WO2025081172A1

WO2025081172A1 - Systems and methods for treating stress urinary incontinence

Info

Publication number: WO2025081172A1
Application number: PCT/US2024/051302
Authority: WO
Inventors: Jon I. EINARSSON; James Bleck; John Aho; Jonathan Towle; Gerald I. Brecher; Aidan Linton
Original assignee: Freyja Healthcare LLC; Brigham and Womens Hospital Inc
Current assignee: Freyja Healthcare LLC; Brigham and Womens Hospital Inc
Priority date: 2023-10-13
Filing date: 2024-10-14
Publication date: 2025-04-17
Anticipated expiration: 2026-04-13

Abstract

The disclosure provides improved methods and devices to create a hammock effect to stabilize the urethra without creating an incision in the abdomen or the vagina, and without using a surgical mesh. Such implementations can also leave no permanent material in the body. The simplicity afforded by such procedures and methods permits treatment of patients on an outpatient basis, and avoids risks and disadvantages associated with the installation of a permanent mesh.

Description

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TREATING STRESS URINARY INCONTINENCE

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present patent application claims the benefit of priority to and is a continuation- in-part of U.S. Patent Application No. 18/525,687, filed November 30, 2023, which in turn is a continuation-in-part of and claims the benefit of priority to 18/060,354, filed November 30, 2022, which in turn is a continuation of and claims the benefit of priority to International Patent Application No. PCT/US2021/040010, filed June 30, 2021, which in turn claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63/045,918, filed June 30, 2020. This patent application also directly claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63/590,280, filed October 13, 2023. Each of the aforementioned patent applications is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety for all purposes.

BACKGROUND

Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) affects around 15-60% of women during their lifetime. Urine leakage happens when the person laughs, coughs, sneezes, lifts things, or during exercise. The current standard of care for surgical treatment of stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is the polypropylene mesh vaginal sling procedure. This has the highest efficacy as well as the highest improvement in quality of life of any SUI procedure. However, polypropylene mesh has recently come under severe scrutiny due to risks such as infection and erosion, and the use of vaginal mesh has been largely abandoned for the surgical treatment of pelvic organ prolapse. Its use continues for the treatment of SUI, but there is increasing concern over the long-term safety of this approach and there are many ongoing product liability lawsuits pertaining to these issues. A few countries, such as Scotland, have banned all pelvic mesh procedures, including the use of SUI mesh slings. There are alternatives to slings, the most common being the Burch procedure, wherein sutures are placed along the urethra, either through an open incision or laparoscopically. The open incision surgery is associated with high morbidity and hospital stay, and the laparoscopic placement is very technically difficult to perform. Fig. 1 shows the difference between the Burch procedure and the autologous sling procedure. In the Burch procedure (Fig. 1 A), the anterior vaginal wall is suspended at the level of the bladder neck with sutures tied to the Cooper’s (iliopectineal) ligament. As illustrated, two sutures are placed on either side of the anterior vaginal wall, wherein one is placed at the bladder neck and the other is placed at the midurethra. These pairs of sutures are then tied up to the Cooper‘s (iliopectineal) ligament thereby suspending the anterior vaginal wall, thereby creating a hammock effect on the urethra. The resulting increased stability of the urethra prevents urine from leaking out during cough or strenuous activity.

The autologous sling procedure is illustrated in Fig. IB. In this procedure, a harvested strip of rectus fascia is placed transvaginally at the level of the proximal urethra. The fascial strip is secured superiorly to the rectus fascia (rectus abdominus muscle) with permanent sutures. This forms a sling underneath the urethra close to the bladder neck. This in turn helps to elevate and stabilize the bladder neck and the urethra.

In the past, there were also needle procedures that used permanent sutures that were passed with a needle through the vagina and through the rectus fascia and the sutures were used to create a hammock under the urethra and thereby stabilizing it. However, these procedures required an incision in the vagina as well as abdominal incisions and were therefore mostly abandoned when the simpler sling procedure arrived. But, these needle procedures were nonetheless fairly effective to treat SUI. One such procedure is known as the Pereyra procedure. In this technique, a loop of suture or other material is inserted through the paraurethral tissue near the bladder neck and is attached to the abdominal fascia to elevate the bladder. Needles are used to pass suture material from the vagina and through the abdominal wall. These needles are sometimes directed trough the vagina first and then under the pubic bone and through the skin or they can be placed in the reverse order. Fig. 2 illustrates how the needle passes through the vagina lateral to the urethra close to the bladder neck (junction between urethra and bladder). It also passes behind the pubic bone and penetrates the rectus fascia and the skin. As will be appreciated, there is room for improvement in the art to improve upon the techniques discussed above.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

Advantages of the present disclosure will be set forth in and become apparent from the description that follows. Additional advantages of the disclosure will be realized and attained by the methods and systems particularly pointed out in the written description and claims hereof, as well as from the appended drawings. In accordance with some implementations, the disclosure provides methods and devices for treating stress urinary incontinence (SUI).

In accordance with some implementations, a system for treating stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is provided, including a housing including at least one actuator, an elongate shaft extending distally from the actuator, a tissue anchor disposed at a distal end of the elongate shaft, a tether coupled to the tissue anchor, and an actuator disposed in the housing to release the tissue anchor after the tissue anchor has been disposed in tissue, wherein the elongate shaft can be removed after the tissue anchor has been released to leave behind the tissue anchor and the tether.

In some implementations, the system can further include at least one pull wire coupled to the actuator and to the tissue anchor, wherein pulling the at least one pull wire byway of the actuator causes the tissue anchor to separate from the elongate shaft. The system can further include at least one push rod coupled to a further actuator, wherein the at least one push rod is configured to be advanced distally to change the orientation of the tissue anchor after the tissue anchor has been separated from the elongate shaft. The elongate shaft can define at least one lumen along its length. Each of the pull wire and the push rod can traverse at least part of the length of the elongate shaft from the housing to the tissue anchor. In some embodiments, the tissue anchor can form a leading end of the system and includes a tissue dissection tip. In some implementations, the tether can pass through an opening defined in the anchor. The first and second ends of the tether can be coupled to the housing.

In accordance with further implementations, the system can further include a vaginal anchor to be coupled to the tether. The vaginal anchor can be configured to couple to the tether after tension has been applied to the tether after the tissue anchor has been implanted. The vaginal anchor can include at least one cleat to couple to the tether. In some implementations, the vaginal anchor can include two housing components that couple together. The two housing components can clamp against the tether when the housing components are coupled together. In some implementations, the two housing components can couple in a plurality of positions.

In some implementations, the fascial anchor can be disposed within the shaft prior to being deployed. If desired, the tissue anchor can form at least one of an X-shape, a star shape, a disc shape and an elongate shape after it is deployed. At least one of the fascial anchor, the vaginal anchor and the tether can be formed at least in part from bioresorbable material. The bioresorbable material includes PDS, for example. The vaginal anchor can be defined by a smooth and oblong surface.

In accordance with further aspects, the disclosure further provides implementations of methods of treating stress urinary incontinence (SUI).

In some implementations, the method can include delivering a tether along a first pathway from a location inside the vagina to a location proximate to the rectus abdominus, wherein the first pathway is laterally offset from the urethra, deploy ing a fascial anchor anterior to the rectus abdominus attached to a first end of the tether, coupling a vaginal anchor to a second end of the tether inside the vaginal canal, and applying tension to the tether and raising the vaginal anchor to lift the anterior wall of the vaginal canal.

If desired, in some implementations, delivering the tether can include introducing an elongate shaft along the pathway . The fascial anchor can be coupled to the elongate shaft prior to being deployed. The elongate shaft can be introduced through the vaginal opening, through the vaginal wall along the pathway, and through the rectus abdominus. The fascial anchor can be deployed after at least a portion of the elongate shaft has traversed the rectus abdominus. The method can further include removing the elongate shaft through the vaginal canal and loading the vaginal anchor onto the tether during the coupling step. The method can further include delivering a second tether along a second pathway near the first pathway. At least one of the first pathway and second pathway can pass near the mid-urethra. The other of the first pathway and second pathway can pass near the bladder neck. In some embodiments, a first tether can be connected to a first vaginal anchor inside the vaginal canal, and a second tether can be connected to a second vaginal anchor inside the vaginal canal.

In some implementations, the method can further include adjusting relative placement of the vaginal anchor and the tether after the procedure. The adjusting step can include unsecuring the tether and loosening the vaginal anchor. In some implementations, the adjusting step can include un-securing the tether and tightening the vaginal anchor.

In some implementations, the disclosure provides methods of treating stress urinary’ incontinence (SUI) including delivering a tether along a first pathway from a location inside the vagina to a location proximate to the obturator intemus muscle, deploying an anchor coupled to a first end region of the tether into the obturator intemus muscle, coupling a vaginal anchor to a second end of the tether inside the vaginal canal, and applying tension to the tether and raising the vaginal anchor to lift the anterior wall of the vaginal canal. In some aspects, the anchor can include at least one barb integral with the suture. In other aspects, the anchor can include at least one deployable anchor coupled to a first end of the tether.

The disclosure further provides a method of treating stress urinary incontinence (SUI) that includes delivering a barbed tether along a first pathway from a location inside the vagina to a location proximate to the rectus abdominus, wherein the first pathway is laterally offset from the urethra, disposing at least some of the barbs of the barbed tether into the rectus abdominus attached to a first end region of the tether, coupling a vaginal anchor to a second end of the tether inside the vaginal canal, and applying tension to the tether and raising the vaginal anchor to lift the anterior wall of the vaginal canal.

In further accordance with the disclosure, any system as described herein can further include matrix material to induce scarring in the region of the procedure. The matrix material can be coupled to the tether. The matrix material can be made at least in part from a bioresorbable material. The bioresorbable material can include at least one of Poly polydioxanone (PDS), Poly(lactic acid), Poly D Lactic Acid, and Poly L Lactic Acid. The matrix material can be integrally formed with the tether.

