阅读说明：本技术 鼻用输送工具、系统及使用方法 (Nasal delivery tool, system and method of use ) 是由 M·H·罗森塔尔 S·J·巴伦 B·J·多梅克斯 M·S·米里齐 S·萨利纳斯 于 2018-03-28 设计创作，主要内容包括：鼻植入物输送工具包括内柄、外柄、针和推杆。内柄包括配置用于接收鼻植入物的加载室。外柄配置成相对于内柄轴向移动。针从内柄向远侧延伸并具有中心腔和远侧开口。推杆配置用于使鼻植入物从加载室移动通过中心腔并从针的远侧开口移出。推杆联接到外柄以使得,当外柄相对于内柄轴向移动时,推杆相对于内柄轴向移动。本文中还描述了鼻植入物引导件和使用鼻植入物输送工具及鼻植入物引导件的方法。(The nasal implant delivery tool includes an inner handle, an outer handle, a needle, and a push rod. The inner handle includes a loading chamber configured to receive a nasal implant. The outer shank is configured to move axially relative to the inner shank. A needle extends distally from the inner handle and has a central lumen and a distal opening. The pusher rod is configured to move the nasal implant from the loading chamber through the central lumen and out of the distal opening of the needle. The push rod is coupled to the outer shank such that, when the outer shank moves axially relative to the inner shank, the push rod moves axially relative to the inner shank. Nasal implant guides and methods of using the nasal implant delivery tools and nasal implant guides are also described herein.)

1. A nasal implant delivery tool, comprising:

an inner handle comprising a loading chamber configured to receive a nasal implant;

an outer shank, wherein the outer shank is configured to move axially relative to the inner shank;

a needle extending distally from the inner handle, the needle having a central lumen and a distal opening; and

a push rod configured to move a nasal implant from a loading chamber through the central lumen and out of the distal opening of the needle, wherein the push rod is coupled to the outer handle such that, when the outer handle moves axially relative to the inner handle, the push rod moves axially relative to the inner handle.

2. The delivery tool of claim 1, wherein the distal end of the needle comprises a flat beveled tip.

3. The delivery tool of claim 1, wherein the distal end of the needle comprises a pointed tip.

4. The delivery tool of claim 3, wherein the tapered tip comprises two or more surfaces having a bevel angle of 50 degrees or less.

5. The delivery tool of any of claim 1, wherein the outer handle is configured to move between a plurality of discrete locking positions relative to the inner handle.

6. The delivery tool of claim 1, wherein the locked positions correspond to a distal deployment position, a ready position, and a proximal implant loading position.

7. The delivery tool of claim 6, wherein the pusher bar is advanced distally such that the nasal implant is configured to be advanced partially or completely through the distal opening of the needle when the outer handle is in the distal deployed position.

8. The delivery tool of claim 6, wherein the central lumen of the needle is configured to retain the nose therein when the outer handle is in the ready position.

9. The delivery tool of claim 6, wherein the loading chamber is exposed when the outer handle is in the proximal implant loading position.

10. The delivery tool of claim 6, further comprising a first button and a second button on the outer handle.

11. The delivery tool of claim 10, wherein the first button is configured to allow the outer handle to move from the ready position to the distal deployed position when the first button is depressed.

12. The delivery tool of claim 11, wherein the first button includes a first locking feature configured to engage a second locking feature on the inner handle when the outer handle is in the implant loading position to prevent the first button from being depressed.

13. The delivery tool of claim 10, wherein the second button is configured to allow the outer handle to move from the ready position to the proximal implant loading position when the second button is depressed.

14. The delivery tool of claim 10, wherein the first button or the second button includes an engagement surface configured to engage a corresponding engagement surface of the inner handle when the first button or the second button is not depressed.

15. The delivery tool of claim 14, wherein the first or second button is configured to move the engagement surface when the first or second button is depressed to disengage the engagement surface from a corresponding engagement surface of the inner handle to allow relative movement between the inner and outer handles.

16. The delivery tool of claim 1, further comprising an implant position indicator configured to indicate a position of the nasal implant within the delivery tool.

17. The delivery tool of claim 16, wherein the implant position indicator includes a first arm protruding from the delivery tool in a first direction and a second arm protruding from the delivery tool in a second direction.

18. The delivery tool of claim 17, wherein the first and second arms define a plane that is substantially similar to a plane formed by the first and second arms of the nasal implant in the deployed configuration.

19. The delivery tool of claim 1, wherein the needle comprises a low friction coating on an outer surface of the needle.

20. The delivery tool of claim 19, wherein the low friction coating comprises PTFE, silicone, or parylene.

21. The delivery tool of claim 1, wherein the needle includes band-shaped markers at different locations along the needle.

22. The delivery tool of claim 1, wherein the central lumen of the needle includes a portion having a non-circular cross-section.

23. The delivery tool of claim 1, wherein the outer handle is configured to completely cover the proximal end of the inner handle.

24. The delivery tool of claim 1, wherein the outer handle includes a gripping portion configured to be held in a hand of a user.

25. A method of delivering a nasal implant to nasal tissue, the method comprising:

inserting a needle of a delivery tool into nasal tissue, the delivery tool including an inner handle having a nasal implant received therein;

while maintaining the position of the inner handle, advancing the outer handle of the delivery tool distally relative to the inner handle, thereby advancing the implant distally through the needle of the delivery tool and into the nasal tissue; and

the delivery tool is withdrawn from the nasal tissue.

26. The method of claim 25, wherein the implant includes a first arm at a distal end of the implant and a second arm at a distal end of the implant, the first arm moving away from a central longitudinal axis of the implant and the second arm moving away from the central longitudinal axis of the implant during the advancing step.

27. The method of claim 26, wherein advancing the implant comprises: the implant is advanced distally such that the first and second arms each engage tissue.

28. The method of claim 25, further comprising: the outer handle is advanced to a distal locked position prior to withdrawing the delivery tool from the nasal tissue.

29. The method of claim 25, further comprising: prior to insertion of the needle, the outer handle is slid proximally relative to the inner handle to expose the implant loading chamber of the inner handle.

30. The method of claim 29, further comprising: after the implant loading chamber is exposed, the implant is loaded into the implant loading chamber of the delivery tool.

31. The method of claim 29, further comprising: before sliding the outer handle proximally to expose the implant loading chamber, a button on the outer handle is pressed to unlock the outer handle from the inner handle.

32. The method of claim 25, further comprising: prior to distally advancing the outer handle of the delivery tool, a button on the outer handle is pressed to unlock the outer handle from the inner handle.

33. The method of claim 25, further comprising: during the insertion step, a known orientation between the implant and the needle is maintained.

34. The method of claim 33, wherein maintaining a known orientation between the implant and the needle comprises: the implant is engaged with a lumen portion of the needle having a non-circular cross-section.

35. The method of claim 25, further comprising: the position and orientation of the nasal implant is planned with a nasal implant guide prior to insertion of the needle.

36. A nasal implant guide, comprising:

a nasal implant guide, the nasal implant guide comprising:

a proximal opening configured to allow marking on an exterior lateral nasal wall of a patient, the proximal opening corresponding to a proximal feature of a nasal implant;

a plurality of markers adjacent to the proximal opening adapted to provide a scale for a practitioner to determine the distance between the proximal feature and the alar edge;

a distal opening configured to allow marking on an outer lateral nasal wall of a patient, the distal opening corresponding to a base of a distal prong of a nasal implant; and

a prong feature projecting distally from the distal opening, the prong feature corresponding to an expanded configuration of a distal prong feature of the nasal implant; and

a handle engaged with the nasal implant guide, configured to be graspable to position the nasal implant guide relative to an extranasal wall.

37. The nasal implant of claim 36, wherein the nasal implant lead further comprises an image of a portion of the shape of the nasal implant.

38. The nasal implant guide of claim 36, wherein the stem engages the nasal implant guide such that the stem forms an angle of about 90 degrees with a major axis of the nasal implant guide.

39. The nasal implant guide of claim 36, wherein the prong feature comprises a first protrusion and a second protrusion.

40. A system, comprising:

the delivery tool of any of claims 1-24; and

a nasal implant.

41. The system of claim 40, further comprising any of the nasal implant guides of claims 36-39.

Disclosure of Invention

Described herein are tools for delivering implants, systems comprising delivery tools and nasal implants, and methods of using delivery tools to locate implants within a body. More specifically, nasal implants, tools for delivering nasal implants, and systems and methods for using such implants and tools are described herein. Nasal implant positioning guides are also described herein.

