Implants And Procedures For Supporting Anatomical Structures For Treating Conditions Such As Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Abstract

Implants for the treatment of pelvic support conditions and methods of implementing the same. The implants comprise relatively soft, flexible bodies and relatively strong arms extending in predetermined orientations therefrom. Methods and devices for placing the implants minimize trauma to the pelvic floor and provide well-anchored support to pelvic organs without interfering with sexual or other bodily functions.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A method for supporting an anatomical structure comprising:
 (a) making a single entry point in the body of the patient;   (b) securing a plurality of anchors within said body through said single entry point;   (c) tensioning a support member between at least two of said plurality of anchors secured within said body;   (d) locking said support member in position relative to said at least two anchors; and   (e) closing said single entry point.   
     
     
         2 . The method of  claim 1  wherein the step of tensioning a support member between at least two of said plurality of anchors secured within said body comprises introducing a portion of said support member through an aperture of at least one of said plurality of anchors. 
     
     
         3 . The method of  claim 1  wherein the step of tensioning a support member between at least two of said plurality of anchors secured within said body comprises introducing a removable filament extending from at least one of said plurality of anchors through a guide slot of a delivery tool. 
     
     
         4 . The method of  claim 2  wherein the step of locking said support member in position relative to said at least two anchors comprises attaching said portion of said support member introduced through said aperture to itself. 
     
     
         5 . The method of  claim 2  wherein the step of locking said support member in position relative to said at least two anchors comprises attaching said portion of said support member introduced through said aperture to an anatomical structure within said body. 
     
     
         6 . The method of  claim 1  wherein the step of locking said support member in position relative to said at least two anchors comprises introducing said portion of said support member through an engagement member. 
     
     
         7 . The method of  claim 6  wherein the step of locking said support member in position relative to said at least two anchors comprises sliding said engagement member over said portion of said support member until said engagement member abuts one of said at least two anchors. 
     
     
         8 . The method of  claim 6  wherein the step of locking said support member in position relative to said at least two anchors comprises employing a substantially annular engagement member. 
     
     
         9 . The method of  claim 1  wherein the step of tensioning a support member between at least two of said plurality of anchors secured within said body comprises pulling a distal portion of said support member. 
     
     
         10 . The method of  claim 1  further comprising the step of repeating the steps (c) and (d).