In further accordance with the disclosure, any method as described herein can further include delivering matrix material along the first pathway to induce scarring in the region of the procedure. The matrix material can be coupled to the tether and pulled into the first pathway due to being coupled to the tether. The matrix material can be introduced in a separate step from introducing the tether.

It is to be understood that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and are intended to provide further explanation of the disclosed embodiments. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute part of this specification, are included to illustrate and provide a further understanding of the disclosed methods and systems. Together with the description, the drawings serve to explain principles of the disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings illustrate various example, non-limiting, inventive aspects, embodiments, and features C'e.g.;’ or “example(s)’^?) in accordance with the present disclosure:

Fig. 1 A illustrates an example of a Burch procedure, as is known in the art.

Fig. IB illustrates an example of an autologous sling procedure, as is known in the art.

Fig. 2 illustrates an aspect of a Pereyra procedure, as is known in the art.

Fig. 3A illustrates an example of a needle path laying approximately in the sagittal plane for delivering and deploying an anchor in accordance with the present disclosure.

Fig. 3B presents an example of placement of anchors and sutures in accordance with the present disclosure along an anatomical viewing angle that is oblique to the transverse anatomic plane.

Fig. 4 presents a schematic of one example of a vaginal anchor in accordance with the present disclosure.

Fig. 5 presents a schematic of a further example of a vaginal anchor in accordance with the present disclosure.

Figs. 6A-6B are isometric views of a further implementation of a vaginal anchor in accordance with the present disclosure in a fully locked position into a pair of sutures.

Figs. 7A-7B are isometric views of the vaginal anchor of Figs. 6A-6B in an exploded condition illustrating certain internal components of the vaginal anchor.

Fig. 8 A is an isometric view of the vaginal anchor of Figs. 6A-6B in a partially locked position.

Fig. 8B is a section isometric view of the vaginal anchor in the partially locked position of Fig. 8 A.

Fig. 9A is an isometric view of a pair of sutures in an arrangement wherein the vaginal anchor is in a partially locked position as illustrated in Fig. 8B.

Fig. 9B is an isometric view of a pair of sutures in an arrangement w herein the vaginal anchor is in a fully locked position as illustrated in Figs. 6A-6B. Fig. 10A is an isometric view of a portion of the vaginal anchor of Figs. 6A-6B.

Fig. 1 OB is a sectional view of the portion of the vaginal anchor as set forth in Fig. 10A.

Figs. 11 A-l IB are a cross sectional view of the vaginal anchor Figs. 6A-6B showing internal components of both portions of the anchor.

Fig. 12A is an isometric cross-sectional view of the vaginal anchor Figs. 6A-6B showing the anchor in a partially locked position.

Fig. 12B is an isometric cross-sectional view of the vaginal anchor Figs. 6A-6B showing the anchor in a fully locked position.

Fig. 13A is an isometric cross-sectional view of the vaginal anchor Figs. 6A-6B showing internal components of the anchor holding the suture in place in a fully locked position.

Fig. 13B is a further isometric cross-sectional view of the vaginal anchor Figs. 6A-6B showing internal components of the anchor holding the suture in place in a fully locked position.

Fig. 14 is an upper isometric view of a representative embodiment of a delivery system in accordance with the present disclosure.

Fig. 15 is a lower isometric view of a representative embodiment of a delivery system in accordance with the present disclosure illustrated in Fig. 14.

Fig. 16 is an enlarged view of a proximal portion of the delivery system of Fig. 14.

Fig. 17 is an exploded view of the delivery system of Fig. 14.

Fig. 18 is a close-up view of the exploded view of Fig. 17 illustrating aspects of a handle portion of the delivery system of Fig. 14

Figs. 19A-19C present upper isometric, proximal isometric, and lower isometric views of a first portion of a housing of the delivery system of Fig. 14.

Figs. 20A-20B present upper isometric, and low er isometric views of a second portion of a housing of the delivery' system of Fig. 14. Figs. 21 A-21B are upper isometric and lower isometric views of a portion of a retainer block of the delivery system of Fig. 14.

Figs. 22-24 are a partial isometric exploded views of a portion of the delivery system of Fig. 14 illustrating aspects of retainer blocks of the system and guide and alignment plates of the delivery system.

Figs. 25A-26B are enlarged isometric views of a distal portion of the system of Fig. 14 illustrating aspects of a fascial anchor portion of the system.

Figs. 27A-27C are various isometric views of a distal portion of the delivery system of Fig. 14 that couples to the fascia anchor of the system of Fig. 14.

Figs. 28A-28C are various isometric views of a fascia anchor of the system of Fig. 14.

Figs. 29A-29B are isometric views of the fascia anchor and a distal end portion component of the delivery system of Fig. 14.

Fig. 30 is an isometric view of a distal portion of the delivery system of Fig. 14 omitting a component of the system to illustrate relative placement of a retainer rod and a push rod to urge the fascia anchor into position.

Fig. 31 is a closeup view of a distal end portion of a handle portion of the delivery system of Fig. 14.

Fig. 32-35 are closeup isometric views of a proximal end portion of a handle portion of the delivery system of Fig. 14.

Figs. 36-37 are isometric views of the fascia anchor of Fig. 14 showing relative placement of a suture passing therethrough.

Figs. 38-39 are isometric views of portions of the system of Fig. 14.

Figs. 40-44B are various isometric views of a further implementation of a vaginal anchor in accordance with the present disclosure.

Fig. 45 is a representative illustration of an implementation of using a scar forming matrix material to enhance the formation of scar tissue to help ensure long term benefits from a procedure as described herein. Figs. 46-72 present a further implementation of a device and related method(s) to perform procedures to treat stress urinary incontinence in accordance with the present disclosure.

Figs. 73-75B illustrate a variation of the implementation of Figs. 46-72 including an anchor disposed in the device handle prior to deployment.

Figs. 76A-77C depict aspects of a further vaginal anchor in accordance with the present disclosure.

Fig. 78A depicts a vaginal anchor as described herein in a locked position against a pair of tethers, and Fig. 78 A depicts the vaginal anchor in an unlocked position against the pair of tethers.

Fig. 79A depicts a vaginal anchor adjustment tool in accordance with the present disclosure in an assembled condition. Fig. 79B depicts the tool in a disassembled condition.

Fig. 80A depicts a longitudinal cross section of the tool of Fig. 79A in an assembled condition. Fig. 80B depicts a longitudinal cross section of the tool in a disassembled condition.

Fig. 81 A and 8 IB depict opposing side isometric views of an inner portion of the tool of Fig. 79A. Fig. 81C is a first close up view of a distal end portion of the inner portion of the tool. Fig. 81D is a further close up view of the distal end portion of the tool showing hidden structures in dashed lines.

Fig. 82A is an isometric view of an outer portion of the tool of Fig. 79A. Figs. 82B and 82C are isometric end views of the outer portion of the tool showing each side of the distal end portion of the tool w hich is essentially symmetrical. Fig. 82D is a view of the distal end portion of the tool showing hidden structures in dashed lines.

Figs. 83A-83C are views of the vaginal anchor adjustment tool of Fig. 79A showing the tool engaged with the vaginal anchor with the vaginal anchor in a locked position against the sutures.

Figs. 84A-84C show the vaginal anchor adjustment tool of Fig. 79A with the tool rotated with respect to the sutures to engage the sutures with slots at the distal end portion of the outer portion of the tool to permit the tool to disengage the lock pin of the vaginal anchor with respect to the body of the vaginal anchor. Figs. 85A-85B depict the vaginal anchor adjustment tool of Fig. 79A with the inner portion, or plunger or the tool pulled back proximally to disengage the lock pin of the vaginal anchor with respect to the body of the vaginal anchor, which is held in place at the distal end of the tool by way of the sutures being trapped in place in the slots as the distal end portion of the outer portion of the tool to then permit the vaginal anchor to be slid up or down the sutures.

Figs. 86A and 86B show opposing longitudinal cutaway views of the distal portion of the vaginal anchor adjustment tool wherein the lock pin is pulled proximally by the plunger to permit movement of the vaginal anchor along the sutures. Fig. 86C shows the inner portion of the adjustment tool advanced distally to engage the lock pin with the body of the lock to lock the sutures in place.

Fig. 87 is an isometric view of the vaginal anchor adjustment tool disengaged from the vaginal anchor.

DESCRIPTION

The purpose and advantages of embodiments of the present disclosure will be set forth in and become apparent from the description that follows. Additional advantages of embodiments of the present disclosure will be realized and attained by the methods and systems particularly pointed out in the written description and claims hereof, as well as from the appended drawings.

In some implementations, the disclosure provides improved methods and devices to create a hammock effect to stabilize the urethra without creating an incision in the abdomen or the vagina, and without using a surgical mesh. Such implementations also leave no permanent material in the body. The simplicity afforded by such procedures and methods permits treatment of patients on an outpatient basis, and avoids risks and disadvantages associated with the installation of a permanent mesh. Moreover, in some implementations, the system and method permit adjustment of the system during an outpatient visit if it is determined if the system was initially implanted in a manner that is too tight or too loose. This can easily be contrasted with a conventional mesh sling procedure. If a mesh sling is placed too tight, the mesh has to be removed by w ay of a major surgical procedure. If a mesh sling is placed too loosely, it cannot be easily adjusted and it is less effective. In some implementations, a system is provided that includes a small diameter (e.g, 1-2 mm) needle that carries within it a folded fascial anchor to anchor in fascia coupled to a first end of a thread (e.g, suture, tether, or the like). If desired, the suture can include a barbed suture, or a suture with a barbed portion that is directed through the fascia and the barbs can prevent the suture from backing out. An anchor can be used in combination with a partially or fully barbed suture, such as but not limited to a molded barbed suture. In some embodiments, the thread, suture, and/or anchor can be made from a resorbable material such as polydioxanone (PDS). PDS is a delayed absorbable material that generally dissolves completely within 6 months of implantation. In some implementations, the device can also include a vaginal anchor to be coupled to a second end of the thread to urge against the vaginal wall. The vaginal anchor can be provided with one or more smooth surfaces to minimize its physical profile in the vaginal canal. The vaginal anchor can also me made from a bioresorbable material such as PDS.

