Abstract:
The invention concerns a band not provided with a dilatable portion, characterized in that it comprises different successive separate zones (A, B, C) formed on its entire developed length, while forming a single-piece and single-unit assembly, and its two ends ( 1   a ), ( 1   b ) are specifically configured to form flexible nesting and position-locking male-female parts by defining a first head zone (A) and a second rear and anchoring zone (B) forming a main tip and integrated into each other, and between said two zones, the ring comprises a third intermediate connecting zone (C) with solid cross-section over the main part of its length, designed to be more specifically pressed on the part of the stomach to be enclosed.

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     The invention relates to the technical sector of gastric bands and similar means capable of encircling a stomach part in order to ensure an effect of shrinkage of the stomach at a given place, within the framework of the treatment of obesity, and this after failure of medical therapeutics such as diets, followed by nutritionists, programmes of physical exercises, slimming cures, and criteria of the ANAES (BMI and Comorbidity). 
     2. Description of the Related Art 
     According to the prior art, different types of gastric bands are known, which are, furthermore, associated with other means such as fluid-dilatable balloons, as described in DE-U-9724127 or WO-A-9427504, or in association with a tube with light flux, as described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,696,288. These technologies are expensive to carry out. The fitting of these bands remains random by the effect of the slide of the band on the stomach, and especially when associated hiatal hernias exist. 
     One of the problems raised at the origin of the invention resides in the operation of closure of the band which is not always easy to carry out and with security of the connection. 
     Another problem is the necessity of a monitoring of the inflation of the balloon of the known bands by a vulnerable outside system which causes discomfort for the majority of patients operated on. This system includes the use and holding of a sub-cutaneous box, with risk of contamination by the needle. This involves specific precautions. In addition, these bands are particularly uncomfortable for the patient, being a source of pain, of leakage, as there are risks of breaking of the flow, the inflation of the balloon involving a pressure. Moreover, the inner surface of the bands with dilatable balloon is sometimes irregular when the balloon is not dilated, hence a risk of lesion or irritation of the gastric wall.  FIG. 1  shows such a gastric band. The fitting of these gastric bands as described hereinbefore is effected within the framework of a vertical gastroplasty. 
     The use of strips, disposed in a substantially horizontal plane, is also known. However, this technique also presents drawbacks, namely: these strips, made for example of polypropylene netting, cause incrustations of matter in the wall of the stomach, with a detrimental effect preventing the ablation of the bandage thus made in the event of a decision of reversibility (creation of a fibrous tunnel facilitating the ablation of the material and protecting the gastric muscle). 
     Furthermore, the positioning of the gastric band thus described creates a horizontal partition creating a configuration of the stomach in two parts, or sacs, with slide of the band due to the risks of dilatation of the lower sac. 
     FR-A-2 798 280 also discloses a gastric band not provided with a dilatable balloon and made in the form of a tube provided with a flat portion for abutment against the gastric wall. This band must be maintained in closed configuration by means of a suture strand. Its diameter in closed configuration depends on the tension given to the suture by the surgeon, with a non-guaranteed reproducibility. 
     Finally, EP-A-1 036 545 discloses a non-dilatable gastric band provided with an opening for passage of one of its ends in closed configuration. The locking obtained is not optimum. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The solution employed according to the Application is such as to respond to the problems raised, from an original concept of production and a method of fitting which guarantees the position of the band in place. 
     The solution aimed at carried out a method of fitting, specific of the product and which has the result of obtaining rapid effects on the patient&#39;s obesity. 
