ДЕРЖАТЕЛЬ ЗОНДА

ПРОВОЛОЧНЫЙ НАПРАВИТЕЛЬ

... 1. Проволочный направитель (10), содержащий:удлиненный направляющий элемент (14), имеющий размеры, обеспечивающие его вставку в сосуд тела пациента, задающий продольную ось (А) и имеющий задний (16) и передний (18) концевые участки, причем передний концевой участок (18) имеет поперечный размер, который меньше поперечного размера заднего концевого участка (16), и содержит по меньшей мере один выступ (21), расположенный на этом концевом участке (18), причем первый поперечный размер указанного по меньшей мере одного выступа (21) больше, чем соответствующий первый поперечный размер переднего концевого участка (18), контактирующего с указанным по меньшей мере одним выступом (21).2. Направитель (10) по п.1, в котором передний концевой участок (18) содержит по меньшей мере два выступа (21), расположенных на расстоянии друг от друга в осевом направлении вдоль переднего конца.3. Направитель (10) по п.2, в котором два выступа (21) имеют отличные друг от друга поперечные размеры.4. Направитель (10 ...

УСТРОЙСТВО С ОСВЕЩАЮЩИМ ПРОВОЛОЧНЫМ НАПРАВИТЕЛЕМ ДЛЯ ОСВЕЩЕНИЯ НОСОВЫХ ПАЗУХ

... 1. Освещающее устройство с проволочным направителем, содержащее:удлиненный гибкий корпус, имеющий проксимальный конец, дистальный конец, выполненный с возможностью размещения в месте проведения вмешательства в теле пациента, и просвет, проходящий через корпус от проксимального конца до дистального конца, при этом корпус содержит по меньшей мере первую часть из первого материала и вторую часть из второго материала, при этом первая и вторая части соединены вместе при помощи первого соединительного элемента и второго соединительного элемента;по меньшей мере одно освещающее волокно, продолжающееся через просвет корпуса;по меньшей мере один несущий элемент, продолжающийся по меньшей мере через просвет корпуса, в котором размещены первый соединительный элемент и второй соединительный элемент, и причем первый соединительный элемент связывает первую часть корпуса с несущим элементом, а второй соединительный элемент связывает первую часть корпуса со второй частью корпуса и несущим элементом.2. Устройство ...

AUSTAUSCHFüHRUNGSDRAHT MIT ALTERNIERENDEN BäNDERN

Gerät zur Positionierung einer Emboliespule

AUTOMATISCH ANGEPASSTER LENKBARER PCTA FÜHRUNGSDRAHT

Medizinisches Gerät zur Druckmessung in einem Blutgefäß

Gefässkatheter.

Katheterführung und Führungsdrahts zur Durchführung eines schnellen Katheteraustausches.

Guide wire for surgical instrument with wire core

The wire core (1) has a rear section (2) with a larger dia., and a front section (3) with a smaller dia., with both sections adjacent to each other, while forming an annular shoulder (5) abutted by a spinal spring (6) surrounding the front wire core section. The spinal spring is secured to the wire core at least in the shoulder region. The outer dia. (dl) of the front core section is slightly larger than the inner dia. (di) of the spiral spring in an end section (4), adjacent to the annular shoulder and extending axially max. over a few spring turns. Otherwise the front section outer dia. is smaller than the spring inner dia.

FÜHRUNGSDRAHT MIT GERINGER MASSE ZUR DREHMOMENT-ÜBERTRAGUNG

Führungsdraht mit biegsamer distalen Spitze

Energy delivery device for endovascular occlusion

An energy delivery guide wire 10 comprises a guide wire proximal portion 12, a guide wire distal portion 14 and an energy delivery tip 16 extending fromthe distal portion. The energy delivery tip has a proximal tip end 18 and a distal tip end 20. The guide wire distal portion 14 extends in a first direction in an unbiased condition and the energy delivery tip 16 extends in a second direction different from the first direction and is preferably curved. The distal tip end 20 is accordingly offset relative to the first direction bybetween 10 to 50% of the tip length. The energy delivery tip is preferably an electrode capable of heating tissue to cause ablation and thereby occlusion of blood vessels. The electrode may be formed with an electrically conductive core and an external conductive wire coil. The curvature of the guide wire is configured to contact a vessel wall 15 at a first contact point 26 at the proximal tip of the energy delivery tip and a second contact point 28 at the distal ...

WITH POLYMER OF COVERINGS GUIDANCE WIRE

MARKING GUIDANCE WIRES

GUIDANCE WIRE AS EMBOLIESCHUTZ WITH ACTIVATE-CASH ATTACK AND FILTER

GUIDANCE WIRE FOR A CATHETER

A ONE IN IT DEVICE AND A MEDICAL HOSE SET

WIRE-ROD GUIDES WITH NEW OUTER LAYER RANGES AND CHAMBERS FOR THE IMPROVEMENT OF THE HYDROPHILIC CHARACTERISTICS AND DELIVERY OF THERAPEUTIC ACTIVE SUBSTANCES

CATHETER GUIDANCE WIRE SYSTEM WITH CONCENTRIC WIRES

GUIDANCE WIRE COMMUNICATION DEVICE

GUIDANCE WIRE TO THE USE WITH THE MEASUREMENT OF A FLOW DIRECTION IN A CONTAINER

GEF�SSFILTERSYSTEM

MEDICAL GUIDANCE WIRE

GUIDANCE WIRE MECHANISM WITH A ROTARY ELECTRICAL CONNECTING PIECE.

CONNECTING CONSTRUCTION FOR A MEDICAL GUIDANCE WIRE

ENDOVASKULÄRE ELECTROLYTIC SEPARABLE ONE GUIDANCE WIRE POINT

MORE ENDOVASKULÄRER, ELECTROLYTIC SEPARABLE WIRE FOR THE FORMATION OF THROMBEN

ENDOVASKULÄRE, ELECTROLYTIC SEPARABLE ONE GUIDANCE WIRE POINT

PROCEDURE FOR THE PRODUCTION OF A GUIDANCE WIRE

EINSTÜCKIGES GUIDANCE PART AND PROCEDURE FOR MANUFACTURING THE SAME

GUIDANCE WIRE FROM SUPERELASTIC ALLOY

CORE WIRE ASSEMBLY FOR GUIDEWIRE

An apparatus and method of manufacture includes a helical wire coil and a core wire assembly. The core wire assembly includes a core wire and a sleeve. The core wire extends through the helical wire coil and is formed from a first material that is non-extensible. The sleeve has a longitudinal bore. The core wire is disposed within the longitudinal bore of the sleeve. The core wire is secured within the sleeve. The sleeve is formed from a second material. The second material of the sleeve is different than the first material of the core wire. The sleeve is attached to the distal wire coil such that core wire inhibits longitudinal elongation of the proximal and distal wire coils along the longitudinal coil axis. Fl 1 40 26 x-20 64) Fig.1A 1-4 110 64) Fig.1 B ...

DOPPLER TIP GUIDE WIRE BLOOD FLOW VELOCITY MEASUREMENT

Producing a guideware comprising a position sensor

A method for producing a guidewire, the method includes producing a position sensor by providing a shaft section having a solid profile, which is sized and shaped 5 to move in an anatomical material transportation system. A wire is wound around an axis of the shaft-section and first and second ends of the wire are coupled to respective first and second locations on an outer surface of the shaft section. A guidewire-shaft is provided, and the position 10 sensor is coupled to a distal end of the guidewire-shaft.

Device and method for delivering and deploying intraluminal devices

Intravascular treatment site access

The embodiments presented herein relate to concepts designed to eliminate the gap between a catheter and guide wire that can otherwise contribute to a catheter getting stuck within the vasculature.

High pressure transluminal fluid delivery device

PROBE HEAD

Dock exchange system for composite guide wires

Medical guidewire and method for making

Atraumatic fluid delivery devices

Core or guide wire with shapable tip

GUIDE WIRE

MEDICAL DEVICE WITH COLLAPSE-RESISTANT LINER AND METHOD OF MAKING SAME

A medical device for guiding through anatomy, such as a catheter or guidewire, with a tubular body that has been slotted to enhance bending flexibility, and a polymer liner with an anti-collapsing structure, and a method of making a medical device with a kink-resistant corrugated tubular member and an anti- collapsing structure. Anti collapsing structures may be helical or annular, and may be wire, such as ribbon wire, grooves in the liner, corrugations, or a braid. Liners may be bonded to the anti~collapsing structure, or may have two layers, with the anti-collapsing structure between the layers. Corrugations may be formed between sections of the anti-collapsing 'structure with heat, pressure, stretching, compression, a mold, or a combination thereof, and may extend inward or outward. Shape or wall thickness may vary along the length to provide a varying bending stiffness. Slots may be formed in groups of two, three, or more, and adjacent groups may be rotated about the axis forming a ...

DISTAL TIP PORTION FOR A GUIDE WIRE

Methods and devices relating to guidewires. In one embodiment, a distal tip portion of a guidewire comprises a first tip member and a second tip member. The first tip member has a first end, and a second end. The second tip member has a distal portion and a proximal portion. The first and second tip members are coupled together, preferably in an arrangement that can effect the flexibility of the guidewire at certain points along its length.

GUIDEWIRE WITH ADJUSTABLE STIFFNESS

A medical guidewire system comprising a first inner member (20) having a firs outer diameter, a second intermediate member (30) having a second outer diameter larger than the first outer diameter, and a third outer member (40 ) having a third diameter larger than the second outer diameter of the secon d member. The second member (30) has a longitudinal extending opening to rec eiv the first member (20) for sliding movement with respect to the first mem ber and the third outer member has a longitudinally extending opening to rec eive the second member (30) for sliding movement with respect to the first a nd second member. The first member has a first stiffness, the third member h as a third stiffness greater than the first stiffness, and the second member is movable to stiffen the guidewire system.

GUIDE WIRE

The invention relates to a guide wire (100) for a catheter, which is designed to introduce and/or remove fluids in human and/or animal hollow organs, in particular in blood vessels, comprising an elongated hollow shaft (110) having a lumen (120) for delivering and/or leading away the fluid, and an insertion aid in the form of a flexible wire coil (150) connected coaxially to a distal end (117) of the hollow shaft (110), the wire coil having a guide wire tip (170) arranged at a distal end (153) of the wire coil, a core wire (130) being arranged in the lumen (120) of the hollow shaft (110) in order to control the flexibility of the guide wire (100), the core wire extending out of the lumen (120) in a longitudinal direction and through the wire coil (150) to the guide wire tip (170), the guide wire being characterized in that a distal inner area (151) of the wire coil (150) adjacent to the guide wire tip (170) in a proximal direction communicates with the lumen (120) of the hollow shaft (110 ...

