HK40071172A - Directional balloon transseptal insertion device for medical procedures with improved transseptal puncture system with puncture member balloon seal - Google Patents

Description

Directional balloon transseptal insertion device for medical procedures with improved transseptal puncture system for puncture member balloon sealing

Cross Reference to Related Applications

This application claims priority from U.S. provisional application US62/859,943, filed on 11/6/2019, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Technical Field

The present invention relates generally to cardiac catheters, and more particularly to a transseptal insertion device adapted to facilitate rapid and safe transseptal puncture and insertion of a catheter through a cardiac septum to provide access to the left atrium when performing a left atrial intervention.

Background

Cardiac catheterization is a medical procedure in which a long thin tube or catheter is inserted into a specific region of the heart through an artery or a vein for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes. More specifically, the heart chambers, vessels and valves may be catheterized.

Cardiac catheterization may be used in procedures such as coronary angiography and left ventricular angiography. Coronary angiography facilitates visualization of coronary vessels and the finding of potential obstructions by taking X-ray images of a patient into whose catheter a dye (contrast agent) has been injected previously injected into the artery. Left ventricular angiography enables the examination of the function of the left heart chamber and the left valves of the heart and can be combined with coronary angiography. Cardiac catheterization can also be used to measure the pressure in the four chambers of the heart and assess the pressure differential across the major heart valves. In other applications, cardiac catheterization may be used to assess cardiac output or the volume of blood pumped by the heart per minute.

Some medical procedures may require catheterization into the left atrium of the heart. To this end, to avoid having to place a catheter in the aorta, access to the left atrium is typically achieved by accessing the right atrium, puncturing the interatrial septum between the left atrium and the right atrium of the heart, and passing the catheter through the septum and into the left atrium. The transseptal puncture must be very precise because accidental puncture of the surrounding tissue can cause very serious damage to the heart. Furthermore, puncturing at intervals may require complex instrumentation, which does not help to ensure the accuracy of the puncture.

The use of currently available devices presents a number of challenges to physicians attempting to puncture the interatrial septum and perform cardiac catheterization. Locating the interatrial septum, properly placing the distal end of the puncturing device at the desired septal location, safely puncturing the interatrial septum, avoiding accidental puncturing, and tracking and manipulating the catheter after puncturing are among the many challenges facing today's people performing cardiac catheterization.

Disclosure of Invention

Accordingly, there is an established need for devices adapted to facilitate rapid and safe puncture through the septum to provide access to the left atrium when performing left atrial interventions.

These and other advantages are achieved, for example, by a transseptal insertion device adapted to facilitate accurate and safe transseptal puncture of atrial septa. The spaced insertion device includes a sheath defining at least one lumen therein and having a distal end spaced toward an atrium of the patient and a proximal end external to the patient when the spaced insertion device is in use, one or more positioning balloons, a piercing member, and a piercing member balloon. The one or more positioning balloons are connected to the distal end of the sheath, wherein when the one or more positioning balloons are inflated and a transseptal insertion device is used, the one or more positioning balloons protrude and extend past the distal end of the sheath, thereby preventing accidental puncture of the atrial septum and stabilizing the transseptal insertion device against the fossa ovalis at the atrial septum; and wherein the sheath comprises one or more deflation ports to deflate the one or more positioning balloons. The penetrating member is movably positioned within the at least one lumen, wherein the penetrating member has a distal end positioned towards an atrial septum of the patient. The puncture member balloon is positioned on the puncture member, wherein the puncture member balloon is capable of sealing one or more deflation ports of the sheath when inflated, thereby allowing the one or more positioning balloons to inflate.

These advantages and others are also achieved, for example, by a method for appropriately facilitating accurate and safe transseptal puncture of atrial septum with a transseptal insertion device. The method includes inflating a puncture member balloon on a puncture member having a distal end positioned toward an atrial septum of the patient, sealing one or more retraction ports in the sheath with the inflated puncture member balloon, inflating one or more positioning balloons coupled to the distal end of the sheath, wherein the inflated one or more positioning balloons project out and extend past the distal end of the sheath, positioning the puncture member against an atrial septum fossa when the positioning balloons are inflated, advancing the puncture member toward the fossa ovalis advanced, wherein the distal end of the puncture member extends past the projecting one or more positioning balloons, wherein the puncture member balloon moves away from the one or more retraction ports when the puncture member is advanced, and deflating the one or more positioning balloons when the distal end of the puncture member squeezes the fossa ovalis retracted.

Drawings

The preferred embodiments described herein and illustrated in the following figures are for purposes of illustrating the invention and are not to be construed as limiting the invention, wherein like reference numerals are used to represent like elements.

FIG. 1A is a side perspective cut-away view of an embodiment of a spaced insertion device.

FIG. 1B is a side perspective cut-away view of an embodiment of a transseptal insertion device, showing a dilator extending partially through and out of the device.

FIG. 1C is a side perspective cut-away view of an embodiment of a transseptal insertion device, showing a dilator partially extending through the device.

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of an embodiment of a spaced insertion device having a hypotube connected to one or more balloons.

FIG. 2B is a front view of an embodiment of a spaced insertion device having a hypotube connected to one or more balloons.

Figures 2C-2D are side views of an embodiment of a spaced insertion device with ultrasonic imaging or visualization capabilities.

FIG. 3A is a perspective view of an embodiment of a spaced insertion device having a plurality of balloons and hypotubes connected to the plurality of balloons.

FIG. 3B is a front view of an embodiment of a spaced insertion device having a plurality of balloons and hypotubes connected to the plurality of balloons.

FIG. 4 is a perspective cut-away view of an embodiment of a spaced insertion device having RF energy capability.

Fig. 5 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a spaced insertion device having a drive assembly coupled to a dilator and a knob coupled to the drive assembly.

Fig. 6 is a perspective cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a spaced insertion device showing an inflated raised balloon and a dilator positioned within the device below the plane of the raised balloon.

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional end view showing an embodiment of a transseptal insertion device and dilator prior to puncturing the atrial septum with an inflation raised balloon.

FIG. 8 is a perspective cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a transseptal insertion device with a dilator advanced to bulge the atrial septum.

FIG. 9 is a perspective cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a transseptal insertion device in which a transseptal lead is advanced through the atrial septum after puncture.

Figures 10A-10C are perspective cross-sectional views of embodiments of flexible spaced insertion devices having different angles.

Fig. 11 is a side view of an embodiment of a spaced insertion device having a balloon with marked protrusions.

Fig. 12 is a side view of an embodiment of a spaced insertion device having a balloon with protrusions of marker bands.

Fig. 13 is a cross-sectional side view of an embodiment of a spaced insertion device including a dilator with an electrode tip.

FIG. 14 is a side view of an embodiment of a spaced insertion device having mechanical deflection capabilities.

FIG. 15 is a side view of an embodiment of a curved dilator that can be used in embodiments of the transseptal insertion device.

FIG. 16 is a perspective side view of the proximal end of an embodiment of a transseptal insertion device showing the handle and stabilizer.

Fig. 17A-17B are side views of an embodiment of a spaced insertion device with a balloon capable of differential inflation.

