Patent · US Expired

Methods and devices for gastroesophageal reflux reduction

US5887594A · kind A · utility

390Cited by
7References
24Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventor

Key dates

Filing dateSep 22, 1997
Grant dateMar 30, 1999
Priority date
Expiry dateSep 22, 2017

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
  • CPC primaryA61B2017/0647
  • WIPO fieldMedical technology
  • WIPO sectorInstruments

Abstract

Methods for reducing gastroesophageal reflux are provided. One method includes passing a piercing device into the esophagus of a patient. The piercing device includes an elongated portion, a manipulation portion, and a hook portion. The hook portion is positioned proximate to the stomach of and the piercing device is manipulated such that the hook portion retracts a portion of stomach tissue proximate to the distal esophagus to form a fold of tissue having a first layer and a second layer. A securing device is passed into the esophagus of the patient, wherein the securing device includes a connector, a manipulation portion, and a securing mechanism. The securing mechanism is located proximate to the fold of stomach tissue of the patient retracted by the piercing device. The first and second layers of the fold are secured together utilizing the securing mechanism. The securing mechanism places a securing device, such as a biocompatible staple, rivet, locking device or stitch, through the layers of the fold, thereby forming a valve about the distal esophagus such that flow of gastric juices into the esophagus of the patient is substantially reduced. Optionally, one or more tubes havi…

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.