WO1998040016A2

WO1998040016A2 - Universal introducer

Info

Publication number: WO1998040016A2
Application number: PCT/US1998/004661
Authority: WO
Inventors: Stuart D. Edwards; Thomas Wehman; Theodore L. Parker; Eugene V. Skalnyi; Theodore Kucklick; John Evans; Ronald Lax
Original assignee: Advanced Closure Systems, Inc.
Priority date: 1997-03-12
Filing date: 1998-03-11
Publication date: 1998-09-17
Also published as: US7081125B2; US20060254603A1; WO1998040016A3; US20110224721A1; AU6456598A; US6733515B1; US20040172058A1; EP0969768A2

Abstract

A device for introducing a catheter into a vessel through a puncture in a vessel and for sealing the puncture. The device includes an elongated body having a proximal end and a distal end sized to be positioned within a tissue site which includes the puncture. The elongated body includes a utility lumen sized to allow a catheter to be delivered through the utility lumen. The utility lumen is positioned within the elongated body so positioning the elongated body within the tissue site allows a catheter delivered through the utility lumen to enter the vessel. The elongated body also includes a closure lumen having an entrance port. A closure composition can be delivered through the entrance port into the closure lumen. The closure lumen also includes an exit port adjacent the distal end of the elongated body. The closure composition delivered into the closure lumen can be delivered through the exit port to the tissue site adjacent the puncture.

Description

UNIVERSAL INTRODUCER

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to a wound closure device, and more particularly to a device for delivering a catheter to a vessel within a tissue site and closing a wound caused by the catheter delivery.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

A wide variety of surgical procedures are performed by introducing a catheter into a vessel. After the surgical procedure is completed, closure of the vessel at the site where the catheter was introduced is needed. Vessel punctures formed in the process of performing a catheter based surgical procedure are commonly 1.5 mm to 7.0 mm in diameter and can be larger. Closure of these punctures is frequently complicated by anticoagulation medicine given to the patient which interferes with the body's natural clotting abilities. Closure of a vessel puncture has traditionally been performed by applying pressure to the vessel adjacent the puncture site. This procedure requires the continuous attention of at least one medical staff member to apply pressure to the vessel puncture site and can take as long as 30 minutes. Devices have been developed for effecting the closure of vessel punctures through the application of energy. See U.S. Patent Nos. 5,626,601;

5,507,744; 5,415,657; and 5,002,051. Devices have also been developed for effecting the closure of vessel punctures through the delivery of a mechanical mechanism which mechanically seals the puncture. See U.S. Patent Nos.: 5,441,520; 5,441,517; 5,306,254; 5,282,827; and 5,222,974. Devices have also been developed for effecting the closure of vessel punctures through the delivery of a composition to block the vessel puncture. See U.S. Patent Nos.5,601,602; 5,591,205; 5,441,517; 5,292,332; 5,275,616; 5,192,300; and 5,156,613. Despite the various devices that have been developed for closing vessel punctures, a need still exists for a single device which can be used for both introducing a catheter into a vessel and for closing the resulting wound.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to a device for introducing a catheter through a puncture in a vessel and for sealing the puncture. The device includes an elongated body having a proximal end and a distal end sized to be positioned within a tissue site which includes the puncture. The elongated body includes a utility lumen sized to allow delivery of a catheter through the utility lumen. The utility lumen is positioned within the elongated body so positioning the elongated body within the tissue site allows a catheter delivered through the utility lumen to enter the vessel. The elongated body also includes a closure lumen having an entrance port. A closure composition can be delivered through the entrance port into the closure lumen. The closure lumen also includes an exit port adjacent the distal end of the elongated body. The closure composition delivered into the closure lumen can be delivered through the exit port to the tissue site adjacent the puncture. The invention also relates to a device for introducing a catheter through a puncture in a vessel and for sealing tissues adjacent the puncture. The device includes an elongated body having a proximal end and a distal end sized to be positioned within a tissue site which includes the puncture. A membrane is included at an outer surface of the elongated body. The membrane is positioned on the elongated body so the membrane is adjacent a portion of the tissue adjacent the puncture when the elongated body is positioned within the tissue site. The membrane is sufficiently porous to allow a closure composition to pass through the membrane. The closure composition can be delivered into the closure lumen through an entrance port. The closure composition can be delivered from the closure lumen to the membrane through at least one exit port. The invention also relates to a system for introducing a catheter through a puncture within a vessel and sealing the puncture. The device includes an elongated body having a proximal end and a distal end sized to be positioned within a tissue site which includes the puncture. The elongated body includes a utility lumen within the elongated body. The utility lumen is sized to allow delivery of a catheter through the utility lumen. The utility lumen is positioned within the elongated body so when the elongated body is positioned within the tissue site a catheter delivered through the utility lumen can enter the vessel. A first closure lumen is coupled with the utility lumen. A closure composition can be delivered into the first closure lumen through an entrance port. The closure composition can be delivered from the first closure lumen to the utility lumen through an exit port. The system also includes an obturator with a structure which allows the obturator to be at least partially positioned in the utility lumen. Positioning the obturator within the utility lumen causes a second closure lumen to be formed. The second closure lumen is at least partially defined by the obturator and the utility lumen. The second closure lumen receives the closure composition delivered from the first closure lumen to the utility lumen and is configured to deliver the received closure compound to the tissue site.

The invention also relates to a system for introducing a catheter through a puncture within a vessel and for sealing the puncture. The system includes an elongated body having a proximal end and a distal end sized to be positioned at a tissue site which includes the puncture. The elongated body includes a utility lumen and a closure lumen through which a closure composition can be delivered to tissue at the tissue site. The system also includes a catheter guide obturator configured to be positioned within the utility lumen of the elongated body. The catheter guide obturator includes a utility lumen. The utility lumen is sized to permit delivery of a catheter through the utility lumen. The utility lumen has a geometry which permits a catheter delivered through the utility lumen to enter the vessel when the catheter guide obturator is positioned within the utility lumen of the elongated body which is positioned at the tissue site. The invention also relates to a system for introducing a catheter through a puncture within a vessel and for sealing the puncture. The system includes an elongated body having a proximal end and a distal end sized to be positioned at a tissue site which includes the puncture. The elongated body includes a utility lumen and a closure lumen through which a closure composition can be delivered to tissue at the tissue site. The invention also includes a trocar configured to be positioned within the utility lumen, the trocar includes a sharpened tip configured to puncture the tissue making up the tissue site.

