US6004341A — Vascular wound closure device

Claim 1

Independent Claim 167 words

A device to facilitate the closure of wounds in the vasculature of a patient, comprising: a body portion having an externally threaded proximal end and a tapered distal end, wherein said body portion has two separate, halves, each of said halves having a flat internal surface with a groove therein, such that when said internal surfaces abut one another, said grooves form a channel extending completely through said body portion from said proximal end to said distal end; at least one connector pin extending from one of said halves of said body portion, said one connector pin dimensioned to be received within a correspondingly dimensioned bore defined in the other of said halves of said body portion to operatively connect said halves; and an internally threaded cap having a hole therethrough, said internal threads adapted to engage said externally threaded proximal end of said body portion, such that when said cap engages said body portion, said hole is positioned directly above said channel in said body portion.

Claim 2

Independent Claim 167 words

A device to facilitate the closure of wounds in the vasculature of a patient, comprising: a body portion having an externally threaded proximal end and a tapered distal end, wherein said body portion has two separate, halves, each of said halves having a flat internal surface with a groove therein, such that when said internal surfaces abut one another, said grooves form a channel extending completely through said body portion from said proximal end to said distal end; at least one connector pin extending from one of said halves of said body portion, said one connector pin dimensioned to be received within a correspondingly dimensioned bore defined in the other of said halves of said body portion to operatively connect said halves; and an internally threaded cap having a hole therethrough, said internal threads adapted to engage said externally threaded proximal end of said body portion, such that when said cap engages said body portion, said hole is positioned directly above said channel in said body portion.

Claim 3

Dependent Claim 27 words

The device of claim 1, further comprising at least one handle located on said proximal end of said body portion and extending laterally from said body portion.

Claim 4

Dependent Claim 19 words

The device of claim 1, wherein said body portion and said cap are comprised of a biocompatible engineering polymer.

Claim 5

Dependent Claim 19 words

The device of claim 3, wherein said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polypropylene, polyethylene, or polyterephthalate.

Claim 6

Dependent Claim 17 words

The device of claim 1, wherein said body portion and said cap are comprised of an elastomer.

Claim 7

Dependent Claim 17 words

The device of claim 1, wherein said body portion and said cap are comprised of a metal.

Claim 8

Dependent Claim 17 words

The device of claim 1, wherein said body portion and said cap are comprised of stainless steel.

Claim 9

Dependent Claim 29 words

The device of claim 1, further comprising a guidewire, wherein said guidewire can be inserted through said channel in said body portion and through said hole in said cap.

Claim 10

Dependent Claim 14 words

The device of claim 8, wherein said guidewire has an inflatable balloon attached thereto.

Claim 11

Independent Claim 190 words

A system for facilitating the closure of wounds in the vasculature of a patient, comprising: a retractor comprising a body portion having an externally threaded proximal end and a tapered distal end, wherein said body portion has two separate halves, each of said halves having a flat internal surface with a groove therein, such that when said internal surfaces abut one another, said grooves form a channel extending completely through said body portion from said proximal end to said distal end; and an internally threaded cap having a hole therethrough, said internal threads adapted to engage said external threads on said body portion, such that when said cap engages said body portion, said hole is positioned directly above said channel in said body portion; a guidewire having an inflatable balloon attached thereto, wherein said guidewire can be inserted through said channel in said body portion and through said hole in said cap; and a surgical clip applicator having a distal end, wherein said distal end of said applicator has two laterally protruding wings attached, said wings being adapted to fit within the channel in said body portion of said retractor.

Claim 12

Independent Claim 190 words

A system for facilitating the closure of wounds in the vasculature of a patient, comprising: a retractor comprising a body portion having an externally threaded proximal end and a tapered distal end, wherein said body portion has two separate halves, each of said halves having a flat internal surface with a groove therein, such that when said internal surfaces abut one another, said grooves form a channel extending completely through said body portion from said proximal end to said distal end; and an internally threaded cap having a hole therethrough, said internal threads adapted to engage said external threads on said body portion, such that when said cap engages said body portion, said hole is positioned directly above said channel in said body portion; a guidewire having an inflatable balloon attached thereto, wherein said guidewire can be inserted through said channel in said body portion and through said hole in said cap; and a surgical clip applicator having a distal end, wherein said distal end of said applicator has two laterally protruding wings attached, said wings being adapted to fit within the channel in said body portion of said retractor.

Claim 13

Dependent Claim 36 words

The system of claim 10, wherein said surgical clip applicator further comprises a guide attached to said distal end of said applicator and extending laterally therefrom, wherein said guide is adapted to receive said guidewire therethrough.

