Patent Description:
<CIT> discloses a device for performing liposuction surgery including a mechanical cutting element moveable between a stored and a cutting position.

There is a continuing need for an effective approach to treating cellulite, also known as gynoid lipodystrophy, nodular liposclerosis, edematofibrosclerotic panniculopathy, panniculosis, adiposis edematosa, demopanniculosis deformans or status protrusus cutis. Moreover, there is a need for proactive treatment modalities that prevent future or reoccurrence of cellulite and which are easy and effective to use.

It has been reported that more than <NUM>% of women have cellulite thus suggesting that cellulite is a physiologic rather than pathologic condition. The existence of fat in the reticular dermis alone is not thought to cause cellulite. Cellulite can be described as the herniation of subcutaneous fat within fibrous connective tissue that is expressed as dimpling of the skin. This fat loading can lead to stress on connective tissue located between fat lobulas. Such dimpling is more common in women than men due to the orientation of subcutaneous fibrous structures defining chambers containing fat cells. In fact, it is this structure that is believed to cause the appearance of cellulite more than being overweight. Often, cellulite appears on the pelvic region including the buttocks, lower limbs and abdomen.

Subdermal fat layers below the epidermis are contained between dermal layers connected by septa which act as connective tissue between the dermal layers. In men, the septa are arranged more randomly and densely oriented in a more criss-crossed configuration while the septa in women are generally more parallel in arrangement. Also, men have thicker dermis and more angled septa relative to the skin surface whereas women have relatively thinner dermis which thins with age, and septa that are perpendicular to the skin surface. Moreover, women with cellulite have exhibited thickening of the septa in the regions of cellulite and tensioning of septa highlights cellulite. In women, fat storage in adipose tissue has a biological purpose in that it is maximized ensuring adequate caloric availability for pregnancy and lactation. An increase in fluid retention or proliferation of adipose tissue in such subdermal fat layers can further result in the appearance of cellulite where the septa is maintaining a first distance between dermal layers, thus creating dimples, whereas pockets between septa bulge. Over time, the septa may stretch, then eventually contract and harden thus retaining tissue layers at fixed distances, but pockets between such septa may be expanded thus adding to the appearance of cellulite.

Various approaches have been taken to treat or address cellulite. Early treatments involved attempts at increasing circulation and fat oxidation in areas exhibiting cellulite. Here, substances such as hyaluronic acid and aminophylline were injected in the target areas to reduce cellulite. Other approaches involved electroporating the target areas followed by the application of mesotherapy, or applying dermological creams or other supplements to cellulite. These approaches could be supplemented by massage or massage was used alone for the purpose of promoting increased fat reabsorption or drainage of fluids and toxins in the treated areas. Ultrasound has also been proposed to disrupt subcutaneous tissues and fat and has been used in combination with liposuction. Low acoustic pressure in combination with the infiltration of microbubbles has also been employed to reduce the appearance of cellulite, as has the use of other energies such as lasers and radio frequency. Such approaches have been characterized by limited or unpredictable results. More recently, the cutting of septa with blades or needles in the subdermal region has been employed. Prior approaches have been found to be labor intensive and very traumatic to the tissue leading to bleeding, bruising, tough tissue nodules, long, painful recoveries and inconsistent results.

Accordingly, there is a need for effective and efficient approaches to treating, minimizing or eliminating cellulite with simple systems that minimize trauma. These approaches should be associated with predictable results and be relatively easy to employ.

The present disclosure addresses these and other needs.

The cellulite treatment apparatus according to the invention is defined in claim <NUM>. The surgical methods discloses herein are not claimed.

Briefly and in general terms, the present disclosure is directed towards cellulite treatment systems and methods involving an apparatus that facilitates and methods involving, depending on the system used and force applied by the user, stretching, re-orienting, disrupting, cutting, slicing, and/or tearing septum or septa in a location of cellulite. In one aspect, the treatment approach involves a tissue cutting or slicing system.

In one embodiment, a cellulite treatment device is mounted at a distal end portion of a shaft and is sized and shaped to be advanced between tissue layers. In one particular aspect, fibrous septa that connect superior and inferior fascia plateaus within skin can be crossed with the treatment device using one or more of an array of tools to engage, and depending on the tool used and force applied by the user, stretch, re-orient, tear, disrupt, cut or slice septa. By doing so, the target subcutaneous connective tissue associated with the surface defect can be directly modified with minimal impact to surrounding blood vessels and lymphatic system and fat can be more evenly distributed and skin can assume a smoother appearance.

In one or more aspects, a cellulite treatment system embodies a tool facilitating an ability to reach and treat all target cellulite appearance areas through a single or a limited number of entries through the skin. In certain aspects, such tool is sized, shaped and configured (e.g. less than or equal to about two millimeters diameter and blunt dissection tip) to be placed within and advanced between tissue layers on its own and without assistance from external skin stabilizing structure, such as a suction device. Entry points through the skin such as high on the hip under where a bikini or underwear strap would be and along creases or transitions between buttocks and thighs are employed. Identification and assessment of target septa is accomplished by pushing, pulling or otherwise tensioning septa in areas believed to be associated with the expression of cellulite on the outside of skin. It has been recognized that septa causing a dimple or depression are located at various angles and locations relative to the dimple or depression observed on the skin and are not necessarily directly below such expressions of cellulite, and the treatment system and method is configured to identify the septa responsible for the appearance of cellulite that has been marked on the skin and target treatment on those septa and leave adjacent septa, blood vessels, etc. intact. Moreover, a range such as a small subset or a larger number of septa can be the structure causing a particular depression or dimple.

In one method, anesthetic is injected into the treatment site transcutaneously or subcutaneously, a cellulite treatment system is inserted subcutaneously across the treatment site and used to identify the septa responsible for a depression or dimple by pushing or pulling on various septa to cause a depression in the skin in the target area, and a cutting or slicing device or septa disruption structure is placed subcutaneously at the treatment site and employed to engage and cut or slice or break the septa tissue. In one particular aspect, the patient is directed to clench their buttocks and/or leg muscles to help facilitate identifying target areas and after septa treatment confirm release of septa that create dimples or depressions. Alternatively, the physician can press in a cranial to caudal direction on the skin above the treatment target or pull from below the treatment target. Remote imaging or ultrasonic or fluoroscopic energy can be employed to observe the procedure. A resizing or alternative configuration of the treatment structure can be employed to complete the treatment of a particular area. The treatment device is then repositioned to treat additional areas. The treatment device can be configured to treat a plurality of areas simultaneously or in succession without removing from the patient or a spot treatment approach can be taken. Langer lines can be employed as a reference to direct treatment. Additionally, through one or more entry points, various treatment trajectories are directed and in certain applications a steerable introducer is used to access treatment areas. Further, anti-inflammatory, collagenase, deoxycholic acid, salicylic acid, glycolic acid, hyaluronic acid or cellulite treatment medicants can be employed at the interventional site separately or directly by the interventional device or other procedural instrumentation. Aspects of the current disclosure include specific identification of the septa responsible for the cellulite appearance, severing or separation of those septa, confirmation intra-operatively of the separation of those septa was accomplished and the prevention of the re-appearance of the cellulite.

In various aspects, the treatment device can include one or more of blunt tipped scissors, a guillotine-type angled blade, projecting linkages, side opening hooks or V-shaped structure, an internal hook, a bevel hook, a rotating structure or blade, a cutting balloon or harmonic scalpel, selective cautery structure or energy transmitting structure for disrupting, cutting, slicing or dissecting tissue and/or controlling bleeding. In one particular approach, the treatment device includes a mechanical septa cutting element, such as a blade or sharpened surface, that cooperates with a septa hooking element to both hook then cut, slice, tear or disrupt septa. One or more of the septa hooking element and the septa cutting element is convertible from a hooking configuration to a cutting configuration and from a cutting configuration to a hooking configuration or to a stored configuration. In another particular approach, the treatment device is embodied in an elongate member insertable through the skin capable of expanding at least one region from a smaller state to a wider state, and when in the wider state is configurable to both hook and cut, slice or disrupt target septa. In one or more alternative or additional aspects, cutting or disruption is accomplished with electrical or thermal means such as mono-polar or bi-polar structures or a hot wire configured to address bleeding and ease cutting.

The cellulite treatment system also involves in certain approaches, illumination such as a bright light configured at or emitted through a tip of treatment structure or placed along or at strategic locations along treatment structure for the purposes of tracking advancement of the tool to the treatment site and locating intradermal structures at the treatment site. In this way, direct observation of the treatment device by transillumination through the skin is provided and positioning and performance thereof subcutaneously is readily available to an operator.

Moreover, objective measurement devices are included in the treatment system to assess the results of therapy. In one approach, laser light energy such as bright light or laser light is emitted and received by the measurement device and surfaces of treated areas is scanned. The measurement device creates a complete three-dimensional map of all cellulite relative to normal skin. By comparing improvement of volume of divots versus normal idealized surfaces, the operator can calculate total and local volume benefits of therapy and track improvement over time.

