended for implantation over a guide-wire, the torque rod <b>340</b> is preferably provided with an axially extending central guidewire lumen. This may be accomplished by constructing the torque rod <b>340</b> from a section of hypodermic needle tubing, having an inside diameter of from about 0.001 inches to about 0.005 inches or more greater than the outside diameter of the intended guidewire. Tubular torque rods <b>340</b> may also be fabricated or constructed utilizing any of a wide variety of polymeric constructions which include woven or braided reinforcing layers in the wall. Torque transmitting tubes and their methods of construction are well understood in the intracranial access and rotational atherectomy catheter arts, among others, and are not described in greater detail herein. Use of a tubular torque rod <b>340</b> also provides a convenient infusion lumen for injection of contrast media within the implant <b>304</b>, such as through a port <b>343</b>.

[0100] The proximal end <b>324</b> of the implant <b>304</b> is provided with a threaded aperture <b>346</b> through which the core <b>342</b> is threadably engaged. As will be appreciated by those of skill in the art in view of the disclosure herein, rotation of the threaded core <b>342</b> in a first direction relative to the proximal end <b>324</b> of the implant <b>304</b> will cause the rotatable core <b>342</b> to advance distally. This distal advancement will result in an axial elongation and radial reduction of the implantable device <b>304</b>. Rotation of the rotatable core <b>342</b> in a reverse direction will cause a proximal retraction of the rotatable core <b>342</b>, thus enabling a radial enlargement and axial shortening of the implantable device <b>304</b>.

[0101] The deployment catheter <b>302</b> is further provided with an antirotation lock <b>348</b> between a distal end <b>350</b> of the tubular body <b>306</b> and the proximal end <b>324</b> of the implant <b>304</b>. In general, the rotational lock <b>348</b> may be conveniently provided by cooperation between a first surface <b>352</b> on the distal end <b>350</b> of the deployment catheter <b>302</b>, which engages a second surface <b>354</b> on the proximal end <b>324</b> of the implantable device <b>304</b>, to rotationally link the deployment catheter <b>302</b> and the implantable device <b>304</b>. Any of a variety of complementary surface structures may be provided, such as an axial extension on one of the first and second surfaces for coupling with a corresponding recess on the other of the first and second surfaces. Such extensions and recesses may be positioned laterally offset from the axis of the catheter. Alternatively, they may be provided on the longitudinal axis with any of a variety of axially releasable anti-rotational couplings having at least one flat such as a hexagonal or other multifaceted cross sectional configuration.

[0102] As schematically illustrated in FIG. 19, one or more projections <b>356</b> on the first surface <b>352</b> may engage a corresponding recess <b>358</b> on the second surface <b>354</b>. Any of a variety of alternative complementary surface structures may also be provided, as will be apparent to those of skill in the art in view of the disclosure herein. For example, referring to FIG. 19A, the projection <b>356</b> is in the form of an axially extending pin for engaging a complimentary recess <b>358</b> on the proximal end <b>324</b> of the implant <b>304</b>. FIG. 19B illustrates an axially extending spline <b>356</b> for receipt within a complimentary axially extending recess <b>358</b>. The various pin, spline and other structures may be reversed between the distal end of tubular body <b>306</b> and the proximal end <b>324</b> of the implant <b>304</b> as will be apparent to those of skill in the art in view of the disclosure herein.

[0103] Upon placement of the implantable device <b>304</b> at the desired implantation site, the torque rod <b>340</b> is rotated in a direction that produces an axial proximal retraction. This allows radial enlargement of the radially outwardly biased implantable device <b>304</b> at the implantation site. Continued rotation of the torque rod <b>340</b> will cause the threaded core <b>342</b> to exit proximally through the threaded aperture <b>346</b>. At that point, the deployment catheter <b>302</b> may be proximally retracted from the patient, leaving the implanted device <b>304</b> in place.

[0104] By modification of the decoupling mechanism to allow the core <b>342</b> to be decoupled from the torque rod <b>340</b>, the rotatable core <b>342</b> may be left within the implantable device <b>304</b>, as may be desired depending upon the intended deployment mechanism. For example, the distal end of the core <b>342</b> may be rotatably locked within the end cap <b>326</b>, such as by including complimentary radially outwardly or inwardly extending flanges and grooves on the distal end of the core <b>342</b> and inside surface of the cavity <b>322</b>. In this manner, proximal retraction of the core <b>342</b> by rotation thereof relative to the implantable device <b>304</b> will pull the end cap <b>326</b> in a proximal direction under positive force. This may be desirable as a supplement to or instead of a radially enlarging bias built into the implantable device <b>304</b>.