GUIDE WIRE FOR CATHETERS

Guide wire comprising an elongate flexible cylindrical element formed of metallic material having high torsional capability and having a proximal portion ranging from .008 to .020 inches and a distal portion having a diameter of less than .007 inches. It also comprises a coil formed of metallic material and secured to the distal portion and an additional coil formed of a material which is different from the material of which the first named coil is formed and which is substantially radiopaque secured to the distal extremity of the first named coil. In addition, it comprises a tip having a rounded conformation secured to the distal extremity of the last named coil.

SMALL DIAMETER STEERABLE GUIDEWIRE WITH ADJUSTABLE TIP

A small diameter (no greater than about 0.020" diameter) steerable guidewire for cardiovascular surgical procedures or the like is provided with a means by which the curvature at the distal tip of the guidewire can be adjustable by control applied at the proximal end of the guidewire whereby the curve at the distal end of the guidewire can be adjusted without requiring removal of the guidewire from the patient.

STEERABLE GUIDEWIRE

A small diameter steerable guidewire with uniform flexibility in its distal region particularly well suited for PTCA use is provided. The guidewire has a diameter of less than 0.50 mm and is formed from an elongated substantially cylindrical main core wire with a distal cylindrical region of reduced diameter at the distal end of the core wire. A safety wire is attached to the distal end of the region of reduced diameter and a safety tip attached to the distal end of the safety wire and coil. The safety wire and coil may be formed of a radio opaque material so the position of the wire can be accurately determined when in use.

GUIDEWIRE WITH SUPERELASTIC CORE

A medical guidewire including a tapered corewire formed from a superelastic material and a hypotube extending around the outer surface over a portion of the corewire resulting in improved torque characteristics for the guidewire.

THROMBECTOMY CATHETER AND METHODS OF USE

A thrombectomy catheter with a catheter or delivery sheath having a dual lumen extending therethrough, the catheter having a proximal segment and a distal segment and a linear section coupled therebetween, the distal segment configured as a loop, a port or aperture formed therein said dual lumen of said catheter, the port positioned proximate the distal segment, and a guidewire configured to longitudinally traverse therethrough one of the dual lumen of the catheter, said guidewire having a first end affixed to a mesh strainer, the mesh strainer configured to longitudinally traverse therethrough the other of the dual lumen of the catheter and exit therethrough said port and follow said loop to form retractable mesh strainer.

COMPOSITE GUIDEWIRE

Alternative designs, materials and manufacturing methods for guidewires. Some embodiments pertain to a composite guidewire having proximal (14) and distal (16) section, and a connector (18) adapted and configured for permanently joining the proximal section (14) to the distal section (16). In some embodiments, at least one of the sections (16) is made of a linear-elastic nickel-titanium alloy. Several alternative guidewire tip designs including coiled safety/shaping structures are also disclosed.

SENSOR MOUNTED FLEXIBLE GUIDEWIRE

A flexible guidewire comprising a hollow tube, having a proximal section and a distal section, the distal section having a distal tip, the outer diameter of the distal section gradually decreasing toward the distal tip, the outer diameter of the distal tip being larger than the smallest outer diameter of the distal section, the flexible guidewire further comprising a plug coupled with the distal tip of the hollow tube for creating a non--traumatic tip, and the flexible guidewire further comprising a tubular spring, being place around the distal section of the hollow tube for maintaining the outer diameter of the hollow tube over the length thereof and for supporting compressive loads.

GUIDE FOR CATHETERISM

The invention relates to the use of a guide for the selective catheterism of anatomic structures and for placing therapeutic instruments.

GUIDEWIRE

A guidewire for use in a medical procedure includes an elongate guide member dimensioned for insertion within a body vessel of a subject. The guide member includes an elongate body segment and a leading tip segment. The elongate body segment defines a longitudinal opening, and the leading tip segment is adapted and dimensioned to articulate relative to the elongate body segment about a single axis. A control element extends through the longitudinal opening of the elongate body segment and is longitudinally movable through manual manipulation of a clinician to cause corresponding articulating movement of the leading tip segment.

STEERABLE GUIDE WIRE FOR TUBULAR CANNULATION

... 2083043 9117698 PCTABS00008 A steerable guide wire (5) for cannulation of tubular or vascular organs. The guide wire has a distal end (12) and a proximal end (14). The guide wire (5) has at least one coil (20) forming a helix (15) near the distal end (12) of the guide wire (5) to aid in the negotiation through tubular or vascular organs such as endoscopic retrograde or antegrade cannulation of the cystic duct. A removable clamp (35) is secured to the proximal end (14) of the guide wire (5) to allow the user to apply torsional and longitudinal force to steer the guide wire (5) into position.

CATHETER GUIDE WIRE

A catheter guide wire (10) comprising: a flexible, torqueable proximal wire section (13), a more flexible intermediate section (14) with a flexible polymer tube covering (19), and a most flexible distal end section (15). A helical ribbon coil (22) is wrapped about the intermediate core segment between the wire core and the polymer tube covering to increase radiopacity and improve torque transmission while retaining flexibility.

JOINT CONSTRUCTION FOR A MEDICAL GUIDE WIRE

A device for use in measuring a characteristic of liquid flow in a vessel includes a flexible elongate tubular element having proximal and distal extremities and having a wall defining a passage extending therethrough. A coil spring carried by the distal extremity of the flexible elongate element has a distal extremity that carries a transducer. Conductive means connected to the transducer extends interiorly of the coil spring and of the passage in the flexible elongate tubular element.

GUIDE CATHETER AND GUIDEWIRE SYSTEM FOR EFFECTING RAPID CATHETER EXCHANGE

B0410/7086 July 13, 1989 0225e A system and method for effecting rapid exchange of catheters over a guidewire. A gripping mechanism is provided on one of a guide catheter and a guidewire to grip the other of the guide catheter and guidewire proximate to the distal end of the guide catheter. When engaged, the gripping mechanism inhibits movement between the guidewire and the guide catheter when a first catheter is exchanged with a second catheter over the guidewire.

GUIDE WIRE

A guide wire comprises a main shaft which has a tapered distal end with an anchor formed at the tip of the distal end. A ball-shaped abutment is formed over the anchor at the distal end of the guide wire to limit movement of an over-the-wire catheter past the abutment. The portion of the main shaft immediately proximal to the abutment is flattened into a ribbon to bias bending of the guide wire's distal end and a radiopaque coil surrounds the ribbon and has one end attached to the abutment and its other end attached to the main shaft.

MEDICAL APPLIANCE FOR PRESSURE MEASUREMENT IN A BLOOD VESSEL

The medical appliance comprises an elongated tubular shaft (1) with a lumen (4) extending therethrough and slots (5) in the distal area (3) for pressure medium entry into the lumen. A stiffening means in the form of an independent wire extends through the lumen (4) with its proximal area (15) extending proximally of the shaft (1). The proximal area (2) of shaft (1) is affixed to a luer-lock (16) comprising a housing (17) with an inner cavity (24) and a dismal end forming a muff fixedly and tightly sealed on the proximal end (19) of the shaft.

INTRAVASCULAR GUIDE WIRE AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURE THEREOF

TRACKING GUIDEWIRE

A guidewire and guidewire assembly (10) for placement within a blood vessel for penetrating an occlusion therein. The guidewire comprises a length of flexible wire (12) having a concentric lumen (14) running its entire length and a distal end portion (20) having an arcuate tip (22) and a diameter greater than that of the wire immediately proximal thereto. The guidewire assembly comprises the guidewire described along with a flexible stylet (32) substantially the same length as the flexible wire and disposed within the lumen of the wire. In operation, the distal end portion is positioned in the blood vessel against an occlusion, and a dottering action is thereafter provided whereby the distal end portion repeatedly impinges on the occlusion until penetration of the occlusion occurs.

SMALL-DIAMETER SUPERELASTIC WIRE GUIDE

GUIDEWIRE HAVING A DISTAL TIP THAT CAN CHANGE ITS SHAPE WITHIN A VESSEL

In accordance with the present invention there is provided a guidewire for navigating through body vessels. The guidewire has a proximal end, a distal end and a longitudinal axis extending therebetween. The guidewire has an outer tube with proximal and distal ends. The outer tube is made from a material exhibiting substantially no shape memory retention. The guidewire includes a flexible distal tip attached to the distal end of the outer tube and extending distally thereto. The guidewire further includes a core wire having distal and proximal ends. The distal end of the core wire is made from a material exhibiting shape memory retention. The core wire can slide longitudinally within the tube. The core wire slides between a retracted position, where the distal end of the core wire is proximal to the flexible distal tip and takes the shape of the outer tube, and an extended position, wherein the distal end of the core wire is distal to the distal end of the outer tube so that it can return ...

GUIDEWIRE HAVING COMPOUND TAPER

A guidewire for a catheter having a corewire that includes a compound taper at its distal end portion. The compound taper of the corewire has a first taper that transitions into a second taper. The first taper proximal of the distal tip of the corewire has a greater angle with respect to the central longitudinal axis of the corewire, and is shorter in length than the second taper.

GUIDE WIRE WITH RELEASABLE BARB ANCHOR

... (57) An insertion guide wire (10) with an anchor (24) formed in the distal end (2 2) for precisely locating a subcutaneous arterial wound and guiding a plug of hemostatic material (68) thereto. When the hemostatic material is properly placed, the anchor can be released and the guide wire removed, leaving no foreign object in the lumen (42) of the artery (44).

CATHETER GUIDEWIRE WITH RADIOPAQUE MARKERS

A guidewire for use with a catheter has varying radiopacity as well as at least one radiopaque marker in its distal end. In one embodiment, the guidewire includes a shaft having a distal radiopaque coil supported by and attached to a distal portion of the shaft and a proximal radiopaque coil supported by and attached to an intermediate portion of the shaft. The proximal and distal coils are spaced apart from one another. The distal coil may be more radiopaque than or equally radiopaque to the proximal coil such that when viewed under fluoroscopy, the highly radiopaque coil will define a dark image whereas the more proximal radiopaque coil will define a moderately radiopaque image or both will define a dark image. The area between the two coils will appear white. Between the coils, at least one radiopaque marker band is attached to the shaft. The marker bands provide several reference lengths for a physician. A polymer sleeve encases the marker bands and the shaft between the first and second ...

HIGH PRESSURE PERFUSION DEVICE

The present invention includes a guidewire device capable of delivering perfusion fluids to a vascular site while at the same time exhibiting handling characteristics associated with existing non-perfusion guidewires. The fluid delivery system (100) includes a high pressure source (102), such as a pump or reservoir, a connector (70), a tube (104) connecting an output of high pressure source (102) to an input of connector (70), and a perfusion guidewire (108). Preferred embodiments also permit high-pressure perfusion of supersaturated solutions, and include a liquid flow path which will not promote bubble generation or growth, or destabilize a supersaturated solution.