The invention also relates to a system for introducing a catheter through a puncture within a vessel and for sealing the puncture. The system includes an elongated body having a proximal end and a distal end sized to be positioned at a tissue site which includes the puncture. The elongated body includes a utility lumen and a closure lumen through which a closure composition can be delivered to tissue at the tissue site. The system also includes a sealing mold configured to be positioned within the utility lumen. The sealing mold has a structure which causes a cavity to be formed at the distal end of the elongated body when the sealing mold is positioned within the utility lumen. Closure composition delivered through the closure lumen is delivered into the cavity.

The invention also relates to a method for introducing a catheter through a puncture within a vessel and for sealing the puncture. The method is initiated by providing a device with an elongated body configured to be positioned within a tissue site. The body includes a utility lumen sized to accommodate a catheter and at least one closure lumen. A closure composition can be delivered through the closure lumen. The method concludes by positioning the elongated body within the tissue site; delivering a catheter through the utility lumen into the vessel; performing a treatment with the catheter; withdrawing the catheter through the utility lumen; and delivering a closure composition through the closure lumen to the puncture.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

Figure 1 A is a cross section of a closure device including a closure lumen and a utility lumen.

Figure IB is a sideview of a closure device according to the present invention.

Figure 2 is a cross section of a closure device including sensors and energy delivery devices.

Figure 3 is a cross section of a closure device positioned in a tissue site. The closure device includes a catheter delivered through a utility lumen to a vessel in the tissue site.

Figure 4 is a cross section of the closure device of Figure 3 after the catheter has been removed from the utility lumen.

Figure 5 illustrates the closure of the hole in the vessel achieved by delivering a closure composition adjacent the distal end in combination with the delivery of energy.

Figure 6 illustrates the closure device and the vessel after the partial removal of the closure device from the tissue site.

Figure 7A is a sideview of a closure device with a saddle shaped distal end.

Figure 7B is a sideview of a closure device with a saddle shaped distal end. Figure 8 A is a sideview of a pigtail according to the present invention.

Figure 8B is a topview of a pigtail according to the present invention. Figure 9A illustrates a cross section of a closure device including a utility lumen with threads on an inside of the utility lumen. A pigtail within the utility lumen includes a head resting on the threads.

Figure 9B illustrates a cross section of a closure device with a screwdriver engaging the head section of a pigtail. Figure 9C is a cross section of a pigtail installed within a closure device.

Figure 10 is a sideview of a closure device with energy and closure composition delivered to tissue adjacent the sides of the closure device as the closure device is retracted from the tissue.

Figure 11 is a sideview of a tissue site after partial retraction of the closure device.

Figures 12A is a cross section of a closure device with a solid or semi- solid closure composition present at the distal end of the closure device to facilitate the closure of the vessel.

Figure 12B illustrates the closure device of Figure 12A with the pigtail retracted.

Figure 13 is a cross section of a closure device with a trocar in place within a utility lumen.

Figure 14 is a cross section of the closure device of Figure 13 after the trocar has penetrated the vessel. Figure 15 is a cross section of a closure device with a catheter guide obturator in place within a utility lumen.

Figure 16 is a cross section of a closure device with a sealing mold and curing pin in place within a utility lumen.

Figure 17 is a cross section of a distal portion of a closure device. Figure 18 is a sideview of a flapper valve.

Figure 19 is a sideview of a closure device including an automatic retraction device.

Figure 20 illustrates an closure device held within a tissue site by sutures. Figure 21 illustrates a closure device in place within a tissue site. The closure device includes a catheter delivered through a utility lumen to a vessel in the tissue site.

Figure 22 illustrates the closure device of Figure 21 being withdrawn from tissue.

Figure 23 A is a cross section of a distal end of a closure device.

Figure 23B is a cross section of a proximal end of a closure device for use with an obturator.

Figure 24A is a cross section of an obturator for use with the closure device illustrated in Figure 23 A.

Figure 24B is a side view of an obturator for use with the embodiment illustrated in Figure 23A.

Figure 25 A is a cross section of the obturator of Figure 24 A installed in the utility lumen of the closure device of Figure 23 A. Figure 25B is a cross section of the obturator of Figure 24A installed within the closure device of Figure 23 A and withdrawn though the central lumen until a catch on the obturator engages a catch channel on the closure device.

Figure 26 is a sideview of a hollow needle penetrating a vessel. Figure 27A is sideview of a guidewire threaded through the hollow needle of Figure 26.

Figure 27B illustrates the needle withdrawn from the tissue site along the guidewire.

Figure 28 is a cross section of a closure device. A hollow dilator is installed within the utility lumen of the closure device.

Figure 29 is a cross section of the dilator and closure device of Figure 28 threaded over a guidewire and advanced through a tissue site to puncture a vessel. Figure 30 is a cross section of the closure device of Figure 29 withdrawn from the puncture so the distal end is adjacent the puncture outside the vessel.

Figure 31 is a cross section of an obturator installed within the utility lumen of the closure device of Figure 30. Figure 32 illustrates a closure composition source coupled with the closure device of Figure 31.

Figure 33 illustrates closure composition delivered through a closure lumen to a puncture.

Figure 34 is a cross section of a tissue site after closure composition has been introduced to the puncture and a closure device has been completely withdrawn from the tissue site.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

The present invention relates to a device and method for introducing a

catheter into a vessel which is positioned within a tissue site. An embodiment of the includes a body with a proximal end and a distal end which is designed to

be positioned adjacent a puncture in the vessel. The body includes a utility

lumen configured so a catheter can be delivered through the utility lumen and

the puncture into the vessel. The body can also include a closure lumen which

can be coupled with a source of fluent closure composition. The closure

composition can be delivered through the closure lumen to the puncture. The invention can also relate to a method for using the device. The

device is positioned within a tissue site so the distal end of the device is adjacent a puncture in a vessel. A catheter is passed through the utility lumen and into

the vessel so a surgical procedure can be performed using the catheter. The

catheter is withdrawn and a closure composition source is coupled with the

closure lumen. The closure composition is delivered from the closure

composition source through the closure lumen to the puncture where it serves to bind and seal the puncture. Since the device can be used for delivery of the catheter and sealing the puncture, there is no need to switch devices in the tissue

site. As a result, one advantage of the present invention is a device and method which reduces the number of necessary instruments and accordingly the opportunity for infection.

The device can include an energy delivery device at the distal end of the body. The energy delivery device can deliver energy to the tissue site and

closure composition which has been delivered to the puncture. The energy can

serve to increase the polymerization/cure rate of the closure composition.

Additionally, application of energy to the tissue can promote coagulation and

the natural healing processes of the tissues within the tissue site. The

combination of these factors can increase the rate the puncture is sealed. As a

result, the device can be used to effect quick closure of a vessel puncture.