Fig. 18 is a side view of a malleable or flexible septal needle that may be used in embodiments of flexible septal insertion devices having multiple angles.

Fig. 19A-19C are side, cross-sectional end, and proximal side views of an embodiment of an improved spaced puncture system with a puncture member balloon seal, with the puncture member balloon deflated.

Fig. 20A-20C are side, cross-sectional end, and proximal side views of an embodiment of an improved spaced puncture system with a puncture member balloon seal, wherein the puncture member balloon is inflated.

21A-21B are cross-sectional side views of an embodiment of an improved compartmentalized puncture system with a puncture member balloon seal and a close-up cross-sectional side view of the puncture tip with a positioning balloon inflated.

Fig. 22A-22B are cross-sectional side views of an embodiment of an improved compartmentalized puncture system with a puncture member balloon seal and a close-up cross-sectional side view of the puncture tip with the positioning balloon deflated.

FIGS. 23A-23D are side elevational views of the distal portion of a multi-lumen extension of a piercing member of a transseptal piercing device.

FIG. 24 is a workflow diagram of a method for suitably facilitating accurate and safe transseptal puncture of atrial septum with a transseptal insertion device.

Detailed Description

The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the described embodiments or the application and uses of the described embodiments. As used herein, the word "exemplary" or "illustrative" means "serving as an example, instance, or illustration. Any embodiment described herein as "exemplary" or "illustrative" is not necessarily preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. All of the embodiments described below are exemplary embodiments provided to enable persons skilled in the art to make or use the embodiments of the present disclosure, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure, which is defined by the claims. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any expressed or implied theory presented in the preceding technical field, background, brief summary or the following detailed description. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise.

Referring to fig. 1A-1C, an embodiment of a transseptal insertion device or catheter 10 is shown. Shown is the distal end of the spaced insertion device 10, i.e., the end of the spaced insertion device 10 having an opening through which a dilator, catheter and needle may extend, for example, to pierce the atrial septum. As shown in fig. 1A, the spaced insertion device 10 includes a sheath or balloon shaft 12 and one or more balloons 14 at a distal tip 13 of the spaced insertion device 10. The sheath 12 may contain and define a central lumen 15. The sheath 12 may be made from a variety of materials including, for example, polymers, including thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) such as PEBA (e.g.,) Nylon, Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) (e.g., thermoplastic polyurethane)) Similar materials and combinations thereof. The sheath 12 may be referred to as a catheter shaft and used in cardiac catheterization. After puncture, the sheath 12 may be inserted through the septum and into the left atrium. Alternatively, the sheath 12 may comprise a separate catheter inserted through the septum after puncture. As shown in FIG. 1B, the transseptal insertion device 10 also includes a dilator 16 positioned within the central lumen 15. Preferably, one or more balloons 14 are sealed, airtight and watertight to sheath 12 at both ends thereof.

With continued reference to fig. 1A, in the view shown, the protruding balloon or balloons 14 are not inflated. Although the cross-section of the balloon 14 is shown at the top and bottom of the distal tip 13, the balloon 14 preferably extends around the circumference of the distal tip or end 13 of the spaced insertion device 10. The form of the protruding balloon or balloons 14 is such that the balloon 14 protrudes or extends from the distal tip 13 of the sheath 12 when inflated.

In fig. 1B, the dilator 16 is shown positioned within the sheath 12 and extending out of the sheath 12 past the distal tip 13 portion of the device 10. The one or more balloons 14 that are bulging are uninflated and the dilator 16 extends past the balloons 14. It should be noted that the relative dimensions of the sheath 12 and dilator 16 are shown for illustrative purposes. Although the dilator 16 must have a smaller diameter than the sheath 12, the diameter of the dilator 16 relative to the diameter of the sheath 12 can be larger or smaller than shown. Although the dilator 16 is shown as having a tip, the dilator 16 may also have a rounded or relatively flat end. The embodiments as described herein are designed and intended to pierce a septum without the use of a needle or other sharp instrument.

Referring now to fig. 1C, a dilator 16 is shown positioned within the central lumen 15 of the sheath 12. The tip of the dilator 16 is positioned within the distal tip 13 of the spaced insertion device 10 below the end plane of the spaced insertion device 10. The position shown is a position in which the dilator 16 may be immediately prior to inflation of the one or more balloons 14. It should be noted that the relative dimensions of the catheter/sheath 12 and dilator 16 are shown for illustrative purposes. The diameter of the dilator 16 relative to the diameter of the sheath 12 can be relatively larger or smaller than the diameter shown. Typically, the dilator 16 has a smaller diameter or gauge than the catheter/sheath 12, although the fit of the dilator 16 in the catheter/sheath 12 is preferably tight enough so that the dilator 16 does not move relative to position (laterally or axially) or "wobble" within the spaced apart insertion device 10. The dilator 16 must have a smaller diameter than the sheath 12. In embodiments, the material of the sheath 12 may be sufficiently malleable to enable larger diameter dilators 16 and other larger diameter devices to pass through the sheath 12. In such embodiments, the sheath 12 would be enlarged to accommodate a larger diameter dilator 16 or other device.

Referring to fig. 2A, shown is a side perspective view of an embodiment of a spaced insertion device or catheter 200. Shown are the distal end of the spaced insertion device 200, i.e., the end of the spaced insertion device 200 having an opening, dilator, catheter anda needle may extend through the opening, for example, to pierce the atrial septum. In the embodiments described herein, the needle may be a sharp needle for puncturing or piercing the interatrial septum, or may be equipped to deliver energy to puncture or pierce the interatrial septum. As shown in fig. 2A, the spaced insertion device 200 includes an outer sheath or catheter shaft 212 and one or more balloons 214 at the distal tip 213 of the spaced insertion device 200. Sheath 212 may include a lumen axis 211 defining a central lumen 215. The sheath 212 may be made of a variety of materials, including, for example, polymers, including polymers such as PEBA (e.g.,) Nylon, Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) (e.g., thermoplastic polyurethane)) Similar materials and combinations thereof. The sheath 212 may be referred to as a catheter shaft and used in cardiac catheterization. After puncturing, sheath 212 may be inserted through the septum into the left atrium. Alternatively, the sheath 212 may include a plurality of lumen axes that each define a plurality of lumens. The transseptal insertion device 200 also includes a dilator 216 positioned within the central lumen 215. The one or more balloons 214 are preferably sealed, airtight and watertight at both ends thereof to the sheath 212. The transseptal insertion device 200 includes a hypotube 217 for inflating or deflating one or more balloons 214. The hypotube 217 may be contained within a sheath or catheter shaft 212. The spaced insertion device 200 may also include a port (not shown) connected to the hypotube 217 to supply gas or fluid to inflate the one or more balloons 214, or to remove gas or fluid from the one or more balloons 214 to deflate the balloons 214. The balloon 214 may be fully inflated or deflated, or may be inflated or deflated as desired. Referring to fig. 2B, a front cross-sectional view of distal end 213 of an embodiment of transseptal insertion device 200 is shown, illustrating cross-sectional views of sheath 212, central lumen 215, and hypotube 217.