     According to the invention, a gastric band not provided with a dilatable part is made of an elastomeric, particularly siliconed material, presents a flexibility of deformability and comprises different successive separate zones formed on its entire developed length, while forming a single-piece and single-unit assembly, these zones including two end zones shaped specifically to constitute flexible nesting and position-locking male-female parts and, between these two zones, an intermediate connecting zone of solid cross-section over the main part of its length, designed to be more specifically in simple abutment on the part of the stomach to be encircled. This band is noteworthy in that the end zones define, on the one hand, a first head zone provided with a curved profiled tab and, on the other hand, a second rear end anchoring zone forming main tip, these zones being adapted to integrate into each other, by introduction of the tip of the anchoring zone in an opening defined between two lateral walls connecting the tab to the intermediate zone. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       In order to render its object more concrete, the invention is illustrated in non-limiting manner in the Figures of the drawings, where: 
         FIG. 1  is a view of schematic nature illustrating the fitting of a gastric band, in accordance with the prior art. 
         FIG. 2  is a view in perspective before tightening and closure of the band, according to the invention, the band being shown as such and not positioned. 
         FIG. 3  is a view in perspective of the gastric band defined in accordance with  FIG. 2 , after closure. 
         FIG. 4  is a view in perspective of the band shown flat and unfolded, in order to illustrate all of its characteristics. 
         FIG. 4A  is a section along line IV-IV in  FIG. 4 . 
       FIGS.  5 , 6 ,  7  and  8  illustrate the different phases of the method of positioning the band around the specific place of the stomach. 
         FIG. 9  is a side view, before use, of a band according to a second form of embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 10  is a side view of the band of  FIG. 9  in closed configuration, and 
         FIG. 11  is a view in perspective of the band of  FIGS. 9 and 10  in closed configuration. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     In order to render the object of the invention more concrete, it is now described in non-limiting manner, illustrated in the Figures of the drawings. 
     The gastric band according to the invention is generally referenced  1  and is made of a moulded, elastomeric material in one piece. It presents a certain elasticity with capacity of deformation. In closed position, it presents the configuration of a collar, surrounding the desired part of the stomach. This band is preferably made of medically implantable siliconed material, such as that known on the market under the Trademark “NUSIL”. This material is radio-opaque and biocompatible in order to be implantable in the human body, thus responding to the requirements of compatibility and without being destructible. This band presents a memory of shape in order to return it naturally into position of collar before closure, as represented in  FIG. 9  of the drawings, or substantially. 
     By its constituent material, elastomer and preferably siliconed, it offers a certain flexibility of deformability, so as to allow introduction thereof in the desired place and to be deformed in order to constitute a configuration of collar and follow the encircled shapes as well as possible, allowing a mode of anchoring which is characteristic of the invention. 
     In the state of implementation, the band is unfolded over the whole of its length. In the state of closure, it is folded in the manner of a collar and, according to the invention, in an assembly and fixation which is reversible but secure. 
     The band  1  is not provided with a dilatable balloon, which gives it an increased reliability with respect to the known devices, particularly disclosed by WO-A-94/27504. It is therefore not adjustable in diameter. 
     It is noteworthy in that it comprises different, successive, separate zones formed over the whole of its developed length, while forming a one-piece and unitary assembly, avoiding zones of weakness, such as can exist in devices with dilatable balloon. The two ends of the band  1  are formed specifically in order to constitute flexible-nesting and position-locking male-female parts, by defining a first head zone A and a second rear end anchoring zone B, forming main tip, these zones integrating in each other, as will be specified hereinafter. 
     Between the two afore-mentioned zones, the band comprises a third intermediary zone C of length (sic) and for connection. This zone is intended to be more specifically in abutment on the part of the stomach to be encircled. The internal face D of the band and the non-traumatic edges D 1  and D 2  are smooth, which is to be compared with the fact that no dilatable balloon is provided on this face. 
     On a part of the intermediary connection zone C, the band internally presents projecting shapes  2   b  allowing the contact in punctual pressure on the stomach part opposite, with an anti-slide effect. There is then provided in this part the formation of two cavities ld in the thickness of the band allowing threading of complementary ligaturing strands L intended for the complementary fixation of the band with respect to its environment (gastric wall or grainy felting) avoiding its slide and possible tipping. The part  1   b  is swollen with respect to the rest of the wall C and constitutes projecting shapes for complementary punctual abutment on the stomach, without there being any adhesion to the wall of the stomach opposite. 