Additionally, the disclosed devices and structures are employed for body sculpting, eliminating wrinkles, treating acne scars and/or repositioning skin. Foam fillers or spacers of varying lengths and other structures such as subcutaneous attachment structures that are absorbable or permanent are used to accomplish such objectives.

These and other features of the disclosure will become apparent to those persons skilled in the art upon reading the details of the systems and methods as more fully described below.

Before the present systems and methods are described, it is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to particular embodiments described, as such may, of course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to be limiting. The scope of the present invention will be limited only by the appended claims.

Where a range of values is provided, it is understood that each intervening value, to the tenth of the unit of the lower limit unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, between the upper and lower limits of that range is also specifically disclosed. Each smaller range between any stated value or intervening value in a stated range and any other stated or intervening value in that stated range is encompassed within the disclosure. The upper and lower limits of these smaller ranges may independently be included or excluded in the range, and each range where either, neither or both limits are included in the smaller ranges is also encompassed within the disclosure, subject to any specifically excluded limit in the stated range. Where the stated range includes one or both of the limits, ranges excluding either or both of those included limits are also included in the disclosure.

Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present disclosure, the preferred methods and materials are now described.

It must be noted that as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to "the system" includes reference to one or more systems and equivalents thereof known to those skilled in the art, and so forth.

With reference to <FIG>, there is shown a person exhibiting cellulite <NUM> about their thighs and buttocks. In one approach to treatment, dimples and/or depressions characteristic of the cellulite <NUM> intended to be treated are identified or circled with markings <NUM>, preferably while the patient is standing as for most patients the appearance of their cellulite disappears when they lie down on their stomach because gravity is pulling in a different direction. In another embodiment, computerized imaging equipment is used to locate and mark dimples and/or depressions. In <FIG>, forty-four dimples and depressions are marked for possible treatment. The physician treating the patient determines an instrument insertion site <NUM> and paths <NUM> that most efficiently treat cellulite with a minimal amount of insertion sites and instrument paths under the skin. Preferably, an instrument insertion site is chosen that is in a crease or fold of skin such as where the buttocks meets the thigh or in the crease between the two buttocks at a location that is not seen when the buttocks are in natural contact for improved cosmesis after the procedure healing period. In certain patients, the inner thigh is chosen as an insertion site as this location is less visual as it heals. Such treatment paths are selected by the operator preferably using a straight edge that bends or contours to the patient or can be generated automatically by employing a computerized controller programmed to most efficiently address and measure cellulite residing in a pre-defined treatment site. The computerized controller can be associated with a scanner that identifies specific dimples and areas for treatment such as by employing laser technology. In this regard, the computerized controller includes a program specific to cellulite treatment and is used in conjunction with an electronic and mechanical device and comprises or includes a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium and a computer-program mechanism embedded therein to both identify treatment areas and to plot primary and alternative approaches to treatments. In another embodiment, computerized visualization and treatment planning equipment is used to assist the physician in determining insertion site locations and paths to be taken to the marked targets.

Once a treatment approach is planned, the patient lies down on their stomach on the treatment table. Alternatively, because of the minimally invasiveness of the current approach, a patient can be treated while standing, particularly for a small number of treatment targets, or while standing and leaning forward on a support and alternatively between standing and leaning forward so that gravity can help identify and confirm treatment of the targeted septa. Moreover, the measurement device creates a complete three-dimensional map of all cellulite relative to normal skin. By dating and comparing improvement of volume of divots or dimples versus normal idealized surfaces, the operator calculates total and local volume benefits of therapy and track improvement over time.

In one specific approach, as shown in <FIG>, the cellulite treatment follows or references Langer lines <NUM> existing in tissue. Langer lines <NUM> correspond to natural orientations of tissue fibers that exist in humans, and have been recognized as being generally parallel to the orientation of muscle fibers. The Langer lines <NUM> can be used as a reference to treat cellulite. Notably, cellulite appears to be related to and fall along the locations of Langer lines. In one approach, multiple treatment targets along Langer lines are treated from a single entry <NUM>, the Langer lines <NUM> providing a map along which treatment is accomplished. Thus, treatment can be directed along Langer lines <NUM> as shown on the thigh for illustrative purposes to treat targeted septa, or additionally or alternatively, treatment can be transverse to Langer lines <NUM> as shown on the buttock for illustrative purposes to treat targeted septa. Treatment can also be directed at various positions about connecting tissue or septa. That is, septa can be engaged, stretched, re-oriented, torn, cut, sliced, ruptured or disrupted from various sides or angles respecting septa. Thus, septa can be treated from above, below or the sides of septa to achieve the best results. For example, in a particular situation, treatment can be most effective from above a particular connecting tissue to take advantage of gravity where treatment forces placed on the connecting tissue coincide with the direction of gravity or the direction that gravity most often works on a standing body, as it has been observed that cellulite is often most visible in a standing individual.

Turning now to <FIG>, there is shown a cellulite treatment assembly <NUM> including a handle <NUM> and an elongate member or needle-sized structure preferably two millimeters or less in diameter, like structure <NUM> extending longitudinally therefrom. A force gauge (electronic or mechanical) can be provided to ensure that a pre-determined amount of force would be applied to the tissue when testing the septa to prevent over or under pulling. A treatment device <NUM> capable of one or more of engaging, stretching, slicing, cutting or disrupting connective tissue is configured at a distal end portion of the elongate member <NUM> (e.g., <FIG>). All cutting means can be combined with or further energized with RF, a laser, ultrasonic or thermal energy to produce cutting and coagulation together or separately. In certain aspects, there can be a single entry site or two entry sites, one high on the hip and another along the crease or transition between the buttocks and thigh, or at the inner thigh. Such locations are characterized in that they can be easily hidden either naturally or by clothing. Treatment targets, depressions and dimples that have been marked on the skin surface while the patient is standing often go away when the patient lies down on their stomach because gravity acts on the skin and underlying connective tissue in a different direction such that the ink mark is apparent but the dimple or depression is not. The disclosed interventional devices are configured such that a user can approach a target location and first use the interventional device to push, pull or otherwise tension septa in a target area under the skin to identify the specific septa impacting the target and/or which is the cause of the expression of cellulite. In other words, pulling or pushing on the septa under the skin to find the one(s) that create the dimple or depression in the skin surface. For some treatment targets, taking an approach from an entry located inferior the treatment target, advancing the end of the interventional device beyond the treatment target and then pulling inferiorly (effectively the "down" direction if the patient was standing) can provide a better approach, for example, for treatment targets on the leg, to re-create the dimple when the patient is lying down. One or more strain gauges can be incorporated within the treatment device to help identify target septa as well as to assess the progress and completion of treating septa. This facilitates targeting of key septa in a less impactful way, ideally minimizing bruising or other issues associated with cutting or disrupting a large area around the target. There are thus herein shown various approaches to treating cellulite expressed as dimples or depressions <NUM> in the skin surface. Moreover, the handle portion can be employed to create an indentation in skin through which interventional devices can be inserted subcutaneously. A treatment regimen is selected for inserting interventional instruments based upon the subject's anatomy as it relates to the septa <NUM> connecting tissue layers that define the chambers retaining fatty or other tissues. If desired, while anesthetic and/or sedation is taking effect, ultrasound can be used to assess the subcutaneous trajectory and depth of the various connective tissue bands responsible for the surface unevenness. The ultrasound evaluation can help with the particular trajectory selected for the desired depth. The ultrasound evaluation can also help with positioning the distal end portion of the treatment instrument strategically at the connection point between the connective tissue and the dermis or the facia.

As shown in <FIG>, targeted locations of cellulite <NUM> to be treated are marked <NUM> on the surface of the skin. This can be done when the patient is standing to best see cellulite. As shown schematically in <FIG>, cellulite can diminish or disappear when an individual is laying down, and should this happen, the marks identify and confirm their locations.