In the embodiment shown in fig. 2A and 2B, the spaced apart insertion device 200 may include an ultrasound chip or transducer 26 for ultrasound imaging or visualization (see fig. 2C-2D). The spaced sheath 212 or balloon 214 may house an ultrasound chip or transducer (either inside or on it) that may be used to guide the insertion process. The ultrasound chip or transducer transmits and receives ultrasound energy that can be detected by known ultrasound visualization devices to create images of the heart chamber (e.g., right atrium, fossa, interatrial septum, left atrium, atrial appendage, mitral valve, ventricle, etc.). An ultrasound chip and transducer are transducers that convert ultrasound waves into electrical signals and/or vice versa. Those that transmit and receive may also be referred to as ultrasonic transceivers; many ultrasonic sensors are actually transceivers in addition to being sensors, as they can both sense and transmit. Such imaging would allow the operator of transseptal insertion device 200 to visualize the heart chamber and determine the location of distal end or tip 213 of transseptal insertion device 200, enabling more accurate operation of transseptal insertion device 200. Such an ultrasound chip or transducer used may be similar to that described in U.S. patent application US2003/019546 (which is incorporated herein by reference), or any other ultrasound transducer known to those of ordinary skill in the art, which may be fabricated on a sufficiently small scale to be deployed on or in sheath 212 or balloon 214.

Referring to fig. 2C-2D, an embodiment of a spaced insertion device 200 with ultrasonic imaging or visualization capabilities is shown. The illustrated balloon 14 includes one or more ultrasound chips or transducers 26 disposed in or on the balloon 14. The ultrasound chip or transducer 26 may be an ultrasound transceiver that transmits and receives waves, converts ultrasound waves into electrical signals, and transmits the electrical signals, for example, over a wire extending through the sheath 12. The ultrasound chip or transducer 26 may be connected via a WiFi or other wireless connection to an external imaging device that generates images from the received signals (still and video images).

An ultrasonic chip or transducer 26 may be affixed to the inner or outer surface of balloon 14. The ultrasonic chips or transducers 26 may be arranged in a line, a disk, or a cross. The ultrasound chip or transducer 26 may be arranged to face forward as shown in fig. 2C (e.g., on the distal end of the balloon facing the interatrial septum), or to face in different directions/orientations as shown in fig. 2D, such as to face sideways and forward (e.g., facing the interatrial septum and perpendicular to the distal or anterior end). In practice, the orientation of the ultrasound chip or transducer 26 may depend on whether the balloon 14 is inflated. When balloon 14 is fully inflated, ultrasound transducer 26 may be oriented forward as shown in fig. 2C (or forward and vertically as shown in fig. 2D). However, when the balloon 14 is deflated, the ultrasound transducer 26 may be folded flat and positioned on the side of the distal tip 13 of the sheath 12. Thus, when balloon 14 is deflated, ultrasound chip or transducer 26 may be side-facing. During inflation, the orientation of the ultrasound transducer 26 will change as the balloon 14 is inflated (the ultrasound transducer 26 moves from the side-facing orientation to the front-facing orientation shown in fig. 2C). Thus, an operator of the spaced insertion device 200 may vary the inflation of the balloon 14 to achieve different orientations of the ultrasound transducer 26 for different imaging views.

The ultrasound chip or transducer 26 may emit and/or receive/detect ultrasound waves that may be reflected from surfaces and structures (e.g., within the atrium) and then read by an imaging system (not shown) connected to the ultrasound chip or transducer 26, for example, via a wire or cable extending through, for example, the lumen 15 in the sheath 12. In this manner, the ultrasound chip or transducer 26 may enable visualization of the atrial septum and left atrial structures.

It should also be noted that the ultrasound chip or transducer 26 may be deployed on the distal tip 13 of the sheath 12 (or on the sheath 12 or elsewhere in the sheath 12). The ultrasound chip or transducer 26 may be mounted or configured to face forward (toward the distal end of the sheath 12). Alternatively, the ultrasound chip or transducer 26 may be flipped to face in the posterior direction (toward the proximal end of the sheath 12). The ultrasound chip or transducer 26 may assume different orientations.

Referring to fig. 3A and 3B, shown is a transseptal insertion device 300 that includes a plurality of balloons 314 and a sheath or catheter shaft 312. The plurality of balloons 314 surround a central lumen axis 311 defining a central lumen 315. Sheath or catheter shaft 312 includes a central lumen shaft 311 and a hypotube 317 connected to a plurality of balloons 314. Fig. 3A is a side view of the sheath or catheter shaft 312 and fig. 3B is a front cross-sectional view of the sheath or catheter shaft 312. Each balloon 314 has various shapes, such as circular, cylindrical, spherical, teardrop, or pear shapes, and has various lengths. Each balloon 314 may or may not have a protrusion on the shaft. Each balloon 314 is positioned about the distal tip or end 313 and may extend around the circumference of the distal tip or end 313. The plurality of balloons 314 are connected to one or more hypotubes 317 and are inflated or deflated via the hypotubes 317 contained in the sheath or catheter shaft 312. Each balloon 314 may be connected to a respective hypotube 317 to independently control the inflation and deflation of the balloons 314. Alternatively, each balloon 314 may share one or more hypotubes 317. An inflation fluid or gas may flow through the hypotube 314 to inflate or deflate the balloon 314. The outer cover 319 may cover the plurality of balloons 314.

Between balloons 314, there are one or more ultrasound chips or transducers 326 that provide ultrasound imaging or visualization capabilities. For illustrative purposes, fig. 3B shows an ultrasound chip or transducer 326 disposed between balloons 314, but ultrasound chip or transducer 326 may be deployed in balloon 314 or on balloon 314. An ultrasonic chip or transducer 326 may be secured to the inner or outer surface of balloon 314. The ultrasound chip or transducer 326 may be an ultrasound transceiver that transmits and receives waves, converts ultrasound waves into electrical signals, and transmits the electrical signals, for example, through a wire 320 extending inside the sheath or catheter shaft 312. However, the ultrasound chip or transducer 326 may be wirelessly connected via WiFi or other wireless connection to an external imaging device that generates images from the received signals (still and video images).

Ultrasound chip or transducer 326 may be designed in the shape of balloon 314. Balloon 314 may be circular, cylindrical, spherical, teardrop-shaped, or pear-shaped with or without protrusions. Ultrasound chip or transducer 326 may have a shape that corresponds to the shape of balloon 314. Optionally, one or more ultrasound chips or transducers 326 may be deployed in a shape corresponding to the shape of balloon 314. Depending on the shape of balloon 314, ultrasound chip or transducer 326 may be directed laterally, anteriorly, or posteriorly. The ultrasonic chips or transducers 326 may be arranged in a line, a disk, or a cross. The ultrasound chip or transducer 326 may be arranged towards the front (e.g., on the distal end of the balloon towards the interatrial septum), or in different directions/orientations, such as towards the side and front (e.g., facing the interatrial septum and perpendicular to the distal or front end).