The device can include a microporous membrane around the outside of

the body. A closure composition source can be coupled with a second closure lumen which opens to the microporous membrane. The closure composition

can be delivered through the second closure lumen and through the microporous

membrane. The microporous membrane provides resistance to the passage of

the closure composition and can cause the closure composition to spread out

over the microporous membrane. As a result, the closure composition contacts at least a portion of the tissues adjacent the puncture. Withdrawal of the device

allows these tissues to contact one another and be bound together by the closure composition. As a result, an embodiment of the device can close the tissues adjacent the puncture.

The device can also include energy delivery devices positioned at the sides of the body. When closure composition is delivered through a microporous membrane closure composition will be delivered to tissues adjacent the puncture. The side electrodes can deliver energy to closure composition which has been delivered to these tissues. The energy can

increases the polymerization/cure rate of the delivered closure composition. As

a result, an embodiment of the device can promote rapid closure of tissues

adjacent the puncture.

The device can also include temperature sensors positioned along the

body. The temperature sensors can detect the temperature of the tissues

adjacent to the puncture. The signal from the temperature sensors can be fed to

a control unit. The control unit can include logic which controls the flow of

energy from the electrode in response to the temperature of the tissue. For instance, the flow of energy from the electrodes can be reduced when the

temperature of the tissue becomes excessively elevated. As a result, an

embodiment of the device can be used to reduce damage to tissues within the tissue site.

Figure 1 A illustrates a device according to the present invention. The

device may be used to introduce a catheter into a vessel through a puncture in

the vessel. The device can also be used to seal the puncture and close the tissues adjacent the puncture. It should be noted that the functioning of the device to close a puncture in a vessel and to close the tissues adjacent the puncture are intended to be two separate functionalities of the device which may both be incorporated into the device. Alternatively, each function may be independently incorporated into a single device of the present invention.

The device includes a body 10 for positioning within tissue. The body

10 has lateral sides 12 which terminate in a distal end 14. The body 10 includes

a utility lumen 16 through which a catheter (not shown) may be introduced at a proximal end of the device 18 and out through the distal end 14 of the device.

Included adjacent the distal end 14 of the utility lumen 16 is a backflow valve 20 which reduces blood flow from the vessel through the utility lumen 16.

Positioned within utility lumen 16 is a pigtail 22 which is movable

within the utility lumen 16. The pigtail 22 can pass through the device distal

end 14 upon deployment and into the vessel (not shown). The body 10 of the device also includes a closure lumen 24 for the

introduction of a closure composition. The device may be connected to a closure composition source 25 by a closure composition port 26 coupled with

the closure lumen 24. The closure composition port 26 is illustrated as having

an internal taper 28 of a configuration to accept a luer type fluid fitting. The

distal end 14 can include a reservoir 30. The closure composition can pass from

the closure composition source through the closure lumen 24 into the reservoir 30.

The device can also include an electrode 32 adjacent the distal end 14 as well as side electrodes 32 adjacent the lateral sides 12 of the device. The device can optionally include an ultrasound transducer 34 adjacent the distal end 14 of the device. In addition, the device can include temperature sensors 36 as well as

blood pressure sensors 38. The device includes a controls attachment port 40 in energy communication with the distal and lateral electrodes or the transducer.

Similarly, the electrical attachment port can be in communication with any

sensors included on the device. As a result, an energy source 42 and device control unit 44 can be coupled with the device through the controls attachment

port 40. The energy source 42 can communicate energy to the electrodes.

Optionally, the control unit can include logic which controls the amount of

energy delivered from the energy source 42 in response to the signal provided

from the sensors. The electrodes can have several configurations including, but not limited

to, ring electrodes encircling the body of the device (Figure IB) or positioned at

the distal end of the device (Figure IB), electrodes which run the length of the

body or electrodes which act as point sources distributed about the body of the device.

The device can include a baseplate 46 including a hole 48 through which the device may be passed. The body of the device is movable axially along the

baseplate 46. The adjustability provided by the movable baseplate is useful for accommodating variations in the length of device that is required to reach the artery as is dictated by the variations in human anatomy. The baseplate 46 can also includes openings 50. Sutures 52 can be placed through the openings 50 to attach the baseplate 46 to the skin of a tissue site. Attaching the baseplate to the

skin can stabilize and fix the baseplate in the position selected by the physician. Other acceptable methods of attaching the baseplate 46 may include use of

certain adhesives, particularly pressure sensitive materials.

Figure 2 illustrates a device which may be used to effect the closure of a

wound in a tissue site. The device includes a body 10 with a distal end 14.

Lining the lateral sides 12 of the device is a microporous membrane 54 having a

pore size of about 1-5,000 μm through which sealing media can be transmitted.

The device includes electrodes 32 and sensors 36. The electrodes 32 and

sensors 36 can be positioned between the membrane and the body or over the

membrane 54. The body 10 includes a second closure lumen 56 coupled to a second

closure composition port 58. The second closure composition port 58 can be

coupled to a source (not shown) for a second closure composition. The second

closure lumen 56 includes a plurality of channels 60 which permit the second

closure composition to pass from the second closure lumen 56 to the microporous membrane 54.

Figures 3-6 illustrate a method of using the device of Figure 1. Figure 3

illustrates the baseplate 46 sutured the skin 62 at a tissue site 64. The distal end 14 of the device is adjacent a puncture in a vessel 66 within the tissue site 64. The pigtail 22 is positioned within the utility lumen 16 such that the pigtail extends through the distal end 14 of the device into the vessel 66. A catheter 68 is threaded through the utility lumen 16 and the pigtail into the vessel 66. The catheter can be used to perform a desired medical procedure.

Figure 4 illustrates the device after the catheter 68 and pigtail have been removed from the device. As illustrated, removing the catheter and pigtail

leaves a puncture 70 in the vessel 66. Blood 72 from the puncture pushes

against the distal end 14 of the device. The backflow valve 20 reduces the flow

of blood from the vessel 66 into the utility lumen 16.

In Figure 5 a closure composition source 25 is coupled with the closure

composition port 26. The closure composition 76 is delivered through the

closure lumen 24 to the reservoir adjacent the puncture 70. Energy can also be

delivered as illustrated by arrows 78. Any form of energy which serves to raise the temperature adjacent the distal end 14 may be used. Examples of types of

energy that may be used include RF, microwave, ultrasound, resistive heating,

exothermic chemical heating, electromagnetic radiation, actinic radiation, laser,

diffused laser, optical energy and frictional heating. The energy used is preferably RF energy.