TORQUABLE, LOW MASS MEDICAL GUIDEWIRE

A guidewire (10) for use in endoscopic retrograde chol-angio pancreato-graph y includes a proximal section defined by a fiber rod (24), a tube (22), and a connection mechanism for attaching the tube (22) an d the fiber rod (24) together in a collinear relationship. The guidewire (10) also includes a flexible distal section (19) which is attache d to the distal end of the tube. The distal section is comprised of a super-elastic core (20) having a radiopaque marker (40) disposed about its distal end, and at least a portion of the distal section is enveloped by an insulating sleeve (36).

GUIDE WIRE WITH RELEASABLE BARB ANCHOR

An insertion guide wire (10) with an anchor (24) formed in the distal end (22) for precisely locating a subcutaneous arterial wound and guiding a plug of hemostatic material (68) thereto. When the hemostatic material is properly placed, the anchor can be released and the guide wire removed, leaving no foreign object in the lumen (42) of the artery (44).

GUIDE CATHETER WITH REMOTE CONTROL.

TETE DE SONDE.

Probe head for non-traumatic penetration instrument of which the flexible part is comprised of a progressive flexibility spring, of which the turns (8) are contiguous in the fixing part (5) to the pilot wire (1) and are progressively more and more flexible as they approach the end of the head.

Probe head for metal guide wire

Probe head for metal guide wire (1) intended for oesophageal dilatation, comprising a flexible part consisting of a spring (4, 5), and a non-traumatising end (6) comprising a window (8) intended for the passage of a silk thread (11) or the like. The probe head slides like a bead on the pre-swallowed silk thread, which leads to the placement of the guide wire (1). ...

Guidance wire.

Ein Führungsdraht (100) für einen Katheter, welcher zum Einbringen und/oder Entnehmen von Fluiden in menschlichen und/oder tierischen Hohlorganen, insbesondere in Blutgefässen, ausgelegt ist, umfassend einen länglichen Hohlschaft (110) mit einem Lumen (120) zum Zu- und/oder Abführen des Fluids, sowie eine koaxial an einem distalen Ende (117) des Hohlschafts (110) anschliessende Einführhilfe in Form einer flexiblen Drahtwendel (150) mit einer an einem distalen Ende (153) der Drahtwendel angeordneten Führungsdrahtspitze (170), wobei zur Steuerung einer Flexibilität des Führungsdrahts (100) im Lumen (120) des Hohlschafts (110) ein Kerndraht (130) angeordnet ist, welcher sich aus dem Lumen (120) heraus in einer longitudinalen Richtung durch die Drahtwendel (150) hindurch bis zur Führungsdrahtspitze (170) hin erstreckt, zeichnet sich dadurch aus, dass ein in einer proximalen Richtung an die Führungsdrahtspitze (170) angrenzender distaler Innenbereich (151) der Drahtwendel (150) über einen neben ...

INFUSION CATHETER FOR CURATIVE EFFECT AT LEAST ON ONE PARTIAL OR COMPLETE OBSTRUCTION IN THE CHANNEL BODY

Guide wire

The guide wire is a guide wire includes a distal portion and a main body portion. This guide wire is provided with a first curve portion; a second curve portion included on the distal side of aforesaid first curve portion and curved to the opposite direction with respect to aforesaid first curve portion; a third curve portion included on the distal side of aforesaid second curve portion and curved to the opposite direction with respect to aforesaid second curve portion, wherein a line contacting with both aforesaid first curve portion and aforesaid third curve portion has an obtuse angle with respect to an axis line of aforesaid main body portion.

Guidewire

Guide wire

SYSTEM AND KIT FOR THE INSERTION OF A LARGE DIAMETER CATHETER

INFUSION CATHETER DEVICE FOR PROCESSING AT LEAST ONE PARTIAL OR COMPLETE OBSTRUCTION IN A CONDUIT, SUCH AS CONDUIT BODY

L'invention concerne un dispositif formant cathéter d'infusion. Ce dispositif cathéter 10 comprend une forme sensiblement tubulaire allongée définissant un axe longitudinal, une extrémité distale (D) et une extrémité proximale (P), configuré pour être introduit dans un conduit (50) ayant une paroi interne (54) et une paroi externe (56), comprenant au moins une obstruction (60) ou occlusion partielle ou totale à traiter, ledit dispositif comprenant à son extrémité distale (D) un ou plusieurs orifices (16, 18, 20, 22) d'infusion d'un liquide d'infusion (LI), et en amont du ou des orifices d'infusion, côté proximal (P) du cathéter d'infusion (10), au moins un élément obturateur (70) d'obturation provisoire configuré pour traiter ladite obstruction (60) ou occlusion et réaliser l'infusion du liquide d'infusion (LI) en aval de l'élément obturateur (70) et en position d'obturation. Ce dispositif est notamment adapté à la chirurgie cardiaque et à la cardiologie interventionnelle.

가단성 내부 가이드를 갖춘 벌룬 확장 시스템

... 장치(10)는 손잡이 조립체(110), 가이드 조립체(130), 및 확장 카테터(20)를 포함한다. 가이드 조립체는 손잡이 조립체로부터 원위방향으로 연장된다. 가이드 조립체는 가단성 가이드 부재(138)와 가요성 가이드 부재(132)를 포함한다. 가요성 가이드 부재의 원위 단부는 가단성 가이드 부재의 원위 단부에 대해 원위에 있다. 가요성 가이드 부재는 가단성 가이드 부재 주위에 위치되고 가단성 가이드 부재를 따라 활주가능하다. 확장 카테터는 가요성 가이드 부재 주위에 활주가능하게 배치된다.

TRANSSEPTAL GUIDEWIRE

A transseptal guidewire and methods for perforating the intra-atrial septum of the heart are disclosed. The transseptal guidewire has an elongated body, an end section biased in a curved configuration to define a proximal curve, and a distal section biased in a curved configuration to defi ne a distal curve, the distal curve being oriented in a direction generally opposite that of the proximal curve.

WIRE GUIDE HAVING DISTAL COUPLING TIP

A coupling wire guide structured to be slidably coupled to a previously introduced wire guide. The coupling wire guide includes a main body having a distal section. The distal section includes an outer wire disposed over a safety wire. A loop wire is connected to the safety wire at two axially spaced points. At least a portion of the loop wire is positioned outside of the outer wire to define a loop area sized to receive the previously introduced wire guide.

GUIDEWIRE FOR USE IN COLONIC IRRIGATION

Guidewire (20, 20a, 20b) for use in body cavity irrigation devices includes an elongate, resilient shaft (24, 24a, 24b) adapted to pass in an interior of or along an irrigating tube (14) and a bulbous enlargement (26, 26a, 26b) arranged at a distal end of the shaft (24, 24a, 24b). The bulbous enlargement (26, 26a, 26b) has a smooth, arcuate outer surface to prevent perforation of the walls of the body cavities in which it moves. For colonic irrigation, the guidewire (20, 20a, 20b) is inserted into the colon and then the irrigating tube (14) is slid over or along the guidewire (20, 20a, 20b). Fluid is directed through the irrigating tube (14) to the treatment site or sites in the colon.

GUIDE WIRE FOR MEDICAL TREATMENT

A guide wire for medical treatment capable of being easily introduced into a blood vessel from a blood vessel guide port at a femoral, a brachium, or a radial, easily meandered in the blood vessel, and hard to be erroneously advanced into the blood vessel at a branched part, comprising a metal core covered with a resin having a tip part bent in a smooth curved shape, characterized in that the diameter of the guide wire including a resin layer is 0.46 to 1.02 mm, an angle formed by the extension line of the tip part of the guide wire relative to a wire base line is 40 to 70°, and the width dimension of the curved part is 2 mm or longer to less than 10 mm.

LOOP TIP WIRE GUIDE

A wire guide has first and second portions with first and second diameters, respectively. A resilient loop positions a distal end of the wire guide adjacent another section of the wire guide. A closure member maintains the distal end in a fixed position relative to the remainder of the wire guide. A covering may be positioned around one or more parts of the wire guide.

GUIDEWIRE FOR CATHETER

A flexible intravascular guidewire comprises a plurality of filaments braided together and drawn through a die to a reduced cross-sectional area of circular shape. Preferably, one or more of the filaments is coated with a radiopaque material prior to drawing it through the die. According to a preferred embodiment, each of the filaments is made from the same metallic material; alternatively, the filament material may differ, e.g., to provide flexibility and torsional stiffness characteristics which are unachievable in a metal monofilament, or in a multifilament wire of the same filament materials.

Methods and devices for facilitating visualization in a surgical environment

Devices and methods for visually confirming the positioning of a distal end portion of an illuminating device placed within a patient include inserting a distal end portion of an illuminating device internally into a patient, emitting light from the distal end portion of the illuminating device, observing transillumination resulting from the light emitted from the distal end portion of the illuminating device that occurs on an external surface of the patient, and correlating the location of the observed transillumination on the external surface of the patient with an internal location of the patient that underlies the location of observed transillumination, to confirm positioning of the distal end portion of the illuminating device.

Loop tip wire guide with outer sleeve

A wire guide has first and second portions with first and second diameters, respectively. The second portion is located distal of the first portion. A resilient loop positions a distal end of the wire guide adjacent another section of the wire guide. A closure member maintains the distal end in a fixed position relative to the remainder of the wire guide. An outer sleeve may be positioned around one or more parts of the wire guide. A radiopaque element may be secured to the outer sleeve.

Steerable guidewire with deflectable tip

The present invention is directed to a steerable guidewire. More specifically, the invention is directed to a guidewire which comprises flexible tubing having proximal and distal ends and inner and outer surfaces, a helically wound flexible spring coil having proximal and distal ends, the proximal end of the spring coil being attached to the flexible tubing and the distal end of the spring coil comprising stretched coils, a deflection wire extending through the flexible tubing and spring coil, the deflection wire having proximal and distal ends, optionally a control wire having proximal and distal ends, the proximal end of the control wire being attached to the spring coil proximal to the stretched coils, and a rounded tip engaging the distal end of the spring coil, the distal end of the deflection wire, and the distal end of the control wire.

Magnetic guidewire coupling for vascular dilatation apparatus

Apparatus and method are disclosed for facilitating balloon catheter exchange in the vascular system of a patient. The apparatus and method concern means for holding a guidewire longitudinally fixed with respect to a guiding catheter while a balloon catheter is moved over the guidewire. Specifically, the guidewire is held longitudinally fixed with respect to the guiding catheter by way of magnetic coupling. A first magnetic element constitutes a portion of the guide wire or is attached to the guide wire to move with it. A second magnetic element is located proximate the balloon catheter but is not fixed to the balloon catheter. When the guidewire is moved within the guiding catheter to a location at which the first magnetic element reaches its point of closest approach to the second magnetic element, magnetic force holds the guidewire against movement relative to the guiding catheter even while a balloon catheter is being moved over the guidewire.

