Method and apparatus for treating obesity and controlling weight gain using self-expanding intragastric devices

摘要

The invention generally relates to a method and apparatus to treat obesity and controlling weight gain. In an exemplary embodiment, the invention relates to a covered cage device that is implanted within a human's stomach to occupy volume and cause a reduced desire for eating. The covered cage device is made from a wire-mesh, such a Nitinol, and can be adjustable and collapsible. In another embodiment, the covered cage device has edges that provide stimulation to the stomach to induce a feeling of fullness.

主权项

1. An intragastric space-occupying apparatus configured to be endoscopically delivered into a stomach of a mammal for treating excessive weight or obesity, comprising:
a top portion made of a self-expanding wire material and being formed in the shape of at least eight non-planar triangles; a middle portion positioned adjacent to the top portion, the middle portion being made of the self-expanding wire material and being formed in the shape of an octagon with sides of the octagon defining eight edges parallel to a longitudinal axis of the intragastric space-occupying apparatus, wherein the eight edges are configured to innervate gastric tissue inside the stomach of the mammal, thus creating a sensation of satiety to the mammal; a bottom portion made of the self-expanding wire material and being formed in the shape of at least eight non-planar triangles, the bottom portion being positioned adjacent to the middle portion, wherein the top portion, the middle portion and the bottom portion form a first self-expanding wire cage that when expanded forms the shape of a first lantern; a second self-expanding wire cage formed in the shape of a second lantern having at least eight edges connected to the bottom portion, the first lantern larger in volume than the second lantern; and a third self-expanding wire cage formed in the shape of a third lantern having at least eight edges connected to the top portion, the third lantern larger in volume than the second lantern, but smaller in volume than the first lantern; wherein the second lantern is adapted to be positioned near the distal stomach and the third lantern is adapted to be positioned in the upper stomach near the fundus.