In some implementations, and with reference to Fig. 3A and 3B, an illustrative procedure begins by first placing a urinary catheter, such as a conventional Foley -ty pe catheter, into the urethra and into the bladder and inflated at its distal end to hold it in place (not shown). The bladder is drained by way of the urinary catheter. Alternatively, a catheter as described in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 63/012,056, filed April 17, 2020, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety⁷, can be used instead. The catheter of the ‘056 application (or a different catheter) can be further modified (or specially configured) to include a further light source, such as a LED light, at a location corresponding to the midurethra of the patient, which is located about two centimeters from the bladder neck, since the female urethra is about four centimeters in length. A second light source such as a LED can be included in the catheter at the point of the mid-urethra, or a light conductive medium can be used to conduct light from the light source in the urinary catheter located just past the neck of the bladder downwardly to a location about two centimeters from the bladder neck. For example, if the catheter includes an opaque covering over a light transmissive layer (e.g., an inner tube), the opaque covering can be stripped away or otherwise not be present at the location of the mid-urethra to permit light to shine through the catheter that can be viewed inside of the patient, but outside of the urethra, for example, with an endoscope (not shown) in the peritoneal/pelvic cavity, to inform the surgeon where to place the needle laterally with respect to the mid-urethra to deliver the required sutures. Illumination of the mid-urethra can guide the surgeon both as to the correct level of placement as well as prevent the surgeon from placing the needles too close to the urethra. After placement of the urinary catheter, a local anesthetic (e.g., 0.5% Marcaine or similar) is applied to numb the local anatomy.

The delivery system 10 that includes a (e.g., 1-2 mm) hollow applicator needle, defining a lumen along at least a part of its length can then be inserted through the vagina, lateral to the urethra on each side for placement of each of four sutures, preferably under direct visualization of an endoscope. It will be appreciated that fewer or more sutures 30 can be used. For each suture 30 placement, the needle, as illustrated in Fig. 3A, is directed behind the pubic bone and then through the rectus fascia. The rectus fascia is thick and strong and permits the surgeon to feel a discernable pop" when the needle passes through it. Once the needle is through the rectus fascia, the surgeon then advances the fascial anchor 20 forward through the lumen of the needle and permits the anchor 20 to expand, and/or carries out one or more further manipulation steps to expand the fascial anchor. The fascial anchor 20 can have an X-shape, a star shape, a barbed section, disc shape, or the like, for example, once deployed, although further implementations are described below. The fascial anchor 20, thread or suture 30, and vaginal anchor 40 are each preferably, but not necessarily, made from resorbable material. After each of the four fascial anchors 20 are placed, the hollow delivery needle is withdrawn, leaving the suture or thread 30 extending into the vaginal canal. After all four sutures are delivered, there are two punctures on either side of the urethra through the anterior vaginal wall, wherein one is located approximately parallel to the bladder neck and the other is located approximately parallel to the mid-urethra.

Next, each thread or suture pair 30 on either side of the urethra is threaded through the vaginal anchor 40, which can also be made of PDS or other bioresorbable material. The sutures 30 can then be placed under tension and the vaginal anchor 40 is gently pushed upwards. The sutures 30 can then be secured in place to hold the vaginal anchor 40 in place, and tied together or otherwise crimped, trapped, or secured in place.

Preferably, the vaginal anchor 40 is oblong and smooth walled in order to minimize patient discomfort and to minimize the profile of the anchor. If resorbable PDS anchors and sutures are used, the anchors and sutures can be expected to dissolve in about six months. During that time, the elevated bladder neck will scar in place and can be expected to maintain the effects of the procedure for a long-term basis. Fig. 3B further illustrates relative placement of the vaginal anchors 40 (behind the anterior vaginal wall, and the placement of the four sutures through the rectus abdominus. Instead of the rectus abdominus, the sutures 30 and/or anchors 40 can alternatively be directed through the obturator intemus muscle, or in one or more or a combination of locations.

After the procedure, however, it may be desired to adjust the fit of the vaginal anchor. For example, the suspension can prove to be too tight. This can manifest itself, for example, in the patient having a hard time emptying their bladder. In this instance, the installation can be modified by un-securing the sutures 30 (e.g., by untying a knot or unlocking a lock that holds them in place), the vaginal anchor 40 can be loosened slightly, and the sutures 30 can be re-secured. On the other hand, the suspension can be too loose, for example, if the patient still has urinary leakage. In this instance, the sutures 30 can be unfastened, the vaginal anchor can be raised to reduce the distance between the fascial anchor 20 and the vaginal anchor 40, and the sutures 30 can then be refastened. The patient will typically realize that either condition has occurred within a couple of days, long before the repair has had time to scar in place.

While the sutures can be unknotted and loosened and retied, in further implementations, the free ends of the suture can be held in place in the anchor by a clamping force or a friction lock for example, that can have an engaged and disengaged position. The vaginal anchor can be unlocked so that the suture may slide through it, and then locked in order to prevent the suture from moving. The suture can traverse a serpentine path when traversing through the lock, for example. The anchor can be engaged or disengaged with the suture, as appropriate, by way of depressing an actuator or a friction lock incorporated into the suture path, or by toggling a mechanical switch that, in a first position, locks the suture in place, and in a second position, lets the suture slide through the vaginal anchor. In the case of a friction lock, the suture path can include a wedge-shaped lock that can include teeth or undulations, for example, that slides into a keyed slot that when fully inserted j ams the suture in place, and when partially retracted, permits the suture to move freely or under a detectable amount of physical resistance. If a barbed suture is used, the barbs can be directed in a manner to prevent the vaginal anchor from being loosened, and an unlocking mechanism can include a tubular member or other device that is advanced over the barbs to collapse them to permit the vaginal anchor to be adj usted.

Fig. 4 presents a schematic of one example of a vaginal anchor 40 in accordance with the present disclosure. The anchor 40 can be bounded by an atraumatic low profile lozengelike body 42 and includes first and second suture entrances for receiving sutures 30 (SI and S2) on an upper side of the anchor, and a suture exit port that can be directed toward the vaginal entrance that can include a mechanical lock 46, such as a wedge lock that is received by an interference fit inside of the lock body. The wedge body of the lock 46 can be disengaged, for example, by a suitably configured hand tool (not shown). The suture SI, which is located further inside the vagina than suture S2 is directed around a smooth boss 44 and through an opening in the wedge-shaped lock body and out of the vaginal anchor. Suture S2 enters through the top of the lock, is directed along a direction away from an entrance to the vagina where it is looped around a further boss permitting it to turn 180 degrees, pass by a third boss over which the suture slides, and out through the lock body. It will be appreciated that the lock mechanism of the anchor if so provided, can be configured in a multitude of ways. But, it is preferred that the sutures can enter into the top of the vaginal anchor and exit through the bottom, or an end of the anchor. In another embodiment, one or both of the sutures can exit through a lateral side of the vaginal anchor, as desired. It will be appreciated that the vaginal anchor can be configured to receive one tether, or three or more tethers, as desired.

Fig. 5 presents a schematic depicting aspects of a further embodiment of a vaginal anchor in accordance with the present disclosure. As depicted, a suture 30 with barbs 32 facing in opposing directions is provided that is directed through the fascia as described above wherein the barbs prevent the suture from backing out. A second portion of the suture has opposing faced barbs to pass through the vaginal anchor. The barbs can be collapsed by advancing a tubular tool or hollow needle over the suture to permit the anchor to be loosened. Tightening the anchor can be accomplished by simply advancing the anchor over the barbs of the barbed suture.

Figs. 6A-6B are isometric views of a further implementation of a vaginal anchor in accordance with the present disclosure in a fully locked position into a pair of sutures. Figs. 7A-7B are isometric views of the vaginal anchor of Figs. 6A-6B in an exploded condition illustrating certain internal components of the vaginal anchor.

As depicted, anchor 140 is composed of two interlocking portions 142, 144 that cooperate to form a generally continuous outer surface that has an elliptical projection from the side and a generally circular projection in an end view. It will be appreciated that anchor 140 can be modified to be any general shape and operate in a manner similar to that described herein. Interlocking portion 144 of anchor defines a pair of openings 146 through a sidewall thereof that receive one or more sutures 130 therethrough to be locked in place. Figs. 6A depict the anchor 140 in a condition wherein the two interlocking portions 142, 144 are fully locked in position, wherein a respective barb 141 on each lateral side of interlocking portion 142 is received into a corresponding pair of barb receiving openings 143 defined through the sidewall of interlocking component 144. While it is not needed to provide an opening 143 that receives the barb 141 of the housing component 142, providing openings 143 can be useful as it permits a tool (not shown) such as forceps or the like to press radially inwardly on the barbs 141 if a physician or surgeon desires to unlock the anchor 140 from the suture 130.

With reference to Figs. 7A and 7B, as can be seen, housing component 144 includes a pair of spaced apart generally parallel plates 145 that define a cavity⁷ 145a therebetween through which sutures 130 pass, as well as through openings 146 in the sidewall 144a of component 144. The plates 145 are generally tongue-shaped, and each said plate 145 is received by a corresponding canty 142a (Fig. 12B) of housing component 142. Each plate 145 extends outwardly from the peripheral wall 144a of the housing component 144. Housing component 142 defines two outwardly extending arms having barbs 141 thereon that slide into corresponding cavities, or tracks 141a within housing component 144. Housing component 142 further defines an outward projection 147 that is slidably received within cavity 145a of housing component 144 that urges against sutures 130 to hold them in place within housing component 144.

