阅读说明：本技术 磁性支架和支架输送 (Magnetic stent and stent delivery ) 是由 S·马诺利迪斯 于 2020-01-28 设计创作，主要内容包括：一种用于外科应用的支架装置,其具有带有近端和远端的中空管状区段。此外,支架装置可具有连接到所述中空管状区段的至少一个锚点。所述中空管状区段还可具有可调整构件和磁性连接节点。所述支架也可包裹在具有磁性的材料中。所述支架的输送可包含用于将支架插入血管中的支架输送工具。(A stent device for surgical applications has a hollow tubular section with a proximal end and a distal end. Furthermore, the stent device may have at least one anchor point connected to the hollow tubular section. The hollow tubular section may also have adjustable members and magnetic connection nodes. The stent may also be wrapped in a material having magnetic properties. Delivery of the stent may include a stent delivery tool for inserting the stent into a blood vessel.)

1. A stent device for surgical applications, comprising:

a hollow tubular section with a proximal end and a distal end;

at least one anchor point connected to the hollow tubular section;

wherein the hollow tubular section comprises at least one adjustable member; and is

Wherein the hollow tubular section comprises at least one magnetic connection node.

2. The stent device of claim 1, wherein the proximal end has at least one atraumatic anchor point.

3. The stent device of claim 1, wherein the proximal end has at least one traumatic anchor point.

4. The stent device of claim 1, wherein the distal end has at least one atraumatic anchor point.

5. The stent device of claim 1, wherein the distal end has at least one traumatic anchor point.

6. The stent device according to claim 1 wherein the at least one adjustable member comprises a material that is adjustable by a magnetic field.

7. The stent device of claim 1, wherein the at least one adjustable member has an expansion memory.

8. The stent device of claim 1, wherein the at least one adjustable member is connected to form a circumference of the proximal end.

9. The stent device of claim 1, wherein the at least one adjustable member is connected to form a circumference of the distal end.

10. The stent device of claim 1, wherein the at least one adjustable member is connected to form a circumference of the hollow tubular section.

11. The stent device of claim 1, wherein the hollow tubular section further comprises at least one structural member.

12. The bracket device of claim 11, wherein the at least one structural member is connected to the at least one adjustable member by the at least one magnetic connection node.

13. The stent device of claim 11, wherein the hollow tubular section further comprises at least one connection node.

14. The stent device of claim 13, wherein the at least one adjustable member is connected by the at least one magnetic connecting node and the at least one connecting node.

15. The stent device of claim 1, wherein the hollow tubular section further comprises at least one atraumatic anchor extending radially from the hollow tubular section.

16. The stent device of claim 1, wherein the hollow tubular section further comprises at least one traumatic anchor extending radially from the hollow tubular section.

17. The stent device of claim 1, wherein the hollow tubular section further comprises at least one sensor.

18. The stent device of claim 17, wherein the at least one sensor is a blood flow sensor.

19. The stent device of claim 1, wherein the stent device further comprises a stent wrap.

20. A device for wrapping a stent, comprising:

a first material and a second material; and is

Wherein the second material has magnetic properties.

21. The device of claim 20, wherein the device further comprises a sensor coupled to the second material.

22. The device of claim 20, wherein the device further comprises a third material.

23. The device of claim 22, wherein the third material has a property that prevents a magnetic field from reaching the second material.

24. A system for stent delivery in surgical applications, comprising:

a stent delivery tool for inserting a stent into a blood vessel, the stent delivery comprising: wherein the stent comprises a hollow tubular section having a proximal end and a distal end; at least one anchor point connected to the hollow tubular section; wherein the hollow tubular section comprises at least one adjustable member; and wherein the hollow tubular section comprises at least one magnetic connection node.

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to stents and stent delivery. More particularly, but not by way of limitation, the present disclosure relates to devices, methods, or systems for magnetic stents and magnetic stent delivery.

Description of the Related Art

Hospitals around the world can perform many different types of surgery every day. One such procedure is free flap reconstruction (free flap reconstruction). In various procedures, free flap reconstruction is a well established method of reconstructing soft tissue and bone or composite defects. The free skin flap is used in frequency order for head and neck reconstruction, breast reconstruction, orthopedic surgery and other various departments. In particular, head and neck surgery, which uses largely free flap reconstructions. This is due to the complexity of defects at critical sites where, in addition to cosmetic, recovery of swallowing, vocalization and mastication functions is critical.

