A vascular closure system includes a swellable or bioabsorbable sealing element and a plunger advancement tool. The sealing element and plunger advancement tool is configured to be inserted into the inside of a tubular medical device (such as a vascular introducer sheath, catheter, cannula, trocar, electrode wire, etc.) with the sealing element being advanced distally past the end of the tubular medical device to a desired area within the body (near or at least partially within an arteriotomy, for example) by the plunger. Once in contact with blood (or other fluid) the sealing element may swell, sealing the puncture site. The system may include one of several different features designed to assist the physician to position the sealing element in the desired location. Additional versions of the system described herein can be used for cardiovascular applications where hemostasis (temporary or permanent) is desired. Additionally, the system can be used with simple modifications for any vessel, area on, in or near any vessel, tissue area, tubular structure, duct, organ, hollow body cavity, chamber, tissue wall, or any other structures or tissues, where temporary or permanent sealing, plugging, reduction of flow, reduction of an open space, stabilization or reinforcement is needed. The system is adaptable for use in cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, neurological, reproductive, lymphatic, respiratory, and orthopedic procedures.