In one aspect, a distal end portion of a cellulite treatment assembly <NUM> is inserted through the skin and the blunt tip is guided up into close proximity of the dermis as the tip can be tracked as it is advanced toward septa <NUM> (<FIG>) near the marked location <NUM>. The inventors have discovered given the elasticity of septa <NUM>, the distance from the marked location <NUM> to where the treatment assembly <NUM> is inserted into the skin is preferably at least about <NUM> so that there is enough distance to pull and disrupt septa <NUM> and not have the tip of the cellulite treatment assembly exit the skin in the process. Additionally, a depth below the skin where septa <NUM> is preferably engaged (i.e., cut, sliced, torn, stretched, re-oriented (e.g. criss-crossing) or disrupted) is identified and determined. After determining the subcutaneous depth to be accessed for the cutting, slicing, tearing, stretching, re-orienting (e.g. criss-crossing) or disrupting of septum <NUM>, the cellulite treatment assembly or other tool with a sharpened or blunt tip is inserted through the skin, advanced between subcutaneous tissue layers and toward septa <NUM>. In one approach, a distal end portion of the cellulite treatment assembly is configured with an illuminated tip <NUM> with enough brightness to be seen through the skin. The intensity of light emitted by the tip <NUM> can be set to a specific constant level such that at the preferred depth below the skin for severing or otherwise engaging septa <NUM>, the light that appears at the level of the skin as a circle or projection is of a pre-determined size. Thus, the treatment device is advanced to the target site. At the target site, the user adjusts the depth of the tip of the treatment tool such that the circle or projection of light is the pre-determined size. The septa <NUM> is tested and if confirmed as a target for treatment, the septa <NUM> is treated while maintaining the circle or projection at the pre-determined size. The user can also use the size of the circle or projection of light to maintain the depth of the tip of the treatment tool as it is advanced under the skin to the treatment target. In an alternative or another aspect, a sharpened tip is employed to create access to target tissue thus allowing the tool to create the desired path both into tissue as well as between tissue layers. It is expected that the depth that these tools are advanced will be between about <NUM> and about <NUM> below the skin surface, but it is anticipated that lesser and greater depths may also be optimal for a particular subject. In any event, the depth selected is chosen for cutting, slicing, disrupting, tearing, stretching or re-orienting of the subject's septa <NUM>. Moreover, in one embodiment, it is to be appreciated that the device <NUM> is formed from a substantially rigid material so that a consistent plane below the skin surface is accessed.

Using palpation, direct visualization (for example, transillumination or endoscopic) or non-invasive visualization (for example, ultrasound or fluoroscopic) or other means for determining the position of the interventional tool such as markings along the length of the instruments and its path within tissue, or providing the interventional instrumentation with radiopaque markers, the tool is placed at a site below where cellulite (for example a dimple) is seen on the subject's skin. The treatment device is advanced through septa <NUM> and to where the treatment device <NUM> is in a position best suited to accomplish the identification of target septa and the cellulite removal or minimization treatment. As shown in <FIG>, in one approach, the treatment device <NUM> is passed beyond septa <NUM>, a hook is deployed and then pulled proximally to tension septa <NUM>, such as by hooking the septa (<FIG>). In another approach, the treatment device <NUM> is passed a few millimeters lateral, preferably about <NUM> to about <NUM> millimeters, more preferably about <NUM> to about <NUM> millimeters, and beyond the target location, a hook is deployed and then swept laterally toward the target followed by pulling proximally to hook and tension septa. During these and other steps, transillumination can be employed to track the treatment device and guide the procedure. The marks <NUM> can facilitate targeting of septa <NUM> while using transillumination to see the location of the treatment device <NUM>. In other approaches, a separate device can be employed to engage septa <NUM> to see if such septa are the source of a dimple or depression expressed on the outside of the skin. Such a secondary device can be placed remotely from the target (i.e. lesion) and configured to be capable of applying tension to the surface of skin in a predetermined direction so as to create the effect of gravity and produce the visualization of the lesions while the patient is in a prone position (i.e. a broad region of adhesive attached to a spring mechanism such that a predetermined force would be applied relatively parallel to the surface of the skin in the direction the skin would move when standing in gravity). Using this additional device could further help the confirmation and location of lesions and allow confirmation that the treatment was effective. Also, in various approaches, a portion of the elongate member can be configured to transition from a smaller state to a wider or larger state, wherein in the wider or larger state a cutting surface (i.e. sharpened edge or energy) is presented to cut tissue, the device being sized and shaped to be inserted through the skin and engage one or more regions of septa subcutaneously.

It is noted that septa causing a dimple or depression may be coming from various angles and locations relative to the dimple or depression seen on the skin rather than being directly below the dimple or depression, and may be due to one or only a few septa or a large number of septa that remotely cause the depression or dimple. Thus, so engaging certain septa will be reflected in some change in the dimple or depression on the skin. A determination is made concerning the correspondence with marks <NUM> made on the skin and the dimples being formed or re-formed. If the initial septa <NUM> that the user presses on or pulls on using the tool do not recreate a dimple or depression in the marked area <NUM>, then the user releases those initial septa that were engaged and repositions the tool at different septa and presses on or pulls again. This is repeated until the septa responsible for a dimple or depression in the marked location are identified (<FIG>). Once proper septa are identified, the tool <NUM> is manipulated to cut, slice, disrupt, re-orient, stretch or tear septum <NUM> connecting tissue layers. In one approach, a blade <NUM> is deployed and presented for treatment (<FIG>). In another approach, a balloon (not shown) is inflated to disrupt the septa.

After the proper septa have been cut, sliced, disrupted, stretched, re-oriented or torn, the treatment element <NUM> is moved back to its initial collapsed configuration. The treatment element is then advanced beyond the marked treatment location, the treatment element (e.g., hook) is deployed and then pulled back under the marked treatment location to confirm that all of the septa responsible for causing the marked dimple or depression have been separated intra-operatively. If they have not been, the tool is manipulated to cut, slice, disrupt, stretch, re-orient or tear additional septa. The steps are repeated until all of the septa responsible for creating the marked dimple or depression have been severed or sufficiently stretched and the dimple or depression cannot be re-created intra-operatively using the tool. Such manipulation results in selective rupture, tearing, cutting or slicing of targeted septum <NUM>, and the removal or minimization of dimples and the expression of cellulite on skin (<FIG>). Thereafter, the treatment element (e.g., hook and/or blade) is retracted back in (<FIG> partially collapsed) and the tool <NUM> is removed from the site to be withdrawn from the body or repositioned in any direction along and within the target tissue plane to treat additional areas.

With reference to <FIG>, in additional or alternative approaches, a second light source <NUM> such as an LED (or other light source) is configured along the cellulite treatment assembly <NUM> proximal the illuminated tip <NUM> or alternatively, at the tip <NUM>. In various approaches, a light source such as an LED chip can be configured at the tip of or otherwise along the treatment device with an electrical wire running proximally for control by the operator, or the light source can be generated by a light fiber extending along the device or to the tip with the LED or light source is configured within a proximally located position such as a handle of the treatment device. By so configuring such light sources <NUM>, <NUM>, the depth of the cellulite treatment assembly <NUM> within tissue can be assessed. As shown in <FIG>, when the cellulite treatment assembly <NUM> is placed within a first relatively shallow desired depth, the light sources <NUM>, <NUM> appear spaced and define discrete patterns when viewing the light sources via transillumination through skin (<FIG>). When the cellulite treatment assembly <NUM> is placed deeper within tissue (<FIG>), the light sources <NUM>, <NUM> overlap (<FIG>) due to the natural dispersion of light emitted from the light sources <NUM>, <NUM>. An operator of the treatment system can determine a depth of the cellulite treatment assembly <NUM> by noting the discrete patterns of light or the degree of overlap of light overlap, the dispersion of light emitted and intensity of the light emitted from the light sources <NUM>, <NUM>. Thus, allowing the operator to guide the distal end of the treatment assembly to the desired treatment location while maintaining the desired depth below the skin. The light sources <NUM>, <NUM> can also be of a different color to aid in determining the orientation of the cellulite treatment system <NUM> within tissue through illumination. Moreover, the second light source <NUM> can emit a red color, for example, while the illuminated tip <NUM> can emit white light, while noting any variation of colors can also be employed. Also, the color of the light can change depending on the configuration of the treatment device, such as for example, the device can project a white or first color when sheathed or stowed and change to another color or second color when a portion of the device is deployed or before and after use such as when tissue is cut. A strain gauge can be configured to communicate and cooperate with the light source to sense loads placed on the treatment device during treatment to thereby facilitate a change in color of the light source and to signal the progress or completion of targeted treatment. Additionally, the second light source <NUM> can be employed via transillumination through skin to locate the cellulite treatment system relative to a treatment target area. Another benefit of the second light source is that it can indicate to the user where the hook and blade are located relative to the target septa. Also, as the treatment tool is being pulled proximally through the treatment target area, the illuminated tip <NUM> lets the user know when the hook and blade have been pulled through the target area. It is further noted that the light sources <NUM>, <NUM> can be positioned at various alternative locations along a treatment device, and can be spaced from each other by various amounts. Also, the cellulite treatment system can include greater than two light sources of the same or dissimilar colors. In another embodiment, different colors of light can be used to indicate that the state of the distal end of the instrument. For example, red light is used to indicate the hook and blade are inside the instrument for advancing under the skin, white light is then used to indicate the hook is deployed, and red light is then used to indicate when the blade is deployed.

After completing treatment of one target area, the procedure is repeated to treat other target areas. Accordingly, the same device can be employed to access tissue layers below other sites or depressions existing in skin. Notably, in one embodiment, the device is capable of anesthetic delivery as needed or desired when progressing to additional or new locations. There is thus provided a system configured to treat all target areas on the buttocks and thigh through a limited number of small entry sites, including through a single entry site. It is to be recognized that the system can further include structure permitting the assembly to be steerable to subcutaneous treatment sites. In such an embodiment, the device would be configured to define longitudinally flexible material, and the instrumentation would be steered to the desired position within tissue. Moreover, in certain applications, the device has a stiffness that varies along its length. In another embodiment, the treatment device is embodied in a deflectable catheter.