Free flap reconstruction involves the transfer of tissue from a remote site in the body to the site requiring reconstruction. The operating principle behind this concept is that the tissue in the body is provided in a segmental functional form. That is, a length of the subcutaneous tissue, fascial musculoskeletal, or any combination thereof, may be harvested depending on the particular location. Tissue transfer is complete when the free flap vessels (arteries and veins) are connected to the donor vessel and then the flap is placed in the defect.

The donor vessel is selected from among the appropriate vessels to match the diameter of the recipient vessel (free flap vessel). In the neck, these donor vessels are usually branches of the external carotid artery and one of the numerous veins of the head and neck or the jugular vein itself. Each donor vessel is peeled away from the surrounding tissue and its edges are prepared for anastomosis. In free flap reconstruction, the vessels are raised in situ, carefully and atraumatically dissecting out the vascular junctions. The vessel junctions are then severed, preferably at a length suitable for a tension-free anastomosis. This is not always possible because different free flaps have different vessel lengths depending on where they are harvested. For example, the maximum length of the free rectus vascular pedicle (free myocardial vascular pedicle) may be 8 centimeters, while the maximum length of the radial vascular pedicle (radial vascular pedicle) of the forearm may be 15-20 centimeters.

Once the vessel is removed from the proper location, margin preparation is initiated. The vessel preparation process may take about an hour and is performed under optimal conditions using a surgical microscope and/or a magnifying ring. Long periods of surgical training require considerable skill. The anastomosis (connection) itself is about 20 minutes per vessel. The venous coupler reduces the time required for venous anastomosis. However, these venous couplers still require suturing of each venous anastomosis, which takes a significant amount of time and increases the time that the patient is under anesthesia.

There are two common types of anastomosis, end-to-end and end-to-side. End-to-end anastomosis is preferred because it can be performed quickly without other problems, and because the vascular dynamics are linear flows, the incidence of complications is low. End-to-end anastomosis accounts for a large portion of the vascular connection. However, these procedures and/or attachments still currently require significant suturing time, which can lead to other complications. Furthermore, most technical failures occur in manual suturing of blood vessels, especially in microvascular surgery.

It would be advantageous to have an apparatus, system or method for magnetic stent and magnetic stent delivery that overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art. The present disclosure provides such systems and methods.

Background

Cross Reference to Related Applications

The present disclosure claims priority and non-temporal transition to U.S. provisional patent application No. 62/797,933 filed on day 28, 1 month, 2019, and is a partial continuation of U.S. patent application No. 16/752,265 filed on day 24, 1 month, 2020, 16/752,265, priority to U.S. provisional patent application No. 62/797,932 filed on day 28, 1 month, 2019, and is a partial continuation of U.S. patent application No. 16/752,343 filed on day 24, 1 month, 2020, priority to U.S. provisional patent application No. 62/797,944 filed on day 28, 1 month, 2019, 16/752,343, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety for all purposes.

Disclosure of Invention

The present invention relates to a stent and delivery of the stent during open surgery. Thus, in one aspect, the invention relates to a stent that is self-aligning or self-expanding during or after delivery.

In another aspect, the invention relates to a stent deliverable with an outer sheath or protective layer. In yet another aspect, the present invention relates to a stent deliverable by a syringe or push-to-release mechanism using magnetic force.

Accordingly, in one aspect, the present invention relates to an improved self-expanding stent based on magnetic expansion. The stent may have anchor points or atraumatic points.

Thus, in one aspect, the present invention is directed to a rapid anastomosis without the need for vascular preparation or suturing. In another aspect, the invention relates to pedicle (pedicle) lengthening during implantation and/or expansion of a vessel lumen during stent surgery.

Drawings

The novel features believed characteristic of the disclosure are set forth in the appended claims. The disclosure itself, however, as well as a preferred mode of use, further objectives and advantages thereof, will best be understood by reference to the following detailed description of an illustrative embodiment when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

fig. 1A is an illustration of a magnetic stent coupled to donor and recipient blood vessels.

Fig. 1B is an illustration of a magnetic stent with an inflated cap coupled to donor and recipient blood vessels.

Fig. 2 is an illustration of an inflatable cap.

Fig. 3A is an illustration of a magnetic stent and donor vessel.

Fig. 3B is an illustration of a magnetic stent, donor and recipient blood vessels.