Guidewire with superelastic distal portion

An improved guidewire for advancing a catheter within a body lumen which has a high strength proximal portion, a distal portion formed of superelastic alloy and a connector formed of superelastic alloy to provide a torque transmitting coupling between the distal end of the proximal portion and the proximal end of the distal portion. The superelastic alloy elements are preferably cold worked and then heat treated at a temperature well above the austenite-to-martensite transformation temperature, while being subjected to longitudinal stresses equal to about 5 to about 50% of the room temperature yield stress to impart to the metal a straight "memory". The guiding member using such improved material exhibits a stress induced austenite-to-martensite phase transformation at an exceptionally high constant yield strength of at least 70 ksi for solid members and at least 50 ksi for tubular members with a broad recoverable strain of at least about 4% during the phase transformation.

Multifilament drawn radiopaque highly elastic cables and methods of making the same

A highly flexible radiopaque cable includes two, and preferably three or more strands of nickel-titanium (NiTi) alloy wire which are twined about a higher density core wire preferably made of at least one of silver, gold or platinum-iridium to form a wire rope. The wire rope is drawn through successive dies to reduce its diameter until the outer surface of the cable is substantially smooth, the cross section of the cable is substantially circular, and the overall diameter of the wire rope is reduced by 20-50%. The cable is then annealed to remove the effects of cold working. The resulting cable has been found to have a substantially equal or improved flexibility (i.e., a lower modulus of elasticity) relative to single strand nickel-titanium wires of the same diameter and a higher radiopacity. In an alternative embodiment, no core wire is utilized, and the higher density wire is drawn with two or more strands of NiTi wire. In another embodiment, the higher density wire is radioactive.

Medical guidewire

A medical guidewire has an elongated body that has a degree of flexibility and a distal tip region of relatively greater flexibility. The guidewire consists of a core having a body of first diameter, a distal portion of a relatively smaller diameter, and a generally flat distal end. The end is disposed in the tip region and is spaced proximally from a round tip element that defines the distal end of the guidewire. A first coil is joined to the core body and extends along the core to a termination point in the distal tip region, proximal of the end of the core. A relatively more flexible second coil is joined at its proximal end to the first coil and joined at its distal end to the round tip element. A safety wire is secured to the core and has a generally flat distal end within the second coil, joined to the round tip. A transition wire is secured to the core and has a generally flat distal end that terminates within the second coil intermediate of the distal ends of the core and safety ...

Flexible guidewire with radiopaque plastic tip

A guidewire includes (i) a tapered core; (ii) an elongated non-radiopaque coil that is coincident with the core and extends over a distal portion of the core up to a proximal portion of a tapered end section of the core; and (iii) a radiopaque plastic tip that fits over the distal end of the core. The proximal end of the plastic tip may extend over the distal end of the non-radiopaque coil. The tip may then be attached to the coil by forcing the proximal end of the tip through the windings at the distal end of the coil. The distal end of the plastic tip extends slightly beyond the distal end of the core, to form a deformable bumper. The outer diameter of the proximal end of the plastic tip is the same as the outer diameter of the coil, which is the same diameter as proximal end of the core before its first taper. Accordingly, the guidewire has an essentially uniform outer diameter over its entire length. The durometer hardness of the plastic material used to form the tip may be adjusted ...

Mri-guided devices and mri-guided interventional systems that can track and generate dynamic visualizations of the devices in near real time

An MRI-guided medical device includes an elongated sheath, an elongated dilator, and an elongated needle. The sheath has a distal end, an opposite proximal end, and a central lumen extending between the proximal and distal ends. The sheath comprises MRI-compatible material and includes a tracking member located adjacent to the sheath distal end that is visible in an MRI image. The dilator comprises MRI-compatible material and is movably disposed within the sheath lumen. A distal end of the dilator is configured to extend outwardly from the sheath distal end and dilator includes at least one tracking member that is visible in an MRI image. The needle is movably disposed within the dilator lumen and is movable between stored and operative positions relative to the dilator. An RF shield may be coaxially disposed within the elongated sheath so as to surround a portion of the sheath central lumen.

Guidewire with adjustable stiffness

A medical guidewire system including an inner member having an outer diameter and an outer member having an inner diameter, the inner diameter being larger than the outer diameter. The inner and outer members are relatively slidable to adjust a stiffness of the guidewire system. The lumen of the outer member forms a gap for fluid flow therethrough. A connector to the inner member and a fluid infusion channel communicating with the gap for injection of fluid through the gap to exit a distal portion of the outer member.

Wireguide set for changing access sites

A wireguide set is provided for changing access between two access sites. The wireguide set includes a wireguide and a catheter. The wireguide passes through one access site while the catheter passes through another access site. The wireguide and catheter are connectable to each other inside the patient's body. Once connected, the catheter can pull the wireguide through the access site of the catheter. The wireguide set may be used to treat peripheral arterial disease occlusions in the lower leg where it is difficult or impossible to gain access through the occlusion from a femoral site.

Guide wire arrangement, strip arrangement and methods of forming the same

A guide wire arrangement, a strip arrangement, a method of forming a guide wire arrangement, and a method of forming a strip arrangement are provided. The guide wire arrangement includes a strip; a sensor being disposed on a first portion of the strip; a chip being disposed next to the sensor on a second portion of the strip, wherein the second portion of the strip is next to the first portion of the strip; wherein the strip is folded at a folding point between the first portion of the strip and the second portion of the strip such that the first portion of the strip and the second portion of the strip form a stack of strip portions.

Guidewire

A guidewire for use in a medical procedure includes an elongate guide member dimensioned for insertion within a body vessel of a subject. The guide member includes an elongate body segment and a leading tip segment. The elongate body segment defines a longitudinal opening, and the leading tip segment is adapted and dimensioned to articulate relative to the elongate body segment about a single axis. A control element extends through the longitudinal opening of the elongate body segment and is longitudinally movable through manual manipulation of a clinician to cause corresponding articulating movement of the leading tip segment.

ENDOVASCULAR DEVICES AND METHODS FOR EXPLOITING INTRAMURAL SPACE

Devices and methods for the treatment of chronic total occlusions are provided. One disclosed embodiment comprises a method of facilitating treatment via a vascular wall defining a vascular lumen containing an occlusion therein. The method includes inserting an intramural crossing device into the vascular lumen, positioning at least the distal tip of the crossing device in the vascular wall, advancing an orienting device over the crossing device such that an orienting element of the orienting device resides in the vascular wall, inserting a reentry device, and re-entering the true vascular lumen. 1. A method of bypassing an occlusion in a blood vessel through a subintimal pathway , comprising:advancing a subintimal crossing device through a subintimal space between tissue layers of a vascular wall of the blood vessel adjacent to the occlusion;thereafter, advancing an orienting device into the subintimal space;expanding an orienting element of the orienting device in the subintimal space to orient a side port of the orienting device toward a lumen of the blood vessel distal of the occlusion; andadvancing a re-entry device out of the side port and into the true lumen of the blood vessel distal of the occlusion.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising claim 1 , withdrawing the subintimal crossing device from the subintimal space prior to advancing the orienting device into the subintimal space.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the orienting element expands in a planar orienting element.4. The method of claim 3 , wherein the planar orienting element is a preformed planar sinusoid.5. The method of claim 3 , wherein the planar orienting element is two wings that extend in opposite directions.6. The method of claim 3 , wherein the side port of the orienting device is oriented at a right angle to a plane of the planar orienting element.7. The method of claim 1 , wherein the subintimal crossing device includes a bulbous distal tip.8. The method of claim 1 , wherein the ...

Urinary Catheter with Guide Wire

A urinary catheter is readily removed and replaced with a second urinary catheter without introducing foreign matter or contaminants into the bladder. The first urinary catheter includes an extra lumen that houses a sheath, which sheath seals the extra lumen from introduction of fluids. The sheath seals an opening hole at or near the tip of the catheter. After the sheath is extracted from the catheter, a guidewire is threaded through the extra lumen and into the patient's bladder. The first urinary catheter is withdrawn from the patient, leaving the guidewire in the patient. A second urinary catheter is inserted into the patient over the guidewire, with the guidewire present in the urine lumen of the second urinary catheter. The guidewire then is extracted from the patient. The second urinary catheter may also have an extra lumen and a sheath with a break-away seal so that the second urinary catheter may be removed and replaced in like manner. 1. A urinary catheter , comprising:an elongated tubular catheter body having a proximal end adapted for insertion into a patient's urinary tract and bladder, and having a distal end opposite the proximal end, and defining a length between the proximal end and the distal end, said elongated tubular catheter body having a sidewall, said elongated tubular catheter body having therein at least a first lumen, a second lumen and a third lumen, wherein the first lumen extends from a first hole at or near the proximal end along the length to a discharge opening at the distal end, and the second lumen terminates at a second hole through a sidewall of the catheter body, and the third lumen extends from a third hole through the sidewall of the catheter body to a fourth hole through the sidewall of the catheter body;an inflatable balloon bonded to the sidewall of the elongated tubular catheter body in fluid communication with the second hole; anda sheath within the third lumen, said sheath sealing the third hole, with a portion of said ...

Catheter assembly

A catheter assembly includes: a catheter comprising a distal end portion, and a body portion that is continuous with a proximal end of the distal end portion and extends along an axial direction; a hollow inner needle that has a needle tip and is removably inserted into the catheter; and a guide wire that is inserted into the inner needle so as to be movable back and forth and that is deliverable from the needle tip. The distal end portion of the catheter comprises a constituent portion that is harder than, has a higher lubricity than, or has a higher elasticity than the body portion at at least a part of a surface of the distal end portion.

Guidewire access sleeve

An access sleeve can be attached to a medical device having first and second ends, the first end being positioned inside of a patient and the second end being positioned external to a patient. The access sleeve can include a tubular sleeve body having first and second open ends that define a first lumen extending along a longitudinal axis of the sleeve body. An opening in the sleeve body can connect the first lumen to an outer surface of the sleeve body. The access sleeve can be selectively attached to the medical device (e.g. catheter of a heart pump) and inserted into the access site when the medical device is positioned in the patient. The access sleeve can maintain vascular access to a patient's access site such as an arteriotomy and can be removed without disturbing the position of the medical device.

Guide wire

A guide wire is disclosed, which includes a wire main body that has flexibility; a distal end member that is fixed to a distal end portion of the wire main body; and a tubular member that is arranged closer to a proximal end side than the distal end member, and on an outer circumference of the wire main body. The tubular member can be configured such that the longitudinal entirety of the tubular member is not fixed to the wire main body. The tubular member can be provided such that a distal end portion of the tubular member is not fixed to the distal end member. A proximal-end side thickness reduction portion with a wall thickness decreasing toward the proximal end side is provided in a proximal end portion of the tubular member.

