Patent ID: 7976546
Filing Date: 2011-07-12
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. A magnetic targeting system suitable for facilitating navigation to a target area located in vivo, said system comprising: a targeting member having a first end and a second end, said second end constructed and arranged for attachment to a biocompatible device and at least said first end includes a steering material influenced by a magnetic field; and at least one anchoring member having a proximal end and a distal end, said distal end constructed and arranged to secure to a target area located in vivo, wherein said proximal end is constructed and arranged for inclusion of a magnetic material effective for influencing the traversal of said steering material in vivo; and a extender having a first open end and second open end and a cavity there between, the first open end of said extender being removably attached to said proximal end of said at least one anchoring member, said extender including a passageway, adjacent the first open end, between said cavity and an external surface of said extender, and, the second open end of said extender protruding a distance outside of a percutaneous exposure created the outer skin of a patient; said magnetic material is sized and shaped to enter the extender at the second open end and move within said cavity to a position adjacent the first open end of the extender and to move through said passageway such that at least a portion of said magnetic material extends to a location external of said extender, whereby, the magnetically influenced proximal end of said anchoring member interacts with said first end of said targeting member such that said connected biocompatible device is positionable relative to said target area said biocompatible device is a tether, wherein said targeting member is positionable and mounted on a leading end of a free hand inserter, said targeting member is held in position adjacent said free hand inserter by said tether which is releasably secured to said free hand inserter.