The orientation of the ultrasonic chip or transducer 326 may depend on whether the balloon 314 is inflated. When balloon 314 is fully inflated, ultrasonic chip or transducer 326 may be directed anteriorly. However, when balloon 314 is deflated, ultrasonic chip or transducer 326 may be folded flat and positioned on the side of distal tip 313 of central lumen 315. Thus, when balloon 314 is deflated, ultrasound chip or transducer 326 may be side-facing. During inflation, the orientation of the ultrasonic chip or transducer 326 may change (moving from a side-facing orientation to a forward-facing orientation) as the balloon 314 is inflated. Thus, an operator of the spaced insertion device 300 may change the inflation of the balloon 314 to achieve different orientations of the ultrasound chip or transducer 326 for different imaging views.

Referring now to fig. 4, an embodiment of a spaced apart insertion device 10 having Radio Frequency (RF) energy capability is shown. The illustrated spaced apart insertion device 10 includes a sheath 12, one or more balloons 14 that are raised, and a dilator 16. The dilator 16 may include a cap or crown 22 on the distal end as shown, which is RF energy capable or capable of delivering RF energy. Alternatively, the cap or crown may include or be an RF electrode. The dilator 16 may be connected, e.g., at a proximal end (not shown), to a source of radio frequency energy (not shown), e.g., at an outer hub, which provides RF energy to the cap or crown 22. RF energy may be delivered through the dilator 16. Thus, the dilator 16 is equipped with a cap or crown 22, the dilator 16 can bulge (tent) the interatrial septum and create a puncture of the interatrial septum by delivering RF energy. In this embodiment, the use of a sharp needle may be avoided. A dilator having a cap or crown on the distal end (with RF energy capability or capable of delivering RF energy) may be used for the transseptal insertion devices 200 and 300 shown in fig. 2A-2B and 3A-3B.

Referring to fig. 5, shown is a spaced insertion device 400 including a drive assembly 421 coupled to dilator 416, and a knob 422 coupled to drive assembly 421 to move dilator 416 laterally along the axial direction of sheath or catheter shaft 412. When knob 422 is rotated, dilator 416 may be moved backward or forward along the axis of sheath 412. The drive assembly 421 can include a nut assembly to drive the expander 416. Dilator 416 may or may not have RF energy capability.

Referring now to fig. 6, shown is the distal end of an embodiment of the spaced insertion device 10, wherein the balloon 14 is inflated by supplying a gas or fluid into the balloon 14 through a hypotube (not shown). A dilator 16 is shown positioned within the central lumen 15 of the sheath 12, with the tip of the dilator 16 positioned at the distal tip 13 of the spaced insertion device 10 and below the plane of the raised balloon 14 (sub-planar). The plane referred to herein is the plane perpendicular to the axis of the spaced insertion device 10 and dilator 16, which is formed by the ends of the convex balloon 14. Thus, the dilator 16 remains below the level of the raised balloon 14 until the operator intends to deflate the balloon 14 and the dilator 16 bulges and punctures the atrial septum 100. As noted above, balloon 14 preferably extends completely around the circumference of tip 13 of spaced insertion device 10. Accordingly, fig. 7 shows only a cross-section of the inflation balloon 14.

Referring now to fig. 7, a front cross-sectional view of the distal end of an embodiment of the transseptal insertion device 10 is shown with the inflated balloon 14. As shown, the inflated raised balloon 14 preferably extends around the entire circumference of the sheath 12 (and thus the device 10). Shown within the lumen 15 of the sheath 12 is the tip of a dilator 16. The tip of the dilator 16 is positioned within the tip 13 of the transseptal insertion device 10 just as it was prior to extending past the tip 13 and piercing the atrial septum.

Referring now to FIG. 8, the distal end of an embodiment of transseptal insertion device 10 is shown with dilator 16 advanced to bulge atrial septum 100. The dilator 16 is shown extending through the central lumen 15 of the sheath 12 and past the raised balloon 14. At this stage, the balloon 14 may be deflated by removing the gas or fluid from the balloon 14 through the hypotube. Thus extended and pressed against the atrial septum 100, the dilator 16 moves the atrial septum 100 away from the transseptal insertion device 10.

Referring now to fig. 9, shown is the distal end of an embodiment of transseptal insertion device 10 in which a dilator 16 is advanced through the atrial septum 100 after piercing the septal wall (e.g., by applying energy through the dilator 16 as described herein), a transseptal lead or wire track 20 extends through the dilator 16 and into the left atrial chamber 110. The wire track 20 may be located in the lumen 19 of the dilator 16. The dilator 16 may be used as a catheter to advance the wire track 20 into the left atrium.

The wire track 20 may serve as a guide for the device to enter the left atrium through a perforation formed in the septal wall by the transseptal insertion device 10. For example, wire track 20 may guide insertion device 10 or other catheter through the septum and into the left atrium. In this manner, the catheter may be guided over wire track 20 or by wire track 20 for safe advancement into the left atrium. In one embodiment, wire track 20 can be energized (e.g., to ablate or puncture the septum with energy delivered from a source at the proximal end of transseptal insertion device 10).

With continued reference to fig. 9, the dilator 16 preferably defines and includes an opening or lumen 19, the opening or lumen 19 extending through the tip of the dilator 16, and through the opening or lumen 19 via a spaced apart guide wire 20. As the dilator 16 is extended as shown and the atrial septum is distended, the septum may be pierced by energy transmitted through a cap or electrode at the tip of the dilator 16 and through the septal lead track 20, where the septal lead track 20 extends through an opening in the tip of the dilator 16 and through the puncture created in the atrial septum by the dilator 16 cap.

Referring to fig. 10A-10C, different views of an embodiment of the spaced insertion device 10 are shown, the spaced insertion device 10 having a flexible sheath 12 that is flexed or angled at different angles. Depending on the anatomy of the atrium, the spaced insertion device 10 may be flexed or angled using a fixed angled dilator 16 inserted into the lumen shaft of the sheath 12, thereby flexing the sheath 12. Such a fixed angled dilator 16 may be at any angle, for example, 0-270. Alternatively, the sheath 12, lumen shaft, and dilator 16 may all be flexible (preferably, hypotubes, needles, and catheters inserted through such flexible sheaths 12 are at least partially flexible or malleable), and the spaced insertion devices 10 may be flexed or angled to flex or angle the sheath 12 and dilator 16 using, for example, a handle or wire (not shown) connected to the tip 13 of the device 10. The handle and/or wire may also be used to turn or flex or move the tip 13 of the spaced insertion device 10, for example, to move the tip 13 "up" or "down" or "left" or "right" or angularly as shown, relative to the axis of the sheath 12.

Referring now to fig. 11, shown is the distal end 11 of an embodiment of the transseptal insertion device 10, the transseptal insertion device 10 having an inflated, convex balloon 14. The illustrated balloon 14 is an embodiment having one or more markers 24. The markers 24 may be, for example, opaque and/or echogenic markers 24. As an opaque or echogenic marker, the marker 24 will be visible on a scanner used by those performing cardiac catheterization. The indicia 24 may be in the form of letters, such as E or C. The markers 24 enable the use of imaging to view the markers 24 and thus the position of the balloon 14 to properly position the balloon 14 and sheath 12 in three-dimensional space (e.g., the atrium).