Claim 14

Independent Claim 272 words

A method for facilitating the closure of wounds in the vasculature of a patient, comprising the steps of: inserting a guidewire having a proximal end and a distal end and an inflatable balloon into said vasculature through said wound, until said distal end of said guidewire is within the vasculature and the proximal end remains outside the patient's body; inflating said inflatable balloon; withdrawing said proximal end of said guidewire from said patient's body until said inflated balloon is located in said vasculature at said wound; inserting the proximal end of said guidewire into a distal end of a retractor comprising a body portion having an externally threaded rounded proximal end, wherein said body portion has two separate halves, each of said halves having a flat internal surface with a groove therein, such that when said internal surfaces abut one another, said grooves form a channel extending completely through said body portion from said proximal end to said distal end; and an internally threaded cap having a hole therethrough, said internal threads adapted to engage said external threads on said body portion, such that when said cap engages said body portion, said hole is positioned directly above said channel in said body portion, until said proximal end of said guidewire emerges through said hole in said cap; advancing said retractor along said guidewire and into said patient's body until said distal tip of said retractor contacts said inflated balloon; removing said cap from said body portion of said retractor; separating said two halves of said retractor until said wound is visible; removing said guidewire from said patient's body; and closing said wound.

Claim 15

Independent Claim 272 words

A method for facilitating the closure of wounds in the vasculature of a patient, comprising the steps of: inserting a guidewire having a proximal end and a distal end and an inflatable balloon into said vasculature through said wound, until said distal end of said guidewire is within the vasculature and the proximal end remains outside the patient's body; inflating said inflatable balloon; withdrawing said proximal end of said guidewire from said patient's body until said inflated balloon is located in said vasculature at said wound; inserting the proximal end of said guidewire into a distal end of a retractor comprising a body portion having an externally threaded rounded proximal end, wherein said body portion has two separate halves, each of said halves having a flat internal surface with a groove therein, such that when said internal surfaces abut one another, said grooves form a channel extending completely through said body portion from said proximal end to said distal end; and an internally threaded cap having a hole therethrough, said internal threads adapted to engage said external threads on said body portion, such that when said cap engages said body portion, said hole is positioned directly above said channel in said body portion, until said proximal end of said guidewire emerges through said hole in said cap; advancing said retractor along said guidewire and into said patient's body until said distal tip of said retractor contacts said inflated balloon; removing said cap from said body portion of said retractor; separating said two halves of said retractor until said wound is visible; removing said guidewire from said patient's body; and closing said wound.

Claim 16

Dependent Claim 24 words

The method of claim 12, wherein said closing step comprises a method selected from the group consisting of clipping, stapling, and suturing said wound.

Claim 17

Dependent Claim 58 words

The method of claim 12, further comprising the steps of inserting a surgical clip applicator into said retractor body portion after said cap is removed and advancing said clip applicator through said channel in said body portion until said applicator contacts said wound, and wherein said closing step comprises applying at least one surgical clip to said wound.

Claim 18

Dependent Claim 26 words

The method of claim 12, further comprising the step of deflating said balloon and withdrawing said guidewire from said patient's body prior to said closing step.

Claim 19

Independent Claim 310 words

A method for facilitating the closure of wounds in the vasculature in a patient's body, comprising the steps of: inserting a guidewire having a proximal end and a distal end into said vasculature through said wound, until said distal end of said guidewire is within the vasculature and the proximal end remains outside the patient's body; inserting a catheter having a proximal end and a distal end and having an inflatable balloon attached at said distal end, into said vasculature over said guidewire until said distal end is within said artery and said proximal end remains outside said patient's body; inflating said inflatable balloon; withdrawing said catheter from said patient's body until said inflated balloon is located in said vasculature at said wound; inserting the proximal end of said guidewire into a distal end of a retractor comprising a body portion having an externally threaded rounded proximal end, wherein said body portion has two separate halves, each of said halves having a flat internal surface with a groove therein, such that when said internal surfaces abut one another, said grooves form a channel extending completely through said body portion from said proximal end to said distal end; and an internally threaded cap having a hole therethrough, said internal threads adapted to engage said external threads on said body portion, such that when said cap engages said body portion, said hole is positioned directly above said channel in said body portion; until said proximal end of said guidewire emerges through said hole in said cap; advancing said retractor along said guidewire and into said patient's body until said distal tip of said retractor contacts said inflated balloon; removing said cap from said body portion of said retractor; separating said two halves of said retractor until said wound is visible; and removing said guidewire from said patient's body; and closing said wound.