     The visible outer part E of the band is substantially convex over the whole of its length and in a transverse plane. 
     As is visible in  FIG. 4A , part C is of solid cross-section, except at the level of the cavities  1   d . This solid, i.e. one-piece, unitary and massive, nature gives it an increased mechanical resistance and a good elasticity. In effect, the solid nature of this cross-section guarantees the stability in time of the calibration obtained with the band  1  which, due to the elasticity and the memory of its constituent material, resumes its nominal geometry after possibly having been deformed upon passage of food. This solid nature also induces a homogeneity during deformation of the band, in the course of positioning or once fitted. 
     The head zone A is established with a profiled tab  2  which is curved and disposed at the front end of the body of the band, being connected to the part C by the join of two lateral walls  2   a , leaving therebetween an opening allowing the passage and the introduction and positioning of the other end in the form of a tip  4 . 
     The tab  2  is substantially planar and extends in a plane substantially perpendicular to the principal direction of the part C in the configuration of  FIG. 4 . 
     More specifically, the main tab  2  presents, in extension, walls for connection with two parallel projections  2   a  defining a channel  3  for passage of the second end, in the form of a tip  4 . Furthermore, the main tab presents stop faces  2   a ′ on the parallel projections  2   a , as will be specified hereinbelow. This end or tab  2  of the band  1  presents a secondary tip shape, of triangular aspect with a visible flat face of length e equal to the length of the zone from the stop faces  2   a ′ of the parallel projections  2   a  to the end of the tab  2  furthest from the connecting part C, as shown in  FIG. 4 . At the end, the perforated tab presents a transverse opening  2   b  for the passage of a draw loop  5 . 
     In parallel, the rear end  4  of the band presents a main tip shape having a profile of dimensions corresponding to those of the tip shape established on the front tab. Between the tip shape  4  of the anchoring part and the zone C are formed two grooves  4   a , profiled and opposite, of which the depth corresponds in fact to the thickness of the projections  2   a  established on the main tab. 
     The end of the main tip shape  4  also presents an opening  4   b  for the passage of a ligature or draw loop. 
     It will thus be understood, with reference to  FIGS. 2 ,  3 ,  7  and  8 , that the closure of the gastric band is effected by introduction of the main tip shape of the rear end  4  of the band in the opening or channel  3  for passage located in the zone of connection of the front tab and of the front end of the band. 
     The main rear tip shape  4  is pulled by a draw loop  5  by means of an instrument for passage which causes it to be elastically deformed in order to traverse the opening passage  3  and to anchor on the front tab  2  after juxtaposition. 
     The afore-mentioned grooves  4   a  then surround the projecting parts  2   a  of the front tab  2 , while the main and secondary shapes in tip form are juxtaposed against each other. 
     The openings  2   b  and  4   b  then lie opposite each other, with the result that the draw loop  5  may also serve as means for ligaturing and for fixation. 
     In the second form of embodiment of the invention shown in  FIGS. 9 to 11 , elements similar to those of the first embodiment bear identical references. 
     As is more particularly visible in  FIG. 9 , the band  1  presents, before use and as a result of its process of manufacture by moulding, an open shape in which the tip  4  substantially extends the intermediate zone C, in a direction A 1 , while the tab  2  extends substantially in a direction A 2  making an angle α of the order of 45° with the direction A 1 . 
     As previously, the inner surface D of the part C is smooth, which is to be compared with the fact that the band  1  is not provided with a dilatable balloon and has a solid section over the main part of the length of the part C, except for the zones  1   b  where the cavities  1   d  are formed. 