Fig. 3C is an illustration of an expanded magnetic stent, donor and recipient vessels.

Fig. 4A is an illustration of an alternative inflation cap.

Fig. 4B is an illustration of an alternative inflation cap.

Fig. 5A is an illustration of a magnetic stent in a longitudinal or end view.

Fig. 5B is an illustration of a magnetic mount in a side view.

Fig. 6 is an illustration of a magnetically expanded structure.

Fig. 7A is an illustration of a magnetic stent in an unexpanded state in a longitudinal or end view.

Fig. 7B is an illustration of the magnetic stent in an expanded state in a longitudinal or end view.

Fig. 7C is an illustration of the magnetic stent in a side view in an unexpanded state.

Fig. 7D is a side view of the magnetic stent in an expanded state.

FIG. 8 is a diagram of a magnetically connected node.

FIG. 9 is a diagram of a magnetically connected node.

Fig. 10 is an illustration of a magnetic stent.

Fig. 11A is an illustration of an expandable magnetic structure for a magnetic stent in a side view.

Fig. 11B is an illustration of an expandable magnetic structure for a magnetic stent in a longitudinal or end view.

Fig. 12A is an illustration of a magnetic stent in an unexpanded state.

Fig. 12B is an illustration of a magnetic stent in a partially expanded state.

Fig. 12C is an illustration of a magnetic stent in a fully expanded state.

Fig. 13 is an illustration of a magnetic stent in a fully expanded state.

Detailed Description

Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described.

Fig. 1A is an illustration of a magnetic stent 100A coupled to a donor vessel 104 and a recipient vessel 106. The magnetic expansion region 108 allows the magnetic stent 100A to expand in a controlled manner, although the magnetic stent 100A may also have additional regions and/or expansion regions. The stent body 102 may include a magnetic expansion region 108, one or more connection nodes 110, and/or one or more expandable members 112. In at least one version, the magnetic expansion region 108 is triggered by a magnetic, electric, and/or electromagnetic field. The expansion and/or transformation of the magnetic expansion region 108 may also cause transformation or expansion of the one or more expandable members 112.

Fig. 1B is an illustration of a magnetic stent 100B coupled to a donor vessel 104 and a recipient vessel 106 and covered with an inflated cover 114. At least one version of the expansion cap 114 provides a magnetic field that prevents and/or activates expansion of the magnetic stent 100B. In other versions, the expansion cap 114 activates expansion of the magnetically expandable region of the magnetic stent 100B. The magnetic stent 100B may have a stent body 102 defining a hollow tubular section 101 having a distal end 103 and a proximal end 105. The stent body 102 may also include one or more connection nodes 110 and/or expandable members 112.

Fig. 2 is an illustration of the expansion cap 214. The expansion cap 214 may contain a magnetic material 216, one or more sensors 218, wiring 220, a coupling material 222, and/or one or more removal devices 224. The cover 226 may be fabricated and/or formed from fabrics, plastics, alloys, metals, composite materials, and/or combinations thereof. The fabric, plastic, alloy, metal, composite material, and/or combinations thereof may be impregnated with or contain one or more magnetic materials or elements 216 having magnetic properties that assist in activating and/or deactivating the magnetic expansion region. In at least one example, the material used may have expansion memory characteristics that allow the material to be repeatedly varied. The expansion cap 214 may also activate or deactivate other expansion regions (not shown) of the stent in at least one pattern. In at least one version, the sensor 218 will comprise a blood flow sensor. In other versions, the sensors 218 may also include pulse sensors, blood pressure sensors, temperature sensors, acceleration sensors, blood glucose sensors, oxygen sensors, airflow sensors, galvanic skin response sensors, electrocardiogram sensors, similar sensors or monitors, or combinations thereof. Wiring 220 may allow the sensor 218 to be connected to a sensor, monitor, computer, processor, communication device, transmitter, and/or receiver. The coupling material 222 may allow the expansion cap 214 to be coupled to a removal device 224 and/or secured within, around, and/or adjacent to a vessel and/or tissue. The removal device 224 may include a needle and/or syringe.