Claim 20

Independent Claim 310 words

A method for facilitating the closure of wounds in the vasculature in a patient's body, comprising the steps of: inserting a guidewire having a proximal end and a distal end into said vasculature through said wound, until said distal end of said guidewire is within the vasculature and the proximal end remains outside the patient's body; inserting a catheter having a proximal end and a distal end and having an inflatable balloon attached at said distal end, into said vasculature over said guidewire until said distal end is within said artery and said proximal end remains outside said patient's body; inflating said inflatable balloon; withdrawing said catheter from said patient's body until said inflated balloon is located in said vasculature at said wound; inserting the proximal end of said guidewire into a distal end of a retractor comprising a body portion having an externally threaded rounded proximal end, wherein said body portion has two separate halves, each of said halves having a flat internal surface with a groove therein, such that when said internal surfaces abut one another, said grooves form a channel extending completely through said body portion from said proximal end to said distal end; and an internally threaded cap having a hole therethrough, said internal threads adapted to engage said external threads on said body portion, such that when said cap engages said body portion, said hole is positioned directly above said channel in said body portion; until said proximal end of said guidewire emerges through said hole in said cap; advancing said retractor along said guidewire and into said patient's body until said distal tip of said retractor contacts said inflated balloon; removing said cap from said body portion of said retractor; separating said two halves of said retractor until said wound is visible; and removing said guidewire from said patient's body; and closing said wound.

Claim 21

Dependent Claim 24 words

The method of claim 16, wherein said closing step is a method selected from the group consisting of clipping, stapling, and suturing said wound.

Claim 22

Dependent Claim 58 words

The method of claim 16, further comprising the steps of inserting a surgical clip applicator into said retractor body portion after said cap is removed and advancing said clip applicator through said channel in said body portion until said applicator contacts said wound, and wherein said closing step comprises applying at least one surgical clip to said wound.

Claim 23

Dependent Claim 29 words

The method of claim 16, further comprising the step of deflating said balloon and withdrawing said catheter and said guidewire from said patient's body prior to said closing step.

Claim 24

Independent Claim 145 words

A device to facilitate the closure of wounds in the vasculature of a patient, comprising: a body portion having an externally threaded proximal end and a distal end, wherein said body portion has two separate halves, each of said halves having a flat internal surface with a groove therein, such that when said internal surfaces abut one another, said grooves form a channel extending completely through said body portion from said proximal end to said distal end; a collar portion distal the externally threaded proximal end comprising at least one guide passage which traverses one half of said body portion; at least one pin extending from one half of said body portion and insertable into said guide passage in the other half of said body portion; and an internally threaded annular cap, said internal threads adapted to engage said external threads on said body portion.

Claim 25

Independent Claim 145 words

A device to facilitate the closure of wounds in the vasculature of a patient, comprising: a body portion having an externally threaded proximal end and a distal end, wherein said body portion has two separate halves, each of said halves having a flat internal surface with a groove therein, such that when said internal surfaces abut one another, said grooves form a channel extending completely through said body portion from said proximal end to said distal end; a collar portion distal the externally threaded proximal end comprising at least one guide passage which traverses one half of said body portion; at least one pin extending from one half of said body portion and insertable into said guide passage in the other half of said body portion; and an internally threaded annular cap, said internal threads adapted to engage said external threads on said body portion.

Claim 26

Dependent Claim 14 words

The device of claim 20, further comprising a handle extending laterally from said pin.

Claim 27

Dependent Claim 14 words

The device of claim 20, wherein device is comprised of a biocompatible engineering polymer.

Claim 28

Dependent Claim 19 words

The device of claim 22, wherein said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polypropylene, polyethylene, or polyterephthalate.

Claim 29

Dependent Claim 13 words

The device of claim 20, wherein said device is comprised of an elastomer.

Claim 30

Dependent Claim 13 words

The device of claim 20, wherein said device is comprised of a metal.

Claim 31

Dependent Claim 13 words

The device of claim 20, wherein said device is comprised of stainless steel.

Claim 32

Dependent Claim 37 words

The device of claim 20, further comprising at least one set screw hole in said collar portion at a right angle to said guide passage, and at least one set screw insertable into said set screw hole.

Claim 33

Dependent Claim 11 words

The device of claim 20, wherein said distal tip is tapered.

Claim 34

Dependent Claim 11 words

The device of claim 20, wherein said distal tip is cylindrical.

Claim 35

Dependent Claim 44 words

The device of claim 20, further comprising a hollow dilator having an open proximal end and an open distal end adapted to receive a guidewire therethrough, wherein said dilator can be inserted through said channel in said body portion and through said annular cap.

Claim 36

Dependent Claim 37 words

The device of claim 30, wherein said distal tip is tapered and wherein said dilator further comprises a notch near said distal end sized to receive the tapered distal end of the body portion of the device.