Figure 6 illustrates the device and the vessel 66 after the partial removal of the device from the tissue site 64. The closure composition is delivered as

the device is withdrawn to spread the closure composition along the length of the tissue site 64. As a result, closure of the tissues adjacent the puncture is also effected.

Figure 7A illustrates a preferred embodiment of the distal end 14 of the device. As illustrated, the distal end 14 is saddle shaped 80 and surrounds a portion of the vessel 66 circumference. Surrounding a portion of the vessel

increases the area of contact between the vessel and the distal end of the device.

This increased contact area enhances the stability of the distal end 14 relative to the vessel 66. As a result, the opportunity for the distal end 14 to move

between withdrawal of the catheter from the vessel and delivery of the closure

composition is reduced.

Figure 7B illustrates an alternative embodiment of the saddle shaped 80

distal end 14. The distal end 14 grips a portion of the vessel to enhance the

stability of the distal end relative to the vessel. Figures 8 A and 8B illustrate an embodiment of a pigtail 22. The pigtail

22 includes a tail portion 82 which is designed to rotate independently of a head

portion 84. The head portion 84 includes threads 86, a slot 88 and a hole 90.

The tail portion 82 can be manufactured from any flexible and biocompatible

tubing, including, but not limited to, TEFLON tubing. The hole in the head portion 84 is aligned with the tubing in the tail portion 82 so a catheter can pass

longitudinally through the pigtail 22. The tail portion should be bent when the tail portion 82 is in a relaxed state.

Figure 9A-9C illustrate a method of deploying the pigtail 22 within the device. To install the pigtail within the device an instrument 92 is passed through the hole 90 and tail portion 82 of the pigtail 22. The instrument 92 is inserted into the utility lumen 16 and through the distal end 14 of the device. The instrument is then pushed forward until the pigtail rests on a set of threads 94 in the device as illustrated in Figure 9A. The device threads 94 are

sufficiently short that the tail portion 82 of the pigtail is trapped in the backflow

valve 96. The instrument 92 can be withdrawn from the pigtail 22. The

installation of the pigtail 22 in the device can occur before or after the device

has been positioned within a tissue site 64.

In Figure 9B, the instrument is withdrawn and a screwdriver 98 is

inserted into the slot 88 of the pigtail 22. The device threads 94 are

complementary to the threads on the head portion 84 of the pigtail 22. Turning

the screwdriver 98 can advance or withdraw the pigtail within the utility lumen 16. In Figure 9C, the pigtail 22 has been advanced until it is adjacent the backflow valve 20 and the screwdriver 98 has been withdrawn. The tail portion

returns to its relaxed state after exiting the backflow valve 20.

Figures 10-11 illustrate the closure of tissue as the device is withdrawn

from the tissue site 64. In Figure 10, a first closure composition has been

delivered to the reservoir and is accumulated against the puncture. A second

closure composition source 100 is coupled with the second closure composition port 58. The second closure composition is delivered through the second closure lumen 56 to the microporous membrane 54. The second closure composition passes through the microporous membrane to the tissue adjacent the lateral sides 12 of the device. Energy, indicated by the arrows 78 may also

be delivered to the tissue site. In a preferred embodiment, energy and the closure composition are delivered in separate steps, optionally with the delivery of ultrasonic energy either before during or after the delivery of energy and/or

the closure composition.

The closure composition within the second closure composition source

can be the same as or different from the first closure composition. For instance,

the first closure composition may be directed toward closure of the vessel while

the second closure composition may be directed at closure of the tissue adjacent

the puncture.

The device may be retracted from the tissue site in a continuous motion

or in a stepwise fashion. Energy can be delivered to the tissue site before, after or simultaneously with delivery of closure composition. For example, a closure

cycle may be used which involves (1) delivering the closure composition; (2)

delivering energy; and (3) partially retracting the device. Other sequences for

performing these three steps, including performing one or more of these steps at

the same time is envisioned and is intended to fall within the scope of the present invention. It is further noted that ultrasonic energy may be delivered

simultaneously with any of these steps or in between any of these steps. Figure 11 illustrates a tissue site after the device has been partially retracted. The closure composition delivered during the retraction causes a tissue union 102. Figures 12A and 12B illustrate an embodiment of the device and a method in which a solid or semi-solid closure composition positioned at the distal end 14 of the device can be used to facilitate closure of the vessel 66. In

Figure 12A the closure composition is positioned within the reservoir 30 and is pushed aside when the pigtail 22 is delivered through the device. When the

pigtail 22 is retracted, as illustrated in Figure 12B, the closure composition is in

position to be treated with energy to effect the closure of the vessel 66.

Although the solid or semisolid closure composition is illustrated as being

present at the device distal end 14, it should be noted that the solid or semi-solid

closure composition may be used in combination with a fluid closure

composition delivered through the device distal end 14. Optionally, the solid or

semisolid closure composition may be used independently of a fluid closure

composition. A variety of sensors may be used in combination with the devices of the

present invention. For example, temperature sensors may be used to detect the

temperature adjacent the distal end 14 of the device. A temperature sensor may

also be use to detect the temperature adjacent the sides of the device. These

temperature sensors are useful for regulating the amount of energy being

delivered to the vessel 66 and tissue adjacent the device. Suitable temperature

sensors include, but are not limited to, thermocouples. The temperature sensors can have several configurations including, but not limited to, rings which fit around the body of the device or point senors distributed on the body of the device.

A pressure sensor may also be incorporated in the device, preferably at the device distal end 14. The pressure sensor may be used, for example, to determine when the vessel 66 has been sealed, as signaled by a reduction in

pressure adjacent the device distal end 14.

Impedance sensors may also be employed when RF is used as the energy in order to monitor the amount of energy being delivered to the tissue.

Figures 13-17 illustrate a method of using an embodiment of a device

and its operation. In Figure 13, a trocar 104 with a sharpened tip 106 is placed

within the utility lumen 16 of the device and is used to puncture the skin 62,

muscular tissue 108 and the vessel 66.

In Figure 14 the trocar 104 is withdrawn and the backflow valve 20 is

closed to occlude the utility lumen 16. Closing the utility lumen reduces the loss of blood from the vessel through the utility lumen 16 while exchanging the

trocar 104 for another device to be positioned within the utility lumen. The

flaps 110 generated in the artery by the penetration of the trocar may partially

close, but the degree of closure or whether the flaps of the artery close at all is

not important to the function of this invention.