Fig. 8 A is an isometric view of the vaginal anchor of Figs. 6A-6B in a partially locked position. Fig. 8B is a section isometric view of the vaginal anchor in the partially locked position of Fig. 8 A. When in this configuration, anchor 140 will permit the anchor 140 to be slid along suture(s) 130 with some resistance as the physician or surgeon is adjusting tension on the tethers 130 during the procedure. Once the surgeon or physician believes that they have the anchor 140 correctly positioned, the anchor can be snapped into place. As can be seen in Fig. 8B, the interior of anchor component 144 defines a plurality of bearing surfaces 149a, b, c against which the suture 130 is pressed when anchor 140 is in a fully locked position by a corresponding curved end face 147a of projection 147. Figs. 10A-10B are further views of component 144 (isometric and isometric cutaway, respectively) showing the relative placement of internal components.

Fig. 9A is an isometric view of a pair of sutures in an arrangement wherein the vaginal anchor 140 is in a partially locked position as illustrated in Fig. 8B. Fig. 9B is an isometric view of a pair of sutures in an arrangement wherein the vaginal anchor is in a fully locked position as illustrated in Figs. 6A-6B. As can be seen, in the fully locked position as illustrated in Fig. 9B, the sutures 130 traverse a considerably more tortuous path than in the partially locked condition of Fig. 9A.

Figs. 11 A-l IB are a cross sectional view of the vaginal anchor Figs. 6A-6B showing internal components of both portions of the anchor. As illustrated, this cross section is orthogonal compared to the cross section of Fig. 8B, for example. As to component 142, clearly illustrated in cross section are cavities 142a that receive projections 145 and cavity 145a that receives projection 147. Barbs 141 on deflectable cantilevered arms that extend axially away from the outer periphery of component 142 are also depicted, as well as cavities 141a that receive arms with barbs 141 within component 144. Further illustrated are catches or cavities 146a that receive the barbs 141 when the anchor is in the intermediate or partially locked orientation of Figs. 8A-8B.

Fig. 12A is an isometric cross-sectional view of the vaginal anchor of Figs. 6A-6B showing the anchor 140 in a partially locked position. As can be seen, in this position, the barbs 141 are received by cavities 146a of component 144. The sutures 130 are shown in cross section. Fig. 12B is an isometric cross-sectional view of the vaginal anchor Figs. 6A- 6B showing the anchor in a fully locked position. In this orientation the sutures are fully trapped and held in place between surfaces 149c and 147a, and barbs 141 are held in place against surfaces 143a that partially define opening 143.

Fig. 13A is an isometric cross-sectional view of the vaginal anchor Figs. 6A-6B showing internal components of the anchor holding the suture in place in a fully locked position. As can also be seen in this view, the suture 130 is compressed by the curved surface 147a against surface 149c as well as the surfaces of components 149a and 149b when the anchor 140 is in the fully locked configuration. Fig. 13B is a further isometric cross-sectional view of component 142 of the vaginal anchor Figs. 6A-6B rotated 90 degrees about a central longitudinal axis of the anchor 140, showing internal components of the anchor holding the suture in place in a fully locked position, particularly illustrating barbs 141 and protrusion 147 and its relative location with respect to sutures 130.

Fig. 14 is an upper isometric view of a representative embodiment of a delivery system 100 in accordance with the present disclosure. It will be appreciated that the depictions and description of system 100 and aspects thereof is merely illustrative and not intended to be limiting in any way.

Generally, system 100 includes a handle or housing 110 that includes actuator handles to actuate pull rods or push rods wires that travel down a hollow shaft 112 to a distal portion that includes a fascia anchor 120. Further illustrated are vaginal anchor 140 in relative position, as well as a further implementation of a vaginal anchor 240 described in further detail below with reference to Figs. 40-44B.

Suture material 130, which can be in the form of a single length of suture, for example, can extend from a proximal end of the device 130, held in place by a cleat, clamp or removable tape 162, for example, and extend along an external surface of hollow’ shaft 112, through a body component 122 of a fascia anchor 20 located at a distal end of the device 100, back along the shaft 112, and proximally toward the handle 110 wherein both free ends of the suture are held in place by a retainer or tape 162, for example. The device 100 is used to advance the anchor and shaft 112 through the top of the vaginal wall, through the patient’s tissue, and through fascia tissue as described above until the distal anchor portion 120 has passed through the fascia. At this point, the suture 130 has been pulled along through the passage defined through the tissue by the device 100, and the anchor can be deposited beyond and/or in the fascia of the patient, holding the anchor in place. The shaft 112 and pushrods therein are removed, leaving behind the anchor, and the sutures, which trail into the vagina. The vaginal anchor (e.g., 140, 240) is then threaded over the free ends of the sutures, tensioned, and locked in place as generally described above.

More particularly, as depicted, the system 100 incudes a housing or handle 100 having three removable adhesive panels (e.g., adhesive tape), wherein a first tape 162 holds the free ends of the suture 130 against the underside of the housing, a second tape 164 holds an actuator handle 114a,b that is coupled to a pushrod (described in further detail below) in place with respect to the housing, and a third tape 166 holds an actuator 115a,b coupled to a retractable wire or rod in place against the housing 110. Tubular member 112 extends proximally into the handle within a passage 110c defined within the handle or housing 110. Tubular member extends distally and terminates in fascia anchor assembly 120. Fig. 15 is a low er isometric view of the embodiment of Fig. 14.

Fig. 16 is an enlarged view of a proximal portion of the delivery system of Fig. 14 from underneath the housing 1 10. Wires or rods 126, 128 are visible extending from the actuators 114, 115 into a passageway 110c defined through the housing that further extend into tubular member 112 toward the distal end of the system 100.

Fig. 17 is an exploded view of the delivery system of Fig. 14. Certain hardware components (screws and the like) are illustrated in various of the views based on the exploded view of Fig. 17. However, it will be appreciated that the threaded fasteners used to hold the handle or housing 110 together are only one of many possible arrangements in accordance with the disclosure. As illustrated, the handle is composed in this example of two housing components 110a, 1 10b that couple to tubular member 112 that terminates in two wires 126, 128 that couple to proximal portion 124 of anchor assembly 120. Also illustrated are the suture loop 130 that is routed through distal portion 122 of the anchor assembly 120, as well as tapes 162, 164, 166 and anchor 240, described in further detail below;

Fig. 18 is a close-up view of the exploded view of Fig. 17 illustrating aspects of a handle portion of the delivery system of Fig. 14. As illustrated in the present example, an actuator block 114 is presented that can be unitary⁷ or formed from tw o portions 114a, 114b to entrap a proximal end of a wire 128. A portion 115b of low er actuator block 115 is also illustrated that couples to a proximal end of wire 126. As can be seen, each of wires 126, 128 traverse through a lumen defined along the entire length of the tubular member 112. Retainer plates 117b are received in grooves defined in the housing components, discussed below. Plates can also be attached (e.g., by adhesive and the like) to tubular member 112.

With continuing reference to Figs. 18, an upper view⁷ of upper portion 110a of housing 110 is depicted. As illustrated, the housing can be elongate and include proximal grip portions 110g, if desired. Housing component 110a further defines a channel, or groove 113a therein that is characterized by a main channel that begins at a proximal end of the device and extends distally. Channel further includes one or more undercuts or the like 113u that form guide tracks along the main channel to receive a corresponding tab 114j of the upper actuator block 114. Figs. 19A-19C present upper isometric, proximal isometric, and lower isometric views of a first portion 1 10a of a housing 110 of the delivery system 100 of Fig. 14. As is visible, housing components 1 10a defines a split lengthwise portion of an elongate axial passage 110c along its length to receive a proximal region of tubular member 112 secured in plates 117b that are in turn received by slots 117a defined in an underside of housing component 110a. Fig. 19B illustrates that the passage 110c terminates at its proximal end at the distal end of channel 1 13a. Figs. 20A-20B present upper isometric, and lower isometric views of a second portion 110b of a housing of the deliver)’ system of Fig. 14. Housing component 110b can essentially be a mirror image of component 110a, defining a corresponding second portion of channel 110a that receives tubular portion 1 12 and slots 117c that receive plates 117b, which in turn hold and orient tubular member 112. A similar channel 113b with side guide rails, or undercuts 113v are defined in the lower surface of the housing component 110b.

Figs. 21 A-21B are upper isometric and lower isometric views of a portion 114a of a retainer block 114 of the delivery system of Fig. 14. Block defines a groove 114c in an underside thereof that bends along its path to hold a proximal end of wire 128 in place. One or more attachment bosses 114d (or pegs glued into recesses) can be provided that are received by corresponding sockets of block 114b. Figs. 22-24 are a partial isometric exploded views of a portion of the delivery system of Fig. 14 illustrating aspects of retainer blocks of the system and guide and alignment plates of the delivery system. Fig. 22 more clearly illustrates the pathway of wires 126 and 128 as they traverse from each respective actuator block or handle 114, 115 into the tubular member 112. In use, each actuator block can be pulled proximally or pushed distally to pull or push each wire 126, 128 to effectuate operation of the distal anchor assembly 120 to deploy the fascia anchor when it is in position. Fig. 23 illustrates a lower exploded view wherein wire 126 is received in a channel defined in an underside of block 115b. Fig. 24 illustrates an exploded view of block or actuator handle 114 showing components 114a, 114b separated. Each block 114, 115 sandwiches a respective wire 128, 126 between each of its halves, wherein a groove to receive the wire can be formed into one or both of the halves of each block.

Figs. 25A-26B are enlarged isometric views of a distal portion of the system of Fig. 14 illustrating aspects of a fascial anchor portion of the system. Anchor assembly 120 is formed from two portions, a first, proximal portion 124 that is attached to the distal end of the tubular member, and a second, distal portion 122 that is removably attached to proximal portion 124 by a pull wire 126. Pull wire 126 traverses passages through both components to hold the components in alignment as they are being advanced through tissue. The components 124, 122 are further held together by a keyed arrangement wherein, when the push or pull rod 126 is in place, the components 122, 124 cannot separate along an axial, lateral or rotational direction. Once the pull rod is withdrawn proximally, components 124, 122 are able to separate, permitting the portion 122 to be left behind in the patient after the fascia has been traversed, with a trailing tether 130 passing through an opening of component 122. Fig. 25B shows relative routing of the tether or suture 130 through component 122, while pull wire 126 holds components 122, 124 together.