Claim 37

Dependent Claim 22 words

The device of claim 30, wherein said dilator has at least one indicator hole through a side wall located distal said notch.

Claim 38

Dependent Claim 21 words

The device of claim 30, wherein said dilator further comprises a pressure sensor mounted on an outside wall of said dilator.

Claim 39

Dependent Claim 19 words

The device of claim 20, further comprising a guidewire, wherein said guidewire can be inserted through said hollow dilator.

Claim 40

Dependent Claim 57 words

The device of claim 20, further comprising a hollow dilator having an open proximal end and an open distal end adapted to receive a guidewire therethrough, wherein said dilator can be inserted through said channel in said body portion and through said annular cap, said hollow dilator having a double-sleeved inflatable balloon mounted on its distal end.

Claim 41

Dependent Claim 38 words

The device of claim 35, wherein said dilator further comprises at least one indicator hole at its distal end through a side wall, and wherein said double-sleeved inflatable balloon is mounted approximately 1.5 mm proximal said indicator hole.

Claim 42

Independent Claim 175 words

A system for facilitating the closure of wounds in the vasculature of a patient, comprising: a retractor comprising a body portion having an externally threaded proximal end and a distal end, wherein said body portion has two separate halves, each of said halves having a flat internal surface with a groove therein, such that when said internal surfaces abut one another, said grooves form a channel extending completely through said body portion from said proximal end to said distal end; a collar portion distal the externally threaded proximal end comprising at least one guide passage which traverses both halves of said body portion; at least one pin insertable into said guide passage; and an internally threaded annular cap, said internal threads adapted to engage said external threads on said body portion; a hollow dilator having an open proximal end and an open distal end adapted to receive a guidewire therethrough, wherein said dilator can be inserted through said channel in said body portion and through said annular cap; and a guidewire insertable through said dilator.

Claim 43

Independent Claim 175 words

A system for facilitating the closure of wounds in the vasculature of a patient, comprising: a retractor comprising a body portion having an externally threaded proximal end and a distal end, wherein said body portion has two separate halves, each of said halves having a flat internal surface with a groove therein, such that when said internal surfaces abut one another, said grooves form a channel extending completely through said body portion from said proximal end to said distal end; a collar portion distal the externally threaded proximal end comprising at least one guide passage which traverses both halves of said body portion; at least one pin insertable into said guide passage; and an internally threaded annular cap, said internal threads adapted to engage said external threads on said body portion; a hollow dilator having an open proximal end and an open distal end adapted to receive a guidewire therethrough, wherein said dilator can be inserted through said channel in said body portion and through said annular cap; and a guidewire insertable through said dilator.

Claim 44

Dependent Claim 73 words

The system of claim 37, further comprising a guide assembly adapted for attachment to a distal end of a surgical clip applicator, said assembly comprising a guide plate which is reversibly attachable to a guide body having an attached guide tube sized to receive a guidewire therethrough, wherein said guide plate has two laterally protruding wings attached, said wings being adapted to fit within the channel in said body portion of said retractor.

Claim 45

Dependent Claim 21 words

The system of claim 37, further comprising a source of negative pressure attached to said open proximal end of said dilator.

Claim 46

Dependent Claim 14 words

The system of claim 39, wherein said source of negative pressure comprises a syringe.

Claim 47

Dependent Claim 27 words

The system of claim 37, further comprising a Y-connector having a plurality of ports attached to the proximal end of the dilator at one of said ports.

Claim 48

Dependent Claim 21 words

The system of claim 41, further comprising a source of negative pressure attached to one of the ports of said Y-connector.

Claim 49

Independent Claim 304 words

A method for facilitating the closure of a wound in the vasculature of a patient, comprising the steps of: inserting a proximal end of a hollow dilator having a notch formed near its distal end into a distal end of a retractor comprising a body portion having an externally threaded rounded proximal end, and a tapered distal end, wherein said body portion has two separate halves, each of said halves having a flat internal surface with a groove therein, such that when said internal surfaces abut one another, said grooves form a channel extending completely through said body portion from said proximal end to said distal end; and an internally threaded annular cap, said internal threads adapted to engage said external threads on said body portion, such that when said cap engages said body portion, said proximal end of said hollow dilator pass through said channel in said body portion and out said annular cap; mounting said retractor on said hollow dilator such that said distal tapered end is positioned within said notch; inserting a guidewire having a proximal end and a distal end into said vasculature through said wound, until said distal end of said guidewire is within the vasculature and the proximal end remains outside the patient's body; inserting the proximal end of said guidewire into said distal end of said hollow dilator until the proximal end of the guidewire emerges through said proximal end of said dilator; advancing said dilator and retractor along said guidewire and into said patient's body, while providing a source of negative pressure on said dilator until blood is drawn into said dilator from said vasculature; removing said cap from said body portion of said retractor; separating said two halves of said retractor; removing said guidewire and said dilator from said patient's body; and closing said wound.