Fig. 3A is an illustration of a magnetic stent 300A and a donor vessel 304. The magnetic stent 300A may have a stent body 302 defining a hollow structure (not shown) that allows fluid transfer, such as, but not limited to, blood flow 330 from a first opening 307 of the magnetic stent 300A to a second opening 309 of the magnetic stent 300A. In at least one version, the magnetic stent 300A has a magnetic expansion region 308 that is expandable, contractible, and/or compressible based on a magnetic field generated by an expansion cap 314. The expansion cap 314 may include magnetic materials and/or elements that may be activated and/or deactivated by sensors or other monitoring devices coupled to the expansion cap 314 via wired or wireless connections.

In addition, the stent body 302 may also include one or more connection nodes 310, one or more magnetic nodes 311, and/or one or more expandable members 312. One or more expandable members 312 may be made and/or formed from the following materials: plastic, silicon, metal alloy, composite material, polymer, absorbable polymer, teflon, mylar, carbon fiber, magnetic material or element, other similar material, or combinations thereof. In at least one embodiment, one or more expandable members can also be an adjustable member. The material should be compressible to allow one or more of the expandable members 312 to be approximately half of their normal size, approximately one-quarter of their normal size, or any other portion of the entire portion of the expandable member 312. The one or more expandable members 312 may also be formed, constructed, and/or manufactured using materials having a memory effect, such as flexible plastic or silicon materials, although other materials may also be used, such as plastics, silicon, metals, metal alloys, synthetic materials, polymers, absorbable polymers, teflon, mylar, carbon fibers, other similar materials, or combinations thereof. Memory effects can be described as a material that can be manipulated from a first position to a second position and then return to the first position when released from the second position.

One or more connection nodes 310 may provide connection points for one or more expandable members 312. One or more connection nodes 310 may be constructed, formed or fabricated using materials such as, but not limited to: plastic, silicon, metal alloys, composite materials, polymers, absorbable polymers, teflon, mylar, carbon fiber, other similar materials, or combinations thereof. In one example, one or more connection nodes 310 may be constructed, formed, and/or manufactured with one or more expandable members 312. In alternative examples, the one or more connection nodes 310 may be connected or secured to the one or more expandable members 312 by adhesives, fasteners, glues, connectors, cements, epoxies, adhesives, or other adhesives or fastening methods or devices, or combinations thereof.

One or more magnetic nodes 311 may provide a connection point for the expandable member 312. The one or more magnetic nodes 311 may be constructed, formed, or fabricated using materials such as, but not limited to: plastic impregnated or impregnated with magnetic materials and/or elements, silicon, metals, metal alloys, composite materials, polymers, absorbable polymers, teflon, mylar, carbon fibers, other similar materials, or combinations thereof. In at least one example, one or more magnetic nodes 311 may be constructed, formed, and/or manufactured with one or more expandable members 312. In alternative examples, the one or more magnetic nodes 311 may be connected or secured to the expandable member 312 by adhesives, fasteners, glue, connectors, cements, epoxies, adhesives, or other adhesives or fastening methods or devices, or combinations thereof.

In at least one version, the magnetic stent 300A and/or the stent body 302 may be protected, compressed, and/or contained by a sheath, cover, or transport 332. A sheath, cap, or transport 332 may be coupled to a needle 334 or other device capable of allowing the sheath, cap, or transport 332 to be removed from the vessel and/or tissue.

Fig. 3B is an illustration of a magnetic stent 300B, a donor vessel 304, and a recipient vessel 306. The magnetic stent 300B may have a stent body 302, the stent body 302 defining a hollow structure or hollow tubular body (not shown) that allows fluid transfer, such as but not limited to blood flow 330, from the first opening 307 of the magnetic stent 300B to the second opening 309 of the magnetic stent 300B. In at least one version, the magnetic stent 300B includes a magnetic expansion region 308 that can expand, contract, and/or compress based on activation and/or deactivation of a magnetic field surrounding and/or passing through the magnetic expansion region 308. The magnetic stent 300B and/or the stent body 302 may also include other expandable regions and/or segments. In at least one version, the magnetic stent 300B and/or the stent body 302 comprises one or more connection nodes 310, one or more magnetic nodes 311, and one or more expandable members 312. The nodes 310/311 and one or more expandable members 312 in combination with the magnetic expansion region may provide for expansion and/or compression of the magnetic stent 300B and/or stent body 302 and a change in diameter of the magnetic stent 300B and/or stent body 302 from a first diameter 336A to a second diameter, as shown in fig. 3C.