Figs. 26A-26B illustrate components 122, 124 with the tether or suture 130 removed for purposes of illustration. Distal anchor component 122, which is removable from the system, defines an opening 122a laterally therethrough to permit passage of the suture 130. If desired, a channel 122e can be defined along either side of the anchor portion 122 proximal to opening 122b to permit the suture to be at least partially received therein to lower friction when introducing the assembled device 100 through tissue.

Figs. 27A-27C are various isometric views of the proximal portion 124 of the anchor assembly 120 that couples to the distal removable section 122 of the anchor assembly. Component 124 includes a proximal end that begins in a crescent shaped sleeve 124f that is received by a lumen of tubular member 112 and coupled thereto by any suitable technique (adhesive, welding, and the like). The main body of component 124 is generally cylindrical and elongate, includes a scalloped or recessed section 124r between its ends, and includes a rounded or fist-shaped, rounded distal end 124b. A first set of elongate axial passages 126b, 126a are defined through section 124 to accommodate the pull wire or tube 126 that holds components 122, 124 together during delivery. These passages permit the pull wire or tube 126 to extend fully through component 124 and into component 122. As second passage 128a is also defined axially through a proximal portion of component 124 and laterally offset from passage 128b. Passage 128a receives a push tube or push rod 128 therethrough to push against a portion of anchor portion 122 to help rotate anchor portion 122 into an orientation that is out of axial alignment with the axial direction of device 100 to place it along an orientation that is oblique or perpendicular to the direction of travel of the suture so that the anchor provides adequate resistance against a tensile force applied to the suture 130.

Figs. 28A-28C are various isometric views of a fascia anchor 122 of the system of Fig. 14. Anchor 122 is the portion of the system left inside the body that is delivered to a point within or beyond the fascia to provide an anchor for the tether 130. Anchor 122 includes a pointed distal end 122d to bluntly dissect tissue when being advanced by the delivery⁷ system 100. Passages 126c, 126d receive wire 126 therethrough. Fist shaped distal end of component 124 is received within recess 122b of distal anchor 122. Thus, when assembled, wire 126 passes through passages 126a, 126b of component 124 and passages 126c, 126d of component 122, providing a strong interlock between components 122, 124. Anchor 122 further defines a push surface or push rod receiving surface 128c that is urged on by distally advancing wire 128 as the cavity 122b of anchor pivots about the fist shaped rounded distal end of component 124. As such, in use, the delivery system 100 delivers anchor into or past the fascia as described generally above. But at this point, anchor 122 is still longitudinally aligned with the delivery' system 100, and this could lead to the anchor being pulled out when tension is applied to the suture. So, once the anchor 122 is in position, the wire 126 is withdrawn by removing tape 166 (or other retainer) and proximally advancing block 1 15 that is attached to wire 126. This causes the wire 126 to retreat out of the distal anchor 122, freeing the anchor from the mechanism except for tension applied to the tether or suture 130, which is routed through the opening 122a of component 122. While applying tension to the tether, pushrod or push tube 128 is pushed distally by removing tape 164 from the housing 110, permitting block 114, which is attached to the proximal end of the wire or tube or rod 128, to be advanced distally out through opening 128a, and into surface 128c. The force applied to surface 128c by the distal end of the rod 128, which is applied off of the central axis of the device 100, causes leverage, or a moment, about a point of rotation defined by the cooperative movement of the inner curved surface of cavity 122b about the rounded distal surface of component 124. Continued pushing by the push rod or tube or wire 128 while maintaining tension on the tether 130 to hold the components 122, 124 in contact causes the proximal end of anchor 122 to swing in a distal direction, and the distal end 122d of the anchor to swing proximally until the anchor has obtained an orientation that is oblique, and if possible, orthogonal or perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the delivery system 100. After this has occurred, the device 100 can be w ithdrawn from the patient leaving the anchor 122 in place in the fascia with the suture 130 trailing out through the fascia and the passage defined by the insertion of device 100, with both trailing ends of the suture extending through the vaginal wall, and out of the patient’s vagina. At this time, the suture 130 is routed through the opening 122a of the anchor 122. At this time, a vaginal anchor, such as 140 or 240, can be introduced over the suture ends 130 using the suture ends as a guide rail. Tension can then be applied to the suture 130 to lift the wall of the vagina, and the vaginal lock can be locked in place. As desired or needed, the vaginal lock can be unlocked and the tension can be adjusted to ensure that urinary leakage is minimized or stopped.

Figs. 29A-29B are isometric views of the fascia anchor and a distal end portion component of the delivery system of Fig. 14. In this figure it can be seen how the rounded distal end 124b of component 124 interfits with recess 122b of component 122. Fig. 30 is an isometric view of a distal portion of the delivery system of Fig. 14 omitting a component 124 of the system 100 to illustrate relative placement of a retainer rod 126 and a push rod 128 to urge the fascia anchor 122 into position.

Fig. 31 is a closeup view of a distal end portion of a handle portion of the delivery system of Fig. 14, illustrating relative placement of tape or retainer 162 to hold suture 130 in place where indicated. Fig. 32-35 are closeup isometric views of a proximal end portion of a handle portion 110 of the delivery system of Fig. 14. In this view, the actuator block 115 coupled to pull wire 126 is shown both in the track, as well as out of track, for purposes of illustration only. If desired, additional actuator blocks could be provided (e.g., two in each channel 113a, 113b) to provide means for pulling or pushing additional actuator wires or rods, as desired. Figs. 36-37 are isometric views of the fascia anchor of Fig. 14 showing relative placement of a suture passing therethrough. As can be seen, in this orientation, the longitudinal axis of the anchor 122, once rotated, is orthogonal to the suture 130, or nearly so, to maximize pull out resistance. Figs. 38-39 are isometric views of portions of the system of Fig. 14, showing relative placement of retainer plates 117b around tubular member 122. Fig. 39 illustrates the manner in which tubular member 122 terminates in components 124.

Figs. 40-44B are various isometric views of a further implementation of a vaginal anchor 240 in accordance with the present disclosure. Anchor 240 is oblong and is defined by an atraumatic outer surface that lacks sharp edges. As depicted, anchor 240 is composed of an upper portion 242, and a lower portion, or cap, 244. Portions 242 and 244 cooperate to define an enclosure. Upper portion 242 defines two openings therethrough to accommodate passage of sutures 242a therethrough. As depicted in Fig. 42-44, upper portion 242 of the lock, which lays against the vaginal wall after implantation, includes a central boss 245 with a fastening cleat disposed on each side thereof. Each fastening cleat includes a plate displaced from a surface of the upper portion 242 that defines a gap between the plate and the surface. Each gap includes one or more ribs or ridges 249 to hold a suture 130 in place by way of an interference fit. In use, the tethers 130 are wrapped around each cleat after tensioning, and cover 244 is then coupled to portion 242, holding the trailing suture inside of the anchor. The upper portion 242 of the anchor 240 includes one or more barbs 241 disposed on a cantilevered arm that is received by a respective opening 246 in the lower portion 244. As with other anchors discussed herein, after installation, the cover 244 can be removed, and tension in the tether 130 can be adjusted by unwinding the tether from each cleat 247, adjusting tension in the tether, and re-anchoring the tether around the cleat. In accordance with further aspects, the system can be configured to encourage scar tissue to form in order to maintain the new geometry provided by the procedure. For example, one or more of the fascia anchor, tether(s) and vaginal anchor can be provided with a surface or projections that cause scar tissue to form. For purposes of illustration, and not limitation, a representative implementation of such an arrangement can be found in Fig. 45 wherein matrix materials 300, such as in the form of spirals, helices, lattices, matrices and/or protrusions are attached to the tethers 130. If attached to or molded integrally with the tethers, the matrix material 300 can be pulled into the tissue with the fascia anchor and tethers 130. Alternatively, such matrix material could be introduced in a separate operation from the tethers 130. The matrix material 300 can be absorbable or not be absorbable as desired. Enhanced scarring along the length of the tether where it passes through tissue can enhance the strength of the tissue structure that is caused by the procedure. The matrix material can be natural material and/or synthetic material. The tethers and/or matrix material can be formed in separate operations or the same operation from absorbable or non-absorbable material. In some implementations, the material can include PDS, as described herein, and/or variations of Poly(lactic acid) such as PLA, PDLA (Poly D Lactic Acid), or PLLA (Poly L Lactic Acid) of various molecular weights and densities. For example, the suture material and matrix material can be formed in the same set of molding and/or extrusion operations. In other implementations, the matrix material 300 can be made from animal skin such as fish skin, and the like. The matrix material preferably extends from a location proximate the fascial anchor 122 for a distance of about two to about five centimeters, but not the full distance to the vaginal anchor. Preferably, the matrix material 300 forms a mass of material in the region of the tethers 130 to induce formation of scar tissue to hold the urethra in place after the procedure.

For purposes of further illustration, and not limitation. Figs. 46-72 present a further implementation of a device 400 and related method(s) to perform procedures to treat stress urinary incontinence in accordance with the present disclosure. Like reference numerals are intended to refer to similar structural components of the previously presented embodiments.

Device 400 operates in a manner similar to device 100 to deploy an anchor (122/422) in place that has a tether (130/430) passing therethrough. A first significant difference however is that device 400 includes an integral balloon 480 that can be selectively inflated with a fluid. Preferably, the balloon is located along the shaft of the device in the most distal location possible, preferably immediately proximally with respect to the fascial anchor. During the procedure, the balloon 480 is inflated after the anchor is delivered to bluntly dissect tissue in the region of the balloon. For example, the balloon 480 can be inflated after the anchor 422 has been delivered (Fig. 71) to bluntly dissect the local tissue. The device 400 can be withdrawn proximally to cause additional blunt dissection. Alternatively, the balloon 480 can be deflated, the device can be withdrawn proximally slightly (e.g., several centimeters), and the balloon 480 can be re-inflated to dissect additional tissue. After the procedure is completed, the dissected tissue will be located along the path of the tether(s) 430. Disturbing the tissue via blunt dissection can enhance the formation of scar tissue to hold the repair in place that is provided by the procedure.