Claim 50

Independent Claim 304 words

A method for facilitating the closure of a wound in the vasculature of a patient, comprising the steps of: inserting a proximal end of a hollow dilator having a notch formed near its distal end into a distal end of a retractor comprising a body portion having an externally threaded rounded proximal end, and a tapered distal end, wherein said body portion has two separate halves, each of said halves having a flat internal surface with a groove therein, such that when said internal surfaces abut one another, said grooves form a channel extending completely through said body portion from said proximal end to said distal end; and an internally threaded annular cap, said internal threads adapted to engage said external threads on said body portion, such that when said cap engages said body portion, said proximal end of said hollow dilator pass through said channel in said body portion and out said annular cap; mounting said retractor on said hollow dilator such that said distal tapered end is positioned within said notch; inserting a guidewire having a proximal end and a distal end into said vasculature through said wound, until said distal end of said guidewire is within the vasculature and the proximal end remains outside the patient's body; inserting the proximal end of said guidewire into said distal end of said hollow dilator until the proximal end of the guidewire emerges through said proximal end of said dilator; advancing said dilator and retractor along said guidewire and into said patient's body, while providing a source of negative pressure on said dilator until blood is drawn into said dilator from said vasculature; removing said cap from said body portion of said retractor; separating said two halves of said retractor; removing said guidewire and said dilator from said patient's body; and closing said wound.

Claim 51

Dependent Claim 24 words

The method of claim 43, wherein said closing step comprises a method selected from the group consisting of clipping, stapling, and suturing said wound.

Claim 52

Dependent Claim 72 words

The method of claim 43, further comprising the steps of attaching to a distal end of a surgical clip applicator a guide having laterally extending wings, inserting said wings into said retractor body portion after said cap is removed and advancing said clip applicator through said channel in said body portion until said applicator contacts said wound, and wherein said closing step comprises applying at least one surgical clip to said wound.

Claim 53

Dependent Claim 52 words

The method of claim 45, wherein said guide further comprises a guidetube for receiving said guidewire, and said method further comprises inserting the proximal end of the guidewire through said guidetube and advancing said applicator over said guidewire and through said channel in said body portion until said applicator contacts said wound.

Claim 54

Independent Claim 286 words

A method for facilitating the closure of a wound in the vasculature of a patient, comprising the steps of: inserting a guidewire having a proximal end and a distal end into said vasculature through said wound, until said distal end of said guidewire is within the vasculature and the proximal end remains outside the patient's body; inserting the proximal end of said guidewire into a distal end of a hollow dilator having a double-sleeved balloon having an inner sleeve and an outer sleeve mounted on said distal end; advancing said dilator over said guidewire until it reaches said wound; inflating said double-sleeved balloon; inserting said proximal end of said guidewire into a distal end of a retractor comprising a body portion having an externally threaded rounded proximal end, and a distal end, wherein said body portion has two separate halves, each of said halves having a flat internal surface with a groove therein, such that when said internal surfaces abut one another, said grooves form a channel extending completely through said body portion from said proximal end to said distal end; and an internally threaded annular cap, said internal threads adapted to engage said external threads on said body portion, such that when said cap engages said body portion, said proximal end of said hollow dilator pass through said channel in said body portion and out said annular cap; mounting said retractor on said hollow dilator until said distal end is positioned between the inner and outer sleeves of the double-sleeved balloon; removing said cap from said body portion of said retractor; separating the two halves of said retractor and removing said dilator and the inner sleeve of said double-sleeved balloon therethrough; and closing said wound.

Claim 55

Independent Claim 286 words

A method for facilitating the closure of a wound in the vasculature of a patient, comprising the steps of: inserting a guidewire having a proximal end and a distal end into said vasculature through said wound, until said distal end of said guidewire is within the vasculature and the proximal end remains outside the patient's body; inserting the proximal end of said guidewire into a distal end of a hollow dilator having a double-sleeved balloon having an inner sleeve and an outer sleeve mounted on said distal end; advancing said dilator over said guidewire until it reaches said wound; inflating said double-sleeved balloon; inserting said proximal end of said guidewire into a distal end of a retractor comprising a body portion having an externally threaded rounded proximal end, and a distal end, wherein said body portion has two separate halves, each of said halves having a flat internal surface with a groove therein, such that when said internal surfaces abut one another, said grooves form a channel extending completely through said body portion from said proximal end to said distal end; and an internally threaded annular cap, said internal threads adapted to engage said external threads on said body portion, such that when said cap engages said body portion, said proximal end of said hollow dilator pass through said channel in said body portion and out said annular cap; mounting said retractor on said hollow dilator until said distal end is positioned between the inner and outer sleeves of the double-sleeved balloon; removing said cap from said body portion of said retractor; separating the two halves of said retractor and removing said dilator and the inner sleeve of said double-sleeved balloon therethrough; and closing said wound.