GUIDE WIRE

A guide wire includes a wire main body that has a plate-like portion in a distal end portion of the wire main body and a reinforcement portion that is provided on at least one surface of the plate-like portion and reinforces the plate-like portion. The reinforcement portion is made up of two wire rods, and both end portions of the reinforcement portion are fixed to the plate-like portion. The plate-like portion is formed in a ribbon shape, and the reinforcement portions are diagonally provided on the same plane of the plate-like portion, and intersect each other. The guide wire has a coil that covers the plate-like portion and the reinforcement portion. 1. A guide wire comprising:a wire main body including a plate-like portion in a distal end portion of the wire main body; anda reinforcement portion provided on at least one surface of the plate-like portion, and which reinforces the plate-like portion.2. The guide wire according to claim 1 ,wherein the reinforcement portion includes at least one wire rod.3. The guide wire according to claim 2 ,wherein the reinforcement portion includes opposing end portions and both end portions of the reinforcement portion are fixed to the plate-like portion.4. The guide wire according to claim 2 ,wherein the plate-like portion is formed in a ribbon shape, andwherein the reinforcement portion is provided on a diagonal line of the plate-like portion.5. The guide wire according to claim 1 ,wherein the plate-like portion includes a first surface and a second surface;wherein the reinforcement portion defines a first reinforcement portion provided on the first surface of the plate-like portion, and further comprising a second reinforcement portion provided on the second surface of the plate-like portion.6. The guide wire according to claim 2 ,wherein the reinforcement portion includes two wire rods, andwherein the two wire rods are provided on the same plane of the plate-like portion, and intersect each other.7. The guide wire according ...

GUIDEWIRE DEVICES HAVING SHAPEABLE TIPS AND BYPASS CUTS

The present disclosure relates to guidewire devices having shapeable tips and effective torquability. A guidewire device includes a core having a proximal section and a tapered distal section. A tube structure is coupled to the core such that the tapered distal section extends into the tube structure. The tube structure includes a plurality of bypass cuts formed tangentially within the tube structure to increase the flexibility of the tube structure and to reduce the tendency of resilient forces from the tube structure to disrupt a shaped distal tip of the guidewire device. 1. A guidewire device having a shapeable tip , the guidewire device comprising:a core having a proximal section and a distal section, the distal section having a smaller diameter than the proximal section; and wherein the tube structure includes a cut pattern which forms a plurality of axially extending beams coupling a plurality of circumferentially extending rings,', 'wherein at least a portion of the cut pattern includes a one-beam section having a one-beam cut pattern which forms a single beam between each adjacent ring within the one-beam section, and, 'a tube structure coupled to the core such that the distal section of the core passes into the tube structure,'}wherein a distal tip of the guidewire device is configured to be manually shapeable.2. The guidewire device of claim 1 , wherein the distal section of the core tapers from the proximal section of the core.3. The guidewire device of claim 1 , further comprising a coil disposed within the tube structure so as to be positioned between an outer surface of the distal section of the core and an inner surface of the tube structure.4. The guidewire device of claim 3 , wherein the coil is configured in size and shape to pack the space between the outer surface of the distal section of the core and the inner surface of the tube such that a curvature of the tube structure is aligned with a curvature of the distal section of the core when the ...

Guide Catheters with Guidewire Deflection Features

A guide catheter system for use in treating the sinus cavity or Eustachian tube is described. The system includes a guide catheter that has a proximal end and a distal end and an elongate shaft between the proximal end and the distal end and a guidewire. The guide catheter includes a deflection feature on a distal tip of the distal end for deflecting the guidewire at a predetermined angle.

Intravenous Catheter Insertion And Blood Sample Devices And Method Of Use

A catheter insertion device includes a housing, a needle, a catheter, and a guide wire. The needle has a proximal end positioned in the housing and a distal end extending beyond a distal end of the housing. The catheter is positioned coaxially over the needle, and includes a flexible tube and a catheter hub on a proximal end of the flexible tube. A proximal portion of the flexible tube and the catheter hub are positioned in the housing. the guide wire has a proximal end positioned in the housing and a distal end positioned in a lumen of the needle. The catheter insertion device also includes a handle coupled to the catheter, wherein movement of the handle relative to the housing moves the catheter hub from a position in the housing to a position outside of the housing. 1. A catheter insertion device , comprising:a housing;a needle having a proximal end positioned in the housing and a distal end extending beyond a distal end of the housing;a catheter positioned coaxially over the needle, the catheter comprising a flexible tube and a catheter hub on a proximal end of the flexible tube, wherein a proximal portion of the flexible tube and the catheter hub are positioned in the housing;a guide wire having a proximal end positioned in the housing and a distal end positioned in a lumen of the needle; anda handle coupled to the catheter, wherein movement of the handle relative to the housing moves the catheter hub from a position in the housing to a position outside of the housing.2. The catheter insertion device according to claim 1 , further comprising a guide wire advancement member claim 1 , wherein movement of the guide wire advancement member moves the guide wire relative to the needle.3. The catheter insertion device according to claim 2 , wherein the guide wire advancement member includes a guide wire carrier associated with the guide wire in the housing.4. The catheter insertion device according to claim 2 , wherein movement of the guide wire advancement member is ...

ATRAUMATIC MICROPUNCTURE GUIDEWIRE AND GUIDEWIRE EXTENSION

A guidewire introducable into a bodily lumen having an obstruction therein is provided. An introducer needle is advanced through tissue and into the bodily lumen. A guidewire is advanced through the introducer and into the lumen. The guidewire is advanced further through the lumen until an atraumatic distal tip of the guidewire encounters an obstruction the distal tip cannot pass in a straight forward manner. The distal tip is pressed against the obstruction such that a flexible segment proximal of the distal tip forms a loop distal of the distal tip. The guidewire is advanced further through the lumen such that the loop of the flexible segment is pushed past the obstruction and the distal tip is pulled distally past the obstruction. A greater diameter guidewire extension can be coupled to the back end of the guidewire, providing function as a larger diameter guidewire. 1. A guidewire extension apparatus for coupling to a guidewire , the guidewire extension apparatus comprising:a far end portion having a first diameter matching a diameter of a near end of the guidewire, the far end portion being configured to couple with the near end of the guidewire;a near end portion having a second diameter greater than the first diameter; anda tapered transition portion between the far end and near end portions.2. The guidewire extension apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the far end portion is configured to couple with the near end of the guidewire with a male-female connection.3. The guidewire extension apparatus of claim 2 , wherein the male-female connection comprises a snap-fit claim 2 , an interference fit claim 2 , or a threaded fit.4. The guidewire extension apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the first diameter and the diameter of the near end of the guide wire are both 0.018″.5. The guidewire extension apparatus of claim 4 , wherein the second diameter is 0.035″.6. The guidewire extension apparatus of claim 1 , wherein one or more of the far end portion claim 1 , the near end ...

HIGH LOAD STEERABLE SHAFT AND METHOD FOR CARDIAC CATHETER

A tube or skeleton for a steerable catheter includes a cylindrical body structured to permit bending in at least one bending direction and to resist bending in directions transverse to the bending direction. The cylindrical body may include a laser cut metal tube, wires bent and connected to one another, or one or more coiled wires with axial support wires attached to the coil to define one or more bending directions to form bending segments. The skeleton includes axially stiff portions that resist compression when a pull wire is pulled to cause bending movement. The axially stiff portions may include a backbone, an alignment of pivot structures, connected axially extending portions of wire elements, or axially extending support wires or rods. Two or more bending portions may be provided, each with different bending directions. Complex bending shapes may be provided by arranging the segments in rotated positions along the skeleton. 1. A skeleton for a catheter , comprising:a bending portion including a cylindrical body having a first end and a second end, the bending portion being structured to bend in a predetermined bending direction, the bending portion including a plurality of segments arranged sequentially adjacent one another in the bending portion,an axial support structure extending along at least one side of the cylindrical body, the axial support structure being flexible to permit bending in the predetermined bending direction but being resistant to compression in an axial direction; andthe bending portion being configured for receiving a pull wire extending along an inside wall of the cylindrical body in a direction of the predetermined bending direction with the pull wire anchored at the first end and extending beyond the second end for receiving a pulling force, the bending portion being configured to bend in the predetermined direction in response to the pulling force exerted on the pull wire.2. A skeleton as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the bending ...

LOW PROFILE INTRODUCER APPARATUS

An introducer apparatus includes an outer sleeve and an inner cannula received within the lumen of the outer sleeve. The outer sleeve has a profile such that at least a portion of the distal end of the outer sleeve tapers in the distal direction at an angle not exceeding about 2° relative to a longitudinal axis of the apparatus. The distal open end of the outer sleeve has a wall thickness not exceeding about 0.003 inch. The inner cannula includes a tapered distal end portion. The tapered distal portion of the inner cannula extends distal to the distal open end of the outer sleeve, such that a generally smooth diametrical transition is provided between the outer sleeve tapered portion and the open distal end of the inner cannula. 1. An introducer apparatus , comprising:an outer sleeve having proximal and distal open ends, and having a lumen extending longitudinally therethrough, said outer sleeve having a profile such that at least a portion of said outer sleeve tapers toward said outer sleeve distal end at an angle not exceeding 2° relative to a longitudinal axis of the apparatus, said distal open end of said outer sleeve having a wall thickness not exceeding 0.003 inch; andan inner cannula having proximal and distal open ends, and having a lumen extending longitudinally therethrough, said inner cannula sized to be received within the lumen of said outer sleeve, said inner cannula having a portion that tapers toward the inner cannula distal end, said tapered distal portion of said inner cannula extending distal to the distal open end of said outer sleeve and having a profile such that a generally smooth and gradual diametrical transition is provided from the outer sleeve tapered portion and through said inner cannula open end; andwherein the greatest radial extent of the inner cannula is not greater than the outer diameter of the outer sleeve.2. The introducer apparatus of claim 1 , wherein said outer sleeve has an outer diameter of between 2-10 French.3. The ...

Optimized Catheter Sheath for Rx Catheter

A catheter configured for placement within a bodily lumen, comprises: a catheter sheath defining a first lumen for medical tools; and an exchange segment defining a second lumen for a guidewire. A proximal end of the exchange segment is joined with a distal end of the catheter sheath in a lengthwise direction forming an angle therebetween, such that the second lumen is laterally offset by a distance and angled with respect to the first lumen. When the catheter is placed within a patient's anatomy, the catheter sheath and/or the exchange segment straightens out so that the axis of the second lumen and the axis of the first lumen become substantially parallel to each other. The offset distance between the axes of sheath and exchange segment depends mainly on the diameter of the guidewire to be used, on the diameter of the sheath, and the angle of the junction.

