Self-expanding devices and methods therefor

Abstract

Described here are self-expanding devices and methods of using and making them. The devices may be useful in a variety of locations within the body, for a number of different uses. In some variations, the devices have a first compressed configuration enabling low profile delivery through a delivery device, a second expanded configuration for apposition against tissue, and comprise either a single continuous filament or at least two non-intersecting filaments. In some variations, the device is formed into a shape having a series of peaks and valleys. At least one of the peaks and valleys may have a loop at then end thereof. At least a portion of these devices may be capable of biodegrading over a predetermined period of time, and the devices may be configured for drug delivery. Methods of treating one or more sinus cavities are also described here.

1 - 20 . (canceled) 
     
     
         21 . A method of treating a patient comprising:
 introducing the distal end of a delivery device carrying an implant into an ear canal, wherein the delivery device is configured to puncture tissue;   creating an opening in tissue using the delivery device; and   releasing the implant from the delivery device at a target location,   wherein the implant is expandable as a result of force applied to the implant.   
     
     
         22 . The method of  claim 21 , wherein the target location is the middle ear. 
     
     
         23 . The method of  claim 21 , further comprising advancing the implant under visualization. 
     
     
         24 . The method of  claim 21 , further comprising releasing a drug from the delivery device. 
     
     
         25 . The method of  claim 24 , wherein the drug is an anesthetic. 
     
     
         26 . The method of  claim 24 , wherein the drug is an antibiotic. 
     
     
         27 . The method of  claim 24 , wherein the drug is sprayed or ejected from the delivery device. 
     
     
         28 . The method of  claim 21 , wherein the implant is biodegradable. 
     
     
         29 . The method of  claim 21 , wherein the implant comprises a polymer filament. 
     
     
         30 . The method of  claim 21 , wherein the implant comprises a single polymer filament. 
     
     
         31 . The method of  claim 21 , wherein the implant comprises poly(DL-lactide-co-glycolide). 
     
     
         32 . The method of  claim 21 , wherein the implant is crown-shaped. 
     
     
         33 . The method of  claim 21 , wherein the implant comprises a drug depot. 
     
     
         34 . The method of  claim 21 , wherein implant comprises a coating comprising a drug. 
     
     
         35 . The method of  claim 34 , wherein the coating further comprises a polymer. 
     
     
         36 . The method of  claim 34 , wherein the drug comprises an anti-inflammatory agent. 
     
     
         37 . The method of  claim 36 , wherein the anti-inflammatory agent comprises mometasone furoate. 
     
     
         38 . The method of  claim 21 , wherein the implant defines a lumen. 
     
     
         39 . The method of  claim 21 , wherein the delivery device comprises a cannula defining an opening for retaining the implant therein. 
     
     
         40 . The method of  claim 21 , wherein the delivery device comprises prongs forming a tissue-piercing tip.