The balloon 480 can be inflated with a liquid such as water or saline solution. If desired, the balloon 480 can be inflated with a gas such as air or carbon dioxide. The balloon can be between about 1.5 and 4 cm in outer diameter when fully inflated, or any increment therebetween of one millimeter. The balloon is preferably generally spherical when inflated, or in the shape of an oblate spheroid. Preferably, the balloon is made from a urethane material that tends to not stretch noticeably beyond a certain point, but that becomes harder to compress as the pressure of the gas inside the balloon increases. The volume inside the balloon can be between for example, 10 ml and 35 ml, or any increment therebetween of 0. 1 ml. Fig. 75B illustrates a syringe 498 operably coupled to fluid inlet port 490. Specifically, a syringe 498 is provided that if fluidly coupled to port 490 via a valve body 492 that can be opened and closed and a check valve 494 that can maintain pressure in the balloon after the syringe is actuated. The amount of pressure in the balloon can, for example, be between about 20 mm Hg and about 120 mm Hg, or any increment therebetween of 1 mm Hg. The syringe 498 performs an additional function in that, during insertion of the fascia anchor, the syringe 498 is perpendicular to the handle of the device and helps the user understand the directional orientation of the curved distal end of the device to help aim the device properly. The syringe can be configured to be slanted proximally or distally by providing suitable connection hardware. But, preferably, the syringe is not slanted laterally so as to permit the user to confirm the correct directional orientation of the curved distal portion of the device. Essentially, the centerline of the device along its length and the syringe centerline all fall in the same plane, or nearly so.

As depicted in Fig. 46, the device 400 includes a proximal handle 410 that distally transitions into a strain relief section 416, and then into a tubular section surrounded by an outer tubular member, similar to tubular member 112 of embodiment 100. The tubular section is then coupled to the two portions of the anchor mechanism 422, 424 by a removable core wire 426. Wire 426 can be withdrawn proximally to decouple anchor 422 from the device by proximally withdrawing a sliding actuator 460, discussed in further detail below. Tethers 430 are dragged along with the tubular member 412 and the anchor 422 into the patient through the vaginal wall and into the fascia as with embodiment 100 set forth above. An anchor 440 composed of two relatively displaceable components can be compressed longitudinally to lock the anchor 440 in place with respect to the tethers 430. Fig. 47 is similar to Fig. 46, but illustrates the balloon 480 in an inflated, deployed condition.

Fig. 48 is a close-up external view of a distal region of device 400. Pictured, from distal end and moving proximally, include a distal tip formed by a movable core wire 426. Core wire 426 terminates distally in a sharpened or blunt dissection tip to traverse through tissue. Preferably, the distal tip of the wire 426 is configured to make as small hole as practicable in the tissue of the vaginal wall and other structures to similarly permit a smaller diameter fascia anchor, and also to minimize tissue damage. A proximal end of wire 426 is operably coupled to a slide actuator 460 disposed in handle 410, discussed in further detail below. The wire 426 traverses substantially the entire length of the device 400 through fascial anchor 422 and anchor mount 424 (component 124 discussed above, while referred to a proximal portion of the anchor 122, is effectively not an anchor as such but an anchor mount) to maintain longitudinal and rotational registration with the anchor 422 when wire 426 is inserted through both components, similar to embodiment 100 above. Outer tube 412 is coupled to anchor mount 424 through any desired means, and balloon 480 surrounds tube 412. Balloon 480 is inflated by directing inflation fluid (air and/or liquid) through opening 412a, which is in fluid communication with a flow channel 421 defined at least in part by an inner surface of tube 412 and an outer surface of tube 420, discussed in further detail below. Tether(s) 430 are directed through an opening 422a in a lower side of fascial anchor 422, also discussed in further detail below. Fig. 49 provides a slightly enlarged view of a distal portion of device 400 compared to Fig. 48. Visible is a top window 425 in fascial anchor 422 not discussed above. Window 425, and a lower window’ in component 424 permits direct visualization of wire 426 when coupling the fascial anchor 422 to mount 424 to ensure alignment. Fig. 50 presents a view similar to Fig. 49 but along a proximal-distal direction.

Figs. 51-52 depicts a cut-away view along a centerline of a distal portion of device 400 positioned similarly as in Fig. 50. Visible is the location of hole 422a through w hich tether 430 traverses. As depicted, wire 426 traverses through the entire distal segment of device 400, including components 422, 424, and through tube 120 that is received within a proximal bore of component 424 and extends to the handle 410 of device 400. A distal end of tube 412 abuts a proximal tubular section of component 424, and a compressed crimp region 412c compresses the layers of inner tube 420, which is surrounded by an intermediate tubular member 428, which in turn is surrounded by outer tubular member 412. Outer tubular member is still further surrounded by a distal extent 484 of balloon 480. The layers of material can be mechanically crimped to couple tubular members 412, 420 by way of an interference fit with tubular member 428. Tubular member 428 can be made from a compressible, resilient material, such as a polymeric tubular material, that preferably provides a fluid seal (preferably a liquid and gas tight seal) to form a distal end of annular flow channel 421. The material of balloon 480 can be coupled to an outer surface of tube 412 via shrink fit, adhesive, and/or by crimping and/or melting into the crimp 412c. In operation, boss 424b, which is provided as a hemispherical bump, acts as a fulcrum so that when tension is applied to the tether 430, a moment is generated about bump 424 to swing the fascia anchor into place against the fascia after the core wire 426 is withdrawn proximally out of the fascia anchor. The overall diameter of the fascia anchor and structure proximal to the fascia anchor can be between about 2 and 6mm in diameter, or any diameter therebetween in increments of 0.1mm, more preferably between 2 and 3mm. The wire 426 forms a pilot hole that is then dilated by the tapered leading distal end of the fascia anchor as the device is advanced through the anatomy. A smaller pilot hole increases the likelihood that the hole will self-seal after the procedure. The wire 426 can have a diameter for example, between 0.3mm and 0.8mm, or any increment therebetween of 0.05mm.

Fig. 53 presents a further cutaway view of the distal region of device 400. This cutaway view is oriented 90 degreed rotated about wire 426 as compared to the view of Fig. 52. Fig. 53 further depicts components 422 and 424 and illustrates a distal region of component 424 that is received within a cavity defined within a lower face of component 422 to help maintain rotational orientation of components 422 and 424 about w ire 426. Further depicted is crimp region 412c indicating that the crimp region is circumferential about the circumference of tubular member 412. Figs. 54-56 present various lower isometric views of the distal region of device 400 illustrating a lower window or groove 427 to permit visual inspection of wire 426. As can be seen, tether 430 passes through passage 422a in anchor 422. When wire 426 is withdrawn proximally, the anchor 422 can rotate about curved distal end 424b of component 424. Fig. 58 depicts a cutaway view of the distal region of device 400 in the region of crimp 412c. As can be seen, outer tubular member includes a continuous annular crimp (or could include one or more discrete crimps) that effectively clamp outer tubular member 412c to inner tubular member 420. Further visible is a portion of fluid flow passage 421 defined between an inner cylindrical surface of outer tubular member 412 and an outer surface of inner tubular member 420. Preferably, the components are welded or bonded with adhesive as appropriate. For example, the balloon 480 can be bonded to the tubular member 412 by an adhesive such as cyanoacrylate of the like.

Figs. 59-63 present various cutaway central views (similar to the prior figures) along a vertical direction through handle component 410 and strain relief section 416. As depicted handle component 410 is comprised of an upper housing section 410a that interfits with a lower housing section 410b. As seen in Fig. 60, strain relief section 416 surrounds a proximal region of tubular member 412, and can be coupled thereto via an interference fit, and/or adhesive that can be deposited into openings 416a. Tubular member 420 is contained concentrically within tubular member 412. Wire 426 is further disposed within an inner lumen defined along the length of tubular member 420. Strain relief section 416 includes a plurality of transverse cuts or gaps 416b to receive corresponding tabs or ribs 410d of upper housing section 410 to maintain registration between tubular member 412 and the housing 410. Outer tubular member 412 terminates at its proximal end within a bore of a fluid inlet housing or port 490. Port 490 is formed from a body that is sandwiched between housing components 410a, 410b. Port 490 is thus formed by a generally tubular body that is oriented transversely with respect to the housing and protrudes from the upper face of the housing 410a. Port 490 includes an opening defined by a flange surrounding a fluid opening to receive a syringe 498, for example (Fig. 75B). The fluid opening and passage 490a traverses the body of component 490 until it intersects a second fluid passage 490b oriented along the centerline of tubular sections 412, 420. Tubular member 420 passes through passage 490b through body 490, and tubular member 412, which concentrically surrounds tubular member 420, is received by interference fit within a distal seal or o-ring 423a that is lodged within an entrance of passage 490b. A proximal o-ring 423b lodged within a proximal end of passage 490b contacts a proximal face of tubular member 412. One or more passages (not visible in this view) are defined through the wall of member 412 to place bore 490a in fluid communication with annular flow’ passage 421. Thus, a syringe 498 that is received within passage 490a may empty its contents into passage 421 to inflate balloon 480 as needed. As depicted in Fig. 62, tubular member 420 terminates proximally with respect to body 490, and wire 426 extends proximally with respect to tubular member 420. Wire 426 can be operably coupled to actuator 460, such as by way of opening 462. Actuator 460 is depicted as a slide switch that is slidably movable within housing 410. The slide switch includes a main plate section that slides within a track defined within the housing 410. The main plate includes a downwardly depending fin that extends proximally into an arm that includes a pawl 464 that is received by an opening defined through a lower portion 410b of the housing 410. A proximal end of the main plate section terminates in an indicator or a second pawl 466 that engages an opening defined through the upper surface 410a of the housing 410 when the actuator 460 has been slid fully proximally that would cause the wire 426 to be withdrawn proximally from fascia anchor 422, thereby releasing the fascia anchor 422. Slide actuator can be moved distally with respect to the orientation of Fig. 59 by pinching elements 466, 464 and sliding the button 460a in a distal direction. As illustrated, the proximal end of wire 426 would ordinarily be located more proximally to match the location of the actuator slide 460. For example, wire 426 can be wrapped around a proximal end of the downwardly depending fin of the actuator and be directed through passage 462. In some implementations, the actuator can be provided with a pawl that locks the actuator in position without permitting the slide switch to be advanced distally again as the wire, if permitted to redeploy could undesirably puncture tissue. As depicted in Fig. 75 A, a release switch 486 that is molded together with the slide switch 460 needs to be depressed to permit the slide switch 460 to be moved proximally to release the fascial anchor after insertion. Button 486 is located below the surface of the housing to require a user to deliberately press the button 486 downward to withdraw the slide switch 460.