The sheath, cover, or transport 332 may be removed from surrounding, containing, and/or compressing the magnetic stent 300B and/or the stent body 302. In at least one version, a sheath, cover, or transport 332 is coupled to a needle 334 or other removal device. In other versions, sheath, cover or delivery device 332 and needle 334 are constructed, manufactured and/or formed from the same material. Needle 334 may form or pass through opening 338. The opening 338 may be formed in any number of vessels and/or tissues to allow removal of the sheath, cover, or transport 332.

Fig. 3C is an illustration of an expanded magnetic stent 300C, a donor vessel 304, and a recipient vessel 306. The magnetic stent 300C may have a stent body 302 defining a hollow structure or hollow tubular body (not shown) that allows fluid transfer, such as, but not limited to, blood flow 330, from a first opening of the magnetic stent 300C to a second opening of the magnetic stent 300C.

The one or more connection nodes 310, the one or more magnetic nodes 311, and the one or more expandable members 312 may work with an expansion cap (not shown) and together with the expansion cap (not shown) expand, house, and/or compress the magnetic stent 300C and/or the stent body 302. The second inner diameter 336B may be created when the magnetic stent 300C and/or the stent body 302 expands, receives, and/or compresses. Sheath, cover, or transport 332 may also assist in the expansion, compression, and/or containment of magnetic stent 300C and/or stent body 302.

The magnetic stent 300C and/or stent body 302 may be adjusted from the first inner diameter shown in fig. 3B to the second inner diameter 336B to allow the magnetic stent 300C and/or stent body 302 to be secured within the donor and recipient blood vessel 304/306. Fixation may be through one or more anchors 315 and/or interaction with blood vessels and/or tissue. The anchor or anchors may be an anchor point, an atraumatic anchor (or anchors) or an anchor point and/or a traumatic anchor (or anchors) or anchor points where the traumatic anchor may pierce or invade a blood vessel or tissue but would be an acceptable degree of injury and/or minimal invasion to secure the stent in place within the blood vessel or tissue. One or more of the anchors may also be expandable and/or held in a fixed position. In at least one example, one or more anchors can extend radially from a circumference or outer surface of magnetic stent 300C and/or stent body 302.

Fig. 4A is an illustration of an alternative inflation cap 414A. The expansion cap 414A may also include magnetic material 416A and/or 416B. The magnetic material 416 (collectively) may be placed at specific locations to create specific expansion and/or expansion zones of the stent (not shown). The sensor 418 may be coupled to the wires 420A/420B to allow measurement and/or activation of signals of the magnetic material and/or blood flow, among other measurements.

Fig. 4B is an illustration of an alternative inflation cap 414B. The expansion cap 414A may also include magnetic material 416C and/or 416D. The magnetic material 416 (collectively) may be placed at specific locations to create specific expansion and/or expansion zones of the stent (not shown).

Fig. 5A is an illustration of a magnetic stent 500A in a longitudinal or end view. The magnetic stent 500A may include a plurality of magnetic nodes 511 that may assist in the expansion, compression, and/or accommodation of the magnetic stent 500A and/or the stent body (not shown). The magnetic node 511 may be interconnected with the expandable member 512. In at least one example, the expandable member 512 may be constructed, manufactured, and/or formed from magnetic materials and/or elements. These magnetic materials and/or elements may include, but are not limited to, ferromagnetic materials, such as iron nickel and/or cobalt, alloys, and/or other rare earth metals or minerals. Expansion, compression and/or containment of the magnetic stent 500A may also be assisted by a sheath, cover or transport 532. The sheath, cover, or transport device 532 may be constructed, manufactured, and/or formed from a material that prevents expansion of the expandable member 512 and/or the magnetic nodes 511, while remaining flexible enough to be removed and/or perforated for easy removal. The needle 534 may also be coupled to a sheath, cap, or delivery device 532 to assist in removing the sheath, cap, or delivery device 532 through the vessel and/or tissue. The inner diameter 521 of the magnetic stent 500A may be adjusted by expansion, compression, and/or accommodation of the magnetic stent 500A. In at least one version, a magnetic field can be used to fold the magnetic stent 500A around a vessel or stent.