Moreover, in certain embodiments, the cellulite treatment system includes a squeezing tool that reproducibly applies lateral forces on the skin to emphasize the dimple or expression of cellulite so a before and after treatment effect can be obtained without requiring the patient to stand up and/or without having to remove the interventional tools. The squeezing tool can be embodied, for example, in a clamp with elongated feet on opposite sides thereof or includes four fingers that pull radially inward once deployed on the surface of the skin and activated over or adjacent the targeted cellulite region. Further, the patient is directed to clench their buttocks and/or leg muscles while lying on the procedure table or while standing to both identify treatment sites as well as confirm treatment. In another embodiment, a skin stabilizer, such as a suction stabilizer, can be used to help control the depth at which the cellulite treatment tool is advanced under the skin and maintain the targeted location as the tool is advanced.

With respect to <FIG>, there are shown blunt tipped scissors <NUM> that are configured at a distal end portion of a cellulite treatment assembly <NUM>. The blunt tipped scissors <NUM> are advanced under the skin to a target and used to engage suspected septa. As in each of the disclosed approaches and apparatus, should engagement of such septa result in some change in the dimple or depression expressed on the skin, the treatment structure, here scissors <NUM>, are manipulated to disrupt, cut or slice the septa. Thus, the scissors <NUM> are opened and septa is placed between its blades. Next, the blades are advanced against or caused to be closed about the septa to thereby cut, slice or sever the septa, thus relieving the tension between tissue layers and eliminating or minimizing the appearance of the dimple or depression expression on the skin. Actuation of the scissors is accomplished from a proximal end of the treatment device such as by pulling a wire or advancing and pushing an elongate member associated with the scissor arrangement (not shown). Illumination can be provided by a light <NUM> configured proximal of the scissors <NUM> so that transillumination can be employed to track the location of the distal portion of the treatment assembly <NUM>. Additionally, or alternatively, in each disclosed embodiment, illumination can be via a lightguide from an external light source or via one or more LEDs. Illumination aids the user both with locating the treatment device as well as proper depth placement as transillumination decreases with increasing tool depth. In one aspect, the amount of illumination is set to ensure proper depth of a treatment device or structure, the level of illumination targeted being adjusted for skin type, thickness, presence of fat and pigment. Once selected or targeted septa are cut, sliced or disrupted, in each of the disclosed approaches, the cellulite treatment device can be or is advanced or repositioned to treat additional target areas from the same or different skin insertion device.

Various approaches to laterally projectable tissue engaging and/or cutting structure are shown in <FIG>. The distal end portion of the cellulite treatment assembly can embody a side opening hook arm <NUM> that rotates with respect to a longitudinal shaft <NUM> to alternatively display septa engaging and/or septa cutting structure (<FIG>). The hook arm <NUM> is configured to swing out from a proximally directed, longitudinal configuration where it is parallel with the shaft <NUM> to a laterally projected configuration to thereby capture and tension septa once the device is advanced beyond the target location and then retracted. Here again, so engaging septa can confirm that the septa responsible for creating skin surface dimples or depressions is being targeted as such engagement with septa will be reflected in a physical change of the skin surface. Disruption results from tensioning septa against a narrow edge of the hook arm <NUM> or against a cutting or sharpened edge thereof. An outward facing portion of the arm <NUM> can define blunt structure and a cutting edge can be positioned within the acute angle defined by the arm <NUM>. With this structure, increased tension can be employed to cooperate with a limited cutting edge as septa is drawn within the acute angle defined by the arm <NUM>. In <FIG>, transillumination functionality is provided by a light <NUM> configured at a terminal end of the device, whereas in the assembly shown in <FIG>, slits <NUM> formed in the shaft proximal the terminal end allow for the dispersion of light energy. In <FIG>, cutting and septa engaging structure is embodied in a single moving arm <NUM>, while illumination is provided proximal a hinge <NUM>, but the same can be positioned at the terminal end of the device. As in the previous embodiments, the exposed edges of the arm <NUM> can be blunt or sharp for cutting or slicing. Also, here, the arm <NUM> assumes a distally directed, longitudinal configuration parallel to the shaft <NUM> for advancement between tissue layers, and the arm <NUM> is caused to be projected laterally outwardly to both capture and cut or slice target septa. Actuation of the engaging and cutting structures can be accomplished through the manipulation of a proximally positioned lever or trigger connected to the same via a wire or longitudinally directed shaft (not shown). Once a desired area is treated, additional target areas can be addressed.

The distal end portion of the cellulite treatment assembly <NUM> can alternatively or additionally embody an internal static hook <NUM> (<FIG>) to treat target areas from one or more skin insertion sites. A terminal end of the assembly or the hook itself <NUM> can be employed to be placed about tissue and to engage and test tissue to identify target septa. Sharpened edges within the hook can be used to engage and cut septa that has been targeted and identified as being associated with the expression of cellulite on the skin. As shown in <FIG>, a concentric sliding tube <NUM> actuatable from a proximal end of the cellulite treatment assembly can additionally be provided to be moved proximally and distally with respect to a hook <NUM>. The tube <NUM> can include selectively sharpened edges or can be blunt to thus cooperate with the hook <NUM> to capture, cut, slice, tear or disrupt septa. The assembly can further be advanced in a spinning manner to cut or slice through septa. Employing the tube <NUM> to cut tissue results in a section being taken out of the septa as spaced cuts are simultaneous made through the septa.

As shown in <FIG>, in a related approach to treating multiple treatment sites, a cutting, slicing or disrupting assembly additionally or alternatively includes a longitudinally extendable and retractable sheath <NUM> that alternatively covers and exposes a hook <NUM>, and further embodies an extendable and retractable guillotine-like blade <NUM>. The blade <NUM> is sized and shaped to slide within an opening defined by the hook <NUM> and to cut tissues snared by the hook <NUM>. Thus, in its distal position, the sheath <NUM> facilitates the assembly to define structure suited for advancement to a treatment site. Withdrawing the sheath <NUM> through manipulation of structure connected thereto positioned at a proximal end of the assembly, exposes the hook structure <NUM>. The hook <NUM> is used to engage and capture target tissue to test if the targeted tissue is associated with the expression of cellulite on the skin. While the hook maintains the septa in a captured position, the guillotine blade <NUM> is advanced through manipulation of a proximally positioned actuator (not shown) to slice or cut captured septa to thereby eliminate or minimize the appearance of cellulite.

Turning now to <FIG>, there is shown yet another approach to a distal end portion of a cellulite treatment system <NUM>. Here, a two-segment hook assembly <NUM>, <NUM> is held together with a tensioning force (such as a spring or a wire or shaft connected thereto) on angled surfaces <NUM>. When one segment is turned relative to the other, an angle is formed between the two segments. It is to be recognized that the length of this hooked structure can be adjusted to fit a particular need. Further, selected edges of the hook assembly can be sharpened or be blunt. In one particular aspect that applies to each of the disclosed embodiments, the hook can be covered in an elastomer such that as the elastomer is tensioned, the elastomer is displaced thus exposing the sharpened edges. When untensioned, the sharpened edges are safely encased. In another approach, a spring-loaded shield can replace the elastomer. Manipulation of the two-segment hook assembly <NUM>, <NUM> within tissue and between tissue layers allows for both the engagement and identification of target septa as described herein, as well as the slicing, cutting or disruption of targeted septa.

Referring now to <FIG>, a cutting, slicing or disrupting treatment assembly is defined by a projecting linkage arrangement. A first link <NUM> includes a blade <NUM> and is rotatably attached at one end to a second link <NUM>. The opposite end of the first link <NUM> slides with respect to a longitudinal shaft <NUM>. A second end of the second link <NUM> is rotationally affixed to a distal point on the shaft <NUM>. In one embodiment, as a drive shaft <NUM> attached to the opposite end of the first link <NUM> is advanced, the links <NUM>, <NUM> fully overlap (<FIG>) to create a hook arrangement sized and shaped to engage tissues and to test septa to determine if such septa is associated with the expression of cellulite on a patient's skin. In this arrangement, the blade structure <NUM> is not exposed, but rather it is protected or covered by the second link <NUM>. When cutting or slicing action is desired, such as once selected septa are targeted, the drive shaft <NUM> is slightly retracted, thereby exposing the blade structure <NUM> to thereby present a sharp edge for cutting of hooked septa (See <FIG>). To store the links <NUM>, <NUM> away for advancement or repositioning between tissue layers, the shaft <NUM> is withdrawn completely which results in the links <NUM>, <NUM> assuming a co-linear and parallel relationship with the shaft.