Referring to Figure 15, a catheter guide obturator 112 is placed within the utility lumen 16 of the device and moved forward through the backflow

valve 20 to enter the vessel 66. The amount of forward movement of the device may be set (not shown) to a predetermined distance beyond the distal end 14 of the device but since the distal end 14 of the catheter guide obturator 112 has a rounded end, no damage to the vessel 66 will occur if the catheter guide obturator 112 should contact the far wall of the vessel 66. The catheter guide obturator 112 has an internal lumen 114 that is curved 116 near the distal end 14

to direct the catheter 68 in the desired direction within the vessel 66. The backflow valve 20 closes the gap between the outside diameter of the catheter

guide obturator 112 and the utility lumen 16 of the device, reducing blood loss

from the vessel. In this configuration, the procedure requiring the catheter can be performed.

In Figure 16, the catheter 68 and catheter guide obturator 112 are

withdrawn. A sealing mold 118 with a curing/ejection pin 120 is positioned

within the utility lumen 16 of the device. The position of the sealing mold 118

and curing/ejection pin 120 are set with a stop collar 122 as it contacts an upper flange 124 of the device. A shallow cavity 126 is formed at the distal end 14 of

the sealing mold 118. This cavity 126 is filled with a closure composition of the

present invention which is fed from a closure composition source 25 and passes through the closure lumen 24 to fill the cavity 126. The filling of the cavity 126

can be assisted by suction formed by pulling air through a port 128. This

suction may additionally be used to assist in pulling the flaps 110 of the vessel

66 upward against the distal end 14 of the sealing mold 118.

The curing/ejection pin 120 may be constructed from an electrically conductive material. Radio frequency energy passing through the electrically conductive curing/ejection pin 120 to accelerate the polymerization of the

closure composition.

Figure 17 illustrates a distal portion of an embodiment of a device. The device includes a microporous membrane 54 applied to the outer diameter of the

device. Side electrodes 32 are positioned at intervals along the length of the body of the device. Alternatively the side electrodes can be a single helix

shaped electrode wound around length of the body (not shown). The side

electrodes 32 can be positioned over the membrane 54 or beneath the membrane

54 as illustrated. A second closure lumen 56 is incorporated into the device for

delivering the closure composition to the outer diameter of the device through

the microporous membrane 54. In this regard, the closure composition should

have a sufficiently low viscosity to allow the composition to flow through the

microporous membrane 54 and against the tissue exposed to the device. Upon completion of the curing/polymerization of the sealing plug 130,

the closure composition will be injected through the second closure lumen 56

and Radio frequency energy will be applied to the annular electrodes 32. The

closure composition is preferably of a nature that allows electrical current to

flow through the closure composition to enable heating of the composition by the energy being delivered. After a target temperature has been reached, the

device is withdrawn. Upon withdrawal, the walls of the tissue site 64 can close in against themselves, the bonding action of the composition will cause

adhesion and sealing of the tissue. Additionally, the action of the energy (for example RF energy) on the tissue for the appropriate amount of time and at the proper temperature can promote coagulation. The combination of these factors can provide rapid sealing of the tissue site 64.

A suitable backflow valve 20 is a flapper valve as illustrated in Figure

18. The flapper valve is preferably formed of an elastomeric material such as medical grade silicone rubber. The configuration, as illustrated by the cross

sectional view, may be a cylindrical section transitioning into a conical portion.

The conical portion has a series of slits 132 which allow various implements to

pass through the valve. The thickness of the flaps 134 and the flexibility of the

elastomeric material will be balanced to provide memory sufficient to close the

opening as the implements are withdrawn and provide a fluid seal. Blood

pressure against the outer surface of the cone will cause the flapper valve to

close more tightly. Figure 19 illustrates yet another embodiment of the present invention. A

removable trocar 104 is temporarily positioned in the utility lumen of the

device. The trocar has a pointed tip which can be used for puncturing the skin,

tissue and blood vessel to allow the placement of the device into the tissue and

into a femoral artery. Closure composition port 26 provides a channel through

which the closure composition may be introduced through a closure lumen (not shown) to microporous membrane 54. The closure lumen allows the closure

composition to pass through the microporous membrane 54 into the tissue. As illustrated, segments of the microporous membrane 54 are separated by side electrodes 32, the controls attachment port 40 being for RF energy. It should be noted, however, that the device may be adapted for delivery of other forms of energy as described above.

The temperature sensors 36 are used to sense the temperature adjacent the distal end 14. The temperature feedback may be pre-set as well as adjusted during use.

In the embodiment illustrated, temperature sensors are operatively

coupled with an automated device withdrawal system 136. The temperature

sensors can activate springs 138 within a rack 140 coupled with the main

member 142. The activation of the springs causes the device to be withdrawn

from the tissue site. As a result, withdrawal of the device can be correlated with

the temperatures at various zones 144 within the tissue site. For example, as

zone one reaches a specific pre-determined temperature, the springs become activated and the rack 140 partially withdraws the device. As each subsequent

zone meets a pre-determine temperature, the device is withdrawn further.

Suitable pre-determined temperatures include, but are not limited to, 45-50 °C.

This withdrawal sequence can be repeated until the device is withdrawn through

zones five, four, three, two, and one. Closure composition can be delivered

before after and during the withdrawal of the device. As a result, the device

leaves the vessel sealed and the tissue welded together as the device is withdrawn.

Figures 20-22 illustrates the use of the device of Figure 19 where the vessel 66 is a femoral artery. Figure 20 illustrates a plurality of sutures holding the device in position at a tissue site. Figure 21 shows the catheter introduced into the femoral artery for performance of a surgical procedure.

Figure 22 shows the withdrawal of the catheter and the device. During

withdrawal of the device, closure composition is delivered to the tissue site 64

through the microporous membrane and RF energy is applied. As the

temperature elevates and the closure composition infused, the temperature sensor 36 indicates to the spring system that the device should start to back

away. As it backs away, it seals the tissue through elevated temperature, saline,

and collagen infusion, achieving a capillary flow and molecular bonding. The

whole area is sealed as the device is retracted. The device is then removed, and

a plaster is applied to the wound. Figures 23 A and 23B illustrate another embodiment of the present

invention. The body 10 includes a central lumen 16 and a bloodspurt lumen

146. A blood spurt port 148 with a shutoff valve 150 opens into the bloodspurt

lumen 146 and a closure composition port 26 opens into the utility lumen 16.

At the proximal end of the body is an stop collar 152 configured to

accommodate the proximal end of an obturator. A catch channel 154 is

positioned within the proximal end of the body 10. A first closure lumen 156 has a closure composition port 26 through which one or more fluent closure compositions can be delivered into the closure lumen. The first closure lumen includes an exit port 158 through which the one or more fluent closure composition precursors can be delivered from the first closure lumen to the utility lumen 16.