Generally, in one embodiment, a nasal implant delivery tool includes an inner handle, an outer handle, a needle, and a push rod. The inner handle includes a loading chamber configured to receive a nasal implant. The outer shank is configured to move axially relative to the inner shank. A needle extends distally from the inner handle and has a central lumen and a distal opening. The pusher rod is configured to move the nasal implant from the loading chamber through the central lumen and out of the distal opening of the needle. The push rod is coupled to the outer shank such that, when the outer shank moves axially relative to the inner shank, the push rod moves axially relative to the inner shank.

This and other embodiments may include one or more of the following features. The distal end of the needle may comprise a flat beveled tip. The distal end of the needle may include a pointed tip. The tapered tip may include two or more surfaces having a bevel angle of 50 degrees or less. The outer handle may be configured to move between a plurality of discrete locking positions relative to the inner handle. The locked positions may correspond to a distal deployed position, a ready position, and a proximal implant loading position. The pusher bar can be advanced distally such that the nasal implant is configured to be advanced partially or completely through the distal opening of the needle when the outer handle is in the distal deployed position. The central lumen of the needle may be configured to retain a nasal implant therein when the outer handle is in the ready position. The loading chamber is exposed when the outer handle is in the proximal implant loading position. The delivery tool may further include a first button and a second button on the outer handle. The first button may be configured to allow the outer handle to move from the ready position to the distal deployed position when the first button is pressed. The first button may include a first locking feature configured to engage a second locking feature on the inner handle when the outer handle is in the implant loading position to prevent the first button from being depressed. The second button may be configured to allow the outer handle to move from the ready position to the proximal implant loading position when the second button is depressed. The first button or the second button may include an engagement surface configured to engage with a corresponding engagement surface of the inner handle when the first button or the second button is not depressed. The first or second button may be configured to move the engagement surface when the first or second button is depressed to disengage the engagement surface from a corresponding engagement surface of the inner handle, thereby allowing relative movement between the inner and outer handles. The delivery tool may further include an implant position indicator configured to indicate a position of the nasal implant within the delivery tool. The implant position indicator can include a first arm projecting in a first direction from the delivery tool and a second arm projecting in a second direction from the delivery tool. The first and second arms may define a plane that would be substantially similar to a plane formed by the first and second arms of the nasal implant in the deployed configuration. The needle may include a low friction coating on an outer surface of the needle. The low friction coating may comprise PTFE, silicone or parylene. The needle may include band-like indicia at different locations along the needle. The central lumen of the needle may include a portion having a non-circular cross-section. The outer handle may be configured to completely cover the proximal end of the inner handle. The outer handle may include a grip portion configured to be held in a hand of a user.

In general, in one embodiment, a method of delivering a nasal implant to nasal tissue comprises: (1) inserting a needle of a delivery tool into nasal tissue, wherein the delivery tool comprises an inner handle having a nasal implant received therein; (2) while maintaining the position of the inner handle, advancing the outer handle of the delivery tool distally relative to the inner handle, thereby advancing the implant distally through the needle of the delivery tool and into the nasal tissue; and (3) withdrawing the delivery tool from the nasal tissue.

This and other embodiments may include one or more of the following features. The implant may include a first arm at a distal end of the implant and a second arm at a distal end of the implant, the first arm moving away from a central longitudinal axis of the implant and the second arm moving away from the central longitudinal axis of the implant during the advancing step. Advancing the implant may comprise: the implant is advanced distally such that the first and second arms each engage tissue. The method may further comprise: the outer handle is advanced to a distal locked position prior to withdrawing the delivery tool from the nasal tissue. The method may further comprise: prior to insertion of the needle, the outer handle is slid proximally relative to the inner handle to expose the implant loading chamber of the inner handle. The method may further comprise: after the implant loading chamber is exposed, the implant is loaded into the implant loading chamber of the delivery tool. The method may further comprise: before sliding the outer handle proximally to expose the implant loading chamber, a button on the outer handle is pressed to unlock the outer handle from the inner handle. The method may further comprise: prior to distally advancing the outer handle of the delivery tool, a button on the outer handle is pressed to unlock the outer handle from the inner handle. The method may further comprise: during the insertion step, a known orientation between the implant and the needle is maintained. Maintaining a known orientation between the implant and the needle may include: the implant is engaged with a lumen portion of the needle having a non-circular cross-section. The method may further comprise: the position and orientation of the nasal implant is planned with a nasal implant guide prior to insertion of the needle.

Generally, in one embodiment, a nasal implant guide includes a nasal implant guide and a handle. The nasal implant guide includes a proximal opening, a plurality of indicia, a distal opening, and a forked feature. The proximal opening is configured to allow marking on an outer lateral nasal wall of the patient, and the proximal opening corresponds to a proximal feature of the nasal implant. The plurality of markers are adjacent to the proximal opening and are adapted to provide a scale for a practitioner to determine the distance between the proximal feature and the alar rim edge. The distal opening is configured to allow marking on an outer lateral nasal wall of the patient, and the distal opening corresponds to a base of a distal prong of the nasal implant. A prong feature protrudes distally from the distal opening, and the prong feature corresponds to an expanded configuration of the distal prong feature of the nasal implant. The handle is engaged with the nasal implant guide and is configured to be graspable by hand to position the nasal implant guide relative to the lateral nasal wall.

This and other embodiments may include one or more of the following features. The nasal implant guide may further include an image of a portion of the shape of the nasal implant. The stem may be engaged with the nasal implant guide such that the stem forms an angle of approximately 90 degrees with a major axis of the nasal implant guide. The fork feature may include a first protrusion and a second protrusion.

Generally, in one embodiment, a system comprises any of the delivery tools as described herein and a nasal implant as described herein. The system may further comprise any of the nasal implant guides described herein.

Drawings

The novel features believed characteristic of the invention are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. A better understanding of the features and advantages of the present invention will be obtained by reference to the following detailed description that sets forth illustrative embodiments, in which the principles of the invention are utilized, and the accompanying drawings of which:

fig. 1A shows the underlying nasal anatomy without overlying skin or tissue.

Fig. 1B and 1C illustrate exemplary nasal implants.

Fig. 1D illustrates another exemplary nasal implant.

Fig. 1E and 1F illustrate the installation of a nasal implant in the nasal anatomy.

Fig. 2A-2D illustrate the delivery tool with the nasal implant in multiple positions. Fig. 2A and 2B show a transparent view of the needle with the implant in the needle, while fig. 2C and 2D show the end of the nasal implant protruding from the needle with the rest hidden inside the needle.

Figures 3A-3C illustrate another delivery tool with an implant in multiple positions. Fig. 3A and 3B show a transparent view of the needle with the implant in the needle, while fig. 3C shows the end of the nasal implant protruding from the needle while the rest is still hidden inside the needle. Fig. 3D illustrates a cross-section of the outer handle of the device of fig. 3A-3C taken along the longitudinal axis. Fig. 3E shows a cross-section of the device of fig. 3A-3C, taken perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. Figure 3F shows a cross-section of the central portion of the overall device of figures 3A-3C taken along the longitudinal axis.

Fig. 4A and 4B illustrate an external side view and a cross-sectional side view, respectively, of the delivery tool of fig. 3A-3C. 4C-4E illustrate the use of the proximal push button to allow proximal retraction of the outer shaft relative to the inner shaft.

Fig. 5A illustrates a cross-sectional view of the delivery tool of fig. 3A-3C in an implant loading configuration. Fig. 5B illustrates a top view of the delivery tool in an implant loaded configuration. Fig. 5C illustrates an enlarged view of the latch mechanism in the implant loaded configuration. Fig. 5D illustrates the locking mechanism in the implant loaded configuration. Fig. 5E illustrates a hard stop in the implant loaded configuration.

Fig. 6A-6B illustrate the delivery tool of fig. 3A-3C after pressing a deployment button to deploy a nasal implant. Fig. 6C-6D illustrate advancement of the outer handle of the delivery tool of fig. 3A-3C for deploying an implant.

FIG. 7A illustrates the position of the outer handle of the delivery tool of FIGS. 3A-3C after delivery of an implant.

Fig. 7B illustrates a portion of the handle of the delivery tool of fig. 3A-3C including a retraction lock.

Fig. 8A-8C show a portion of the handle of the delivery tool of fig. 3A-3C to illustrate the operation of the deployment button, the internal latching mechanism, and the reset mechanism.