In a related approach, as shown in <FIG>, the first link <NUM> defines a curved blade that is rotatably connected to a second link <NUM> that includes a generally triangular or pointed projection <NUM> that is sized and shaped to cover the blade <NUM> when the assembly is placed in a hooking configuration (See <FIG>). When the drive shaft <NUM> (shown in phantom lines) is manipulated such that the blade <NUM> is exposed (See <FIG>), the blade <NUM> can be employed to cut septa. When advancing the treatment device to and between interventional sites, the drive shaft <NUM> is withdrawn so that the assembly defines a lower profile where the first <NUM> and second links <NUM> are generally longitudinally aligned (<FIG>). As shown in <FIG>, the rotatable connection between the first <NUM> and second links <NUM> can additionally or alternatively be characterized by a slotted arrangement <NUM>. With such a connection, the projection <NUM> can be smaller, thus resulting in the overall profile of the treatment device being smaller. Notably, in a septa hooking configuration (<FIG>) after pulling the drive shaft <NUM> proximally slightly, an end of the first link <NUM> resides in a proximal position within the slot <NUM> and the smaller projection <NUM> of the second link <NUM> overlays the blade <NUM>. In a septa cutting configuration (<FIG>), the end of the first link <NUM> assumes a distal position within the slot <NUM> such that the blade <NUM> is exposed for cutting. With reference to <FIG>, in another embodiment, the first link <NUM> can also define a straight blade <NUM>. In this approach, the projection <NUM> is larger to therefore provide necessary coverage of the blade <NUM> when the device is placed in a hooking configuration (<FIG>). Each of the foregoing devices can also additionally or alternatively include other of the features disclosed herein such as structure providing transillumination and radiofrequency cutting and coagulation.

Referring to <FIG>, there is shown one embodiment of a cellulite treatment system <NUM> (described in more detail in connection with <FIG>) that can be employed to treat cellulite. As shown (<FIG>), a distal end portion of the treatment system <NUM> is configured with a treatment device <NUM>. Here, the treatment device of <FIG> is shown positioned at the distal end of the treatment device <NUM> in a hooking configuration (<FIG>). Any of the disclosed treatment devices can be so configured at the distal end of the treatment system <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the treatment device can alternatively or additionally include a wire <NUM> that is rotatably attached to the second link <NUM>. Here, a proximal portion of the wire <NUM> serves as structure that can be advanced and retracted to configure the treatment device into closed, hooking and cutting positions. Further, the wire <NUM> is formed into a coil <NUM> (See <FIG>) that provides necessary strength and robustness for moving the wire <NUM> between closed (<FIG>) and cutting (<FIG>) configurations. In a septa hooking configuration (<FIG>), the second link <NUM> covers the wire <NUM> thereby prohibiting the wire to be exposed to target septa, and the coil <NUM> aligns with the second blade <NUM>. In its closed configuration (<FIG>), the treatment device defines a low profile suited for being advanced to and between treatment targets. The proximally facing edge of the wire can be sharpened to produce a cutting edge. In addition, or alternatively, the wire can be an electrode attached to a radiofrequency generator so that the wire can be used for electrocautery or RF cutting of target tissue.

In other alternative or additional aspects, the elongate member <NUM> of a cellulite treatment device, as shown in <FIG>, can embody a tubular shape, including a lumen <NUM> extending therethrough, the lumen providing a space for a light fiber <NUM>. Notably, the remaining space not occupied by the light fiber <NUM> defines a crescent moon shape from a cross-sectional view perspective. In one approach, the tubular portion terminates at the treatment device <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, again in one or more embodiments, the lumen <NUM> of the elongate member <NUM> can be sized and shaped to individually receive one or more additional septa engaging, cutting, slicing or disrupting treatments devices <NUM> or for the injection of anesthetic, medications or other substances such as fillers or fat transfers before, during or after treatment. In one approach, a treatment site can be dosed or filled with material contemporary with or during a treatment procedure rather than using a separate device and procedure to accomplish the same. Notably, each of the disclosed embodiments can be combined to provide a combination cellulite treatment assembly in a similar manner.

In an alternative embodiment, spot treatment of septa is possible employing a cellulite treatment system <NUM> configured to address one interventional site at a time. Thus, cutting structures can be inserted perpendicular to skin to accomplish treatment or can be advanced below the skin in a direction generally parallel to the surface of the skin or angles with respect thereto. Moreover, the structures of each of the disclosed tissue engaging and cutting devices can alternatively or additionally be configured to be used for treatment. In one particular aspect, the cutting action is rotary in character, such that cutter structure spins with controlled speeds configured to cut septa in a manner dictated by observed septa structure at the interventional site. The cutter is alternatively or additionally configured to accomplish cutting action by engaging or dragging the cutter against target septa. Again, here, the degree to which the dragging is performed is dictated by the septa and septa inherent structure. In one approach, a system <NUM> includes an elongate handle <NUM> that is provided for grasping by an operator (See <FIG>). Extending longitudinally from the handle <NUM> is a needle assembly <NUM>. The needle <NUM> is configured to create an insertion site adjacent a specific cellulite target area, or directly into a dimple cellulite site. Further, it is through the needle assembly <NUM> that interventional site instrumentation is advanced to address and treat septa residing below a dimple expression on a subject's skin. Additionally, in one embodiment, a dilator can include or cooperate with a harmonic scalpel, selective cautery structure or energy transmitting structure for dissecting tissue and/or controlling bleeding. In one approach, once a correct depth is accessed, a cutting instrument is swept <NUM> degrees to cut surrounding septa. Additionally or alternatively, an endoscope can be employed in an assembly including a cutter to sever septa in a targeted manner. That is, septa that are viewed by the endoscope are targeted for severing by the cutter. Here, direct visual confirmation of a treatment is provided.

In one embodiment, the needle <NUM> can be fashioned with a stop <NUM> that is positionable along the needle <NUM> as desired or dictated by a particular procedure or anatomy. The stop <NUM> is located so that when the needle <NUM> is placed within tissue, its terminal end is positioned at a desired depth such as between tissue layers connected by septa. A side opening <NUM> is further provided at the terminal end of the needle <NUM>. It is through this side opening <NUM> that interventional devices such as cutters, scalpels, cautery structure or energy transmitting devices are advanced between tissue layers. Such devices are then employed to selectively treat the septa residing below the skin for the purpose of eliminating or reducing the appearance of cellulite. Once it is determined that the treatment has been successful, the spot cellulite treatment system <NUM> is then removed and employed at another location exhibiting cellulite.

Turning now to <FIG>, there are shown further aspects of tools employed for treatment of cellulite in alternative approaches. Such structure can also be employed as distal end structure for the cellulite treatment assembly shown in <FIG>. With reference now to <FIG>, a treatment device can be equipped with a wire that includes linkages <NUM> manipulation of which function to push out a cutting blade <NUM> arrangement that is sized and shaped to cut connective tissue. As shown in <FIG>, a distal end portion of a spot treatment device can be equipped with a wire arranged to be advanceable to define a loop <NUM>, the loop having a gauge facilitating the structure to be employed to cut tissue. Alternatively, RF energy can be employed to cut septa. <FIG> depicts a deformable hypotube <NUM> that is expandable such that two or more arms <NUM> project to define blades for cutting in another non-atraumatic approach to treatment. <FIG> illustrates a balloon structure <NUM> attached to a needle hypotube <NUM> which can be expanded below a dimple to eliminate or reduce the appearance of cellulite. Finally, in another non-atraumatic approach (<FIG>), a distal end portion of a spot treatment device can be fashioned with blades <NUM>, one to cut for deployment and at least one that is configured to rotate and cut connective tissue.

As shown in <FIG>, a dilator <NUM> can form a distal end portion of a cellulite treatment device and additionally be equipped with longitudinally extending blades <NUM> that are deployed when the dilator <NUM> is expanded. The blades <NUM> are configured to engage and cut target tissue or septa in an alternative approach to treatment. Such cutting is employed in an alternative to a non-traumatic approach and accomplished by rotating or otherwise advancing, sweeping or retracting the dilator <NUM>. The assembly is unexpanded and withdrawn from the interventional site after use such as through a tube.

In yet another treatment approach, a curved wire forming a lasso <NUM> and forming a distal end portion of a cellulite treatment assembly and being advanceable and retractable through a shaft <NUM> (<FIG>) can be deployed about septa <NUM> within a target zone. Pulling the lasso <NUM> to reduce the perimeter it defines results in cutting septa <NUM> and treating cellulite. In one aspect, the lasso is formed from nitinol wire, or is pre-formed wire or pieces thereof. The lasso <NUM> encircles targeted septa and via tightening, cuts the septa. One approach involves cutting a targeted area without shaft movement thus providing a controlled approach to treatment.

As shown in <FIG>, the lasso <NUM> can additionally or alternatively define a tube and the assembly can additionally include a wire <NUM> that is slidably configured within the tubular structure. After septa <NUM> is targeted, the lasso structure <NUM> is partially configured about the septa <NUM> by pushing it out of shaft <NUM>. The wire <NUM> is then advanced within the lasso <NUM> and out of a terminal end of the lasso <NUM> (<FIG>). The wire <NUM> is then advanced toward a slot or opening <NUM> formed in the shaft <NUM> and is retained therein. Thereafter, the lasso <NUM> is further advanced to and into engagement with the shaft <NUM> to thereby define a completed hoop or loop (<FIG>). The lasso <NUM> is then pulled tight about the target septa <NUM> to cut, slice or disrupt the septa as desired (<FIG>). Alternatively, the completed hoop can remain in its larger hooped configuration and the entire device can be pulled proximally to slice or disrupt the encircled septa. After treating the target tissue, the lasso <NUM> and wire <NUM> are pulled proximally through the shaft <NUM> so that they disengage from the slot <NUM> and are withdrawn completely or partially within the shaft <NUM> so that the treatment device can be used in additional locations.