Figures 24A and 24B illustrate an obturator 160 for use with the body 10

of Figures 25 A and 25B. The obturator 160 includes an obturator body 162

with a distal end 164 and a proximal end 166 with an enlarged head 168. A spring biased obturator knob 170 is positioned at the proximal end 166. The

obturator knob 170 is coupled to an internal latch 172. The latch includes a

catch 174 which extends through an opening 176 in the obturator body 162.

Turning the obturator knob 170 causes the catch 174 to withdraw through the

obturator body 162. The obturator body 162 further includes a distal electrode

178 and side electrodes 180. A temperature sensor 36 such as a thermocouple 36 is secured within the distal electrode 178 by potting composition. An additional temperature sensor 36 is coupled to the inner surface of the side electrode 180. Radiofrequency conductors and thermocouple wires feed

through the internal diameter of the obturator body 162 in a connector cable 182.

Figures 25 A and 25B illustrate the obturator 160 disposed within the

device body 10. In Figure 25 A the enlarged head 168 of the obturator 160

contacts the stop collar 152 and prevents the obturator from sliding further into the device body. The external diameter of the obturator 160 is smaller than the diameter of the utility lumen 16. As a result, the obturator 160 partially defines a second closure lumen 184 between the obturator and the elongated body. The second closure lumen is coupled with the first closure lumen and is configured to receive closure composition delivered through the first closure lumen. The

obturator can be withdrawn relative to the device along arrows 186 until the catch 174 engages the catch channel 154 as illustrated in Figure 27B.

Figures 26-34 illustrate operation of the device of Figure 23. As

illustrated in Figure 26, a hollow needle 188 is inserted through the tissue site 64 until the vessel 66 is punctured. Location of the needle 188 within the vessel

66 is confirmed by a blood spurt 190 from the proximal end 192 of the needle

188.

In Figure 27 A a guidewire 194 is fed through the needle 188 into the

vessel 66. In Figure 27B the needle 188 is withdrawn along the guidewire 194 leaving the guidewire 194 in place. In Figure 28, a hollow dilator 196 is placed

in the utility lumen 16 of the device.

In Figure 29, the guidewire 194 is threaded though the dilator 196 which is pushed forward along the guidewire 194 into the tissue site 64 to dilate the

puncture 70. The advancement of the device is stopped once the distal end 14 is

within the vessel 66 as indicated by a bloodspurt from the bloodspurt lumen 146.

In Figure 30, the dilator 196 and guidewire 194 are withdrawn from the lumen 16. The device is withdrawn in the direction of the arrow 198 until the distal end 14 is positioned outside the vessel 66 adjacent the puncture 70. The position of the distal end 14 outside the vessel 66 is indicated when the bloodspurt ceases. At this stage, a catheter or other device can be fed through the utility lumen and surgical procedures performed. Upon completion of the

procedure, the catheter and sheath are removed from the device. A backflow

valve 20 can be included at the distal end 14 to reduce blood loss.

In Figure 31, the obturator 160 is placed in the utility lumen 16 until the

enlarged head 168 of the obturator 160 contacts the stop collar 152 of the

device. The obturator has a length such that when the enlarged head of the

obturator 160 contacts the stop collar, the distal end 164 of the obturator 160

extends slightly beyond the distal end 14 of the device or is flush with the distal

end 14 of the device as illustrated. Since the distal end 14 of the device is positioned outside the vessel 66 adjacent the puncture 70, the distal end 164 of

the obturator is positioned outside the vessel 66 adjacent the puncture 70.

In Figure 32 RF energy is applied from the distal electrode 178. The

energy coagulates the blood and protein near the puncture 70. Additionally, a

closure composition source 25 can be coupled to the closure composition port

26 and closure composition applied. The energy and closure composition create

a first seal 200 at the puncture 70.

The obturator 160 is withdrawn form the device until the catch 174 engages the catch channel 154. As illustrated in Figure 33, a gap 202 is formed between the distal end 164 of the obturator 160 and the first seal 200. A closure composition source 25 is coupled to the closure composition port 26 and closure composition 76 applied. The closure composition flows through the closure lumen and fills in the gap 202. Radiofrequency energy can be applied from the

distal electrode 178 to accelerate the polymerization of the closure composition. Figure 34 illustrated the tissue site 64 after the device is completely

withdrawn. Pressure is applied at the arrows 204 to encourage curing of the

closure composition and reduce bleeding in the tissue site 64.

The closure composition can be a fluent material that can be

hydraulically translated from a reservoir through the closure lumen. When a

microporous porous membrane is used, the viscosity of the closure composition

should be sufficiently low that the composition can exit through pores of a

microporous membrane at a reasonable rate, preferably at least about 1 mL per minute. The viscosity of the composition should also be sufficiently high that

the composition will remain in the vicinity of the area to be treated with the

composition for a sufficient amount of time for energy to be delivered to the

composition. Energy is preferably applied for from 0.1 sec to 600 sec, more

preferably for about 1 sec to about 20 sec. Accordingly, the composition should

be sufficiently viscous to remain adjacent the device for these periods of time. In one embodiment, the viscosity of the fluent closure composition is between 1

cps and about 10,000 cps, preferably from about 20 cps to about 5,0000 cps. Suitable closure compositions include, but are not limited to, closure compositions composed of three components, a matrix component, a

conductivity enhancer, and a composition vehicle. Fluent closure compositions may be a homogenous solution, a slurry, a suspension, an emulsion, a colloid

hydrocolloid, or a homogeneous mixture.

The matrix forming component may be any biocompatible material which can form a matrix for facilitating wound closure and sealing upon the

application of a threshold energy. Examples of suitable classes of matrix forming components include proteins, glycoproteins, protoeglycans,

mucosaccharides and blycoaminoglycans. The matrix forming component may

include ionizable functional groups such as carboxylic acid residues, protonated

amino groups, etc., that increase the compatibility of the matrix forming

component with water-based vehicle solvents. The matrix forming material

may also include chemical functionalities that are reactive with themselves and each other when a threshold energy is applied. Ultimately, thermal or light

energy will speed these so-called "cross-linking" reactions within the matrix

component and between the matrix component and tissue surfaces. Examples

of such reaction chemical functionalities are carboxy groups, amino groups,

thiol groups, disulfide groups, hydroxy groups, ester groups, and amide groups.