     When the band is closed, as shown in  FIGS. 10 and 11 , the tab  2  and the tip  4  together form a projecting part S of which the outer edges are rounded and which is non-traumatic. In addition, in this configuration, the inner face D of the zone C is substantially circular, this allowing a precise calibration of a patient&#39;s stomach. 
     In addition and in accordance with an advantageous complementary arrangement, the inner face D of the band presents on the head A side a profile  1   c  in line with the head, oriented thereopposite and in a subjacent plane, so as to constitute a plane of abutment  1   e  and of reliability of the part  4   d  of the band adjacent the grooves  4   a . In this way an effect of increased stability is obtained, and an overlapping, by the profile  1   c , of the zone of join between the zones A and B, seen from inside the band. The risks of injury or of irritation of the gastric wall are thus limited. 
     Furthermore, the section  4   c  of the part of the formed band in the vicinity of the tip  4  may be thicker in order to ensure a better holding. 
     The gastric band thus produced is therefore easy to place in position. It is non-dismountable per se, unless the operator deforms the part of the tip  4  of the rear end B of the band in order to withdraw it and direct it towards the opening  3  for introduction formed on the front part A thereof. The draw loop may serve a complementary function of fixation by ligature if necessary after introduction in the openings  2   b  and  4   b  formed on the tip parts of the band. The band offers double security by the specific locking of the tip parts together, of the tab and the rear end of the band, on the one hand, and, on the other hand, of the groove-projection  4   a - 2   a  connection. 
     The band thus having been defined in its structural characteristics, the method of fit and the place of positioning of the band on the stomach will now be set forth with reference to  FIGS. 5 to 8  of the drawings, and this in order to respond to the desired effects of gastric reduction for the treatment of obesity. 
     According to the invention, a gastric tube called 33 French Faucher tube (CA) must firstly be introduced through the patient&#39;s mouth, to arrive in the stomach (E). In order to reduce the useful volume of the stomach, the intervention should take place on the upper stomach part which presents an orifice called cardia (CR) where the oesophagus (O) opens out. This orifice defines with the upper part of the stomach a cavity of more or less great capacity in individuals ( FIG. 5 ). The operator, with the aid of an instrument (I), will perforate the stomach wall at a first site (O 1 ), between 6 and 8 cm beneath the cardia. A second cut out separates the two gastric parts in a plane which is vertical, and this with the aid of an instrument known to the person skilled in the art. 
     This second cut out (O 2 ) is effected near the positioning of the gastric tube in the stomach ( FIG. 5 ). The operator then proceeds, with the aid of a cutting tool (OC), with the vertical partition of the stomach so as to create a new gastric sac near the lesser gastric curvature and will be of small volume 50 to 70 ml. 
     Its emptying will be effected through an orifice which will have to be calibrated. The operator introduces the band ( 1 ) which is in developed position with the aid of a complementary gripping instrument ( FIG. 7 ). With the aid of a gripping element, the operator will grip the draw loop ( 5 ) and introduce the rear end of the band in the anchoring front tab part, and then ensure closure thereof, as shown in  FIG. 8  of the drawings. It then suffices to add one or two complementary ligaturings (L) established from the cut outs formed in the intermediate zone of the band, these stitches being fixed on the environment of the stomach, the Faucher calibration tube is then withdrawn. 
     The advantages of the invention are numerous and the following are emphasized in particular:
         the quality of the band and of its secured position on the stomach,   its reliability of fit, its easy accessibility, and its rapid dismantling.       

     Its characteristics correspond to the necessity of an invulnerable calibration, non-aggressive for the gastric wall avoiding any slide and erosion. This intervention may be carried out in the event of hiatal hernia, a pathology which is a pitfall for the use of a gastric band for horizontal partition. 
     This intervention is reversible and the band may be recovered for a fresh use. 
     The band is well tolerated due to its constitution and does not risk causing undesirable local inflammations. Furthermore, there is no risk of traumatism, as the band is used alone without other accessories, as is often the case according to the prior art.