Claim 56

Dependent Claim 24 words

The method of claim 47, wherein said closing step comprises a method selected from the group consisting of clipping, stapling, and suturing said wound.

Claim 57

Dependent Claim 72 words

The method of claim 47, further comprising the steps of attaching to a distal end of a surgical clip applicator a guide having laterally extending wings, inserting said wings into said retractor body portion after said cap is removed and advancing said clip applicator through said channel in said body portion until said applicator contacts said wound, and wherein said closing step comprises applying at least one surgical clip to said wound.

Claim 58

Dependent Claim 52 words

The method of claim 47, wherein said guide further comprises a guidetube for receiving said guidewire, and said method further comprises inserting the proximal end of the guidewire through said guidetube and advancing said applicator over said guidewire and through said channel in said body portion until said applicator contacts said wound.

Claim 59

Dependent Claim 35 words

The method of claim 47, further comprising providing a source of negative pressure on said dilator until blood is drawn into said dilator from said vasculature, during said advancing of said dilator over said guidewire.

Claim 60

Independent Claim 177 words

A device to facilitate the closure of wounds in the vasculature of a patient, comprising: a body portion having an externally threaded proximal end and a tapered distal end, wherein said body portion has two separate halves operatively connected to each other through cooperative reception of a connecting pin extending from one of the halves of the body portion and a cooperating slot which receives the connecting pin, each of said halves having a flat internal surface with a groove therein, such that when said internal surfaces abut one another, said grooves form a channel extending completely through said body portion from said proximal end to said distal end; and an internally threaded cap having a hole therethrough, said internal threads adapted to engage said externally threaded proximal end of said body portion, such that when said cap engages said body portion, said hole is positioned directly above said channel in said body portion; and a guidewire, wherein said guidewire can be inserted through said channel in said body portion and through said hole in said cap.

Claim 61

Independent Claim 177 words

A device to facilitate the closure of wounds in the vasculature of a patient, comprising: a body portion having an externally threaded proximal end and a tapered distal end, wherein said body portion has two separate halves operatively connected to each other through cooperative reception of a connecting pin extending from one of the halves of the body portion and a cooperating slot which receives the connecting pin, each of said halves having a flat internal surface with a groove therein, such that when said internal surfaces abut one another, said grooves form a channel extending completely through said body portion from said proximal end to said distal end; and an internally threaded cap having a hole therethrough, said internal threads adapted to engage said externally threaded proximal end of said body portion, such that when said cap engages said body portion, said hole is positioned directly above said channel in said body portion; and a guidewire, wherein said guidewire can be inserted through said channel in said body portion and through said hole in said cap.

Claim 62

Dependent Claim 14 words

The device of claim 52, wherein said guidewire has an inflatable balloon attached thereto.

Claim 63

Independent Claim 175 words

A device to facilitate the closure of wounds in the vasculature of a patient, comprising: a body portion having an externally threaded proximal end and a distal end, wherein said body portion has two separate halves, each of said halves having a flat internal surface with a groove therein, such that when said internal surfaces abut one another, said grooves form a channel extending completely through said body portion from said proximal end to said distal end; a collar portion distal the externally threaded proximal end comprising at least one guide passage which traverses one half of said body portion; at least one pin extending from one half of said body portion and insertable into said guide passage in the other half of said body portion; an internally threaded annular cap, said internal threads adapted to engage said external threads on said body portion; and and least one set screw hole in said collar portion at a right angle to said guide passage, and at least one set screw insertable into said set screw hole.

Claim 64

Independent Claim 175 words

A device to facilitate the closure of wounds in the vasculature of a patient, comprising: a body portion having an externally threaded proximal end and a distal end, wherein said body portion has two separate halves, each of said halves having a flat internal surface with a groove therein, such that when said internal surfaces abut one another, said grooves form a channel extending completely through said body portion from said proximal end to said distal end; a collar portion distal the externally threaded proximal end comprising at least one guide passage which traverses one half of said body portion; at least one pin extending from one half of said body portion and insertable into said guide passage in the other half of said body portion; an internally threaded annular cap, said internal threads adapted to engage said external threads on said body portion; and and least one set screw hole in said collar portion at a right angle to said guide passage, and at least one set screw insertable into said set screw hole.