Specifically, in operation, the fewer rear distal tips 13 are positioned, the more E (or C) will be displayed. When the operator of the transseptal insertion device 10 turns or rotates the distal tip 13 toward the back of the patient, fewer arms of the E will be seen. In a preferred embodiment, when only the vertical portion of E is visible (i.e. presented as I), the distal tip 13 will rotate to its maximum posterior position.

With continued reference to fig. 11, the balloon 14 is shown inflated. However, the distal end of the dilator 16 is shown as being extruded or extending distally from the balloon 14 through the plane formed by the distal end of the inflated balloon 14. Accordingly, the dilator 16 has been moved to the bulge and puncture location adjacent the atrial septum. At this stage, balloon 14 may be deflated or will soon be deflated and will soon pierce the atrial septum.

Referring now to fig. 12, shown is another embodiment of a raised balloon 14 that may be deployed in embodiments of the spaced insertion device 10. The raised balloon 14 may include a ring or band 28 around a portion of the balloon 14. A ring or band 28 may be used as a marker, similar to the marker 24 shown in fig. 11. Thus, the ring 28 may be opaque or echogenic and may be viewed by a scanning device (e.g., a fluoroscopic imaging device) for intracardiac visualization. Similar to the letters E or C, the view of the ring 28 changes as the distal tip 13 of the spaced insertion device 10 moves more rearwardly. When in the minimum posterior position, the loop 28 may simply appear as a line or band positioned through the axis of the spaced insertion device 10. When the device 10 is rotated so that the distal tip 13 is significantly closer to the rear, the ring 28 may appear as a complete "flat" circle or ring. In fig. 12, the distal tip 13 is partially rotated so that the ring 28 is partially visible.

With reference to fig. 11 and 12, the marker 24 and the ring 28 are depicted and shown on the balloon 14. In embodiments, the marker 24 and/or the ring 28 may also be located on the sheath 12 and/or the dilator 16. So positioned, the marker 24 and/or ring 28 will effectively work in the same manner as described above (i.e., as the distal end moves more rearwardly, the arm of E will disappear and the ring will become more visible). The marker 24 and/or the ring 28 may be placed on the balloon 14, the sheath 12, and the dilator 16, or a combination thereof.

Referring now to fig. 13, shown is the distal end of an embodiment of the transseptal insertion device 10, the transseptal insertion device 10 including a dilator 16 having an electrode tip. The shaft of the dilator 16 defines and contains a central lumen 50. The cavity 50 may be defined in, but not limited to, the range of 0.020 to 0.040 inches. The dilator 16 may be made of a polymeric material (e.g., HDPE, LDPE, PTFE, or combinations thereof). The illustrated dilator shaft 16 includes a distal electrode tip 52. The electrode tip 52 may comprise a metal alloy (e.g., PtIr, Au, or a combination thereof). In a preferred embodiment, the size and shape of electrode tip 52 is selected to be sufficient to generate plasma for in vivo ablation of tissue in the applied power range of 20-30W, but not limited thereto. The electrical conductors 54 extend from the electrode tip 52 to the proximal end of the dilator 16 (not shown). The electrical conductors 54 may extend axially through an additional lumen 56 defined by the dilator shaft 16 and contained within the dilator shaft 16. The electrical conductors 54 may include coil features 58 to accommodate elongation during bending or flexing of the dilator 16.

Attached to the distal end of sheath 12 is balloon 14 containing a protrusion connected to hypotube 17. The raised balloon 14 may be made of a polymeric material (e.g., PET, nylon, polyurethane, polyamide, or combinations thereof). The diameter of the inflated balloon 14 may range from 5-20mm and the length may be 20-30mm, but is not limited thereto. The inflated balloon 14 may be inflated by injecting a gas or fluid through a hypotube 17 connected to the balloon 14. The inflated balloon 14 may be deflated by removing gas or fluid from the balloon 14 via a hypotube 17 connected to the balloon 14. During proper operation or operation of transseptal insertion device 10 for puncturing the atrial septum, balloon 14 may be deflated as dilator 16 is moved out of lumen 15 by removing gas or fluid from balloon 14. The raised balloon 14 is a balloon 14 raised or extending from the distal end 13 of the sheath 12. The projections or extensions 60 may be in the range of, but are not limited to, 0.0mm to 5.0 mm. The end of the projection or extension 60 is a flat surface: the dilator 16 remains below this plane until it is moved to bulge and puncture the interatrial septum.

Referring now to fig. 14, an embodiment of the spaced insertion device 10 is shown that includes a mechanical deflection mechanism. The mechanical deflection mechanism may enable the distal end of the sheath 12 to deflect or angle to various angles relative to the axis of the spaced insertion device 10. The mechanical deflection mechanism may include a pull wire anchor 40 secured to the distal end of the sheath 12 and a pull wire actuator 42 connected to the pull wire anchor 40 by a pull wire (not shown). As shown, rotation of the pull wire actuator 42 can exert a force on the pull wire anchor 40 that deflects or angles the distal end of the sheath 12. The pull wire actuator 42 may be rotated by a handle (not shown) attached thereto. The deflection or angulation of the distal end of the sheath 12 may enable better intersection with the atrial septum (e.g., more vertical, flush), and thus better penetration and insertion by the transseptal insertion device 10.

Referring now to fig. 15, three embodiments of the curved dilator 16 are shown, each having a different curvilinear profile (i.e., a different deflection angle or bend angle). The curved dilator 16 may be used in embodiments of the spaced insertion device 10 having a flexible or malleable sheath 12. Such a flexible or malleable sheath 12 may be referred to as a steerable sheath 12 because it is "steered" by a curved dilator 16 inserted into the sheath 12.

Referring now to fig. 16, an embodiment of the spaced insertion device 10 is shown with an external stabilizer 80. The stabilizer 80 maintains the proximal end of the septal insertion device 10 stable while allowing movement of the septal insertion device 10 toward the distal and proximal ends of the device 10, rotational/torsional movement of the proximal end of the device 10, and operation of dials or other controls of the device 10. In fact, the stabilizer 80 substantially prevents unwanted movement of the transseptal insertion device 10, and importantly, the distal end of the sheath 12, the balloon 14, and the dilator 16.

Stabilizer 80 includes a connecting rod or arm 82, connecting rod or arm 82 connecting stabilizer 80 to handle 70 at the proximal end of transseptal insertion device 10. The connecting arm 82 is attached to a stabilizer platform 84. The connecting arm 82 preferably securely and tightly holds the handle 70 while allowing the desired rotational movement and control operation. The stabilizer platform 84 is movably attached to the stabilizer base 86 such that the stabilizer platform 84, and thus the handle 70 and the spaced insertion device 10, can slide forward and backward along the axis of the spaced insertion device 10 toward and away from the point of insertion in the patient's body, typically the femoral vein at the groin of the patient. The stabilizer base 86 is typically secured to a flat, stable surface, such as a table or a patient's leg. So configured, the stabilizer 80 prevents unwanted vertical, rotational or other movement of the spaced insertion device 10 and its handle 70, holding the spaced insertion device 10 and its handle 70 stable while allowing precise manipulation and control of the handle 70.