[0105] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 19, or any other of the deployment and/or removal catheters described herein, the distal end of the tubular body <b>306</b> may be provided with a zone or point of enhanced lateral flexibility. This may be desirable in order allow the implant to seat in the optimal orientation within the left atrial appendage, and not be restrained by a lack of flexibility in the tubular body <b>306</b>. This may be accomplished in any of a variety of way, such as providing the distal most one or two or three centimeters or more of the tubular body <b>306</b> with a spring coil configuration. In this manner, the distal end of the tubular body <b>306</b> will be sufficiently flexible to allow the implant <b>304</b> to properly seat within the LAA. This distal flex zone on the tubular body <b>306</b> may be provided in any of a variety of ways, such as by cutting a spiral slot in the distal end of the tubular body <b>306</b> using laser cutting or other cutting techniques. The components within the tubular body <b>306</b> such as torque rod <b>340</b> may similarly be provided with a zone of enhanced flexibility in the distal region of the tubular body <b>306</b>.

[0106] The implantable device <b>304</b> may also be retrieved and removed from the body in accordance with a further aspect of the present invention. One manner of retrieval and removal will be understood in connection with FIGS. 20 through 20<i>c</i>. Referring to FIG. 20, a previously implanted device <b>304</b> is illustrated as releasably coupled to the distal end of the tubular body <b>306</b>, as has been previously discussed. Coupling may be accomplished by aligning the tubular body <b>306</b> with the proximal end <b>324</b> of the deployed implant <b>304</b>, under fluoroscopic visualization, and distally advancing a rotatable core <b>342</b> through the threaded aperture <b>346</b>. Threadable engagement between the rotatable core <b>342</b> and aperture <b>346</b> may thereafter be achieved, and distal advancement of core <b>342</b> will axially elongate and radially reduce the implant <b>304</b>.

[0107] The tubular body <b>306</b> is axially moveably positioned within an outer tubular delivery or retrieval catheter <b>360</b>. Catheter <b>360</b> extends from a proximal end (not illustrated) to a distal end <b>362</b>. The distal end <b>362</b> is preferably provided with a flared opening, such as by constructing a plurality of petals <b>364</b> for facilitating proximal retraction of the implant <b>304</b> as will become apparent. Petals <b>364</b> may be constructed in a variety of ways, such as by providing axially extending slits in the distal end <b>362</b> of the delivery catheter <b>360</b>. In this manner, preferably at least about three, and generally at least about four or five or six petals or more will be provided on the distal end <b>362</b> of the delivery catheter <b>360</b>. Petals <b>364</b> manufactured in this manner would reside in a first plane, transverse to the longitudinal axis of the delivery catheter <b>360</b>, if each of such petals <b>364</b> were inclined at 90 degrees to the longitudinal axis of the delivery catheter <b>360</b>.

[0108] In one application of the invention, a second layer of petals <b>365</b> are provided, which would lie in a second, adjacent plane if the petals <b>365</b> were inclined at <b>90</b> degrees to the longitudinal axis of the delivery catheter <b>360</b>. Preferably, the second plane of petals <b>365</b> is rotationally offset from the first plane of petals <b>364</b>, such that the second petals <b>365</b> cover the spaces <b>367</b> formed between each adjacent pair of petals <b>365</b>. The use of two or more layers of staggered petals <b>364</b> and <b>365</b> has been found to be useful in retrieving implants <b>304</b>, particularly when the implant <b>304</b> carries a plurality of tissue anchors <b>195</b>.

[0109] The petals <b>364</b> and <b>365</b> may be manufactured from any of a variety of polymer materials useful in constructing medical device components such as the delivery catheter <b>360</b>. This includes, for example, polyethylene, PET, PEEK, PEBAX, and others well known in the art. The second petals <b>365</b> may be constructed in any of a variety of ways. In one convenient construction, a section of tubing which concentrically fits over the delivery catheter <b>360</b> is provided with a plurality of axially extending slots in the same manner as discussed above. The tubing with a slotted distal end may be concentrically positioned on the catheter <b>360</b>, and rotated such that the space between adjacent petals <b>365</b> is offset from the space between adjacent petals <b>364</b>. The hub of the petals <b>365</b> may thereafter be bonded to the catheter <b>360</b>, such as by heat shrinking, adhesives, or other bonding techniques known in the art.

[0110] The removal sequence will be further understood by reference to FIGS. 20<i>a </i>through <b>20</b><i>c</i>. Referring to FIG. 20<i>a</i>, the radially reduced implant <b>304</b> is proximally retracted part way into the delivery catheter <b>360</b>. This can be accomplished by proximally retracting the tubular body <b>306</b> and/or distally advancing the catheter <b>360</b>. As illustrated in FIG. 20<i>b</i>, the tubular body <b>306</b> having the implant <b>304</b> attached thereto is proximally retracted a sufficient distance to position the tissue anchors <b>195</b> within the petals <b>364</b>. The entire assembly of the tubular body <b>306</b>, within the delivery catheter <b>360</b> may then be proximally retracted within the transeptal sheath <b>366</b> or other tubular body as illustrated in FIG. 20<i>c</i>. The collapsed petals <b>364</b> allow this to occur while preventing engagement of the tissue anchors <b>195</b> with the distal end of the transeptal sheath <b>366</b> or body tissue. The entire assembly having the implantable device <b>304</b> contained therein may thereafter be proximally withdrawn from or repositioned within the patient.

[0111] While particular forms of the invention have been described, it will be apparent that various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, it is not intended that the invention be limited, except as by the appended claims.