Claim 65

Independent Claim 182 words

A device to facilitate the closure of wounds in the vasculature of a patient, comprising: a body portion having an externally threaded proximal end and a distal end, wherein said body portion has two separate halves, each of said halves having a flat internal surface with a groove therein, such that when said internal surfaces abut one another, said grooves form a channel extending completely through said body portion from said proximal end to said distal end; a collar portion distal the externally threaded proximal end comprising at least one guide passage which traverses one half of said body portion; at least one pin extending from one half of said body portion and insertable into said guide passage in the other half of said body portion; an internally threaded annular cap, said internal threads adapted to engage said external threads on said body portion; and a hollow dilator having an open proximal end and an open distal end adapted to receive a guidewire therethrough, wherein said dilator can be inserted through said channel in said body portion and through said annular cap.

Claim 66

Independent Claim 182 words

A device to facilitate the closure of wounds in the vasculature of a patient, comprising: a body portion having an externally threaded proximal end and a distal end, wherein said body portion has two separate halves, each of said halves having a flat internal surface with a groove therein, such that when said internal surfaces abut one another, said grooves form a channel extending completely through said body portion from said proximal end to said distal end; a collar portion distal the externally threaded proximal end comprising at least one guide passage which traverses one half of said body portion; at least one pin extending from one half of said body portion and insertable into said guide passage in the other half of said body portion; an internally threaded annular cap, said internal threads adapted to engage said external threads on said body portion; and a hollow dilator having an open proximal end and an open distal end adapted to receive a guidewire therethrough, wherein said dilator can be inserted through said channel in said body portion and through said annular cap.

Claim 67

Dependent Claim 41 words

The device of claim 55, wherein the distal end of the body portion is tapered and wherein said dilator further comprises a notch near said distal end sized to receive the tapered distal end of the body portion of the device.

Claim 68

Dependent Claim 22 words

The device of claim 55, wherein said dilator has at least one indicator hole through a side wall located distal said notch.

Claim 69

Dependent Claim 21 words

The device of claim 55, wherein said dilator further comprises a pressure sensor mounted on an outside wall of said dilator.

Claim 70

Dependent Claim 19 words

The device of claim 55, further comprising a guidewire, wherein said guidewire can be inserted through said hollow dilator.

Claim 71

Dependent Claim 19 words

The device of claim 55, wherein said hollow dilator has a double-sleeved inflatable balloon mounted on its distal end.

Claim 72

Dependent Claim 38 words

The device of claim 60, wherein said dilator further comprises at least one indicator hole at its distal end through a side wall, and wherein said double-sleeved inflatable balloon is mounted approximately 1.5 mm proximal said indicator hole.

Claim 73

Dependent Claim 165 words

A surgical retractor which comprises: an elongated body portion having proximal and distal ends and defining a longitudinal axis, the elongated body portion including at least two separate cooperating members operatively connected to each other and adapted for relative movement between an approximated position and a displaced position, each cooperating member having internal surfaces dimensioned to define a longitudinal passage extending through the elongated body portion for reception of surgical instrumentation, the elongated body portion having a distal tapered portion for facilitating entry into tissue; an end cap removably mounted to the proximal end of the elongated body portion, the end cap configured to retain the cooperating members in the approximated position wherein upon removal of the end cap from the elongated body portion the cooperating members may be displaced relative to each other to move to the displaced position thereof, and a locking member independent of the end cap for securing the cooperating members at desired relative positions between the approximated and displaced positions.

Claim 74

Dependent Claim 165 words

A surgical retractor which comprises: an elongated body portion having proximal and distal ends and defining a longitudinal axis, the elongated body portion including at least two separate cooperating members operatively connected to each other and adapted for relative movement between an approximated position and a displaced position, each cooperating member having internal surfaces dimensioned to define a longitudinal passage extending through the elongated body portion for reception of surgical instrumentation, the elongated body portion having a distal tapered portion for facilitating entry into tissue; an end cap removably mounted to the proximal end of the elongated body portion, the end cap configured to retain the cooperating members in the approximated position wherein upon removal of the end cap from the elongated body portion the cooperating members may be displaced relative to each other to move to the displaced position thereof, and a locking member independent of the end cap for securing the cooperating members at desired relative positions between the approximated and displaced positions.

Claim 75

Dependent Claim 33 words

The surgical retractor according to claim 62 wherein the elongated body portion and the end cap include threaded portions, the threaded portions cooperating to mount the end cap to the elongated body portion.

Claim 76

Dependent Claim 29 words

The surgical retractor according to claim 62 wherein the end cap includes an opening in general alignment and in communication with the longitudinal passage of the elongated body portion.

Claim 77

Dependent Claim 21 words

The surgical retractor according to claim 62 including a connector extending between the cooperating members to operatively connect the cooperating members.