When the energy source 42 used to effect the closure is RF energy, the

electrical conductivity of the fluent closure composition is preferably such that the impedance is below 200 ohms, more preferably, below 10 ohms. Because of its innate conductivity, water is the preferred base vehicle for the closure composition. Additionally, many ionic conductivity enhancers are available to allow adjustment of the overall impedance of the fluent closure composition. In one embodiment the vehicle is physiologic saline solution. In principle, an

aqueous vehicle may benefit from this inclusion of a conductivity enhancer; preferred enhancers are those that occur naturally in the body, such as sodium

chloride, various phosphate salts, salts of simple amino acids such as aspartic acid or glutamic acid, calcium chloride, etc. The conductivity enhancer may

also function as a physiologic buffer to minimize acid or alkaline effects. The

components may be a mixture of sodium and potassium salts at levels to mimic

those typically found in the body.

The liquid vehicle is preferably water. Relatively inert viscosity

modifiers may be included, such as polysaccharides, poly(alkylene oxides), and

material gums such as carnageenan and xanthan gum. Viscosity modifier selection and level are controlled so as not to detrimentally affect the overall conductivity of the fluent closure composition if RF energy is used.

Listed in Table 1 are examples of matrix components that may be

employed. Listed in Table 2 are examples of conductivity enhancers that may be employed. Listed in Table 3 are examples of composition vehicles that may

be employed.

TABLE 1

Matrix Components

Proteins

• collagen, albumin, elastin, fibrin, laminin, algin, gelatin, fibronectin

• polypeptides, e.g. glutathione

Saccharides

• polysaccharides, oligosaccharides, monosaccharides

• starch and derivatives, e.g. amylose, amylopectin, dextrin

• carbohydrate materials (aldo- and keto-derivatives of saccharides)

Muco-polysaccharides

• N-hetero saccharides (polymeric, oligomeric and monomeric), preferably hexosamine derivatives

• N-substituted saccharide derivatives (polymeric, oligomeric and

monomeric), preferably N-acetyl derivatives

• O-substituted saccharide derivatives, polymeric and oligomeric,

preferably O-sulfato derivatives (-O-SO₃H functionality), e.g., chrondoin

B sulfate, a hexosamine derivative which has both N-acetylation and O-

sulfonation • Glycosaminoglycans (GAG's, linear N-hetero polysaccharides; e.g.,

heparin, heparan sulfate, keratosulfate, dermatan, hyaluronic acid,

agarose (galactan), carrageenan)

Mucoproteins and Proteoglycans • hexosamine-protein and saccharide-hexosamine-protein conjugates

• Chemically modified proteins, saccharides, GAG's and muco- polysaccharides

• derivatives prepared by acetylation, alkylation or sulfonation of hydroxyl, amino or carboxy functional sites, such a acetylated or sulfonated collagen

• derivatives prepared by thionylation (introducing -SO₂-), sulfurization (-

S-), or disulfide (-SS-) coupling

Synthetic Polymer Conjugates

• synthetic functional polymers covalently bonded to proteins, saccharides

and muco-polysaccharides either by direct interaction, pre-

functionalization of either synthetic polymer or natural material or by

use of a coupling agent to bond the synthetic polymer and protein,

saccharide, GAG or muco-poiysaccharide together. Examples of

synthetic polymers include poly(alkylene oxide)s, such as poly(ethylene

oxide) (PEO), polycaprolactones, polyanhydrides, polyorthocarbonates, polyglycolides, polylactides, polydioxanones or co-polymers thereof.

Examples of conjugates are collagen-PEO and heparin-PEO.

TABLE 2

Conductivity Enhancing Materials

Inorganic ionic salts

• Cationic component: derived from alkaline and alkaline earth elements, preferred cation is sodium, Na⁺

• Anionic component: halide, preferably chloride, phosphate

(-O-PO₃-³, -O-PO₄H^"2, -O-PO₄ H ¹), carbonate, bicarbonate

Organic ionic salts

• Cationic component: ammonium, derived from protonation of lysine or

arginine residues

• Anionic component: carboxylate, e.g. asparate or glutamate, O-

phosphate ester (-O-PO₃ ^"3, -O-PO₄H ², -O-PO₄ H ¹), (glucose- 1 -

phosphate, glucose- 6-phosphate, polysaccharide phosphates and

polyphosphates), O-sulfate ester (e.g., glycasoaminoglycan sulfates, such

as heparan sulfate, chrondoin sulfate) TABLE 3 Composition Vehicles

Water

Water-poly(alkylene oxide) mixtures, e.g. water-poly(ethylene oxide) mixtures

While the present invention is disclosed by reference to the preferred embodiments and examples detailed above, it is to be understood that these

examples are intended in an illustrative rather than limiting sense, as it is contemplated that modifications will readily occur to those skilled in the art, which modifications will be within the spirit of the invention and the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A device for introducing a catheter through a puncture in a vessel and for

sealing the puncture, comprising:

an elongated body having a proximal end and a distal end sized to be positioned within a tissue site which includes the puncture;

a utility lumen within the elongated body, the utility lumen configured to allow delivery of a catheter through the utility lumen into the vessel; and a closure lumen within the elongated body having an entrance port through which a closure composition can be delivered into the closure lumen and an exit port adjacent the distal end of the elongated body through which the

closure composition can be delivered adjacent the puncture.

2. The device of claim 1, further comprising:

at least one temperature sensor positioned at the distal end of the elongated body for detecting a temperature of closure composition adjacent the

elongated body distal end.

3. The device of claim 1, further comprising: at least one temperature sensor positioned at a side of the elongated body

for detecting a temperature of closure composition adjacent the side of the elongated body.

4. The device of claim 1, further comprising: at least one electrode positioned at the distal end of the elongated body.

5. The device of claim 4, wherein the at least one electrode is an RF

electrode.

6. The device of claim 1, further comprising: at least one electrode included at a side of the elongated body so as to be to be within the tissue site when the elongated body is positioned within the

tissue site.

7. The device of claim 6, wherein the at least one electrode is an RF

electrode.

8. The device of claim 1, wherein the utility lumen includes at least one

backflow valve.

9. The device of claim 1, further comprising;

a blood pressure sensor positioned adjacent the distal end of the elongated body.

10. The device of claim 1, further comprising a blood spurt lumen.

1 1. The device of claim 1 , further comprising: a pigtail within the utility lumen.

12. The device of claim 11 , wherein the pigtail is movable within the utility lumen.

13. The device of claim 1, further comprising: a baseplate for holding the elongated body in place within the tissue site.

14. The device of claim 13, wherein the elongated body is axially movable

relative to the baseplate.

15. The device of claim 1 , wherein the distal end of the elongated body is

saddle shaped.