Fig. 9A-9B illustrate different views of an exemplary tip of a needle of a delivery tool. Fig. 9C-9D illustrate different views of another exemplary tip of a needle of a delivery tool. Fig. 9E-9F illustrate different views of another exemplary tip of a needle of a delivery tool.

Fig. 10A-10C illustrate a portion of a handle of another exemplary delivery tool.

Fig. 11A and 11B illustrate a portion of another exemplary delivery tool.

Fig. 12A and 12B illustrate a portion of another exemplary delivery tool. A portion of the outer handle is shown cut away for clarity.

Fig. 13A-13D illustrate a portion of a handle of another exemplary delivery tool.

Fig. 14A and 14B illustrate cross-sectional views of a delivery tool similar to the delivery tool of fig. 13A-13D. Fig. 14C and 14D illustrate cross-sectional views of another delivery tool similar to the delivery tool of fig. 13A-13D.

FIGS. 14C-14D are pictorial representations

Fig. 15A-15E illustrate different embodiments of exemplary external nasal guides that may be used by a healthcare provider to plan the position and orientation of a nasal implant relative to the nasal anatomy.

Fig. 16A-16B illustrate the use of an exemplary nasal guide for installing an implant.

Fig. 17A-17B illustrate another exemplary nasal guide use for installing an implant.

Detailed Description

Nasal implants, delivery tools for delivering nasal implants, methods of using tools to deliver nasal implants, and external nasal guides for assisting in the installation of nasal implants are described herein. The delivery tools, devices, systems, and methods described herein may provide various advantages and improvements. For example, the delivery tool may provide improved ergonomics and one-handed use. The improved ergonomics may reduce the likelihood of incomplete nasal implant deployment and/or incorrect nasal implant positioning. The improved ergonomics may also make it easier to maintain the positioning and orientation of the needle, making retraction of the tool less likely to move or change the orientation of the implant.

Embodiments of nasal implant delivery tools are described herein. In some embodiments, a nasal implant delivery tool includes an inner handle including a loading chamber configured to receive a nasal implant and an outer handle configured to be hand-graspable, the outer handle further configured to move axially relative to the inner handle. The nasal implant delivery tool may include a needle extending distally from a portion of the inner handle with the needle. In some embodiments, the needle may have a non-circular cross-section. The non-circular cross-section may be used as an implant orientation feature to enable the nasal implant to pass through the lumen in a fixed and known rotational orientation. The device may include a passageway or channel between the implant loading chamber and the proximal end of the needle adapted to allow the implant to move from the implant loading chamber to a position within the needle. In one example, a needle may be attached to the loading chamber and the loading ramp, which may compress the implant arm to facilitate access into the lumen of the needle. The nasal implant delivery tool may include a pusher element/actuator (e.g., a pushrod) configured to move the nasal implant from the loading chamber into and along the needle lumen and out of the opening at the distal end of the needle. The pusher member/actuator may be engaged with or coupled to the outer shank such that the pusher member/actuator moves axially relative to the inner shank portion with axial movement of the outer shank portion. The outer handle may be adapted to move relative to the inner handle between a plurality of discrete locking positions, such as with one or more buttons.

In some embodiments, a nasal implant delivery tool may include an implant position indicator configured to provide a visual indication of: the plane is formed by the first and second arms of the nasal implant in the deployed configuration, corresponding to the orientation of the implant within the needle lumen. The inner handle may include an implant position indicator configured to provide a visual indication of: the plane is formed by the first and second arms of the nasal implant in the deployed configuration, corresponding to the orientation of the implant within the needle lumen. The implant orientation indicator can be designed such that an operator of the tool can quickly see the orientation of the tool and the corresponding orientation of the plane formed by the arms of the nasal implant in the deployed configuration. The implant position indicator may extend from a portion of the handle such that the operator's hand does not cover or obscure the implant position indicator during use of the device. The implant position indicator may include a first arm projecting in a first direction from the stem and a second arm projecting in a second direction from the stem. The first and second arms may define a plane that is substantially similar to a plane formed by the first and second arms of the nasal implant in the deployed configuration corresponding to an orientation of the implant within the needle lumen.

In some embodiments, the implant loading chamber is configured to receive a nasal implant in a deployed configuration. Additionally, the implant loading chamber may be adapted to move the nasal implant from the deployed configuration to the compressed delivery configuration or the ready configuration as the nasal implant is advanced into the needle lumen. A ramp between the implant loading chamber and the needle may be configured to move the arm of the implant into a compressed delivery configuration within the needle lumen.

In some embodiments, the needle includes a low friction coating on the outer surface of the needle. In some examples, the low friction coating may be Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), silicone, or parylene. In some embodiments, the needle includes substantially band-shaped indicia at different locations along the needle. The tape markers may provide the physician with information regarding the depth and location of the needle within the nasal tissue.

In some embodiments, a nasal implant delivery tool may include a nasal implant therein. The implant may comprise any of the nasal implants described herein. In one example, a nasal implant for use with the loading tool described herein includes a body having a distal end, a proximal end, and a central portion disposed between the proximal end and the distal end. The implant also includes a first arm and a second arm. A first arm is disposed at the distal end and has a proximal end secured to the body and a distal end unsecured to the body, and the distal end of the arm is adapted to move away from the central longitudinal axis of the body from the delivery configuration toward the deployed arrangement. The second arm includes a proximal end fixed to the body and a distal end not fixed to the body, and the distal end of the second arm is adapted to move away from the central longitudinal axis of the body from the delivery configuration toward the deployed configuration. The first and second arms may define a plane when each arm is in the deployed configuration away from the central longitudinal axis of the body.

Also provided herein are methods of supporting a tissue section of a patient's nose. In some embodiments, the method comprises: the needle of the delivery tool as described herein is inserted into the tissue of the nose. The method further comprises the following steps: the outer handle is advanced distally to advance the implant distally from the needle lumen to dispose the distal end of the implant within the nasal tissue. The implant may include a first arm at a distal end of the implant and a second arm at a distal end of the implant. The method can comprise the following steps: the first arm moves away from the central longitudinal axis of the implant during the advancing step and the second arm moves away from the central longitudinal axis of the implant during the advancing step. The method can comprise the following steps: the delivery tool is withdrawn from the nasal tissue and the tissue section is supported with the implant.

In some embodiments, the method may further comprise: the outer handle is advanced to a distal locked position prior to withdrawing the delivery tool from the nasal tissue. The use of a distal locking position may prevent the physician from advancing the outer handle incompletely because if the distal locking position is not reached, the outer handle will slide during retraction, alerting the physician that the implant is not fully deployed. The method may further comprise: the outer handle is slid proximally to expose the implant loading chamber of the inner handle portion. The method may further comprise: prior to sliding the outer handle proximally to expose the implant loading chamber, a button on the outer handle is pressed to partially unlock the outer handle from the inner handle. Further, the method may comprise: the implant is loaded into an implant loading chamber of a delivery tool. The loading step may include: the first and second arms of the implant are collapsed/folded prior to entering the needle. The method may further comprise: the implant is advanced from the implant loading chamber into the needle lumen by advancing the outer stem and pusher member/actuator distally relative to the inner stem portion. Advancing the implant may comprise: the outer handle is advanced to a locking point and then unlocked before advancing the implant distally from the needle lumen to dispose the distal end of the implant within the nasal tissue. The method can comprise the following steps: unlocking and advancing the outer handle independently of the inner handle while preventing movement of the needle and inner handle relative to the nasal anatomy. Unlocking the outer handle may include depressing a button on the outer handle to disengage the outer handle from the locking surface of the inner handle.

Systems are also described herein. The system can include any of the delivery tools described herein, and include a nasal implant. The nasal implant may be any of the nasal implants described herein. The nasal implant may be within the needle or provided separately from the delivery tool. The system may further comprise one or more of any nasal implant guide also described herein.