Figs. 64-65 depict views of a further anchor 440 comprised of a piston 442 that is slidably received within a bore of a sleeve component 444. As depicted in the cutaway view of Fig. 65, the piston includes a distal portion 446 that passes both lengths of suture 430 and is received by a corresponding bore of component 444. Ramped or conical portions 448 of the piston ultimate lock the suture in place when the piston 442 is disposed fully within the bore of the sleeve component 444. Transverse passages defined through the sleeve component receive the suture or filament 430 therethrough.

Fig. 66 depicts side plan views of the distal region of the device 400 showing the balloon 480 in an inflated condition in the top view and in an uninflated condition in the lower view. The distal portion including the balloon 480 can be curved or straight, as desired. Fig. 67 is an exploded view of the distal region of the device 400 showing each individual component including the fascia anchor 422, the proximal mount 424 for the anchor, the wire 426, the inner tubular member 420, the outer tubular member 412, and the balloon membrane 480. Figure 68 further illustrates these components bearing illustrative, non-limiting dimensions. As illustrated, after assembly of device components, the proximal edge of component 424 can be crushed into the crimp section 412c. If desired, the seal can be put in place prior to forming the crimp in component 412. Fig. 69 further illustrates a cross section showing the passage and openings 426a, b to receive the wire 426 therethrough.

Figs. 70-72 illustrate examples of steps performed to utilize the embodiment 400. Fig. 71 illustrates the device 400 inserted through the vaginal wall and advanced beyond the pubic bone through fascia until anchor 422 clears the fascia. Fig. 71 illustrates the anchor 422 deployed and partial proximal withdrawal of the device 400 and inflation of the balloon 480 to create scar tissue, wherein the balloon 480 is inflated by fluid injected from syringe 498 introduced into port 490. Fig. 72 illustrates the finished procedure with two anchors 422, two tethers 430 and two vaginal anchors 440 in place. Due to the blunt dissection provided by the balloon, scar tissue will form in the regions of the sutures 430 and hold the repair in place after the vaginal anchors 440 are removed. If desired, the balloon 480 can be inflated immediately after anchor placement, and the device 400 may be withdrawn with the balloon 480 inflated until the balloon is near the vaginal wall. At that point, the balloon 480 can be deflated and the device removed. In accordance with another implementation, the device 100 can be used to place the anchor and sutures. The sutures can then be used as a guide to introduce a separate catheter bearing a dissection balloon to implement the balloon dissection. The balloon 480 may have a transverse dimension (width) between about 1.0 cm and about 3.0 cm., or any increment therebetween of 1mm. The balloon 480 may be substantially spherical or tubular or non-symmetrical in shape. If desired, the balloon 480 can be coated with a material to enhance the formation of scar tissue. Alternatively, if a balloon is not used, it is further possible to utilize a deployable mesh basket formed from nitinol wires or other expandable structure.

Figs. 72-75B illustrate a variation of the implementation of Figs. 46-72 including an anchor disposed in the device handle prior to deployment. As illustrated, the device handle is modified from the prior implementation to define a distal bore 402 therein to removably receive the vaginal anchor therein. If desired, a compliant sleeve 404 made, for example, of elastomeric material can be received within the bore 402 to grip the vaginal anchor 440 prior to deployment. Preferably, the vaginal anchor is pre-threaded with the tethers 430 so that the individual performing the procedure does not need to perform the threading operation. The entire assembly depicted in Figs. 72-73, for example, can be provided as a single sterilized unit inside of sterile packaging. It will be noted that two vaginal anchors 440 are illustrated in Figs. 72-73 for illustrative purposes. The anchor is received within the handle as described to help maintain the anchor and sutures in the sterile field during the procedure. The slide switch 460 can be retracted proximally until the ramped surfaces of elements 488 and 489 pass each other and the tip of element 488 snapes behind the vertical surface of element 489. This prevents the wire from then being inadvertently deployed distally. Tubular member 487 can be provided as a stiffener to hep support the smaller diameter distally extending structure. The tubular member can be integrated mechanically and/or otherwise fastened into the handle, such as by welding a metal plate 487B to the tubular member 487 that in turn can be trapped in place within the handle of the device.. As depicted, openings can be provided through the sidewall of the tubular member to act as “glue holes” 487A to distribute adhesive inside of the tubular member 487 to help bond parts together. The design of the device permits one-handed insertion when inserting the fascia anchor and device, which frees up the physician or surgeon’s other hand to inflate the balloon to facilitate tissue dissection with the balloon.

Figs. 76A-87 depict aspects of a further implementation of a vaginal anchor in accordance wi th the present disclosure, and its manner of use alone and with respect to an adjustment tool that can lock and unlock the vaginal anchor in place on a tether.

For purposes of illustration, and not limitation, Figs. 76A-77C depict aspects of a further vaginal anchor 540 in accordance with the present disclosure. The vaginal anchor 540 is composed of two main components, a body, or anchor body 544, and a lock pin 542. Pin 542 and body 544 are preferably made from contrasting colors to help visually distinguish them from one another. The anchor body 544 is elongate and can be cylindrical in outer shape, or can have a proximal cylindrical section and a tapering distal section that can make it easier to achieve an interference fit in the handle as described above. The anchor body 544 defines a lengthwise bore 544A that includes a proximal section configured to receive the proximal section of the anchor pin, and a distal section to receive the distal portion of the anchor pin. The shape of each cavity generally matches the corresponding part of the anchor pin 542. The distal portion of the anchor pin 542 is generally flattened, and is correspondingly received by a portion of cavity 544A that has a rectangular cross-section. This helps maintain rotational alignment between the anchor pin 542 and the anchor body 544. The anchor body 544 defines two pairs of bores 544B on either side of the anchor body- 544 for receiving two tethers or sutures 430 therethrough, wherein each suture or tether 430 passes over a different side of the anchor pin 542 as depicted in Fig. 76D. The anchor pin includes a pair of complementary tapered or ramped surfaces 542B on either side of the anchor pin 542 that are followed in a proximal direction by scalloped surfaces 542C. Pin 542 further includes a ventral (or dorsal) keel 542D that is slidably received within slot 544C defined through a sidewall of the anchor body 544.

Anchor pin 542 is slidably disposable within the bore 544A of the anchor body 544. When pulled out proximally (partially out of bore 544A), the tethers 430 can slide through the upper and lower bores 544B of the anchor body, preferably under some tension so that it does not slide completely freely. Anchor 540 is depicted in this unlocked position in Fig. 78B.. To lock the sutures into place, the anchor pin 542 is pushed fully into bore 544A, thereby locking the sutures in place by an interference fit that compresses the sutures in place between surfaces 542C on either side of anchor pin 542 and the corresponding inner surface of bore 544A as indicated in the cross section of Fig. 77C. Anchor 540 is depicted in this locked position in Fig. 78A.

Fig. 79A depicts a vaginal anchor adjustment tool 500 in accordance with the present disclosure in an assembled condition. Fig. 79B depicts the tool in a disassembled condition. Tool 500 includes an outer body or housing 520 that defined an elongate passage along its length that slidably receives an inner body or plunger 510 therein. Fig. 80 A depicts a longitudinal cross section of the tool 500 of Fig. 79A in an assembled condition. Fig. 80B depicts a longitudinal cross section of the tool 500 in a disassembled condition. In use, the anchor 540 is preferably installed by hand during the initial procedure. If a patient comes back in later in time for a follow up (such as within several days time) the tool 500 can be used to loosen the anchor 540, permitting it to be readjusted and relocked after tension in the sutures 430 is adjusted.

Fig. 81 A and 8 IB depict opposing side isometric view's of the inner body or plunger 510 of tool 500. As depicted, the inner body 510 includes a handle 512 at its proximal end and includes a distally extending shaft 516 that terminates in a distal end portion 514. The shaft 516 defines a rectangular or square cross sectional portion that is received by a corresponding and matching portion of the cavity within housing 520 to prevent relative rotation of the plunger 510 and housing 520 when those components are in an assembled condition. A protrusion 519 can be provided on one or both sides of the shaft 516 to be received within a corresponding opening 529 of handle 525 of housing 520 (Fig. 83A).

Fig. 81C is a first close up view of a distal end portion 514 of the plunger 510 of the tool 500. Fig. 81D is a further close up view of the distal end portion 514 of the tool 500 showing hidden structures in dashed lines. As depicted, the distal end portion 514 of the plunger 510 defines a fixture for slidably and rotatably receiving the enlarged head portion 542 A of lock pin 542. In use, as indicated in Fig. 8 ID, the head portion 542A of the lock pin is slidably received along an axial direction into a “U” shaped distal opening 518 of plunger 510, until the head portion 542A comes to rest in a disc-shaped cavity 518A that is defined at the distal end of the plunger 510. The opening 518 and cavity 518A are shaped to permit the plunger 510 to rotate with respect to the anchor 540 so that the overhanging edges of the head portion 542A can rotate into the cavity 518A such that the head 542A rotates out of alignment with opening 518. This prevents the head 542A of the anchor pin 542 from separating from the plunger 510, as the end wall 518B inside the cavity 518A contacts the underside of the head 542A of the anchor pin 542, and acts to pull the anchor pin proximally when the plunger 510 is advanced proximally. Proximal wall 518C of the chamber 518A contacts the proximal end of the pin 542 and acts to push the pin 542 distally when the plunger 510 is pushed distally. Fig. 81D illustrates the manner in which the head 542A of the anchor pin 542 is received through opening 518 into chamber 518 A of plunger 510.