Fig. 5B is an illustration of a magnetic mount 500B in a side view. The magnetic stent 500B may have multiple regions such as, but not limited to, a magnetic expansion region 508, an expandable region 509A, and/or an expandable region 509B. These regions 508/509A/509B may be expanded, compressed, and/or contained simultaneously and/or separately. The expansion may be triggered by interaction and/or caused by forces acting on the one or more connection nodes 510, the one or more magnetic nodes 510, and/or the one or more expandable members 512, such as, but not limited to, magnetic, electrical, and/or electromagnetic forces. In at least one example, a magnetic field (not shown) may be used to tune the magnetic expansion region 508 via one or more magnetic nodes 511. In other examples, the expandable member 512 and/or the connection node 510 may be activated by a field, sensor, and/or monitor, or based on effects caused by blood flow or fluid flowing through the magnetic stent 500B.

Fig. 6 is an illustration of one or more magnetic nodes 611 and one or more expandable members 612. The magnetic nodes 611 may individually and/or collectively interact with one another to trigger or cause expansion, compression, and/or accommodation of the expandable member 612. In at least one example, the magnetic field may be generated by an external device or force, which may cause one or more magnetic nodes 611 to interact, adjust, and/or move in response to the magnetic field. The interaction, adjustment, and/or movement may cause one or more magnetic nodes 611 to move and/or adjust expandable member 612. For example, the magnetic field may cause one or more magnetic nodes 611 to have an attractive force 625A that compresses and/or accommodates the expandable member at a particular length 627. In other examples, the repulsive force 625B may cause the expandable member to expand to a particular length. These forces may also cause other magnetic nodes 611, connection nodes (not shown), and/or expandable member 612 to also expand, compress, and/or be contained or constrained to a particular level or position.

Fig. 7A is an illustration of a magnetic stent 700A in an unexpanded state in a longitudinal or end view. The magnetic stent 700A may be expanded, compressed, and/or contained by a magnetic field, sheath, cover, and/or transport device (not shown). In at least one version, magnetic stent 700A comprises one or more magnetic nodes 711 and one or more expandable members 712. The magnetic stent 700A may also contain one or more connection nodes (not shown) and/or one or more non-expandable members (not shown). The one or more expandable members 712 may allow for expansion, compression, and/or accommodation of the magnetic stent.

For example, when the one or more expandable members 712 are in an unexpanded state, the magnetic stent 700A may have a first inner radius 731, which may be increased in at least one version. In other versions, the first inner radius may be reduced. The increase/decrease in the radius of the magnetic mount 700A may be caused by an attractive force and/or a repulsive force (not shown). A force may be generated by the magnetic poles of one or more magnetic nodes 711. For example, when the north magnetic pole of a first magnetic node is pointing towards the south magnetic pole of a second magnetic node, the attractive force may cause the expandable member to compress between the two magnetic nodes. The length, diameter, and/or size of the magnetic stent 700A may also be adjusted by the attractive force.

Fig. 7B is an illustration of the magnetic stent 700B in an expanded state in a longitudinal or end view. The magnetic stent 700B may be expanded, compressed, and/or contained by a magnetic field, sheath, cover, and/or transport device (not shown). In at least one version, magnetic stent 700B comprises one or more magnetic nodes 711 and an expandable member 712. The magnetic stent 700B may also contain one or more connection nodes (not shown) and/or one or more non-expandable members (not shown). The one or more expandable members 712 may allow for expansion, compression, and/or accommodation of the magnetic stent 700B.

For example, when the one or more expandable members 712 are in the expanded state, the magnetic stent 700B may have a second inner radius, which in at least one version may be reduced. In other versions, the second inner radius may be further increased. The increase/decrease in the radius of the magnetic support 700B may be caused by an attractive force (not shown) and/or a repulsive force. A force may be generated by the magnetic pole of the magnetic node 711. For example, when the magnetic north of the first magnetic node is directed toward the magnetic north of the second magnetic node, the repulsive force may cause the expandable member to expand between the two magnetic nodes. In another example, one or more expandable members 712 may be fabricated using magnetic materials or elements that may be attracted and/or repelled by one or more magnetic nodes 711 and/or a magnetic field (not shown). In yet another example, the one or more magnetic nodes 711 may have their magnetic strength adjusted by sensors, monitors, and/or fluid flow through the magnetic stent 700B.