Fig. 1A illustrates the anatomy and organization of the underlying structural aspects of the face. The outer overlying skin and muscle layers are removed in the drawing to better illustrate the underlying cartilage and bone providing structure. The nose is located in the middle of the face and provides olfactory (sniffing) and respiratory control (e.g., by restricting air flow). The nose has two airflow passages, one on each side of the nose (starting at each naris), which combine to form a single airflow passage into the body. Air flows from the nose through the trachea and into the lungs where it is diffused in the lobes of the lungs and oxygen is absorbed for use throughout the body. Each of the two airflow channels in the nose has several sections that include two types of nasal valves (referred to as "extra-nasal valves" and "intra-nasal valves") along each nasal airflow channel that function to control airflow through the nose. The outer and inner valves together control the flow of air into and out of the body. A "valve" is a structure that surrounds a gas flow, and the amount of resistance provided by the valve to the gas flow is largely determined by the shape and size of the valve (e.g., the internal cross-sectional area of the valve). The intra-nasal valve on each channel is the narrowest section of the channel in the nose, and the intra-nasal valve produces substantially the majority of the resistance. In addition to the important function of controlling airflow, the inter-nasal valve also helps to give the nose a unique nose shape. Nasal valves are shaped and supported by different structures in the nose and face, with the upper lateral cartilage playing an important role in the morphology and function of the valve. In addition, greater or lesser changes to the inter-nasal valve structure can impair nasal breathing and/or can alter the cosmetic appearance of the nose. Such changes generally have the effect of reducing the cross-sectional area of the internal valve and may result from surgery, medical treatment, or trauma to the face. In addition, nasal valve structures may vary from individual to individual, some of which have significantly narrowed valves due to cartilage weakness or malformation (often observed as pinching the nose). The narrow valve area causes the gas flow acceleration to increase while the pressure within the lumen decreases, causing the valve to collapse. While even normal nasal valves collapse under large respiratory pressures, dysfunctional internal valves collapse during normal breathing, resulting in reduced oxygen flow, snoring and/or mouth breathing.

The nose part comprises an outer nose protruding from the face and a nasal cavity under the bottom of the outer nose. From top to bottom, the outer nose has a root, a bridge, a back (spine), a free tip (nose tip), and a columella. The external nose is attached to the anterior nares, the continuous free edge of the pear-shaped opening of the nasal cavity in the skull, and is formed by the nasal bone and the maxillary bone. As shown in fig. 1A, the nose is in the middle of the face, framed by the bones of the head with the brow 2 above the nose, the maxillary lateral brow 6 on the side of the nose, and the maxillary anterior spine 20 below the nose (in this view, the other maxillary lateral brow on the other side of the nose is not visible). The external nose can be roughly divided into three layers from the outside to the inside: overlying skin and muscle layers (removed in this view), intermediate cartilage and skeleton layers, and an inner mucosal layer (not directly visible in this view).

While the intermediate cartilage and the scaffold layer provide morphology, structure and support to the nose, the intermediate cartilage and the scaffold layer also allow the nose to be soft and twist and deflect in different directions. The intermediate cartilage and the scaffold layer can be roughly divided into three sections, from top to bottom: one third of the upper (superior) bone and one third of the middle and lower (inferior) cartilage. The upper third includes pairs of left and right nasal bones 4a, 4b that connect in the middle of the nose and form the top (or upper) of the bridge of the nose. The nasal bone 4a (together with the maxillary lateral frontal process 6) joins the frontal bone 2 superiorly, forming a nasofrontal (nasion) suture 5. Laterally, the nasal bone 4a joins the maxilla at the frontal process 6 of the maxilla, forming a fibrous connection at the maxilla nasal suture 7 (or nasal maxillary suture). The middle third of the cartilage and the carcass layer comprises septal cartilage 10 which forms part of the nasal septum and separates the nares and the two airflow channels internally. The lateral process 8 of the septal cartilage 10 fuses with the upper lateral cartilage 11 at the upper part (in this view, the other lateral process on the other side of the nose is not visible, which also fuses with the upper lateral cartilage on the other side of the nose). Fig. 1A also shows the alar cartilage 24, one of several accessory cartilages that provide support and allow movement of the nose, and that have an effect on the complex 3-dimensional shape of the nose. The upper lateral cartilage 11 is normally quite hard and it takes most of the responsibility to support the sides of the nose. The superior lateral cartilage cooperates with the septal cartilage tissue to help form an intra-nasal valve that is within the nose, below the superior lateral cartilage, and is not directly visible in this view.

As described above, there are two intra-nasal valves (one on each side of the nose). Each intra-nasal valve is formed and bounded by: middle, septal cartilage 10; lateral, superior lateral cartilaginous trailing edge 13; and the lower, head of the inferior turbinate (not visible in this view). The attachment of the superior lateral cartilage to the septum (septal cartilage) forms an angle that defines the intra-nasal valve angle (also referred to simply as the "valve angle"). The intra-nasal valve angle is the narrowest part of the nasal airway and creates a resistance that controls airflow through it. There are some natural differences between individuals in their nasal valve angle, and the valve angle also changes over time, as a natural consequence of aging. The valve angle is determined in part by genetics, and a race has a particular average valve angle associated with that race. Even within a particular ethnicity, there will be differences in valve angle between individuals, and differences between individual left and right valves. The nasal valve angle may also change as a result of surgery, trauma, or other intervention. Valves with valve angles less than about 10 degrees are generally considered to be "collapsed," leading to nasal airway obstruction due to collapse of the nasal sidewall upon inhalation, and treatments such as those described herein should be administered. Valve angles greater than 10 degrees may also lead to certain airway obstruction and/or cosmetic concerns, and treatment should also be administered, but dysfunction at valve angles greater than 10 degrees is generally less severe than for collapsed valves. The valve in need of treatment can be the subject of treatment using the implants, devices, systems, and methods described herein.

The lower third of the cartilage and the scaffold layer comprises the alar cartilage (also referred to as the "lower lateral cartilage" or "lower lateral cartilage" based on its location and to distinguish it from the "upper lateral cartilage") which helps to shape the nostrils and tip of the nose. The cartilage is softer and more mobile than the upper lateral cartilage, and it allows some movement of the tip of the nose. The alar greater cartilage 14 is u-shaped and includes a lateral side 16 and a medial side 18. The greater alar cartilage 14 forms part of the external valve around the nostril 17 (also known as the "extranasal opening"), however the greater alar cartilage is not fully accessible to the bone in the lateral direction. The lower third of the cartilage and skeleton layer also includes alar fibrofatty tissue 26 of the alar nose that fills the gap between the lateral side 16 and the bone. Fig. 1A also shows alar minor subchondral cartilage 12, which joins the cartilage and alar greater cartilage in the skeletal layer and lateral cartilage 8.

As mentioned above, the nose is a complex 3-dimensional structure. It may be desirable to change the shape of the nose or better support the structure of the nose in order to improve or maintain the function or appearance (appearance) of the nose, but it may be difficult to change one aspect of the nose without adversely affecting the other parts. Indeed, previous surgical procedures were one cause of nasal valve function changes that can be treated using the systems and methods described herein. Described herein are implants, devices, systems, and methods for altering or supporting aspects of body structure or shape, including the nose.

An exemplary nasal implant 32 (e.g., for use with a delivery tool as described herein) is shown in fig. 1B-1C. Implant 32 includes a central body having a first arm 76a and a second arm 76b, each having a first arm outer chamfer 78a and a second arm outer chamfer 78b, respectively, on each radially outward surface of the distal end of implant 32. The outer ramps 78a, 78b can assist in, for example, guiding the implant into a delivery device, retracting the implant into a collapsed configuration, orienting the implant in a delivery device, or guiding the implant through a delivery device. The first and second arms 76a, 76b may further include inner ramps 80a, 80 b. In some embodiments, the inner ramps 80a, 80b and the outer ramps 78a, 78b may form a double ramp. The inner and outer ramps 80a, 80b, 78a, 78b may share an edge (e.g., the two ramped surfaces may intersect at any angle other than 90 ° to each other), or the inner and outer ramps may diverge away from each other. In some examples, the inner ramps 80a, 80b and the outer ramps 78a, 78b may intersect one another at any angle other than 90 ° and not share an edge (e.g., each ramp may be formed by a different edge). The angled surfaces 78a, 78b and 80a, 80b may be at the ends of the arms or tabs or along the sides of the tabs or protrusions.

Implant 32 may further include a proximal feature 74 at the proximal end. Proximal feature 74 may be a rounded atraumatic blunt end (as shown), or may be a sharp or flat end. Atraumatic proximal feature 74 may prevent the proximal implant end from damaging, cutting, or dislodging tissue when it is in place in tissue (e.g., in nasal tissue). The proximal feature 74 may help anchor or otherwise hold the implant in place in the tissue in which it is implanted.

