Methods and apparatus for anchoring within the gastrointestinal tract

Abstract

The present invention relates to an anchor configured for minimally-invasive implantation and sized to remain securely positioned within at least a portion of the gastrointestinal tract of an animal. The anchor includes a radial spring formed from an elongated resilient member shaped into an annular wave pattern about a central axis. The anchor defines a central lumen and provides an outward radial force, while allowing for substantial flexure about its perimeter. The anchor is generally removable, but can include fasteners, such as barbs, to further secure it to the surrounding anatomy. In some embodiments, the anchor includes a connector coupling a fixed portion to a removable portion. Further, the anchor can be used to secure a medical device within the body, such as a flexible sleeve within the intestine.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A gastrointestinal implant device comprising:
 an anchor configured to attach to a natural lumen of a gastrointestinal tract of an animal;   a flexible sleeve configured to carry chyme from a proximal end of the sleeve to a distal end of the sleeve and adapted to extend into an intestine of the gastrointestinal tract; and   a connector removably coupling the flexible sleeve to the anchor.   
     
     
         2 . The gastrointestinal implant of  claim 1 , wherein the connector comprises a magnet coupled to one of the anchor and the flexible sleeve and configured to magnetically engage a feature of the other of the anchor and the flexible sleeve. 
     
     
         3 . The gastrointestinal implant of  claim 1 , wherein the connector comprises a connector magnetically coupling the flexible sleeve to the anchor.