In a related lasso treatment approach (<FIG>), there are provided a pair of elongate tubes <NUM>, <NUM> configurable in a generally parallel arrangement about target septa <NUM>. The lasso <NUM> is advanced within the first tube <NUM> and out a terminal end thereof and toward the second tube <NUM> (<FIG>). The lasso <NUM> is then captured by the second tube <NUM> so that the treatment device encircles target septa <NUM>. The assembly is then pulled proximally to cut, slice or disrupt target tissue. After treatment, the lasso <NUM> is withdrawn within the first tube <NUM> and released from engagement with the second tube <NUM>. The assembly is then positioned as necessary to treat additional areas.

An atherectomy-style cutter <NUM> (See <FIG>) also can be alternatively or additionally configured to remove tissue through an opening <NUM> on the side of the instrument, can be used in certain ancillary, more traumatic approaches to treatment. Cutting structure <NUM> is attached to an elongate actuator <NUM> via a block or other connection <NUM>. Manipulation of the actuator <NUM> causes the cutting structure <NUM> to engage targeted tissue. A lumen <NUM> is further provided as a conduit for applying a suction force to the interventional site so that severed or macerated tissue <NUM> can be removed. This device can be employed to harvest fat for subsequent placement at a site that has been treated with a dilator and used to fill the space created. The cutter <NUM> can also be employed as a primary treatment device for cutting septa to treat cellulite.

Turning now to <FIG>, there is shown one preferred embodiment of a treatment system <NUM> that can be used in connection with one or more of the previously described devices for treating target tissue. The treatment system <NUM> includes a handle <NUM> and an elongate member <NUM> extending longitudinally from the handle <NUM>. As described above, a force gauge or sensor (electronic or mechanical) can be provided to ensure that a pre-determined amount of force would be applied to the tissue when testing the septa to prevent over or under pulling. Moreover, a treatment device <NUM> capable of one or more of engaging, slicing, cutting or disrupting connective tissue is configured at a distal end portion of the elongate member <NUM>. Thus, any one or more of the treatment devices described herein can define the treatment device <NUM>. All cutting means can be combined with or further energized with RF, a laser, ultrasonic or thermal energy to produce cutting and coagulation together or separately.

The handle <NUM> is equipped with a button or sliding trigger <NUM> that is configured to slide along a top surface of the handle <NUM>. The trigger <NUM> is attached to a proximal end portion of a shaft or wire <NUM>, a distal end portion of which is associated with or attached to the treatment device <NUM>. In a closed configuration, the trigger <NUM> is positioned in its most proximal position (<FIG>), and the treatment device <NUM> maintains a generally longitudinally aligned configuration. As so configured, the treatment system <NUM> can be positioned or re-positioned to accomplish desired cellulite treatments. Moving the trigger <NUM> to its most distal position in turn causes the shaft or wire <NUM> to advance distally and place the treatment device <NUM>, for example, in a configuration for hooking target tissue (<FIG>). Withdrawing the trigger <NUM> to an intermediate position, exposes a cutting structure (such as a blade or cutting wire) to thereby configure the treatment device <NUM> for cutting, slicing or disrupting target tissue (<FIG>). Detents or other cooperating structure can be incorporated into the handle or trigger to secure the trigger in one or more positions as well as to provide a tactile feedback regarding positioning. Further, the system <NUM> can alternatively or additionally include any of the previously described functionality such as structure for providing transillumination and radiofrequency cutting and coagulation.

As shown in <FIG>, in another embodiment, the treatment system <NUM> includes a handle <NUM> and an elongate member <NUM> extending from the handle. A shaft or wire (not shown) configured within the elongate member <NUM> is attached to a treatment device <NUM> and alternatively or additionally, a rotatable trigger <NUM> is attached at a lower, distal portion of the handle <NUM>. Configured within the handle <NUM> is a slider <NUM> that is attached to the shaft or wire and is associated and cooperates with the trigger <NUM>. A constant force spring <NUM> is associated and cooperates with the slider <NUM> to retract cutting structure of the treatment device <NUM> when the trigger <NUM> is released. Further, transillumination structure is configured within the handle <NUM> and includes a battery compartment <NUM> and an electrical switch <NUM> for turning on and off a light source (e.g. LED) configured at a distal end of the treatment system <NUM>.

Pulling the trigger <NUM> completely results in configuring a treatment device <NUM> into a hooking configuration where cutting structure of the treatment device <NUM> is protected. Upon releasing the trigger <NUM> slightly, the spring <NUM> retracts the shaft or wire associated with the treatment device <NUM>, and positions the shaft or wire within a detent on the slider <NUM> to signal the user with a tactile feedback that the cutting structure of the treatment device <NUM> is exposed. Full release of the trigger <NUM> results in the spring <NUM> retracting the shaft or wire completely to thereby place the treatment device <NUM> in a closed or undeployed position. The treatment system <NUM> can then be re-positioned and manipulated again to treat additional areas.

Various additional embodiments of treatment devices are described in <FIG>. With reference to <FIG> the cutting, slicing or disrupting treatment assembly is again defined by a projecting linkage arrangement. A first link <NUM> includes a blade <NUM> and is rotatably attached at one end to a second link <NUM>. The opposite end of the first link <NUM> slides with respect to a longitudinal shaft <NUM> (shown as at least partially transparent). The shaft <NUM> defines a housing for supporting and containing the linkage arrangement. A second end of the second link <NUM> is rotationally affixed to a distal point on the shaft <NUM>. A drive shaft or push rod <NUM> is rotatably or pivotably attached to the opposite end of the first link <NUM> and the second link <NUM> includes a generally triangular or pointed projection <NUM> that is sized and shaped to shield the blade <NUM> from contacting tissue when the assembly is placed in a hooking configuration. When the push rod <NUM> is fully retracted (<FIG>), the blade <NUM> is sheathed within the body of the longitudinal shaft <NUM>. It is noted that in the fully retracted configuration that the first and second links <NUM>, <NUM> form an obtuse angle and the projection <NUM> extends a relatively small distance from an opposite side of the longitudinal shaft. When the push rod <NUM> is advanced completely to a stop, the projection <NUM> contacts the push rod <NUM> and the blade <NUM> is again protected by the projection <NUM> (<FIG>). It is in this configuration that the treatment device can be used to hook target septa and to test septa to determine if such septa is associated with the expression of cellulite on a patient's skin. Withdrawing the push rod <NUM> from its fully advanced position and on the order of about <NUM>, <NUM> (<NUM> inches) in one embodiment (See <FIG> where the blade <NUM> is shown transparent for illustrative purposes), the blade <NUM> is exposed and presented for engaging and cutting, slicing or disrupting target septa. The treatment device also has a blunt, atraumatic tip <NUM> that allows the treatment device to be advanced through the subcutaneous tissue with little trauma. In all embodiments, blunt tip <NUM> can house a light emitting diode, be a light emitting diode or house the end of a light fiber in order to facilitate transillumination through the skin for the user to use for guidance in knowing the location of the tip of the treatment device.

It is to be recognized that additionally or alternatively, the tip in any of the disclosed embodiments can be shaped so as to be characterized by or associated with a low introduction and advancement force through and within the patient's skin and anatomy, while also presenting a low likelihood of damaging tissue. Accordingly, the tip can assume bullet point or short dilator tip shapes, or can define a sharp profile or a trocar-type configuration for ease of advancement or tracking. Additionally, the tip can be retractable, reconfigurable or otherwise define a sharpened structure only when the tip is presented with a pre-determined level of resistance. In one particular approach, a spring loaded cover or shield is configured about the tip such that when presented with a defined resistance, the cover or shield is removed to expose a sharpened tip configured to facilitate advancement of the treatment device or reduce the force to cross patient anatomy.

In an alternative approach (<FIG>). the second link <NUM> includes a blade <NUM> that has a sharpened protrusion <NUM>, and the first link <NUM> functions as a blocker to shield a main portion of the blade <NUM> from contacting tissue when the treatment device is in the hooking configuration. When the treatment device is in the hooked configuration, the sharpened protrusion <NUM> extends proximally from the pivot between the first link <NUM> and second link <NUM> so that as the treatment device is pulled proximally by the user, the pivot location, as the leading portion of the device during retraction, does not get snagged in tissue but rather slices through it so the user can hook and feel resistance of septa with the main portion of the first link <NUM>. Notably, in a fully retracted position (<FIG>), the first and second links <NUM>, <NUM> define an obtuse angle and when the push rod <NUM> is advanced nearly completely (<FIG>), a majority of the blade <NUM> is protected by the second link <NUM>. As such, structure is presented in a hook-form both to encourage hook capture as well as provide a portion of unprotected blade <NUM> near the connection between the first and second <NUM>, <NUM> links. Completely advancing the push rod <NUM> fully exposes the blade <NUM> for cutting, slicing or disrupting target septa (See <FIG> showing the first blade as transparent for illustrative purposes) as the treatment device is retracted proximally by the user.