Implant 32 may further include a strain relief section 82 just distal to proximal feature 74. As shown, the strain relief section 82 may have a relatively smaller cross-sectional area (e.g., diameter) than other portions of the implant 32. In some embodiments, the strain relief section 82 may be larger than other areas, but still provide strain relief by having a different configuration or a different material.

The implant 32 may further include a central bridging region 42 between the distal arms 76a, 76b and the proximal feature 74. The central bridging region 42 may be particularly helpful in bridging areas requiring support, such as areas of weakness or collapse between structures on either (both) end. For example, the central bridging region 42 may bridge weak or collapsed nasal valves in the nose. The central region 42 may include one or more ribs (also referred to as "ridges") 60. The ribs 60 may help anchor the implant 32 in place, such as by pinching tissue between the ribs 60 or valleys. As shown in fig. 1B, the first rib 60 has a first rib width W1, and the second rib 60 has a second rib width W2. The rib widths W1 and W2 may be the same size or may be different sizes. The first rib 60 may have a first rib diameter and the second rib 60 may have a second rib diameter. The first and second rib diameters may be the same size or may be different sizes. Implant 32 may also include more than one other body feature, such as a chamfer, a sector, or a wing.

An implant similar to implant 32 is described in US 2016-0058556, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Fig. 1D illustrates another embodiment of a nasal implant 62. Implant 62 includes central body 58, distal end 56 having two prongs 50, 52, and atraumatic proximal end 54. Implant 62 also includes two barbs 65 at the portion of the implant where arms 50, 52 intersect central body 58. Barbs 65 extend transversely to the plane defined by prongs 52, 50. Barbs 65 extend from opposite sides of the implant and may be molded or shaved. Additionally, the central body 58 may include a series of ribs 55 around the central body. An implant similar to implant 62 is described in international application number PCT/US17/68419, entitled "NASAL IMPLANTS AND METHODS OF USE," filed on 26.12.2017, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Fig. 1E and 1F show front and side views, respectively, of an implant 732 (which may be the same as, for example, implant 32 or implant 62) implanted in and supporting a tissue section of a patient's nose (e.g., using a delivery tool as described herein). Implant 732 may help maintain or improve nasal function or nasal appearance and may be placed under skin and muscle (which has been removed as shown to better illustrate the implant and underlying nasal structure and nasal implant). Fig. 1E and 1F show implant 732 in place for supporting or modifying the intra-nasal valve. Implant 732 is thus placed (appose) under the skin and muscle alongside the structures in the cartilage and scaffold layers. Implant 732 has a body with a proximal end 734, a distal end 736, and a central portion 738 therebetween. The central portion 738 is located between the nasal cartilage and the patient's skin or muscle. The central portion 738 is also placed alongside the lower lateral portion 721 of the upper and lower lateral cartilages 711 and 723. As described above, the trailing end of the upper lateral cartilage defines an internal valve angle with the septal cartilage, and the central portion 738 of the implant 732 is also placed alongside the trailing end 748 of the upper lateral cartilage 711 and thus overlies or acts on the internal valve wall to provide support to or change the shape of the internal valve. The distal end 736 of the implant 732 is placed alongside structures in the upper portion of the cartilage and skeleton. The arms 740, 742 are placed alongside the nasal bone 704, the maxillary frontal process 706, and the maxillary nasal suture 707 (nasomaxillary suture) 707. In some variations, the distal end of the implant may be placed side-by-side or adjacent to one of the structures in the upper layer or any structure or tissue in the middle or lower cartilage and scaffold layer (e.g., subchondral cartilage, greater alar cartilage, lesser alar cartilage, septal cartilage, maxilla, etc.).

In some embodiments, specialized tools may be used to deliver implants (e.g., implants 32, 62, 732) into nasal tissue.

Referring to fig. 2A-2C, the delivery tool 100 may be used to deliver an implant 132 (which may be any of the implants described herein). The delivery tool 100 includes a graspable handle 102, a needle 106 extending from the handle 102, and a plunger 104 attached to a push rod 109, and adapted to advance a nasal implant 132 within the needle 106. In some embodiments, the needle 106 can include a non-circular cross-section that can allow the implant to be properly aligned within the needle 106 (e.g., the arms of the implant can diverge slightly in an outward direction along the main axis to orient the implant 132 within the needle 106). Additionally, the stem 102 may include an implant orientation feature 110. When the implant 132 is properly positioned within the needle 106, the implant orientation feature 110 may be oriented along the same longitudinal axis as the arms or prongs of the implant 132 when the arms are in the deployed configuration. The orientation features 110 can thus help a user visualize the plane defined by the arms of the implant 132 in the deployed configuration. In some embodiments, the handle 102 may include an implant loading window 108, the implant loading window 108 allowing viewing of the implant 132 through the handle 102 when the device 100 is in a ready position. Additionally, in some embodiments, the delivery tool 100 may include a plunger o-ring therein that may be configured to provide low, consistent friction throughout plunger 104 deployment (i.e., to keep deployment smooth) and help protect the plunger 104 from inadvertent movement should the tool 100 be moved.

Fig. 2A-2C illustrate various stages of proper deployment of the implant 132 from the tool 100. During stage 1 of deployment (fig. 2A), the force (F) applied by the user to the plunger 104 _PRESS) Will correspond to a force that overcomes the minimal friction (F) of implant 132 sliding within needle 106 _IMPLANT) And friction (F) of the push rod 109 within the tool 100 (i.e., along the O-ring) _O-RING). As the implant 132 begins to exit the needle 106 and interact with nasal tissue, the plunger force may be low and constant. During stage 2 of deployment (fig. 2B), the prongs of implant 132 begin to exit the distal end of needle 106 and interact with adjacent nasal tissue. This generates a force (F) that is directly transferred to the plunger 104 _PIERCE). Thus, F _PRESSBecomes larger until the prongs of the implant 232 penetrate into the tissue. During phase 3 (fig. 2C), when properly deployed, the user continues with a higher force (F) _PRESS) The plunger 104 is depressed until the plunger 104 reaches the end of its travel, such as until the plunger 104 hits the proximal end of the handle 102. In some embodiments, the tool 100 may remain stationary relative to the tissue while the prongs of the implant 132 penetrate into the tissue more than about 4mm beyond the distal tip of the needle 106.

Fig. 2D illustrates incorrect deployment of the implant 232 from the tool. To apply F _PRESSWhile providing resistance to traction, users sometimes support the device 100 by grasping a housing (e.g., the main handle body 102) of the tool. Supporting the device 100 there is a force reaction F _GRIPBecause the user attempts to counteract the force F by pulling proximally on the handle 102 _PRESS. Thus, the implant 132 may remain stationary while the tool 100 is retracted proximally from the tissue. This may result in the implant 132 not reaching the intended or intended position of the implant and possibly being caudal (less delivered than intended) to the intended position4-6 mm. For untrained eyes, the reaction may not even be perceived as if it were properly deployed during deployment. However, this incorrect installation may require removal of the implant 132 or result in the implant 132 not properly supporting nasal tissue in the intended manner. Thus, in some embodiments, the delivery tool may be configured to prevent or minimize the chance of inadvertent retraction during deployment.

Fig. 3A-3F illustrate an embodiment of a delivery tool 200, where the delivery tool 200 can help prevent or minimize the chance of inadvertent retraction during deployment. The delivery tool 200 includes a hand-graspable outer handle 202, an inner handle 208, and a needle 206 (e.g., a portion of the needle having a non-circular cross-section, as described with respect to the delivery tool 100). The outer handle 202 is slidable relative to the inner handle 208, and the outer handle includes a distal button 204a and a proximal button 204 b. The inner stem 208 has a flange 252 and its distal, orientation feature 210, and in some embodiments, the inner stem 208 also has an implant loading window. As shown in fig. 3D-3E, bearing surfaces 238a-D on the inner handle 208 can slide along rails 222a-D on the inner surface of the outer handle 202 to allow sliding movement between the inner handle 208 and the outer handle 202. The rails 222a-d may span 50-80% (e.g., about 60%) of the length of the outer handle 202, while the bearing surfaces 238a-d may span substantially the entire length of the inner handle 208. Similar to tool 100, implant orientation feature 210 of tool 200 may be positioned in longitudinal alignment with an arm of implant 232 (which may be any of the implants described herein).

