Importance

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Abstract

A vascular closure system includes a swellable/bioabsorbable tubular sealing element and a tubular advancement/deployment tool. The sealing element and advancement tool is configured to be attached to the outside of a tubular medical device (such as a vascular introducer, catheter, cannula, trocar, electrode wire, etc.) with the sealing element being advanced distally to a desired area within the body (near or at least partially within an arteriotomy, for example) by the advancement/deployment tool. Once in contact with blood (or other fluid) the sealing element swells, sealing the passageway. The system may include one of several different means to prevent insertion (or over insertion) into the vessel. Additional versions of the system described herein can be used for cardiovascular applications where hemostasis (temporary or permanent) is desired. Additionally, the system can be used with simple modifications for any vessel, area on, in or near any vessel, tissue area, tubular structure, duct, organ, hollow body cavity, chamber, tissue wall, or any other structures or tissues, where temporary or permanent sealing, plugging, reduction of an open space, or reinforcement is needed, or alternatively, where an open conduit or conduit reinforcement is desired. The system could also be used as a reversible sterilization method for women by occluding the fallopian tubes.

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First Claim