Fig. 82A is an isometric view of an outer portion or housing 520 of the tool 500 of Fig. 79A. Figs. 82B and 82C are isometric end views of the outer portion of the housing 520 of the tool 500showing each side of the distal end portion 524 of the tool 500 which is essentially symmetrical. Fig. 82D is a view of the distal end portion of the tool showing hidden structures in dashed lines. As depicted, housing 520 of tool 500 includes a tubular body that defines a passageway along its length that may have a round and/or square crosssection. Housing 520 is elongate and includes a proximal handle portion 525 and grip surfaces 527, 528, wherein a user can insert their fingers between surfaces 527, 528 to hold tool 500. The proximal handle 525 is defined by two parallel surfaces that each include an opening 529 therethrough to receive boss 519 of the plunger 510. The openings 529 are generally rectangular with a narrowed center region that the boss 519 needs to slide over to place the anchor 540 into a locked or unlocked condition as described below. Indicia 523 A, 523B (Fig. 83A) are provided to indicate to a user when the anchor is locked or unlocked when in the device. The distal end portion 524 of the housing defines two longitudinal slots 526A that receive sutures 430 therethrough when the anchor 540 is introduced into the tool 500, and associated circumferential slots 526B that receive the sutures therein when the tool 520 is rotated with respect to the anchor 540 after the anchor 540 is inserted into the distal end of the tool. 500.

Figs. 83A-83C are views of the vaginal anchor adjustment tool 500 of Fig. 79A showing the tool 500 engaged with the vaginal anchor 540 with the vaginal anchor 540 in a locked position against the sutures. As depicted, the tool can be used to loosen the anchor from the sutures after the procedure has initially been performed, resulting in the locking of the vaginal anchors 540 by the doctor. As shown in Fig. 83B, the sutures or tethers 430 are introduced into the device by first inserting the lock pin 542 and anchor body 544 into the cavity at the end of the tool 540 until the head 542A of the lock pin 542 is inserted into the cavity 518A of the plunger 510. As this insertion occurs, the tethers 430 that pass through the anchor 540 pass through slot 526A on each side of the distal end of the housing 520. When the head 542A of the anchor pin bottoms out in cavity' 518A of the plunger 510, the sutures also bottom out in slot 526A as depicted in FIG. 83B. Also, as depicted in FIG. 83C, at this time, the anchor 540 is in the locked position wherein the anchor pin 542 is fully inserted into the anchor body 544, locking the sutures or tethers 430 in place by way of frictional forces. As such, FIGS> 83A-C depict the tool 500 having docked with the locked anchor in order to begin adjustment of the anchor on the sutures 430.

Figs. 84A-84C show the vaginal anchor adjustment tool 500 of Fig. 79A with the tool 500 rotated with respect to the sutures 430 and the anchor 540 itself to engage the sutures 430 with the circumferential slots 526B at the distal end portion 524 of the housing 520 of the tool 500. At the same time, the head 542A of the lock pin 542 is rotated within cavity 518A so that it can no longer move proximally or distally with respect to the plunger 510. This permits the tool 500 to disengage the lock pin 542 of the vaginal anchor 540 with respect to the anchor body 544 of the vaginal anchor 540 by pulling the plunger 510 in a proximal direction with respect to the housing 520. Specifically, in FIG. 84A, the anchor 540 is still fully locked together, evidenced by the pin 519 residing in the distal lobe of the slot 529. The relative axial position of the anchor body 544 is held in registration with the housing 520 because the sutures 430 that pass through the anchor body 544 are trapped in place along an axial direction by slots 526B in the distal end region 524 of the housing 520. The plunger 510, which can be pulled proximally with respect to housing 520, is axially coupled to the head 542A of the lock pin 542. Thus, pulling the plunger 510 proximally until the boss 519 moves to the proximal lobe in the opening 529, the anchor pin 542 is pulled axially away from the anchor housing 544, thereby partially disengaging the anchor, permitting the sutures 430 to be pulled through the anchor body 544. Figs. 85A-85B depicts the vaginal anchor adjustment tool 500 with the plunger 510 or pulled back proximally to its proximal position wherein the boss 519 has moved to the proximal portion of the opening 529 of the housing. Thus, in this condition, the lock pin 542 of the vaginal anchor 540 is partially disengaged from the anchor body 544. At this point, the anchor 540 and tool can be slid along the sutures, preferably under some degree of frictional resistance. In use, this permits the doctor or physician to tighten or loosen the sutures 430 by moving the vaginal anchor along the sutures.

Figs. 86A and 86B show opposing longitudinal cutaway views of the distal portion of the vaginal anchor adjustment tool 500 wherein the lock pin 542 is pulled proximally by the plunger 510 to permit movement of the vaginal anchor 540 along the sutures 430. Fig. 86C shows the inner portion 510 of the adjustment tool 500 advanced distally to engage the lock pin 542 with the body 540 of the anchor to lock the sutures 430 into place.

After a desired tension is achieved, the anchor 540 can be relocked onto the sutures 430 by moving the plunger510 of the tool distally with respect to the housing 520. This pushes lock pin 542 back into the anchor body 544, locking the sutures in place once again. The tool 500 can then be removed from the anchor and sutures, by rotating the tool in an opposite direction to permit the sutures to rotate out of the slots 526B, and the head 542A of the anchor pin 542 to once again realign with opening 518 at the distal end of the plunger 510. This permits the tool 500 to be pulled in a proximal direction off of the anchor 540 and sutures 430 as depicted in Fig. 87.

The methods and devices provided by the present disclosure, as described above and shown in the drawings, provide for methods and systems for medical diagnosis and treatment with superior properties as described herein. It will be appreciated that the disclosed system, or portions thereof, can be used for other applications. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the embodiments of the present disclosure described herein without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosure. Thus, it is intended that the present disclosure include modifications and variations that are within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1 . A system for treating stress urinary incontinence (SUI), comprising: a housing including at least one actuator; an elongate shaft extending distally from the actuator; a tissue anchor disposed at a distal end of the elongate shaft; a tether coupled to the tissue anchor; a deploy able inflatable member disposed proximate a distal region of the elongate shaft; and an actuator disposed in the housing to release the tissue anchor after the tissue anchor has been disposed in tissue, wherein the elongate shaft can be removed after the tissue anchor has been released to leave behind the tissue anchor and the tether.

2. The system of Claim 1, further comprising an inflation port to receive pressurized inflation fluid to inflate the inflatable member.

3. The system of Claim 3, wherein the elongate shaft defines a lumen along its length, and further wherein an elongate rod traverses at least part of the length of the elongate shaft from the housing to the tissue anchor.

4. The system of Claim 3, wherein the tissue anchor forms a leading end of the system and the elongate rod extends distally from the tissue anchor and defines a tissue dissection tip.

5. The system of Claim 1 , wherein the tether passes through an opening defined in the anchor.

6. The system of Claim 1, further comprising a vaginal anchor to be coupled to the tether, wherein the vaginal anchor is configured to couple to the tether after tension has been applied to the tether after the tissue anchor has been implanted.

7. The system of Claim 6, wherein the vaginal anchor includes at least one cleat to couple to the tether.

8. The system of Claim 6, wherein the vaginal anchor includes two housing components that couple together.

9. The system of Claim 8, wherein the two housing components clamp against the tether when the housing components are coupled together.

10. The system of Claim 1 , wherein at least one of the fascial anchor, the vaginal anchor and the tether is formed from bioresorbable material.

11. The system of Claim 10 wherein the bioresorbable material includes PDS.

12. A method for treating stress urinary incontinence (SUI), comprising: delivering a tether along a first pathway from a location inside the vagina to a location proximate to the rectus abdominus, wherein the first pathway is laterally offset from the urethra; deploying a fascial anchor anterior to the rectus abdominus attached to a first end of the tether; using an inflatable member to bluntly dissect along the pathway; coupling a vaginal anchor to a second end of the tether inside the vaginal canal; and applying tension to the tether and raising the vaginal anchor to lift the anterior wall of the vaginal canal.

13. The method of Claim 12, wherein delivering the tether includes introducing an elongate shaft along the pathway.

14. The method of Claim 13, wherein the fascial anchor is coupled to the elongate shaft prior to being deployed.

15. The method of Claim 12, wherein the elongate shaft is introduced through the vaginal opening, through the vaginal wall along the pathway, and through the rectus abdominus, and further wherein the fascial anchor is deployed after at least a portion of the elongate shaft has traversed the rectus abdominus.

16. The method of Claim 15, further comprising removing the elongate shaft through the vaginal canal and loading the vaginal anchor onto the tether during the coupling step.

17. The method of Claim 12, further comprising adjusting relative placement of the vaginal anchor and the tether after the procedure.

18. A method for treating stress urinary' incontinence (SUI), comprising: delivering a tether along a first pathway from a location inside the vagina to a location proximate to the obturator intemus muscle; deploying an anchor coupled to a first end region of the tether into the obturator intemus muscle; bluntly dissecting tissue along the pathway to induce formation of scar tissue; coupling a vaginal anchor to a second end of the tether inside the vaginal canal; and applying tension to the tether and raising the vaginal anchor to lift the anterior wall of the vaginal canal.

19. The method of Claim 18, wherein, during the coupling step, a vaginal anchor adjustment tool is removably coupled to the vaginal anchor to displace a lock pin of the vaginal anchor with respect to a body of the vaginal anchor to either lock the tether in place with respect to the vaginal anchor or to permit sliding movement of the vaginal anchor with respect to the tether.