The nasal implant 232 may be advanced through the needle 206 by advancing the outer handle 202 distally relative to the needle 206. The outer handle 202 is rigidly connected to a pusher bar 214 (see fig. 3F) that provides a force to the implant 232 to move the implant distally through the needle 206 when the outer handle 202 is moved distally while attached to the inner handle 208. The distal button 204a may be configured to be depressed to allow the outer stem 202 to move distally relative to the inner stem 208. Additionally, the proximal button 204b can be configured to be depressed to allow the outer stem 202 to be released from the inner stem 208 such that the outer stem 202 can be moved proximally relative to the inner stem 208 to allow loading of the implant 232.

Figures 3A-3C illustrate various stages of deployment of the implant 232 using the tool 200. At fig. 3A, the implant 232 is loaded in the needle 206 and ready for deployment. No deployment of the implant 232 occurs until the user presses the distal button 204 a. At fig. 3B, tool 200 illustrates partial deployment of implant 232. The distal button 204a is in a depressed position, thus disengaging the inner stem 208 from the outer stem 202. Similar to device 100, the force for deploying implant 232 will be low until the prongs of implant 232 begin to engage tissue. At this point, the force for advancing the outer stem 208 and implant 232 will increase until the prongs penetrate into the soft tissue. The deployed configuration of delivery tool 200 is shown in fig. 3C with implant 232 deployed in tissue. As the outer handle 202 slides forward relative to the inner handle 208, the prongs of the implant 232 will be pushed distally out of the needle 206 and into the tissue. When the outer handle 202 is fully extended with the inner handle 208 attached, the outer handle 202 will come to a scram stop (i.e., against the flange 252) and lock in this stop position. When the outer handle 202 is fully advanced, the locking of the handle in place is accompanied by an audible and tactile click that can be felt by the user. If the outer handle 202 is not advanced sufficiently to the scram stop and associated locking position, then withdrawing the device 200 will cause the outer handle 202 to slide proximally, alerting the user that full deployment of the nasal implant 232 has not been achieved.

Advantageously, because the user holds only the outer handle 202 of the device 200 and not the inner handle 208, the user will not apply a back load (i.e., F in fig. 2D) to the inner handle 208 or the needle 206 _GRIP). Thus, during deployment, the tool 200 is not retracted relative to the tissue. Also, because the user may use the outer handle 202 as both a grasping mechanism and a plunger, the user is less likely to change the grip or orientation of the hand during use, helping to ensure that the orientation of the tool 200, and thus the implant 232, remains consistent during deployment.

Fig. 4A-4C illustrate the delivery device 200 in a preloaded configuration (i.e., without an implant therein). The cross-sectional view in fig. 4B shows the distal button 204a engaged with the latch 212 of the inner stem 208 because the distal button 204a has not yet been depressed. In addition, in this position, the proximal button 204b is also not pressed. The cantilevered portion 205b of the proximal button 204b may have a spring-like quality, biasing the button 204b in an upward direction. The cantilevered portion 205b may be heat staked or welded to the inner surface of the outer stem 202 distal to the button and supported by rib features 251 proximal to the proximal button. Additionally, the retraction stop tang 216 on the inner handle 208 may engage the distal teeth 228 on the outer handle 202. This engagement may prevent the outer handle 202 from being withdrawn proximally relative to the inner handle 208 in the preloaded configuration. Referring to fig. 4D and 4E, to load an implant into the device 200, the proximal button 204b can be depressed to advance the retraction stop tang 216 away from the distal tooth 228. With the proximal button 204b held depressed, the outer stem 202 can be retracted proximally relative to the inner stem 208 and proximally past the distal teeth 228 and the proximal teeth 229, thereby allowing the implant to be loaded.

Fig. 5A-5E illustrate the delivery tool 200 in a loaded configuration, ready to load an implant. The outer stem 202 has been retracted proximally relative to the inner stem 208, exposing the implant loading chamber 218. In the retracted position, the retraction stop tang 216 of the inner handle 208 can strike the stop tooth 239 and at the same time the tang latch 220a (connected to the stop tang 216) can strike the stop rib 220b, thereby preventing the inner and outer handles 208, 202 from becoming completely separated. Retraction of outer handle 202 exposes implant loading chamber 218 and pulls inner push rod 214 proximally sufficiently that implant loading chamber 218 is unobstructed and the implant can be loaded. In one embodiment, the delivery tool may be configured such that the distal button 204a is prevented from being depressed when in the loaded configuration (i.e., to prevent accidental deployment of the implant when moving the device to the ready configuration). As shown in fig. 5D, in the loaded configuration, the t-slot feature 219 on the inner surface of the latch 212 can seat along the rail 221 on the inner stem 208, preventing the distal button 204a from being pressed downward. The track 221 may extend only part way (e.g., 40-80%, e.g., 60%) along the length of the inner stem 208, and the track may end just at the ready or preloaded configured position of the t-slot feature 219 (thereby allowing the t-slot feature 219 to disengage and retract the button 204a upward into position).

After loading the nasal implant into the loading chamber 218, the outer handle 202 can be slid distally until the outer handle reaches a ready position scram stop 262 (shown in fig. 6A) on the inner handle 208. This positions the device 200 back into the ready configuration shown in fig. 3A. In this position, the t-slot feature 219 disengages from the track 221 on the inner stem 208 and the distal button 204a remains in the undepressed orientation. In this position, the depression of the deploy button is not limited when preparing for deployment. In the ready-to-use position,

a user (e.g., a physician) may then use the delivery tool to deliver the nasal implant to the targeted nasal tissue. The user may thus insert the needle 206 of the delivery tool 200 (with the implant therein) in a ready configuration into the nasal wall of the patient. As the user navigates through the nasal wall anatomy, the device 200 will experience both tensile and compressive loads due to friction and resistance of the target tissue, but the handles 208, 202 will not move relative to each other.

Referring to fig. 6A-6D, after the user positions the device 200 in a suitable location within the body and prepares to deploy the implant, the distal button 204a can be pressed. Upon pressing the distal button 204a, the button 204a will push the latch 212 downward (i.e., into the gap space 268), causing the latch to catch under the lip 269 of the outer handle 202 (as shown in the change from fig. 6A to 6B). In some embodiments, this activation may produce an audible and/or tactile feedback mechanism, providing an indication to the user that the implant is ready to be deployed (i.e., that the deployment lock has been released). After latching on, the user may release the distal button 204a (although releasing the button is not necessary) because the distal button 204a will remain depressed (due to the latch 212 catching on the lip 269). After pressing the distal button 204a, the user can slide the outer handle 202 forward (because the latch 212 is no longer engaged with the lip 262 on the inner handle 108), as shown in the change from fig. 6C to fig. 6D. As outer handle 202 is moved forward, pusher bar 214 is moved distally, thereby pushing the implant from loading chamber 218 and deploying the implant. As shown in fig. 6C-6D, the user can advance outer handle 202 forward until outer handle 202 reaches the hard stop of resting flange 252.

As shown in fig. 7A-7B, once the outer handle 202 reaches the scram stop against the flange 252, the handle 202 may lock into place, allowing the device 200 to be retracted. Referring to fig. 7B, in this position, the retraction stop tang 216 may move proximally of the proximal stop tooth 229 such that the tang 216 is seated against the proximal tooth 229, thereby preventing proximal movement of the outer stem 202 relative to the inner stem 208. This locking allows the physician to retract the device 200 from the soft tissue without withdrawing the outer handle 202 from the inner handle 208. This latching action can produce an audible and/or tactile feedback mechanism to provide an indication that the implant has been fully deployed or fully released and that the device is latched in the deployed position (i.e., prior to full release, the outer handle 202 will move proximally relative to the inner handle 208, indicating that the implant has not been properly or fully released).

After delivery of the nasal implant, the device 200 can be reloaded with another implant by depressing the button 204A, as described above with respect to fig. 4A-4D. Additionally, referring to fig. 8A-8C, as the outer handle 202 is pulled proximally, the deployment button 204a engages the proximal edge of the implant loading chamber 218, which pushes the latch 212 out of engagement with the lip 269, allowing the latch 212 and button 204a to spring upward (e.g., the button 204a and/or latch 212 may be spring biased toward an up position to move the button 204a upward, as shown in the change from fig. 8B to 8C).