DEVICES AND METHODS FOR TREATING A STRICTURE ALONG THE BILIARY AND/OR PANCREATIC TRACT

Medical devices and systems for treating a stricture along the biliary and/or pancreatic tract are disclosed. An example medical device may include a guidewire for use along the biliary and/or pancreatic tract. The guidewire may include an elongate core member having a proximal end region and a distal end region. A coil member may be disposed along the distal end region. An actuation member may be coupled to the coil member. The actuation member may be configured to shift the coil member between a first configuration and a compressed configuration. The coil member may be configured to be advanced across a biliary and/or pancreatic stricture when in the compressed configuration. A sleeve may be disposed over the coil member. 1. A guidewire for use along the biliary and/or pancreatic tract , the guidewire comprising:an elongate core member having a proximal end region and a distal end region;a coil member disposed along the distal end region;an actuation member coupled to the coil member, the actuation member being configured to shift the coil member between a first configuration and a compressed configuration;wherein the coil member is configured to be advanced across a biliary and/or pancreatic stricture when in the compressed configuration; anda sleeve disposed over the coil member.2. The guidewire of claim 1 , wherein the actuation member includes a wire.3. The guidewire of claim 1 , wherein the actuation member includes a stranded cable.4. The guidewire of claim 1 , wherein the actuation member is secured to a distal end of the coil member.5. The guidewire of claim 1 , further comprising a handle coupled to the actuation member.6. The guidewire of claim 1 , further comprising a tip member disposed adjacent to a distal end of the coil member.7. The guidewire of claim 1 , wherein the sleeve has a constant outer diameter.8. A method for antegrade stricture crossing along the biliary and/or pancreatic tract claim 1 , the method comprising:advancing a variable ...

Intravenous Catheter Insertion and Blood Sample Devices and Method of Use

A catheter insertion device includes a handle, a needle, a guide wire, and a catheter. The handle may have a proximal region and a distal region. The distal region may include a slot between a top extension and a bottom extension, which extends through a distal end. The needle may have a proximal end positioned in the proximal region and a distal end extending from the distal region. The guide wire may have a proximal end positioned in the proximal region of the handle and a distal end positioned in a lumen of the needle. The catheter may be positioned coaxially over the needle with a proximal end connected to a catheter hub. The catheter hub may be slidably disposed in the slot to enable movement from a first position in the distal region to a second position distal of the distal region. 1. A catheter insertion device , comprising:a handle having a proximal region and a distal region, the distal region including a slot between a top extension and a bottom extension, the slot extending through a distal end of the distal region;a needle having a proximal end positioned in the proximal region of the handle and a distal end extending from the distal region of the handle;a guide wire having a proximal end positioned in the proximal region of the handle and a distal end positioned in a lumen of the needle; anda catheter positioned coaxially over the needle, the catheter having a proximal end connected to a catheter hub, the catheter hub slidably disposed in the slot to enable movement from a first position in the distal region of the handle to a second position distal of the distal region.2. The catheter insertion device according to claim 1 , further comprising a guide wire advancement member coupled to the proximal end of the guidewire claim 1 , wherein movement of the guide wire advancement member moves the guide wire relative to the needle.3. The catheter insertion device according to claim 2 , wherein the guide wire advancement member includes a guide wire actuator ...

Medical guide element with diameter transition

Improved medical guide elements for use with dilators to be inserted into an organ or body structure of a patient, such as the kidney. The guide element includes a proximal segment and a distal segment. The diameter of the distal segment is greater than the diameter of the proximal segment. The change in diameter is abrupt, providing a discrete step transition at a point along the filament which presents a proximally-facing surface on the distal segment. When the proximal segment of the guide element is fully inserted into a dilator having a distal tip adapted for insertion into a patient, the dilator distal tip firmly abuts the proximally-facing end surface of the distal segment. The relative dimensions of the dilator tip and the discrete stepped transition of the guide element provides full shielding or over shielding of the dilator tip, thereby facilitating passage of the dilator tip along the tissue track, through the puncture hole and into the orifice.

Low profile introducer apparatus

An introducer apparatus includes an outer sleeve and an inner cannula received within the lumen of the outer sleeve. The outer sleeve has a profile such that at least a portion of the distal end of the outer sleeve tapers in the distal direction at an angle not exceeding about 2° relative to a longitudinal axis of the apparatus. The distal open end of the outer sleeve has a wall thickness not exceeding about 0.003 inch, and is sized such that a first wire guide is receivable therethrough. The inner cannula includes a tapered distal end portion. The inner cannula distal open end is sized such that a second wire guide is receivable therethrough, and the first wire guide is not receivable therethrough. The tapered distal portion of the inner cannula extends distal to the distal open end of the outer sleeve, such that a generally smooth diametrical transition is provided between the outer sleeve tapered portion and the open distal end of the inner cannula.

METHOD FOR DETECTION OF BLOOD PRESSURE USING PRESSURE SENSING GUIDE WIRE

A guide wire has a distal end incorporating a coil and a capacitive element that form a resonance circuit with a resonance frequency that is responsive to the pressure of blood external to the guide wire. The resonance frequency can be detected wirelessly, or through two contacts at the proximal wire end, or through one brush contact located inside an insertion sheath and a ground electrode. Wireless detection can be implemented via a second resonance circuit, and electronics for determining the frequency when the first and second circuits are in resonance with each other. 1. The method defined in wherein said sensor circuit further includes a coil provided at a distal end of said guide wire claim 14 , said coil and said capacitor being coupled to each other to form a resonance circuit claim 14 , at least one of said coil and said capacitor being responsive to changes in pressure of fluid external to said guide wire such that said resonance circuit has a resonance frequency that varies in accordance with changes in pressure of the external fluid.2. The method defined in wherein said coil is configured to have an inductance that is variable depending on changes in pressure of fluid external to said guide wire.3. The method defined in wherein said coil is provided with a ferromagnetic core that is movably mounted to said guide wire and partially disposed inside said coil so that changes in pressure of said external fluid results in a shifting of said core relative to said coil claim 2 , thereby varying an inductance of said coil and concomitantly the resonance frequency of said resonance circuit.4. The method defined in wherein said resonance circuit has a movable contact shiftable relative to said coil so that changes in pressure of said external fluid results in shifting of said contact relative to said coil and changing of an active length of said coil claim 2 , thereby varying an inductance of said coil and concomitantly the resonance frequency of said resonance ...

Kink-Resistant Guidewire with Improved Rigidity

A guidewire, methods of manufacture, and methods of use is described. The guidewire may include a core having one or more preformed ribs along a portion thereof. The ribs may form a portion of the outer surface of the guidewire or form a texture or shape of the outer surface of the guidewire. The ribs and outer texture of the guidewire can beneficially help the guidewire remain in a desired location in a body and help prevent or limit migration. Forming the ribs on the outer surface of the core may enable the guidewire to have greater rigidity and stiffness. The core may include a reduced diameter region distal of the ribs. The guidewire may include a cap over the reduced diameter region of the core. 1. A guidewire , comprising: one or more ribs formed along a first portion of the core, the first portion of the core having a first diameter, wherein the one or more ribs increase the friction of the outer surface of the guidewire, and', 'a reduced diameter region distal of the first portion having a second diameter less than the first diameter., 'a core, comprising2. The guidewire according to claim 1 , further comprising a cap having the same or a similar diameter to the first diameter claim 1 , the cap positioned over the reduced diameter region of the core such that an edge of the cap abuts the first portion.3. The guidewire according to claim 2 , further comprising a coating on first portion of the core.4. The guidewire according to claim 3 , wherein the coating extends over the cap and forms a smooth claim 3 , unbroken outer surface transition between the first portion of the core and the cap.5. The guidewire according to claim 1 , wherein the cap has a smooth claim 1 , uniform outer surface.6. The guidewire according to claim 1 , wherein the reduced diameter region of the core includes a channel adjacent to the first portion of the core claim 1 , wherein the channel is shaped to mate with a portion of the cap in a snap-fit or threaded connection.7. The guidewire ...

SENSOR MOUNTED FLEXIBLE GUIDEWIRE

A medical device comprising a corewire, sensor core, and coupler is presented. A portion of the corewire is disposed within a first end of the coupler, and a portion of the sensor core is disposed within a second end. Alternatively, the device comprises a corewire and a sensor assembly comprising a sensor core having first and second ends and a bore in the first end. A portion of the corewire is disposed within the bore. A method of manufacture comprises providing a corewire, sensor core, and coupler. The method further comprises inserting a portion of the corewire into a first end of the coupler, and a portion of the sensor core into a second end. Alternatively, the method comprises providing a sensor core having first and second ends, and a corewire. The method further comprises forming a bore in the first end, and inserting the corewire into the bore. 1. A medical device , comprising:a corewire;a sensor core having a sensor mounted thereon; and a portion of said corewire is disposed within said first end of said coupler, and', 'a portion of said sensor core is disposed within said second end of said coupler, said coupler coupling said corewire with said sensor core., 'a coupler having a first end and a second end, wherein2. The medical device of claim 1 , wherein said sensor comprises an electromagnetic field detector.3. The medical device of claim 1 , further comprising at least one of a polymer layer claim 1 , a metallic layer claim 1 , and a tubular spring covering at least one portion of at least one of said corewire claim 1 , said sensor core claim 1 , said sensor claim 1 , and said coupler.4. The medical device of claim 1 , wherein:said coupler has a shape of a hollow tube with a part of the wall of said hollow tube removed along the length of said hollow tube; andsaid coupler has an inner diameter substantially equal to the outer diameters of said portions of said corewire and said sensor core disposed within said coupler.5. The medical device of further ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TREATMENT OF AN AIRWAY DISORDER

Methods and systems for treating an airway disorder and delivering an implant to airway tissue are provided. A method includes partially inserting at least a first and second wire into airway forming tissue, wherein the first and second wires' axes define implant positions for a first and second implant, respectively. A wire guide can be used to maintain an orientation of the first and second axis relative to each other. 1. A system for delivering an implant into a patient's airway tissue comprising:at least one wire comprising a first wire having a first distal end, a first proximal end, and a first wire axis configured to define a first implant position in the airway tissue for a first implant, the first distal end configured to allow at least partial insertion of the first wire into the airway tissue, the first wire configured such that when the first wire is partially inserted into the airway tissue a proximal portion of the first wire remains outside the patient's body;a wire guide comprising a second distal end, a second proximal end, and at least a first wire channel and a second wire channel, each wire channel having a proximal opening, a distal opening, and a lumen extending between the openings, the first and second wire channels each being configured to releasably receive and retain a wire, and the first wire channel having a first channel axis and the second wire channel having a second channel axis, wherein the first channel axis and second channel axis extend lengthwise through the first and second wire channels respectively.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the first channel axis and the second channel axis define an angle between about 0 degrees to about 60 degrees.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the wire guide is configured to receive a first wire in the first wire channel and a second wire in the second wire channel to thereby align the first wire and the second wire in a predetermined orientation.4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the at least ...