In employing one or more of the disclosed embodiments in a treatment procedure, there is an expectation that there are instances where it is preferable to not disrupt a hooked septa, and in such a case it is desireable to release or disengage the hooked septa. In certain approaches, to release or disengage, the treatment device would be advanced or twisted away from the hooked septa. It is thus recognized that a challenge exists in that there may be additional septa or other tissue in the area which could be unintentionally re-engaged by the treatment device when it is in a hooking configuration, and stowing of the treatment device may be inhibited by adjacent patient anatomy. With reference to <FIG>, treatment devices that include a hinge link arrangement <NUM>, <NUM> or similar structure that transition from a hooked configuration (<FIG>) toward a stowed configuration (<FIG>) by pivoting relative to the longitudinal shaft <NUM>, benefit from the blocking link <NUM> (or similar structure) moving to push septa <NUM> or other tissue away from the treatment device as the treatment device is being sheathed or stowed. This action requires no additional advancement of the treatment device within patient anatomy and ensures that septa <NUM> or other tissue do not become undesirably entrapped. Moreover, when being stowed the links <NUM>, <NUM> dislodge any tissue that might have become captured within the longitudinal shaft <NUM> and the links <NUM>, <NUM> ultimately occupy such spaces within the longitudinal shaft <NUM>.

Turning now to <FIG>, there is shown yet another approach to a treatment device. Here, there are provided two parallel arranged and articulating first links <NUM>, <NUM> arranged to block or shield a blade <NUM> attached to or forming an edge of a second link <NUM>. The first links <NUM>, <NUM> each define a curved or yoke-shaped member with a unique profile designed to selectively shield the second link <NUM>, a first end <NUM> of each rotatably or pivotably attached to a pusher <NUM> and second ends <NUM> rotatably or pivotably attached to the second link <NUM>. The parallel arranged first links <NUM>, <NUM> provide additional strength for the hooking and cutting positions. When the push rod <NUM> is fully retracted (<FIG> and <FIG>), a curved portion of the first links <NUM>, <NUM> projects from an opposite side of the longitudinal shaft <NUM> (shown at least partially transparent) from which the links extend when deployed for hooking or cutting, slicing or disrupting septa. To present tissue hooking structure, the push rod <NUM> is advanced so that the first links <NUM>, <NUM> completely shield or block the blade <NUM> (See <FIG> and <FIG>; one first link <NUM> is shown as transparent for illustrative purposes in <FIG>) from contacting tissue. Advancing the push rod <NUM> completely operates to fully expose the blade <NUM> (See <FIG> and <FIG>) and thus present the blade <NUM> for cutting, slicing or disrupting target tissue.

As shown in <FIG>, a treatment device can alternatively or additionally include first and second push rods <NUM>, <NUM>, the first push rod <NUM> configured to manipulate an articulating or pivoting first link <NUM> and the second push rod <NUM> configured to manipulate an articulating or pivoting second link <NUM> that includes a blade <NUM> surface. When the push rods <NUM>, <NUM> are in a fully advanced position (<FIG> and <FIG>), the first <NUM> and second <NUM> links are generally parallel and stowed within the longitudinal shaft <NUM> (shown at least partially transparent). Withdrawing the push rods <NUM>, <NUM> operate to project the first <NUM> and second <NUM> links from the stowed position (See <FIG>, C, E, F). Withdrawing the push rods equally results in the first link <NUM> overlaying yet fully exposing the blade <NUM> (<FIG> and <FIG>) for cutting, slicing or disrupting target tissue, but when the push rod <NUM> associated with the first link <NUM> is advanced to a different degree than the second push rod <NUM>, a portion of the blade <NUM> can be shielded or blocked by the first link <NUM> (<FIG>) thereby presenting structure for hooking target tissue, or a portion of the blade <NUM> can be shielded (<FIG>) thus presenting both hooking and cutting structures. This embodiment could also have blunt tip <NUM>.

In additional or alternative aspects, the robustness of the blade mechanism of a treatment device can be enhanced by strengthening pivot points, increasing strength of the longitudinal shaft and improving blade concealment during insertion and advancement within and hooking of tissue. As shown in <FIG>, a welded pin or swaged tube <NUM> can be used at the connection between first <NUM> and second link or links <NUM>. Also, mechanical joining such as a welded pin or swaged tube can form the connection between second link or links <NUM> and a distal portion of the longitudinal shaft <NUM>. Such pivot points can in one or more embodiments be defined by about <NUM> (<NUM> inch) diameter pins or tubes, for example, and can be used at one or more rotating or pivoting connections of a treatment system. Moreover, as best seen in <FIG>, a first link <NUM> including a blade <NUM> can be configured between a pair of second links <NUM> (one link shown as transparent) rather than concealed by or cooperating with a single first link <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, in an alternative or additional approach, a treatment system lacks projecting structure when the links <NUM>, <NUM> are fully retracted and housed within the longitudinal shaft <NUM> (<FIG>). The first link <NUM> acting as a blocking or blunt element can be spring loaded so that it shields the blade <NUM> formed on the second link <NUM> (<FIG>) until a critical force is achieved and then the blade <NUM> is presented (<FIG>) for cutting, slicing or disrupting target septa. After cutting or slicing, the blade <NUM> can be configured to automatically be re-sheathed or an actuator such as a button can be provided to re-sheath the blade <NUM>. In such approaches, there is two positions of the links, namely sheathed and deployed. The same reduces the overall force requirements since there is not a condition where a user employs the hooking structure at too high of a force. Thus, the blade <NUM> is fully sheathed or contained within the longitudinal shaft <NUM> during navigation, and deployed when necessary. In this way, the longitudinal shaft <NUM> can be formed from a hypotube for example, with fewer cuts for ejecting and storing the links <NUM>, <NUM>. Such structure or related functionality can be incorporated into any of the disclosed embodiments to thus provide spring-loaded cutting to require a certain, controlled amount of force to expose the blade for cutting. This embodiment could also have blunt tip <NUM>.

In a related approach (See <FIG>), the blocking or hooking function is provided by a pair of curved or angled first links <NUM>. In a stowed configuration, the curved or angled links <NUM> project from an opposite side of the longitudinal shaft <NUM> from the deployed or treatment side of the shaft <NUM> (<FIG>). However, like the immediately preceding approach, the blocking or shielding first links <NUM> are spring loaded so that they reside on opposite sides and shield the blade <NUM> (<FIG>) until a critical force is achieved and then the blade is exposed (<FIG>) for cutting, slicing or disrupting target septa. Again here, after cutting or slicing, the blade <NUM> can be configured to automatically be re-sheathed or an actuator such as a button can be provided to re-sheath the blade <NUM>, and there is two positions of the links, namely sheathed and deployed.

With reference now to <FIG>, there is shown a handle <NUM> of a treatment device that includes a trigger or slider assembly <NUM> that includes a depressible button <NUM>. The handle <NUM> includes a track <NUM> along which the button <NUM> is registered. Such an arrangement can be incorporated into one or more of the previously disclosed treatment systems. As shown in <FIG>, the button <NUM>, in one embodiment, is biased relative to the track <NUM> by a helical spring <NUM>. The slider assembly <NUM> is attached to a drive shaft or pusher <NUM> that is connected to and facilitates manipulation of a treatment device (not shown). The button <NUM> is depressible to release a locking or other engagement between the button <NUM> and the track <NUM> so that the slider assembly <NUM> can be slid relative to the handle <NUM>. Releasing the button <NUM> results in allowing the button to engage the track <NUM> and slide into locking engagement with one of a series of cut-outs <NUM> formed in the track <NUM>. It is to be noted that when not locked to the track <NUM>, the button <NUM> of slider assembly can engage and slide along the track <NUM> between locking positions. Such cut-outs <NUM> are arranged and located so that when the slider assembly <NUM> is locked to the track <NUM>, the treatment device is positioned in one or more of sheathed, hooking or cutting positions within tissue and relative to target septa. A secure engagement between the slider assembly <NUM> and the handle <NUM> is thus provided as is tactile feel to the user concerning the positioning and state or configuration of the treatment device. As shown in <FIG>, rather than a helical spring, the button <NUM> is biased by a leaf spring <NUM>. Also, here, the button <NUM> is configured to be separately actuatable and defines an independently depressible structure from the sliding structure of the slider assembly <NUM> to thereby provide alternative discrete control of sliding and locking functions.