Referring to fig. 9A-9F, the tip of a needle (e.g., needle 206 of device 200) may be used to facilitate tissue penetration and/or tissue separation during positioning of delivery needle 206 for delivery of nasal implant 232. referring to fig. 9A-9B, for example, tip 996a may have a tri-beveled configuration including three discriminating surfaces 997a-C, each of which is beveled (i.e., beveled at 45 degrees from the plane normal to the primary bevel.) additionally, tip 996a may have a primary angle α that varies from about 11-15 degrees as another example, referring to fig. 9C-9D, tip 996B may have a flat bevel design rather than a multi-faceted tip 996B may have a primary angle α between 15-20 degrees — flat bevel tip 996B may have less (e.g., as compared to tip 996 a) cutting tip 996B, one or more of the cutting tip 996B may allow one or more of the cutting tip 996B to be distinguished as a higher degree of superior bevel angle of progression in the tip 996a cartilage implant wall, as opposed to a soft tissue layer (999), as opposed by a) is positioned in the superior bevel angle of progression of the tip 996B, as opposed to the tip 996B, the tip 996a bevel, the tip 996B may be used to improve the detection of the superior or superior tissue layer, the superior or inferior of the cartilage, the superior bevel, the superior or inferior of the superior bevel, the cartilage, the superior or inferior of the superior bone, or inferior of the cartilage, or superior bone, or inferior of the implant, or superior bone, or inferior of the cartilage, or inferior of the implant, or superior bone, or inferior.

Many alternatives may be used in the delivery tool described herein, such as for the push button on the handle and the hard stop and locking structure in the interior handle of the delivery tool.

In some embodiments, a button with a magnetic latch design may be used. Fig. 10A-10C illustrate a portion of a handle of an exemplary delivery tool 300. Transport 300 is similar to transport 200 except that: the distal button 304a, when depressed, may be attached to a latch 312, which is attached to a magnetic stop 333. The button 304a may include a living spring 337 that biases the button 304a upward. When depressed (as shown in the variation from fig. 10A to 10B), the button 304a can push on the latch 312, which pivots about pivot point 331. A magnet 339 on the underside of the latch 312 may be attracted to the magnetic stop 333. The latch 312 can thus be moved out of the way to allow deployment, as described for the delivery tool 200. As shown in fig. 10C, when the outer handle 302 is retracted, the proximal edge 330 of the implant loading port 318 will interact with the reset ramp boss 334 to pull up the magnet 339 and disengage the magnet from the stop 333, causing the button 304a to rebound upward.

In some embodiments, the spring may be used in one or more locking structures of the delivery tool. Fig. 11A and 11B illustrate a delivery vehicle 400 similar to device 200 except that: the delivery tool 400 includes a resilient locking mechanism that can engage and reset the distal button 404 a. A spring 444 (e.g., a leaf spring) biases the button 404a in an upward orientation. Thus, when the button 404a is depressed, the spring 444 flattens out (as shown in the change from fig. 11A to 11B). In this embodiment, the button 404a is held in a depressed state by a user during deployment rather than latched in a depressed state. During proximal retraction, distal button 404a is reset with spring 444.

In some embodiments, the button and latch may be combined on the exterior of the delivery device. For example, fig. 12A-12B illustrate an apparatus 500 that is similar to apparatus 200 except that: the distal button 504a may be a spring-loaded latch with a central pivot point 555. A small spring (e.g., a molded spring) may bias the button 504a in the up position. During deployment, the user may hold button 504a depressed. The latch may be configured to be positioned in a ready position (fig. 12A) or a deployed position (fig. 12B). From the ready position, the user can press and hold a distal (raised) portion of the lever 555) to release the lever from its proximal locking position 552 on the inner handle 508. The outer handle 502 can then be moved distally until the lever 555 reaches a locked position 554 on the inner handle 508 (as shown in fig. 5B). In this position, the implant may be deployed.

In some embodiments, a button with a spring and snap-in detent may be used. Fig. 13A-13D illustrate a delivery device 600 that is similar to device 200 except that: the distal button 604a includes a spring and snap-in detent insert. Fig. 13A shows the apparatus 600 in a ready position. In this position, the distal button 604a is in the "cocked" position and the button latch 666 is also in the "cocked" position abutting the scram stop 662 on the inner handle. In the ready configuration, the spring 664 keeps the button latch 666 cocked and, similar to the device 200, the retraction stop tang may be locked to prevent the outer handle 602 from being retracted relative to the inner handle 208. Fig. 13B shows that when button 604a is depressed, button latch 666 is forced downward against spring 664, compressing spring 664 and releasing button latch 666 from scram stop 662 on inner handle 608. In some embodiments, button 604a may click and/or provide a tactile response. An exemplary mechanism that can generate a clicking sound and inhibit the button from springing back upward after release is detailed in fig. 14A-14D, as described further below. The outer handle 602 may then be distally advanced over the handle 208 to deploy the implant. Fig. 13C shows the final deployed state of the apparatus 600. The outer stem 602 is positioned furthest (bottom out) on the ledge 652 of the inner stem 608. In this position, the retraction stop tang on the inner handle pops into a second locked position on the proximal end of the outer handle, as described above with respect to device 200. Fig. 13D shows the reset mechanism of button 604 a. To reload the device, the user holds the retract button depressed as described above with respect to tool 200. While retracting the outer handle 602 relative to the inner handle 608, the loadport ramp 673 is designed to engage a center rib 671 on the deployment button 604 a. The ramped design of these two features 673, 671 pushes up on the distal button 604A, overcoming the detent that holds the distal button down (as described below with respect to fig. 14A-D), and the deployment button 604A and button latch 666 spring upward.

14A-14B, the button 604A may include a double-sided connective suspension that engages discrete locations on a double-sided button brake insert. Fig. 14A shows an exemplary cross-section of device 600 through button 604A when button 604A is in the ready (raised) position. In this position, the detent projections 663a, 663b on the deployment button arms 669a, 669b may be positioned within the first reliefs 664a, 664b on the detent insert tabs 667a, 667b to prevent any component preloading during shelf life. Referring to fig. 14B, when the button 604a is depressed, the detent bumps 663a, 663B on the deployment button arms 669a, 669B can force the cantilever arms 661a, 661B on the detent insert tabs 667a, 667B to deflect outward from the path (shown by the arrows in fig. 14B) and snap back into position once the detent bumps reach the second relief 665a, 665B position. By snapping back into place, an audible click and/or tactile response may occur, and the detent insert tabs 667a, 667b may hold the button 604a in a depressed/depressed position.

Fig. 14C and 14D illustrate another exemplary embodiment, wherein the button 604a includes a double-sided connecting suspension portion that engages discrete locations on a double-sided button brake insert. This embodiment is similar to the embodiment of fig. 14A-14B except as follows: the detent bumps 1463a, 1463b on the arms 1469a, 1469b are ramped up to reduce the force required to depress the button. In addition, the reliefs 1464a, 1464b and 1465a, 1465b have a dome shape to provide for greater retention. Additionally, the detent insert tabs 1467a, 1467b can each have a semi-circular or D-shaped shape, with the straight edges of the D-shape deflecting outward (as shown by the arrows in fig. 14D) during deployment. Similar to the embodiment of fig. 14A and 14B, the detent projections 1463a, 1463B may move from a higher relief 1464A, 1464B to a lower relief 1465a, 1465B when transitioning from the ready configuration (fig. 14C) to the deployed (fig. 14D) configuration. The lower detents 1465a, 1465b may hold the buttons 604a, 604b in the depressed/depressed configuration until the buttons are reset during loading.

The delivery tools described herein may include a number of advantages. For example, a beveled needle tip may allow tissue planes to be distinguished to separate tissue rather than pierce tissue. The blunt tip of a single-bevel cannula is less likely to penetrate tissue layers than a more sharp distal tip, such as a cutting trocar beveled tip, may facilitate easier detection of the intended parting plane, and may minimize mid-deployment advancement. For example, in a final deployed position above the maxilla, a blunt tip will be less likely to advance toward the head during implant deployment than a more sharp tip.

The delivery tools described herein also provide improved ergonomics for the user. Because the deployment mechanism carries an external handle for implant advancement, there is minimal or no counter traction required to be exerted on the device. The use of an external handle to actuate the plunger also reduces the likelihood of the needle being withdrawn from the tissue during implant deployment and the nasal implant inadvertently moving from the intended implantation location and orientation.

The delivery tool described herein also allows for improved one-handed device operation. The delivery tool described herein allows for the use of the device with minimal tool manipulation for deploying the implant. While holding the device by grasping, the physician can position the needle at a desired location in the soft tissue. Once ready for deployment, the user can easily reach and depress a distal button (e.g., a deployment actuator button) with minimal to no manipulation of their hand grip, and then slide the gripped outer handle forward to advance the nasal implant through the needle to deploy the implant in the target location. One-handed use is beneficial because one-handed use helps avoid rotation and deflection of the delivery tool during use.