With continued reference to fig. 16, as shown, the proximal end of the septal insertion device 10 can include a handle 70 for controlling and manipulating the septal insertion device 10, and in particular the dilator 16 and the distal end of the dilator 16. The handle 70 can include a dial 72, and the dial 72 can be used to rotate or deflect the distal end of the dilator 16, effectively moving the distal end of the dilator 16 up or down (as shown by the arrows in fig. 16) relative to the axis of the transseptal insertion device 10. The handle 70 can also include a dial 74 for squeezing/extending the distal end of the dilator 16 out of the sheath 12 and retracting the dilator 16 into the sheath 12, effectively moving the dilator 16 along the axis of the septal insertion device 10 (as shown by the arrows in FIG. 16. the handle 70 can also be rotated as shown by the rotational arrows in FIG. 16 to deflect or rotate the distal end of the septal insertion device to the left or right relative to the axis of the septal insertion device 10, thereby increasing or decreasing the angle of deflection of the dilator 16 in that direction. if the dial 72 moves the distal end of the dilator 16 along the Y axis and the axis of the septal insertion device 10 is considered the Z axis, the dial 74 moves the dilator 16 along the Z axis, the rotational handle 70 moves the distal end of the septal insertion device 10 along the X axis (thus also moving the distal end of the dilator 16. the handle 70 includes a port through which the dilator 16 and other devices inserted into the septal insertion device 10 can be inserted Including one or more tubes or other ports that allow connection to an external hub and an external energy source, inflation fluid or gas.

In the embodiments shown herein, the balloon 14 and dilator 16 may be used as an energy source in the left atrium, and may be used to deliver energy to the pulmonary veins, left atrial appendage, mitral valve, and left ventricle present in the left atrium. Such embodiments may include an external energy source connected to balloon 14 and/or dilator 16 by a guidewire or other conductor extending through a lumen in sheath 12. The energy delivered via the balloon 14 or dilator 16 may be thermal/cryogenic or radiofrequency, laser, or electrical. This energy transfer may be through a metal platform, such as a nitinol cage inside or outside of the balloon 14. The transseptal insertion device 10 may also include an energy source external to the proximal end of the sheath and operably connected to the balloon 14 to deliver energy to the balloon 14.

Referring now to fig. 17A and 17B, shown is an embodiment of a spaced insertion device 10 capable of differentially inflating a balloon 14. Differential inflation of balloon 14 enables the inflation of balloon 14 to be adjusted based on the needs of the device operator and the conditions present in the patient's heart. For example, if the interatrial septum is frequently punctured by the fossa ovalis, the size of the fossa ovalis portion of the interatrial septum may determine the desired size of inflatable balloon 14 required at the puncture site. The size of the fossa varies greatly. The larger the fossa, the more difficult it is to raise the atrial septum with the balloon 14. Large pits tend to sag and are more difficult to maneuver. Thus, for large fossae, the larger distal end of balloon 14 will make proper bulging of the atrial septum easier. Indeed, it may be desirable to inflate balloon 14 uniformly until intersecting or passing through the fossa, and then differentially inflate distal end 142 of balloon 14 to dislodge the fossa. In fig. 17A, distal end or portion 142 of balloon 14 is smaller (less inflated) than proximal end 144 of balloon 14.

Conversely, the smaller the fossa, the easier it is to bulge the interatrial septum, but the less space to maneuver balloon 14 near the interatrial septum. Therefore, it is desirable that the distal end of balloon 14 be small. It may also be beneficial to expand proximal portion 144 more to help secure or fix balloon 14 in place. In fig. 17B, the distal end or portion of balloon 14 is larger (more inflated) than the proximal end or portion of balloon 14. In fig. 17A and 17B, dilator 16 has been extruded from sheath 12 and passed over the distal end of balloon 14, bulging atrial septum 100, and puncture is imminent.

Such differential inflation of balloon 14 may be accomplished, for example, by using different materials for different portions of balloon 14 (e.g., using a material that is more expandable at distal end 142 than at proximal or proximal portion 144, or vice versa). In general, balloon 14 may be made of a compliant or non-compliant material, or a combination thereof. As more inflation fluid or gas is added to balloon 14, the compliant material will continue to inflate (at least until failure). The non-compliant material can only expand to a set expansion or specified expansion level. A combination of compliant and non-compliant materials may be used to provide a differentially inflated balloon 14. For example, the distal end 142 may be formed of a compliant material and the proximal end 144 may be formed of a non-compliant material to achieve a larger distal end 142. Conversely, the proximal end 144 may be formed of a compliant material and the distal end 142 may be formed of a non-compliant material to achieve a larger proximal end 144. Other means for providing differential inflation of balloon 14 may be used, such as applying energy to different portions of balloon 14 to increase or decrease the compliance and expandability of the portions.

Balloon 14 may also be used to guide other devices into these anatomical locations or as an angiographic or hemodynamic monitoring balloon. Differential inflation of balloon 14 may be used for proper orientation or direction of such devices.

Referring now to FIG. 18, shown is an embodiment of a malleable spaced needle 90 that may be used with a spaced insertion device 10 having a flexible sheath or otherwise capable of forming multiple angles. In embodiments, the malleable spaced needles 90 may have various diameters and lengths. For example, embodiments include 18 gauge, spaced needles 71cm, 89cm and 98cm in length. In an embodiment, the malleable transseptal needle 90 has a differential stiffness between the proximal segment 92, the distal segment 94, and the intermediate segment 96. For example, the malleable transseptal needle 90 may be stiffer in the proximal and distal segments 92, 94, and more flexible (less stiff) in the intermediate segment or portion 96. The intermediate portion may be an angled portion of the spaced insertion device 10 and dilator 16. In one embodiment, malleable transseptal needles 90 are used and a control handle is provided that enables three-dimensional motion. The malleable spaced apart needles 90 shown are preferably at least partially malleable or flexible. The proximal end 92 of the malleable septal needle 90 may be rigid (e.g., made of a rigid material such as metal). The middle or middle portion 96 of the malleable septa 90 may be malleable or flexible (e.g., made of a flexible, malleable material such as rubber). Thus, the intermediate portion may flex or bend, enabling the malleable septal needle 90 to pass through the angled or flexed sheath 12.

The distal end 94 of malleable transseptal needle 90 (i.e., the end that pierces the atrial septum) may be rigid with its tip having a cap or electrode for delivering energy to the atrial septum to pierce the atrial septum. In an embodiment, the transseptal needle is capable of emitting radiofrequency energy to produce controlled septal puncture. Such a septal needle may or may not be malleable, but is capable of delivering RF energy through a cap or crown (e.g., electrode) at its distal tip. Embodiments of malleable transseptal needle 90 may include rigid and sharp ends for mechanically or physically piercing or puncturing the atrial septum. The needle 90 may be connected, e.g., at a proximal end (not shown), e.g., at an outer hub, to a source of Radio Frequency (RF) energy (not shown) that provides RF energy through the needle to its distal tip. In such embodiments, the dilator 16 may bulge the interatrial septum and the puncture needle with RF energy may produce puncture of the interatrial septum by delivering RF energy.