Claim 78

Dependent Claim 21 words

The surgical retractor according to claim 65 wherein at least one of the cooperating members is movable relative to the connector.

Claim 79

Dependent Claim 37 words

The surgical retractor according to claim 66 wherein the locking member is mounted to the one cooperating member, the locking member movable to engage the connector to secure the one cooperating member at a desired relative position.

Claim 80

Dependent Claim 39 words

The surgical retractor according to claim 65 wherein the connector is fixedly mounted to a first of the cooperating members and wherein a second of the cooperating members is movable relative to the first cooperating member and the connector.

Claim 81

Dependent Claim 37 words

The surgical retractor according to claim 68 wherein the locking member is mounted to the other second cooperating member and is positioned to selectively engage the connector to secure the cooperating members at the desired relative position.

Claim 82

Independent Claim 173 words

A method for facilitating closure of an opening in a blood vessel where access to the opening is through a tissue passage extending through tissue overlying the blood vessel, comprising the steps of: positioning a retractor at least partially within the tissue passage, the retractor including an elongated body having proximal and distal ends and defining a longitudinal axis, the elongated body having first and second body portions defining a longitudinal passage therebetween and being adapted for relative movement between an approximated position and a displaced position; advancing the retractor through the tissue passage whereby the distal end thereof is proximal the opening in the blood vessel; moving at least the first body portion relative to the second body portion to cause the elongated body to assume the displaced position whereby the body portions retract the tissue defining the tissue passage to increase a dimension of the tissue passage to facilitate access to the opening; and closing the opening in the blood vessel while the retractor is partially positioned within the tissue passage.

Claim 83

Independent Claim 173 words

A method for facilitating closure of an opening in a blood vessel where access to the opening is through a tissue passage extending through tissue overlying the blood vessel, comprising the steps of: positioning a retractor at least partially within the tissue passage, the retractor including an elongated body having proximal and distal ends and defining a longitudinal axis, the elongated body having first and second body portions defining a longitudinal passage therebetween and being adapted for relative movement between an approximated position and a displaced position; advancing the retractor through the tissue passage whereby the distal end thereof is proximal the opening in the blood vessel; moving at least the first body portion relative to the second body portion to cause the elongated body to assume the displaced position whereby the body portions retract the tissue defining the tissue passage to increase a dimension of the tissue passage to facilitate access to the opening; and closing the opening in the blood vessel while the retractor is partially positioned within the tissue passage.

Claim 84

Dependent Claim 34 words

The method according to claim 70 wherein the step of closing including introducing a wound closure device through the tissue passage between the first and second body portions, and actuating the wound closure device.

Claim 85

Dependent Claim 32 words

The method according to claim 71 including the step of introducing a guide wire within the tissue passage such that a distal end thereof extends through the opening within the blood vessel.

Claim 86

Dependent Claim 28 words

The method according to claim 72 wherein the step of advancing includes positioning the guide wire within the longitudinal passage and guiding the retractor along the guide wire.

Claim 87

Dependent Claim 50 words

The method according to claim 73 wherein the guide wire includes an inflatable balloon adjacent the distal end thereof and further including the steps of: inflating said inflatable balloon; and moving said guide wire such that said inflatable balloon engages an inner surface of the blood vessel adjacent the opening.

Claim 88

Dependent Claim 30 words

The method according to claim 74 wherein the step of advancing the retractor includes advancing the retractor such that the distal end of the elongated body contacts the inflated balloon.

Claim 89

Dependent Claim 31 words

The method according to claim 73 wherein the step of closing includes advancing the would closure device along the guide wire to a position adjacent the opening in the blood vessel.

Claim 90

Dependent Claim 48 words

The method according to claim 76 wherein the wound closure device includes a guide having a guide wire passage for reception of the guide wire and wherein the step of advancing the wound closure device includes positioning the guide wire within the guide wire passage of the guide.

Claim 91

Dependent Claim 37 words

The method according to claim 70 wherein the retractor includes a dilator mounted within the longitudinal passage of the elongated body and wherein the step of advancing includes moving the retractor and dilator through the tissue passage.

Annuity Stage	Window Opens	Payment Deadline	Surcharge Period Until	Estimated Fee	Status
3.5 Years (Year 4)	2002-12-20	2003-06-21	2003-12-21	$2000.00	Window Closed / Lapsed
7.5 Years (Year 8)	2006-12-20	2007-06-21	2007-12-21	$3760.00	Window Closed / Lapsed
11.5 Years (Year 12)	2010-12-20	2011-06-21	2011-12-21	$7700.00	Window Closed / Lapsed

Vascular wound closure device

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