EXPANDABLE TIP MEDICAL DEVICES AND METHODS

Guidewires and methods of use of guidewires having improved atraumatic tips that can distribute force to lessen trauma as well as anchor the guidewire to facilitate improved catheter exchange. 1. A guidewire for advancing through a body lumen in a tortuous anatomy , the guidewire comprising:a guidewire body extending between a proximal portion and a distal portion, the guidewire body comprising an elongated shape and configured to navigate the tortuous anatomy;a plurality of elements arranged to form a frame member having a diameter greater than a cross sectional diameter of the distal portion of the guidewire body;where the plurality of elements in the frame member can move relative to each other causing the frame member to be compliant and provide a radial force in an outward circumferential direction from the guidewire body when released from a constraining force; andthe plurality of elements converging from a proximal region of the frame member to extend proximally from the frame member along the distal portion of the guidewire body, thereby forming a proximal extension of the plurality of elements, where the plurality of elements are continuous from the frame member into the proximal extension along the distal portion of the guidewire body.2. The guidewire of claim 1 , where the guidewire body comprises a core member and where the plurality of elements are affixed to the core member along the proximal extension of the plurality of elements.3. The guidewire of claim 2 , where the plurality of elements claim 2 , in said proximal extension claim 2 , are not radially expandable away from the core member.4. The guidewire of claim 1 , where the frame member comprises a shape selected from the group consisting of spherical claim 1 , egg-shaped claim 1 , football-shaped claim 1 , elliptical claim 1 , conical claim 1 , cylindrical.5. The guidewire of claim 1 , where the plurality of elements comprises at least a first strut and a second strut claim 1 , where a cross ...

Reformable guidewire tip

Devices and methods for providing an elastically deforming guidewire tip, capable of withstanding the extreme forces of high-speed rotational atherectomy, in particular orbital motion induced by an eccentric abrasive head, are disclosed. In certain embodiments, the reformable tip comprises an inner nitinol support coil, wherein the reformable tip may be attached to a larger proximal core for improved kink resistance and support for delivering adjunctive devices. In other embodiments, an inner nitinol support coil may be wrapped with a braided coil and/or a polymer sleeve. The resulting tip is more flexible with reduced risk of perforation than known guidewire tips.

Guide wire

A guide wire includes: a core shaft; an engagement part provided in outer circumference of the core shaft; a cylindrical body provided in an outside of the core shaft and movable along an axis line direction of the core shaft; and an engaged part that is provided in the cylindrical body, and engages with the engagement part when the cylindrical body moves in a first direction along the axis line direction of the core shaft to regulate further movement of the cylindrical body in the first direction.

GUIDEWIRE INTERCONNECTING APPARATUS

A male coupler for a guidewire, the guidewire having a hollow walled tube, the male coupler comprising a connector section, coupled with the guidewire, a portion of the connector section having a diameter smaller than the diameter of the hollow tube, at least one conducting ring coupled with the connector section where the diameter of the connector section is smaller the diameter of the guidewire, wherein the diameter of connecter section and the at least one conducting ring substantially equals the diameter of the guidewire. 168.-. (canceled)69. A female coupler for an elongate medical device , the female coupler comprising:a body defining a longitudinal cavity, the cavity configured to receive a male coupler;one or more electrical contacts positioned along the cavity so as to electrically couple with one or more electrical contacts on the male coupler; anda magnetic shielding layer disposed radially around the one or more electrical contacts.70. The female coupler of claim 69 , wherein the magnetic shielding layer comprises at least one of mu-metal or nickel-iron.71. The female coupler of claim 70 , wherein the magnetic shielding layer comprises a tube.72. The female coupler of claim 71 , wherein the magnetic shielding layer is disposed radially between an outer portion of the body and the one or more electrical contacts.73. The female coupler of claim 69 , further comprising:at least two electrical contacts arranged along the cavity, wherein the magnetic shielding layer is disposed radially around the at least two electrical contacts.74. The female coupler of claim 69 , wherein the magnetic shielding layer comprises a tube.75. The female coupler of claim 69 , wherein the magnetic shielding layer is disposed radially between an outer portion of the body and the one or more electrical contacts.76. The female coupler of claim 69 , further comprising at least one electrical wire coupled with a respective one of the one or more electrical contacts.77. The female ...

SENSOR MOUNTED FLEXIBLE GUIDEWIRE

A medical device comprising a corewire, sensor core, and coupler is presented. A portion of the corewire is disposed within a first end of the coupler, and a portion of the sensor core is disposed within a second end. Alternatively, the device comprises a corewire and a sensor assembly comprising a sensor core having first and second ends and a bore in the first end. A portion of the corewire is disposed within the bore. A method of manufacture comprises providing a corewire, sensor core, and coupler. The method further comprises inserting a portion of the corewire into a first end of the coupler, and a portion of the sensor core into a second end. Alternatively, the method comprises providing a sensor core having first and second ends, and a corewire. The method further comprises forming a bore in the first end, and inserting the corewire into the bore. 123.-. (canceled)24. A medical device comprising:a corewire comprising a distal portion; anda position sensor coupled to the distal portion of the corewire, the position sensor configured to produce an electrical signal indicative of a characteristic of a magnetic field in which the position sensor is disposed.25. The medical device of claim 24 , wherein the position sensor is a coil sensor.26. The medical device of claim 24 , wherein the characteristic comprises at least one of a strength and orientation of the magnetic field.27. The medical device of claim 24 , wherein a processor is configured to receive the electrical signal from the position sensor; and wherein the processor is configured to determine a position and orientation of the position sensor based on the received electrical signal.28. The medical device of claim 24 , further comprising a tubular spring placed around the distal portion of the corewire.29. The medical device of claim 24 , further comprising a non-traumatic plug coupled with the distal portion of the corewire.30. The medical device of claim 24 , wherein the corewire further comprises a ...

SENSING GUIDEWIRE WITH TRANSITION TUBE FOR ELECTRICAL INTERCONNECTION

An intravascular guidewire includes a flexible elongate member configured to be positioned within a vessel of a patient, the flexible elongate member comprising a proximal portion and a distal portion; an electronic component secured to the distal portion of the flexible elongate member; a first conductive member in communication with the electronic component; a second conductive member disposed at the proximal portion of the flexible elongate member; a tube disposed along a length of the flexible elongate member, the tube comprising a third conductive member, wherein the third conductive member is in electrical communication with the first and second conductive members. 1. An intravascular guidewire , comprising:a flexible elongate member configured to be positioned within a vessel of a patient, the flexible elongate member comprising a proximal portion and a distal portion;an electronic component secured to the distal portion of the flexible elongate member;a first conductive member in communication with the electronic component;a second conductive member disposed at the proximal portion of the flexible elongate member;a tube disposed along a length of the flexible elongate member, the tube comprising a third conductive member, wherein the third conductive member is in electrical communication with the first and second conductive members.2. The intravascular guidewire of claim 1 ,wherein the tube comprises a first polymer.3. The intravascular guidewire of claim 2 ,wherein the third conductive member is embedded within the first polymer.4. The intravascular guidewire of claim 1 , wherein the flexible elongate member comprises a metal core claim 1 , and wherein the tube is positioned around the metal core.5. The intravascular guidewire of claim 1 , further comprising a fourth conductive member disposed at the proximal portion of the flexible elongate member claim 1 , wherein the fourth conductive member is directly in communication to the second conductive member.6. ...

MEDICAL TUBE AND MEDICAL DEVICE

A medical tube includes a connection portion that is removably attached to an end of a catheter including a guide wire lumen through which a guide wire is inserted and a tube main body that includes a lumen through which the guide wire is inserted. The lumen communicates with the guide wire lumen while being attached to the end of the catheter through the connection portion. 1. A medical tube comprising:a connection portion that is removably attached to an end of a catheter, the catheter including a guide wire lumen through which a guide wire is inserted;a tube main body that includes a lumen through which the guide wire is inserted, the connection portion being provided at one end of the tube main body; andthe lumen in the tube main body communicating with the guide wire lumen through the connection portion.2. The medical tube according to claim 1 ,wherein a plurality of the connection portions and a plurality of the tube main bodies are provided, each of the connection portions being provided at one end of one of the tube main bodies, andthe connection portions being configured to connect the plurality of tube main bodies to one another.3. The medical tube according to claim 2 , wherein axial lengths of the plurality of tube main bodies are different from one another.4. The medical tube according to claim 1 , wherein the tube main body includes a bellows shaped portion which includes a mountain portion protruding outward in a radial direction and a valley portion recessed inward in the radial direction in relation to the mountain portion.5. The medical tube according to claim 1 , wherein the tube main body includes a deformation portion which is deformable in a direction in which a diameter of the lumen in the tube main body decreases.6. The medical tube according to claim 1 , wherein at least a part of the tube main body is formed of a material allowing the inside of the lumen to be visible from an outside.7. The medical tube according to claim 1 , wherein the ...

ADJUSTABLE GUIDEWIRE RECEIVING MEMBER

An intravascular device delivery system has an elongated member with an outer sleeve and a distal cap longitudinally fixed to a guidewire receiving member. The guidewire receiving member is moveable longitudinally relative to the outer sleeve to move the distal cap relative to the outer sleeve. 1. An intravascular device delivery system , the system comprising:an elongated member with a proximal end, a distal end, and a longitudinal axis therebetween, the elongated member including:an outer sleeve extending from the proximal end to the distal end,a guidewire receiving member extending from the proximal end to the distal end, anda distal cap longitudinally fixed to the guidewire receiving member and configured to engage with a distal end of the outer sleeve.2. The system of claim 1 , further comprising a handle connected to the proximal end of the guidewire receiving member.3. The system of claim 2 , wherein the handle includes a proximal end plate that is longitudinally moveable relative to a body of the handle.4. The system of claim 3 , wherein the proximal end plate is selectively fixable longitudinally relative to the body of the handle.5. The system of claim 4 , wherein the guidewire receiving member is selectively fixed to the proximal end plate.6. The system of claim 1 , wherein the distal cap has a proximal taper.7. The system of claim 1 , wherein the proximal taper comprises a thread.8. The system of claim 1 , wherein the guidewire receiving member is a cable tube.9. The system of claim 1 , further comprising a guidewire having one or more torque transmission features protruding in a transverse direction from a longitudinal axis of the guidewire.10. The system of claim 9 , wherein the distal cap comprises complementary receiving recesses.11. The system of claim 1 , wherein the distal cap and the outer sleeve comprise complementary mechanical connection features.12. The system of claim 11 , wherein the complementary mechanical connection features comprises ...