Fig. 8 is a diagram of a magnetic connection node 811. At least one type of magnetic node 811 may be created, constructed and/or manufactured from magnetic materials, elements and/or electromagnetic windings. The winding 840 may be used to create a coil around the core of the electromagnet for the magnetic node 811. In at least one example, the iron core may be a ferromagnetic metal, such as an iron or ferrimagnetic compound. In other examples, the iron core may comprise steel, laminated silicon steel, laminated cores and/or sheets, silicon alloys, other alloys, glass metals, powder metals (such as iron, carbonyl iron, hydrogen reduced iron, molypermalloy, nickel-iron, ferrosilicon aluminum powder, E-type ferrosilicon aluminum cores, nanocrystals, and/or ferrites), and/or air. Windings 840 may be used with electrical connection 842 to provide a voltage and/or current to windings 840 to initiate a corresponding magnetic field. In at least one example, the electric field or energy may be from the natural field or energy of the human body. A voltage and/or current applied to winding 840 may cause the creation of first and second poles 844A, 844B. In at least one example, the first pole 844A is a north pole and the second pole 844B is a south pole. In other examples, the voltage and/or current polarities are reversed and the magnetic fields are also reversed such that the first pole 844A is the south pole and the second pole 844B is the north pole.

Figure 9 is a diagram of a magnetically connected node 911. At least one type of magnetic node 911 may be created, constructed, and/or manufactured using magnetic materials, components, and/or electromagnetic windings. The windings 940 may be used to generate coils for the electromagnets of the magnetic node 911. When used with an electrical connection (not shown) that can provide voltage and/or current to the windings, the windings 940 generate a corresponding magnetic field. A voltage and/or current applied to winding 940 causes the creation of a north pole 944A and a south pole 944B. In at least one example, current flows through winding 940 in a first direction 941, creating a north magnetic pole and a south magnetic pole. In other examples, the voltage and/or current polarities may be reversed and the corresponding magnetic fields reversed, such that the north magnetic pole becomes the south magnetic pole and the south magnetic pole becomes the north magnetic pole.

Fig. 10 is an illustration of a magnetic support 1050. In at least one version, magnetic support 1050 can have at least one anchor 1052 along an inner circumference 1051 of magnetic support 1050. In other versions, anchor 1052 may also be positioned along the outer circumference of magnetic support 1050. The first magnetic node 1054A may interact with the second magnetic node 1054B to expand, contract, compress, and/or house the magnetic stent 1050. Magnetic nodes 1054A/1054B may each have a north pole 1056A and a south pole 1056B separated by a winding 1058. Based on the polarity of the poles 1056A/1056B, a force 1060 is generated that attracts or repels the magnetic nodes 1054A/1054B to each other and opens or closes the magnetic stent 1050. For example, magnetic stent 1050 may be used in surgical procedures requiring the stent to seal against the outer surface of a blood vessel and/or portions of tissue in the tissue. In other examples, magnetic stent 1050 is used in cardiac surgery to open a blood vessel and/or a portion of tissue in a tissue to increase blood flow through and/or to a particular area.

Fig. 11A is an illustration of an expandable magnetic structure for a magnetic stent in a side view. The magnetic stent (not shown) may include one or more connection nodes 1110, one or more magnetic nodes 1111, one or more expandable members 1112, and/or a non-expandable member 1161. Member 1112/1161 can be constructed and/or manufactured in different lengths and thicknesses. For different lengths, the expandable member 1112 may allow the stent to be configured for any number of cross-sections, expansions, compressions, and/or profiles. The combination of one or more connecting nodes 1110 and one or more non-expandable members also assists in creating any number of cross-sections and/or profiles for the stent. In at least one example, the non-expandable member may also be one or more structural members.

Fig. 11B is an illustration of an expandable magnetic structure for a magnetic stent in a partial longitudinal or end view. The magnetic stent (not shown) may include one or more connection nodes 1110, one or more magnetic nodes 1111, one or more expandable members 1112, and/or one or more members 1161. Member 1112/1161 can be constructed and/or manufactured in different lengths and thicknesses. For different lengths, the one or more expandable members 1112 may allow the stent to be configured for any number of cross-sections and/or profiles. The combination of one or more connecting nodes 1110 and one or more non-expandable members also assists the stent in creating any number of cross-sections and/or profiles. In at least one example, an anchor or set of anchors can also be coupled to one or more connecting nodes 1110, one or more magnetic nodes 1111, one or more expandable members 1112, and/or one or more non-expandable members.