Additionally, the actuator and retraction locks in the devices described herein may be designed to prevent premature deployment. Similarly, a shield around the button may be used to prevent inadvertent deployment of the device during use.

It will be understood that any feature described herein with respect to one embodiment may be combined with, or substituted for, any feature described herein with respect to another embodiment.

The conveyance described herein may alternatively or additionally include features described in U.S. application No. 15/274,986 entitled "NASAL IMPLANTS AND SYSTEMS AND METHOD OF USE," filed on 23/9/2016, the entire contents OF which are incorporated herein by reference.

In some embodiments, a nasal implant positioning guide may be used when delivering a nasal implant with any of the delivery tools described herein.

Fig. 15A-15F illustrate external guides that can be used to plan the position and orientation of an implant relative to the nasal anatomy. The nasal implant guides 1400 may each include a stem 1412 and a nasal implant guide 1410 (e.g., a representation of a nasal implant on one or both sides of the nasal implant guide to indicate the direction of deployment). The nasal implant guides 1400 may each further include a proximal opening 1402 and a distal opening 1406. The nasal implant guide 1400 may include a prong feature 1408 that protrudes distally from the distal opening 1406. In some embodiments, the nasal implant guide 1400 may further include a plurality of markings 1404 (e.g., six small bosses on the nasal implant guide) adjacent the proximal opening 1402 adapted to provide a scale for a user to determine the distance between the proximal feature and the alar edge of the nose. These markings 1404 may begin 4mm from the center of the ball end (corresponding to the proximal opening 1402) and be spaced 2mm apart. In some embodiments, the handle 1412 may engage and be axially aligned with the nasal implant guide 1410. In other embodiments, the handle 1412 may engage with the nasal implant guide 1410 such that the handle 1412 forms an angle of about 90 degrees with respect to a major axis of the nasal implant guide 1410.

Fig. 15A shows implant 1400a with stem 1412a axially aligned with implant guide 1410. Fig. 15B illustrates the guide 1400B with the stem 1412B at a 90 degree angle relative to the guide 1410B. The proximal and distal openings 1402b, 1406b are much larger than the openings 1402a, 1406a to accommodate larger marker tips. The forked feature 408b of the assistive guide 1410b is configured to have a profile in the shape of the implant prongs to make the positioning of the implant prongs clearer. The marking portion is not shown in the device 1400 b. Fig. 15C shows a device 1400C having markings 1404d in the form of bumps at 4mm, 8mm, and 12 mm. Fig. 15D includes markings 1404D in the form of bumps at 4mm, 8mm, and 12 mm. Fig. 15E includes a marking 1404E in the form of a cut-out mark at 4mm, 8mm, 12 mmm.

In some examples, the positioning of the handle 1412 at a 90 degree angle relative to the guide 1412 (as shown in fig. 15B-15C) may enable a user to hold the tool near the patient's face to promote better visibility of the target anatomy than if the tool were held in line with the intended trajectory. The 90 degree design may allow a left or right handed user to use the guide 1400 while operating on either side of the nasal anatomy.

The nasal implant guide described herein may be used as a planning/marking aid and may be intended to mimic implants and help physicians customize their preferred implantation locations. For example, as shown in fig. 16A-16B, the nasal implant guide 1600 may be used to guide the installation of an implant 1632 (which may be any implant described herein). Similar to the guide 1500a, the guide 1600 has a shank 1612 axially aligned with the guide 1610. As shown in fig. 16A, the guide 1600 may be positioned such that a user may grip the handle 1612 and mark the lateral nasal wall through the distal opening 1606 (e.g., with a surgical pencil) to indicate the desired location of the distal end of the needle of the delivery tool (while the prong feature 1608 may correspond to the positioning of the distal prong arms 1676A, 1676b of the implant 1632). Similarly, a user may mark the lateral nasal wall through the proximal opening 1602 to indicate the intended positioning of the proximal feature 1674 of the implant 1632. The marker 1604 may advantageously serve as a ruler to visualize the distance of the proximal feature 1674 of the implant from the alar edge 1660. The length of the handle 1612 may be designed so that the user's hand does not block/obstruct vision, thereby providing visualization of the guide 1600 and anatomy during planning/marking.

As shown in fig. 16B, the marker of the guide 1600 may be used to position the nasal implant 1632 within the nasal anatomy 1665 such that the prongs 1676a, 1676B are positioned adjacent to and across the maxilla and the central bridging region 1642 is positioned to support the upper and lower lateral cartilages.

Referring to fig. 17A-17B, nasal implant 1700 may be similarly disposed on nasal anatomy 1735 to help position implant 1732 within nasal anatomy 1735.

When a feature or element is referred to herein as being "on" another feature or element, the feature or element may be directly on the other feature or element or intervening features and/or elements may also be present. In contrast, when a feature or element is referred to as being "directly on" another feature or element, there are no intervening features or elements present. It will also be understood that when a feature or element is referred to as being "connected," "attached," or "coupled" to another feature or element, it can be directly connected, attached, or coupled to the other feature or element or intervening features or elements may be present. In contrast, when a feature or element is referred to as being "directly connected," "directly attached," or "directly coupled" to another feature or element, there are no intervening features or elements present. Although described or illustrated with respect to one embodiment, the features and elements so described or illustrated may be applicable to other embodiments. It will also be understood by those skilled in the art that references to a structure or feature that is disposed "adjacent" another feature may have portions that overlap or underlay the adjacent feature.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments and implementations only and is not intended to be limiting. For example, as used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms "comprises" and/or "comprising," when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. As used herein, the term "and/or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items and may be abbreviated as "/".

Spatially relative terms such as "below … …," "below … …," "below," "above … …," "upper," and the like may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element or feature as illustrated in the figures. It will be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device is turned over in the drawings, elements described as "below" or "beneath" other elements or features would then be oriented "above" the other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term "below … …" can encompass both an orientation of "above … …" and an orientation of "below … …". The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted correspondingly. Similarly, the terms "upward," "downward," "vertical," "horizontal," and the like are used herein for the purpose of illustration only, unless explicitly indicated otherwise.

Although the terms "first" and "second" may be used herein to describe different features/elements (including steps), these features/elements should not be limited by these terms unless the context indicates otherwise. These terms may be used to distinguish one feature/element from another feature/element. Thus, a first feature/element discussed below could be termed a second feature/element, and similarly, a second feature/element discussed below could be termed a first feature/element, without departing from the teachings provided herein.

As used in this specification and the claims, including as used in the examples, and unless otherwise expressly specified, all numbers may be read as if prefaced by the word "about" or "approximately", even if the term does not expressly appear. When describing sizes and/or locations, the phrase "about" or "approximately" may be used to indicate that the described values and/or locations are within a reasonably expected range of values and/or locations. For example, a numerical value may have a value (or range of values) that is +/-0.1% of the stated value, a value (or range of values) that is +/-1% of the stated value, a value (or range of values) that is +/-2% of the stated value, a value (or range of values) that is +/-5% of the stated value, a value (or range of values) that is +/-10% of the stated value, and the like. Any numerical range recited herein is intended to include all sub-ranges subsumed therein.

Although various illustrative embodiments have been described above, any number of variations may be made in the various embodiments without departing from the teachings herein. For example, the order in which the different described method steps are performed may often be varied in alternative embodiments, and in other alternative embodiments one or more method steps may be skipped entirely. Optional features in different device and system embodiments may be included in some embodiments and not in others. Accordingly, the foregoing description is provided primarily for the purpose of illustration and should not be construed to limit the scope of the claims.

The examples and illustrations contained herein show by way of illustration, and not limitation, specific embodiments in which the subject matter may be practiced. As mentioned, other embodiments may be utilized and derived from the specific embodiments, such that structural and logical substitutions and changes may be made without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Such embodiments of the inventive subject matter may be referred to herein, individually or collectively, by the term "invention" merely for convenience and without intending to voluntarily limit the scope of this application to any single invention or inventive concept if more than one is in fact disclosed. Thus, although specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, any arrangement calculated to achieve the same purpose may be substituted for the specific embodiments shown. This disclosure is intended to cover any and all adaptations or variations of various embodiments. Combinations of the above embodiments, and other embodiments not specifically described herein, will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the above description.