Embodiments may include additional dilators that can dilate the distal end of the sheath 12 or the entire sheath length, thereby significantly increasing the French size of the sheath 12. For example, a balloon deployed within the sheath 12 may be inflated to inflate the sheath 12. Thus, in such embodiments, the spaced insertion device 10 may be used to house and deliver a larger device, or the device may be retrieved once it has been extruded from the sheath 12 and formed into an embolus (impacted). Such balloons may be inflated through one or more hypotubes.

In an embodiment, energy (typically electrical energy) that may be directed through the spaced insertion device 10 may be used to increase or decrease the French size of the sheath 12. In such embodiments, the sheath 12 is made of a known material that increases ductility and/or expands upon the application of certain energies. In this manner, the French size of the sheath 12 can be adjusted to the size deemed necessary during a given procedure. Such energy may be applied through wires or conductive materials connected to an energy source external to the proximal end of the spaced insertion device 10, attached to the sheath 12 or other component of the spaced insertion device 10, or fabricated within the sheath 12 or other component of the spaced insertion device 10. Likewise, by applying energy, the components or portions of the transseptal insertion device 10 may be selectively made stiffer or more malleable/softer. Thus, as different energy is applied to different components of the spaced insertion device 10 at different times, the size of the spaced insertion device 10 may be adjusted to enable various devices, which are typically larger and more bulky than catheters, to pass through the catheters. In embodiments, the spaced insertion device 10 can accommodate up to 36Fr of device.

In embodiments of the transseptal insertion device 10, MRI techniques may be used to provide visualization of the region of interest within the chest. Embodiments may, for example, provide a needle system comprising a hollow needle having a distal portion and a proximal portion, the distal portion having a distal-most end that is sharpened to penetrate the myocardial wall. The needle may include a first conductor, an insulator/dielectric applied to cover the first conductor on a proximal portion of the needle, and a second conductor applied to cover the insulator/dielectric. The method may also guide the needle system into proximity with the myocardial wall, track the progress of the needle system using MRI active tracking, penetrate the myocardial wall to access the intrathoracic region of interest, and use the needle system as an MRI antenna to receive magnetic resonance signals from the intrathoracic region of interest.

In a related embodiment, the MRI antenna may be mounted on the distal end 13 of the sheath 12, the dilator 16, or the balloon 14, similar to the ultrasound chip or transducer 226 or 326 described above. The lead connecting such an MRI antenna or other MRI component may be passed through a lumen in the dilator 16 or sheath 12 and connected to a suitable magnetic resonance energy source on the exterior of the distal end of the spaced insertion device 10.

Referring to fig. 19A-20C, an embodiment of an improved transseptal puncture device 500 having a puncture member balloon seal 504 is shown. Referring to fig. 19A-20C, a side view of the transseptal puncture device 500, a close-up side view of portion C, and a cross-sectional view of section D-D are shown, respectively, when the puncture member balloon 504 is deflated. Referring now to fig. 20A-20C, a side view of the transseptal puncture device 500, a close-up side view of portion E, and a cross-sectional view of section F-F are shown, respectively, as the puncture member balloon 504 is inflated.

Referring to FIGS. 19A-20C, transseptal puncture device 500 includes a Radio Frequency (RF) generator plug 501, a Y-connector 502, and a puncture member multi-lumen extension 503, where puncture member multi-lumen extension 503 includes a sheath 514 and a puncture member 515 (see FIG. 21B). An RF generator plug 501 is connected to the piercing member multi-lumen extension 503 by a Y-connector 502 and provides power to an RF generator (not shown) that may be positioned in the piercing member 515 located in the multi-lumen extension 503. A piercing member 515 is located within the sheath 514 and has a distal end 506, the distal end 506 being positioned towards an atrial septum of the patient when the device 500 is in use. The piercing member balloon 504 is mounted on the piercing member 515 and is located near the distal end 506 of the piercing member 515. The proximal side view of fig. 19B and the cross-sectional view of fig. 19C show the deflated piercing member balloon 504, while the proximal side view of fig. 20B and the cross-sectional view of fig. 20C show the inflated piercing member balloon 504.

The puncture member 515 includes an inflation port 507 for inflating the puncture member balloon 504, and a cavity 508 connected to the inflation port 507 and supplying gas or fluid to the inflation port 507 to inflate the puncture member balloon 504. The piercing member 515 further includes at least one RF tip 505 at the distal end 506 of the piercing member 515. The RF tip 505 is capable of delivering RF energy. An RF generator (not shown) generates RF energy, and the RF energy is provided to the RF tip 505. The piercing member 515 includes a lumen 509 for a guidewire that delivers RF energy to the RF tip 505.

Referring to fig. 21A-21B, a side view of the transseptal puncture device 500 and a close-up side view of section D, respectively, are shown when the positioning balloon 510 is inflated. Piercing member multi-lumen extension 503 includes sheath 514 and piercing member 515. The sheath 514 may have a sheath marker band 513 and the piercing member balloon 504 mounted on the piercing member 515 may be aligned with the sheath marker band 513. The sheath 514 includes one or more positioning balloons 510, one or more inflation ports 512 connected to the positioning balloons 510, and at least one tube 516 that delivers a gas or fluid to the inflation ports 512 to inflate the positioning balloons 510. The tube 516 may be a hypotube 17 (see fig. 13). The sheath 514 also includes one or more deflation ports 511 coupled to the positioning balloon 510. When the puncture member balloon 504 is inflated, the inflated puncture member balloon 504 seals one or more deflation ports 511 in the sheath 514, preventing the positioning balloon 510 from leaking and allowing the positioning balloon 510 to inflate. The positioning balloon 510 is then inflated through the inflation port 512 of the sheath 514. The non-compliant or semi-compliant piercing member balloon 504 seals the retraction port 511 of the sheath 514, allowing the positioning balloon 510 to expand and position the distal end 506 of the piercing member 515 to the fossa ovalis (see, e.g., fig. 16).

Referring to fig. 22A-22B, a side view of the transseptal puncture device 500 and a close-up side view of part B are shown, respectively, as the puncture member 515 is advanced toward the fossa ovalis. Once accurately positioned, the piercing member 515 is then pushed distally toward the fossa ovalis. The inflated piercing member balloon 504 moves away from the deflation port 511, exposing the deflation port 511. Positioning balloon 510 is deflated through deflation port 511. However, positioning balloon 510 may also be deflated through both inflation port 512 and deflation port 511.