16. A device for introducing a catheter through a puncture within a vessel

and for sealing tissues adjacent the puncture, comprising:

an elongated body having a proximal end and a distal end sized to be

positioned within a tissue site which includes the puncture;

a membrane included at an outer surface of the elongated body and sufficiently porous to allow a closure composition to pass through the

membrane; and

a closure lumen within the elongated body, the closure lumen having an entrance through which a closure composition can be delivered into the closure lumen and at least one exit port positioned on the elongated body so closure composition delivered into the closure lumen can be delivered through at least one exit port to the membrane.

17. The device of claim 16, further comprising: at least one temperature sensor positioned at the distal end of the

elongated body for detecting a temperature of closure composition adjacent the

elongated body distal end.

18. The device of claim 16, further comprising:

at least one temperature sensor positioned at a side of the elongated body

for detecting a temperature of closure composition adjacent the side of the

elongated body.

19. The device of claim 16, further comprising:

at least one electrode positioned at the distal end of the elongated body.

20. The device of claim 19, wherein the at least one electrode is an RF

electrode.

21. The device of claim 16, further comprising: at least one electrode included at a side of the elongated body so as to be to be within the tissue site when the elongated body is positioned adjacent a vessel within the tissue site.

22. The device of claim 21 , wherein, the at least one electrode is an RF

electrode.

23. The device of claim 16, wherein the utility lumen includes at least one

backflow valve.

24. The device of claim 16, further comprising;

a blood pressure sensor positioned adjacent the distal end of the

elongated body.

25. The device of claim 16, further comprising a blood spurt lumen.

26. The device of claim 16, further comprising: a pigtail within the utility lumen.

27. The device of claim 26, wherein the pigtail is movable within the utility lumen.

28. The device of claim 16, further comprising:

a baseplate for holding the elongated body in place within the tissue site.

29. The device of claim 28, wherein the elongated body is axially movable relative to the baseplate.

30. The device of claim 16, wherein the distal end of the elongated body is

saddle shaped.

31. The device of claim 16, further comprising:

a second closure lumen within the elongated body having an entrance

port adjacent the proximal end of the elongated body through which a closure

composition can be delivered into the second closure lumen and an exit port adjacent the distal end of the elongated body through which the closure

composition can be delivered adjacent the puncture.

32. A system for introducing a catheter through a puncture within a vessel

and sealing the puncture, comprising:

an elongated body having a proximal end and a distal end sized to be

positioned within a tissue site which includes the puncture; a utility lumen within the elongated body, the utility lumen configured to allow delivery of a catheter through the utility lumen and into the vessel; a first closure lumen coupled with the utility lumen, the first closure lumen having an entrance port through which a closure composition can be delivered into the closure lumen and at least one exit port through which the

closure composition can be delivered from the first closure lumen to the utility lumen; and

an obturator configured to be at least partially positioned in the utility lumen such that a second closure lumen is at least partially defined, the second

closure lumen configured to receive closure composition delivered through the

first closure lumen and deliver the received closure compound to the tissue site.

33. The system of claim 32, further comprising:

at least one temperature sensor positioned at a distal end of the obturator.

34. The device of claim 32, further comprising: at least one electrode positioned at a distal end of the obturator.

35. The device of claim 34, wherein the at least one electrode is an RF

electrode.

36. The device of claim 32, further comprising: at least one electrode included at a side of the obturator.

37. The device of claim 36, further comprising at least one temperature

sensor coupled with the at least one electrode.

38. The device of claim 37, wherein, the at least one electrode is an RF electrode.

39. The device of claim 32, wherein the utility lumen includes at least one

backflow valve.

40. The device of claim 32, further comprising a blood spurt lumen.

41. A system for introducing a catheter through a puncture within a vessel

and sealing the puncture, comprising: an elongated body having a proximal end and a distal end sized to be

positioned at a tissue site which includes the puncture,

a closure lumen positioned within the elongated body such that a closure composition can be delivered through the closure lumen to tissue at the tissue

site, a first utility lumen within the elongated body; and

a obturator configured to be positioned within the first utility lumen of the elongated body, and a second utility lumen included within the obturator, the second utility lumen sized to permit delivery of a catheter through the second utility lumen

and into the vessel.

42. A system for introducing a catheter through a puncture within a vessel

and sealing the puncture, comprising:

an elongated body having a proximal end and a distal end sized to be positioned at a tissue site which includes the puncture;

a closure lumen within the elongated body through which a closure

composition can be delivered to tissue at the tissue site;

a utility lumen within the elongated body; and

a trocar configured to be positioned within the utility lumen, the trocar

including a sharpened tip configured to puncture the tissue making up the tissue

site.

43. A system for introducing a catheter through a puncture within a vessel

positioned at a tissue site which includes the puncture;

a closure lumen within the elongated body through which a closure

composition can be delivered to tissue at the tissue site; a utility lumen within the elongated body; and an obturator configured to be positioned within the utility lumen and having a structure which causes a cavity to be formed at the distal end of the elongated body when the sealing mold is positioned within the utility lumen, the closure lumen terminating at the distal end of the elongated body such that delivery of the closure composition through the closure lumen can deliver

closure composition into the cavity.

44. The system of claim 43, wherein the obturator includes a second utility

lumen extending through the sealing mold.

45. The system of claim 44, further comprising:

a curing pin configured to be positioned within the second utility lumen

and constructed from a material which conducts electromagnetic energy, the

curing pin having sufficient length that electromagnetic energy delivered through the curing pin can be delivered to the closure compound delivered into the cavity.

46. The system of claim 45, wherein the material conducts RF energy.

47. A method for introducing a catheter through a puncture within a vessel and sealing the puncture, comprising:

providing a device with an elongated body having a utility lumen sized to accommodate a catheter and at least one closure lumen through which a closure composition can be delivered, the elongated body configured to be positioned within a tissue site;

positioning the elongated body within the tissue site; delivering a catheter through the utility lumen into the vessel; performing a treatment with the catheter;

withdrawing the catheter through the utility lumen; and delivering a closure composition through the closure lumen to the

puncture.

48. The method of claim 47, further comprising:

delivering energy from at least one electrode on the elongated body to

the closure composition delivered to the puncture.

49. The method of claim 47, wherein the elongated body includes

a membrane positioned on the elongated body to be adjacent to a portion

of the tissue adjacent the puncture when the elongated body is positioned within

the tissue site, and

a second closure lumen through which a second closure composition can

be delivered to the membrane.

50. The method of claim 49, further comprising: delivering the second closure composition through the second closure lumen to the membrane such that the second closure compound is delivered through the membrane to contact a portion of the tissue site adjacent the

puncture.

51. The method of claim 50, further comprising delivering energy from at least one electrode on the elongated body to the second closure composition

which has been delivered to the tissue site.