Futher approaches to treatment systems are depicted in <FIG>. As shown in <FIG>, a treatment system <NUM> includes a handle assembly <NUM> that includes a slider <NUM> biased by a spring <NUM>, the slider <NUM> is configured to be translated along a portion of a body <NUM> of the handle assembly <NUM>. A button <NUM> projects vertically from an upper surface of the slider <NUM>, the button <NUM> being connected to or associated with a boss <NUM> that rides within a slot formed in the slider <NUM>. The boss <NUM> also slides along and is configured to be registered along a ramp <NUM> or other engaging structure formed within the handle body <NUM>. Also, rotatably attached to the slider <NUM> is a lever <NUM> that includes a curved slot <NUM> that receives a boss <NUM> projecting from a bracket <NUM>. Each of the slider <NUM> and the bracket <NUM> are attached to one or more longitudinally extending members <NUM> that is/are associated with a treatment device <NUM> attached at a terminal end portion thereof (See <FIG>). Attached to the proximal end of the handle assembly <NUM> is an optional light and energy source unit <NUM>, for example, a light emitting diode and battery. Extending distally through the handle assembly <NUM> and longitudinal shaft of the treatment device <NUM> to the distal portion of the longitudinal shaft is a light fiber (not shown) to transmit light from the light and energy source unit <NUM> to the distal portion of the treatment device <NUM> to provide transillumination through the skin for the user.

In a treatment device stowed position (See <FIG> and <FIG>), the slider <NUM> is in its most proximal position and the spring <NUM> is mostly compressed. As the slider <NUM> is translated forward (<FIG> and <FIG>), the spring <NUM> is extended and the slider boss <NUM> becomes temporarily and fixedly registered along the ramp <NUM>. Due to this action, the longitudinally extending member <NUM> is advanced to manipulate the treatment device <NUM>. It is in this configuration that the treatment device <NUM> is in a deployed but covered configuration intended for hooking or otherwise engaging target septa. By subsequently depressing the rotatable lever <NUM>, through the interaction of the lever <NUM> and the bracket <NUM>, the longitudinally extending member <NUM> is advanced slightly further in a distal direction to uncover a treatment device sharpened link or blade <NUM> (See <FIG> and <FIG>), the sharpened link or blade <NUM> being configured for cutting, slicing or disrupting septa. Notably, a spring (not shown) is configured between the lever <NUM> and bracket <NUM> to bias the lever <NUM> to return the treatment device <NUM> to a locked and hook configuration. After desired manipulation of the treatment device <NUM> at an interventional site, the slider button <NUM> is depressed to release the engagement between the slider boss <NUM> and the ramp <NUM> to thereby permit the spring <NUM> to return the slider <NUM> to its most proximal position and to stow away the treatment device <NUM> for further use or removal from the interventional site. In alternative approach, the system <NUM> would lack the lever <NUM> and an additional spring (not shown) is configured to only allow advancement of the bracket <NUM> when the treatment device <NUM> is presented with a pre-determined resistance, at which time the blade <NUM> is permitted to be exposed. In this way, the tool is more easy to use and the cutting step subsequent to hooking septa is less likely to be omitted.

In another approach (<FIG>), the treatment system <NUM> includes a handle assembly <NUM> that includes a slider <NUM> biased by a spring <NUM>, the slider <NUM> also being configured to be translated along a portion of a body <NUM> of the handle assembly <NUM>. Here, rather than providing a button to unlock the slider <NUM>, the slider <NUM> is configured to rotate with respect to the body <NUM> and the slider <NUM> itself includes a boss <NUM> that slides along and is configured to be registered along a ramp <NUM> or other engaging structure formed within the handle body <NUM>. Also, here, rotatably attached to the slider <NUM> is a lever <NUM> that includes a curved slot <NUM> that receives a boss <NUM> projecting from a bracket <NUM>. Each of the slider <NUM> and the bracket <NUM> are attached to one or more longitudinally extending members <NUM> that is/are associated with a treatment device attached at a terminal end portion thereof (Not shown, but for example like the structures depicted in <FIG>).

When a treatment device is in a stowed position (See <FIG>), the slider <NUM> is in its most proximal position and the spring <NUM> is mostly compressed. As the slider <NUM> is translated forward (<FIG>), the spring <NUM> is extended and the slider boss <NUM> becomes temporarily and fixedly registered along the ramp <NUM>, and the longitudinally extending member <NUM> is advanced to manipulate the treatment device. It is in this configuration that the treatment device is in a deployed but covered configuration intended for hooking or otherwise engaging target septa. Thereafter, by depressing the rotatable lever <NUM>, through the interaction of the lever <NUM> and the bracket <NUM>, the longitudinally extending member <NUM> is advanced slightly further in a distal direction to uncover a treatment device sharpened link or blade (See <FIG>). In this configuration, the treatment device is configured to cut, slice or disrupt target septa. A spring (not shown) is configured between the lever <NUM> and bracket <NUM> to bias the lever <NUM> to return the treatment device to a locked and hook configuration. After desired manipulation of the treatment device at an interventional site, the slider <NUM> is depressed and rotated to release the engagement between the slider boss <NUM> and the ramp <NUM> to thereby permit the spring <NUM> to return the slider <NUM> to its most proximal position and to stow away the treatment device.

As shown in <FIG>, the treatment device <NUM> can additionally or alternatively include a handle assembly <NUM> that includes a slider <NUM> configured to slide along a body of the handle assembly <NUM>. When the slider <NUM> is in its most proximal position (<FIG>), the treatment device (not shown) is in a stowed position. The slider <NUM> is attached to a pair of rotatable, angled members <NUM>, <NUM>, the ends of each of which are rotatably attached to the the handle body and to the slider <NUM>, respectively. The forwardly positioned rotatable member <NUM> further includes an extension <NUM> that is rotatably attached to a rotatable bracket <NUM> that is in turn rotatably attached to a longitudinally extending member <NUM> that has a treatment device (not shown) attached to a distal end portion thereof. A button <NUM> projects vertically from the slider <NUM> and the button <NUM> is associated with a boss <NUM> that is configured to be registered along a portion of the body of the handle assembly <NUM> (See <FIG>). When so positioned with the slider <NUM> advanced along the handle body and the boss <NUM> registered within a recess <NUM> formed in the handle body, the treatment device is deployed but covered at least partially to present structure for hooking or engaging target septa. By depressing the button <NUM>, the boss <NUM> of the slider <NUM> can be disengaged from the recess <NUM> to thereby permit the slider <NUM> to be advanced further distally. In doing so, the longitudinally extending member <NUM> can be advanced further to expose a cutting portion of a treatment device for cutting, slicing or engaging tissue and accomplishing desired interventional treatments. The slider <NUM> can then be returned to either of the stowed or deployed but covered positions as desired for further interventional steps. Accordingly, this approach provides a mechanism that scales up small movements of the handle assembly so that the configuration of the treatment device (e.g., contained, hook or cut positions) is made more obvious to the user.

In the previous embodiments described, a "ball point pen" type of mechanism can be used in the handle assembly such that after the hook and/or sharpened edge have torn or cut through septa, the linkage automatically restows upon a sudden reduction in force on the linkage as it tears or cuts through the septa.

In another embodiment, a coil is deployed from the distal portion of the treatment device and rotated to wind the septa into the coil to re-create the targeted cellulite on the skin surface, then the coil is pulled by the user to disrupt or cut the septa or a cutter is used to sever the septa.

Accordingly, various approaches to cellulite treatment methods and apparatus are presented. The disclosed approaches are configured to provide an effective and focused approach to treating, minimizing and preventing cellulite. The disclosed approaches can also be used to repair and reduce the appearance of cellulite in a targeted manner. Further, the disclosed proactive treatment modalities are easy and effective to use.

Some of the specific aspects of the present disclosure include one or more of focal treatment of just the septa responsible for causing dimples or depressions in the skin; minimizing bruising; accessing all treatment targets from limited, cosmetically acceptable entries; capture and retention of septa while separating the septa; intra-operative confirmation of treated target; needle-diameter sized tools for small openings; and transillumination identification of tool tip location.

While the present disclosure has been described with reference to the specific embodiments thereof, it should be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made without departing from the true scope of the disclosure. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation, material, composition of matter, process, process step or steps, to the scope of the present disclosure. All such modifications are intended to be within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claim 1:
A cellulite treatment apparatus for treating expressions of cellulite on a patient's skin associated with a septa treatment site, comprising:
a handle (<NUM>);
a shaft (<NUM>) longitudinally extending from the handle, the shaft sized and shaped to be inserted within tissue and to be advanced between tissue layers to the septa treatment site; and
a septa engaging and cutting assembly (<NUM>, <NUM>) at a distal portion of the shaft, the septa engaging and cutting assembly including a blade (<NUM>);
and comprising an actuator (<NUM>) on the handle to actuate the septa engaging and cutting assembly, wherein the actuator positions the septa engaging and cutting assembly in at least a concealed position, a septa tensioning position where the septa engaging assembly is deployed and configured to tension septa and the blade is covered and a septa disruption position where the septa engaging assembly is deployed and the blade is exposed to disrupt septa, wherein the septa engaging and cutting assembly is configured to be deployed laterally with respect to the shaft.