Fig. 12A is an illustration of a magnetic stent 1200A in an unexpanded state. The magnetic stent 1200A includes a stent body 1202 that may define a hollow tubular structure having a first opening at a proximal end of the stent body 1202 and/or the hollow tubular structure and a second opening at a distal end of the stent body 1202 and/or the hollow tubular structure. The donor vessel 1204 and/or the recipient vessel 1206 can surround and/or be received by the magnetic stent 1200A.

Fig. 12B is an illustration of a magnetic stent 1200B in a partially expanded state. Magnetic stent 1200B may comprise one or more anchors 1203A at the proximal end and one or more anchors 1203B at the distal end and/or along the outer surface of magnetic stent 1200B. The anchors 1203A/1203B may engage the inner and/or outer surface of a blood vessel, such as but not limited to a donor vessel 1204, a recipient vessel 1206, or other tissue, to secure the magnetic stent 1200B in place. The stent delivery tool 1299 may also allow for insertion and/or placement of the magnetic stent 1200B. In at least one example, the stent delivery tool 1299 can further comprise magnetic properties that allow for expansion and/or activation of expansion based on the positional relationship of the stent delivery tool 1299 and/or the magnetic stent 1200B.

For example, the magnetic stent 1200B may be constructed of expandable and/or non-expandable structures, such as, but not limited to, one or more members and/or connection nodes that are impregnated, or contain magnetic materials or elements. The magnetic material or element allows the magnetic stent to expand, compress, or accommodate a vessel or tissue to a particular diameter, profile, and/or cross-section. The magnetic stent 1200B may expand, compress, and/or be housed in a separate segment or region, either as a single stent, or a combination of segments or regions.

Fig. 12C is an illustration of a magnetic stent 1200C in a fully expanded state. When the magnetic stent 1200C is in the fully expanded state, it may allow for an increased state of blood flow or other fluid through the stent body 1202. In at least one example, magnetic stent 1200C includes anchors 1203A, 1203B, which may be atraumatic or traumatic anchors. Anchors 1203A/1203B may be expandable or translatable, and/or held in a fixed position. Anchor 1203A may interface and/or couple with a blood vessel and/or tissue at junction 1271. Similarly, anchor 1203B can interface and/or couple with a blood vessel and/or tissue at an interface point.

Fig. 13 is an illustration of a magnetic stent 1300 in a fully expanded state. The magnetic stent 1300 in the fully expanded state may have an inner diameter 1362 which may be reduced in at least one pattern. The outer surface 1366 of magnetic stent 1300 can include a smooth outer surface, a textured surface, and/or one or more anchors 1364 coupled to the outer surface 1366. One or more of the anchors 1364 may be atraumatic and/or traumatic. In at least one version, one or more anchors 1364 extend radially from outer surface 1366 and are located at either end of magnetic stent 1300. In other versions, one or more anchors 1364 may be placed equidistant or non-equidistant along the length of the magnetic stent 1300.

While the present disclosure has been particularly shown and described with reference to a preferred embodiment, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. The inventors expect skilled artisans to employ such variations as appropriate, and the inventors intend for the invention to be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein. Accordingly, this disclosure includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicable law. Moreover, any combination of the above-described elements in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by the disclosure unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.

While various embodiments in accordance with the principles disclosed herein have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, and not limitation. Thus, the breadth and scope of the present disclosure should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplary embodiments, but should be defined only in accordance with any claims and their equivalents issuing from the present disclosure. Furthermore, the above-described advantages and features are provided in described embodiments, but the application of the issued claims should not be limited to processes and structures accomplishing any or all of the above-described advantages.

Further, the section headings herein are intended to remain consistent with the recommendations under 37c.f.r.1.77, or to otherwise provide organizational cues. These headings should not be used to limit or characterize the invention as set forth in any claims that may issue from this disclosure. In particular, although the headings refer to a "technical field," by way of example, the claims should not be limited by the language chosen under this heading to describe the so-called field. Furthermore, the description of technology as background information should not be construed as an admission that certain technology is prior art to any embodiment in this disclosure. Neither should the "brief summary" be considered a feature of the embodiments set forth in the issued claims. Furthermore, any reference in this disclosure to the singular form of "the invention" should not be used to demonstrate that there is only one point of novelty in this disclosure. Various embodiments may be set forth with limitations in various claims issuing from this disclosure, and the claims define accordingly what are claimed and their equivalents. In all cases, the scope of the claims should be considered in light of the present disclosure as being of value in itself, but should not be limited by the headings set forth herein.