Referring to fig. 23A-23D, there are shown side views of the distal portion of piercing member multi-lumen extension 503 of a compartmentalized piercing device 500 of the present invention. The spaced-apart insertion device 500 includes a sheath 514 defining at least one lumen 517 therein, one or more positioning balloons 510 coupled to a distal end 506 of the sheath 514, a piercing member 515 movably positioned within the at least one lumen 517, and a piercing member balloon 504 mounted on the piercing member 515. The sheath 514 has one or more contraction ports 511 and one or more expansion ports 512. The inflation port 512 is connected to at least one tube 516 that supplies gas or fluid to the positioning balloon 510. The piercing member 515 has an inflation port 507, and gas or fluid is supplied through the inflation port 507 to inflate the piercing member balloon 504. The puncture member balloon 504 may be deflated through the inflation port 507. Piercing member 515 defines a central lumen 518 therein, and a spaced apart guide wire 519 is positioned within central lumen 518. The spaced wire 519 has a distal end and is designed and capable of precisely penetrating the atrial septum.

Referring to fig. 23A, piercing member balloon 504 is deflated and deflation port 511 is opened. Referring to fig. 23B, piercing member balloon 504 is inflated, sealing the deflation port 511. Referring to fig. 23C, positioning balloon 510 is inflated by supplying a gas or fluid through inflation port 512. Because the deflation ports 511 are sealed by the inflated piercing member balloon 504, the positioning balloon 510 can be inflated without leakage. Referring to fig. 23D, as the piercing member 515 is advanced, the inflated piercing member balloon 504 exits from the deflation port 511. Thus, the deflation port 511 is opened and the positioning balloon 510 begins to deflate through the deflation port 511.

Referring to FIG. 24, a workflow diagram of a method 600 is shown, the method 600 for appropriately facilitating accurate and safe transseptal puncture of an atrial septum with a transseptal insertion device. Block 610: the piercing member balloon 504 on the piercing member 515 is inflated. The piercing member 515 has a distal end that is positioned spaced toward the atrium of the patient. Block 611: one or more deflation ports 511 located in the sheath 514 are sealed with the inflated piercing member balloon 504. Block 612: one or more positioning balloons 510 attached to the distal end of the sheath 514 are inflated. The inflated positioning balloon 510 protrudes and extends through the distal end of the sheath. Block 613: positioning the piercing member 515 against the atrial septal fossa when the positioning balloon is inflated. Block 614: causing the piercing member 515 to move toward the fossa ovalis. In this step, the distal end of piercing member 515 extends through the protruding one or more positioning balloons 510, and piercing member balloon 504 moves away from one or more retraction ports 511 while piercing member 515 is advanced. Block 615: one or more positioning balloons 510 are deflated while the distal end of the piercing member is pressed against the fossa ovalis.

Since many modifications, variations and changes in detail can be made to the described preferred embodiment of the invention, it is intended that all matters in the foregoing description and shown in the accompanying drawings be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. Accordingly, the scope of the invention should be determined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents.

Claims (20)

1. A transseptal insertion device adapted to facilitate accurate and safe transseptal puncture of atrial septa, comprising:

a sheath defining at least one lumen therein and having a distal end that is spaced towards an atrium of a patient when the spaced insertion device is in use and a proximal end that is external to the patient;

one or more positioning balloons connected to the distal end of the sheath, wherein the one or more positioning balloons, when inflated and the spaced insertion device is in use, project and extend past the distal end of the sheath, thereby preventing inadvertent puncture of the atrial septum and stabilizing the spaced insertion device against the fossa ovalis of the atrial septum, and wherein the sheath comprises one or more deflation ports to deflate the one or more positioning balloons;

a piercing member movably positioned within the at least one lumen, wherein the piercing member has a distal end positioned towards the atrial septum of the patient; and

a puncture member balloon on the puncture member, wherein the puncture member balloon is capable of sealing the one or more deflation ports of the sheath when inflated, thereby allowing the one or more positioning balloons to inflate.

2. The spaced insertion device of claim 1, wherein the puncture member comprises an inflation port to balloon inflate the puncture member.

3. The spaced insertion device of claim 1, wherein the puncture member balloon is aligned with the one or more retraction ports of the sheath while the puncture member balloon is retained within the sheath.

4. The spaced insertion device of claim 1, wherein the puncture member balloon is configured to move away from the one or more retraction ports of the sheath when the puncture member moves past the distal end of the sheath.

5. The spaced insertion device of claim 1, wherein the sheath comprises one or more inflation ports to inflate the one or more positioning balloons.

6. The spaced insertion device of claim 5, further comprising one or more hypotubes connected to the one or more inflation ports of the sheath, wherein the one or more positioning balloons are inflated by a gas or fluid supplied through the one or more hypotubes.

7. The spaced insertion device of claim 5, wherein the one or more constriction ports of the sheath are positioned closer to the distal end of the sheath than the one or more expansion ports of the sheath.

8. The spaced insertion device of claim 1, further comprising a spaced wire located within a central lumen formed in the piercing member, wherein the spaced wire has a distal end and is designed and capable of precisely piercing atrial spaces.

9. The spaced insertion device of claim 1, wherein the piercing member comprises a Radio Frequency (RF) tip at the distal end of the piercing member, wherein the RF tip is capable of delivering RF energy.

10. The spaced insertion device of claim 9, wherein the piercing member comprises an RF generator that generates RF energy that is transmitted to the RF tip.

11. The spaced insertion device of claim 1, further comprising one or more ultrasound transceivers that transmit and receive ultrasound waves and convert the ultrasound waves into electrical signals.

12. The spaced insertion device of claim 11, wherein the one or more ultrasonic transceivers are located on a surface of the one or more balloons.

13. The spaced insertion device of claim 11, wherein the one or more ultrasonic transceivers are located between the balloons.

14. A method for suitably facilitating accurate and safe transseptal puncture of atrial septum with a transseptal insertion device, comprising:

inflating a puncture member balloon located on a puncture member having a distal end positioned toward the atrial septum of the patient;

balloon sealing one or more retraction ports in the sheath with the inflated piercing member;

inflating one or more positioning balloons coupled to a distal end of the sheath, wherein the inflated one or more positioning balloons protrude and extend past the distal end of the sheath;

positioning the piercing member against the atrial septal fossa when the positioning balloon is inflated;

advancing the puncture member toward the fossa ovalis, wherein the distal end of the puncture member extends past one or more positioning balloons that protrude, wherein the puncture member balloon moves away from the one or more retraction ports as the puncture member is advanced; and is

Deflating the one or more positioning balloons while the distal end of the piercing member is pressing against the fossa ovalis.

15. The method of claim 14, further comprising advancing a spaced wire past the distal end of the piercing member to pierce the fossa ovalis, wherein the spaced wire is positioned in a central lumen formed in the piercing member.

16. The method of claim 14, wherein the piercing member balloon is inflated by a gas or fluid supplied through one or more inflation ports located in the piercing member.

17. The method of claim 14, wherein the one or more positioning balloons are inflated by a gas or fluid supplied through one or more inflation ports located in the sheath.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein the one or more constriction ports of the sheath are positioned closer to the distal end of the sheath than the one or more expansion ports of the sheath.

19. The method of claim 14, wherein the one or more positioning balloons are deflated through the one or more deflation ports of the sheath.

20. The method of claim 14, wherein the one or more positioning balloons are deflated through the one or more deflation ports of the sheath and the one or more inflation ports of the sheath.