METHODS AND DEVICES FOR DELIVERING DRUGS USING DRUG-DELIVERY OR DRUG-COATED GUIDEWIRES

The present invention relates to a method of delivering drugs having e.g., anti-proliferative activity in the vascular, preferably, the cardiovascular, system locally or systematically using an at least partially drug-coated guidewire. The drug-coated guidewire, particularly an expansion member or portion thereof, is brought into contact with the target tissue or in circulation and the drugs are quickly released into the area surrounding the device in a short time after the contact step. Once the therapeutic drugs are released, they are quickly and effectively absorbed by the surrounding cells or circulation. 1. A guidewire , comprising:a) an inner helically wound coil extending along a longitudinal axis from an inner helically wound coil proximal portion to an inner helically wound coil distal portion having an inner helically wound coil distal end;b) a distal atraumatic tip connected to the inner helically wound coil distal end;c) a radiopaque coil supported on the inner helically wound coil distal portion;d) an outer helically wound coil supported on the inner helically wound coil and extending along the longitudinal axis from an outer helically wound coil proximal end to an outer helically wound coil distal portion having an outer helically wound coil distal end, wherein the inner helically wound coil is wound in a first direction about the longitudinal axis and the outer helically wound coil is wound in a second, opposite direction, and wherein the outer helically wound coil distal end is proximal the radiopaque coil; ande) a tubular member movably supported on the inner helically wound coil proximal portion, the tubular member extending from a tubular member proximal portion to a tubular member distal end, wherein the tubular member distal end is connected to the outer helically wound coil proximal end,f) wherein, torsional manipulation of the outer helically wound coil in a first rotational direction about the longitudinal axis, the first rotational direction ...

DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR RESHAPING A HEART VALVE ANNULUS, INCLUDING THE USE OF MAGNETIC TOOLS

Implants or systems of implants and methods apply a selected force vector or a selected combination of force vectors within or across the left atrium, which allow mitral valve leaflets to better coapt. The implants or systems of implants and methods make possible rapid deployment, facile endovascular delivery, and full intra-atrial retrievability. The implants or systems of implants and methods also make use of strong fluoroscopic landmarks. The implants or systems of implants and methods make use of an adjustable implant and a fixed length implant. The implants or systems of implants and methods may also utilize a bridge stop to secure the implant, and the methods of implantation employ various tools. 1. A method of establishing a pathway to a desired location within a body of a patient , the method comprising:providing a first elongate member extending along a longitudinal axis and having a first magnetically attracting element along a distal portion thereof;providing a second elongate member extending along a longitudinal axis and having a second magnetically attracting element along a distal portion thereof and an interior channel extending to a side hole in the distal portion;positioning the first elongate member at a first location within the body;positioning the second elongate member at a second location within the body adjacent the first location with a layer of tissue therebetween;aligning the distal portions of the first and second elongate member by magnetically coupling the first and second magnetically attracting elements on opposite sides of the layer of tissue; andpassing a piercing element between the first and second elongate elements through the layer of tissue and through the side hole of the second elongate member while magnetically coupled.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein aligning the distal portions comprises aligning the longitudinal axis of the distal portion of the first elongate member transverse to the longitudinal axis of the distal ...

INTRODUCTION DEVICE INCLUDING AN ELECTROACTIVE TIP ON A GUIDEWIRE

A catheter comprises a hollow sheath, a guidewire extendable through the hollow sheath, where the guidewire comprises a controllably bendable tip portion, a hollow tubular intermediate portion connected to the tip portion, an electrical connection portion connected to the hollow tubular portion, at least a first wire extending through the hollow tubular portion and connected at a first end thereof to a first circumferential conductor and at a second end thereof to a surface of the tip end, and a power supply connector, therein the electrical connection portion is received in the power supply connector and a first terminal in the power supply connector contacts the first circumferential conductor. 1. A catheter comprising:a hollow sheath;a guidewire extendable through the hollow sheath, the guidewire comprising:a controllably bendable distal portion;a hollow tubular intermediate portion connected to the distal portion;a proximal electrical connection portion connected to the hollow tubular portion;at least a core extending through the hollow tubular portion and connected at a proximal end thereof to a proximal electrical connection portion and at a distal end thereof to a surface of a tip end of the distal portion; anda power supply connector, therein the electrical connection portion is received in the power supply connector and a first terminal in the power supply connector contacts the proximal electrical connection portion.2. The catheter of claim 1 , further comprising:a first electrically-conductive wire extending respectively through the hollow tubular portion and connected at a proximal end thereof to a first circumferential connector and at a distal end thereof to a surface of the tip end other than the surface to which the core is connecteda second electrically-conductive wire extending respectively through the hollow tubular portion and connected at a proximal end thereof to a second circumferential connector and at a distal end thereof to a surface of the ...

Guide wire-catheter assembly

A guide wire-catheter assembly includes a catheter tube having a longitudinal channel, and a guide wire configured to be movable in the longitudinal channel. The catheter tube includes a bendable part near its distal end. The bendable part includes, in the circumferential direction of the catheter tube, a varying flexibility, such that exerting a longitudinal compression force in a proximal direction at a compression location distally of the distal end part results in bending of the bendable part. The guide wire includes an expandable part, where the expandable part is movable between a non-expanded position, in which a cross section of the expandable part is smaller than a smallest cross section of the longitudinal channel of the catheter tube and an expanded position. When the expandable part is in the non-expanded position, the guide wire can be moved completely in and out of the longitudinal channel of the catheter tube.

GUIDEWIRE

A guidewire includes a core shaft, a coil body disposed around an outer periphery of the core shaft, and a resin layer. The resin layer includes a proximal end part disposed around an outer periphery of the coil body; a distal end part located between the core shaft and the coil body distal to the proximal end part and having an outer diameter that is smaller than an outer diameter of the proximal end part; and a tapered part located between the proximal end part and the distal end part and having an outer diameter that decreases in the distal direction. The distal end part of the coil body is not covered with the resin layer. The guidewire has improved rotation performance (operativity) while maintaining insertability, and a risk that a distal end the resin layer will detach from the guidewire is reduced. 1. A guidewire comprising:a core shaft;a coil body disposed around an outer periphery of the core shaft; and a proximal end part disposed around an outer periphery of the coil body,', 'a distal end part located between the core shaft and the coil body distal to the proximal end part, the distal end part having an outer diameter that is smaller than an outer diameter of the proximal end part, and', 'a tapered part located between the proximal end part and the distal end part and having an outer diameter that decreases in a distal direction,, 'a resin layer includingwherein the distal end part of the coil body is not covered with the resin layer.2. The guidewire according to claim 1 , wherein the distal end part of the resin layer is fixed to the core shaft.3. The guidewire according to claim 1 , further comprising:a bulged portion provided at the distal end part of the resin layer, the bulged portion having an outer diameter that is larger than the outer diameter of the distal end part of the resin layer.4. The guidewire according to claim 2 , further comprising:a bulged portion provided at the distal end part of the resin layer, the bulged portion having an outer ...

MEDICAL DEVICE WITH A MOVABLE TIP

Medical devices and methods are disclosed. An example medical guidewire for accessing a body lumen along a biliary and/or pancreatic tract may include an elongated member having a distal end and a proximal end. The guidewire may include a movable distal tip positioned at the distal end of the elongated member. The guidewire may also include an electromechanical actuator for actuating movement of the distal tip. The actuation of the electromechanical actuator actuates movement of the adjustable distal tip and facilitates cannulation of one or more of a bile duct and a pancreatic duct. 1. A medical guidewire for accessing a body lumen along a biliary and/or pancreatic tract , the medical guidewire comprising:an elongated member having a distal end and a proximal end;a movable distal tip positioned at the distal end of the elongated member;an electromechanical actuator for causing movement of the distal tip;wherein actuation of the electromechanical actuator actuates movement of the movable distal tip and facilitates cannulation of one or more of a common bile duct and a pancreatic duct.2. The medical guidewire of claim 1 , wherein the distal end of the elongated member is manually steerable.3. The medical guidewire of claim 1 , wherein:the elongated member has a main body coupled to the distal tip;the main body has a maximum first diameter and the distal tip has a maximum second diameter smaller than the maximum first diameter.4. The medical guidewire of claim 1 , wherein the electromechanical actuator comprises a piezoelectric element attached to the elongated member for effecting movement of the distal tip.5. The medical guidewire of claim 4 , wherein the electromechanical actuator comprises a controller in electrical communication with the piezoelectric element.6. The medical guidewire of claim 5 , wherein the controller allows for selection of one or more types of movement of the distal tip.7. The medical guidewire of claim 5 , wherein the controller allows ...

PLASMA GUIDE WIRE

Provided is a plasma guide wire including a core shaft, a coil, a tip, a coil-core shaft joining region, and first to third insulating resin tubes. The first insulating resin tube is disposed on the outer periphery of the coil, and extends proximally from the tip to beyond the coil-core shaft joining region. The second insulating resin tube is disposed on the outer periphery of the core shaft, is joined to the proximal end of the first insulating resin tube, and extends from the proximal end of the first insulating resin tube to the proximal side of the core shaft. The second insulating resin tube is harder than the first insulating resin tube. The third insulating resin tube is disposed on at least a portion of a region of the inner periphery of the first insulating resin tube, proximal to a location facing the proximal end of the coil. 1. A plasma guide wire comprising:a core shaft;a coil wound around on an outer periphery of a region of a distal end side of the core shaft;a tip joined to a distal end of the core shaft and a distal end of the coil;a coil-core shaft joining region joining a proximal end of the coil with the core shaft;a first insulating resin tube disposed on an outer periphery of the coil and extending proximally from the tip to beyond the coil-core shaft joining region;a second insulating resin tube disposed on an outer periphery of the core shaft, and joined to a proximal end of the first insulating resin tube, and extending from the proximal end of the first insulating resin tube to a proximal side of the core shaft, the second insulating resin tube being harder than the first insulating resin tube; and{'claim-ref': {'@idref': 'CLM-00001', 'claim 1'}, 'a third insulating resin tube disposed on at least a portion of a region of an inner periphery of the first insulating resin tube, the region being located proximal to a position facing the proximal end of the coil. The plasma guide wire according to , wherein the third insulating resin tube is ...

Very narrow probe with coil

In one embodiment, a probe apparatus includes a shaft having a distal end, a tube containing separate powder granules of a ferrite, the tube being fixed to the distal end of the shaft, a coil disposed around the tube, and electrical wires connected to the coil so as to read out a signal generated across the coil due to an externally-applied magnetic field.

GUIDE WIRE FOR USE WITH A CATHETER

A guide wire () for use with a catheter comprises a core wire () terminating in a distal portion () of flat ribbon-like construction having respective opposite major surfaces (). A spring () is brazed to a distal end () of the distal portion () and to the core wire () at a tapering portion (). A reinforcing member () extends axially along the distal portion () from a proximal end () of the distal portion () to a location () for reinforcing the distal portion () for in turn increasing its torsional rigidity in order to minimise axial twisting of the distal portion (). A guide portion () of the distal portion () between the location () and the distal end () is provided to be bent at a desired set curved configuration for offsetting a distal tip () of the guide wire () from a central axis () thereof, so that by rotating the guide wire () at its proximal end () the distal portion () is also rotated for aligning the distal tip () with a branched vessel into which it is desired to direct and urge the guide wire (). 1. A guide wire for use in a surgical or other procedure for accessing a remote site in the body of a human or animal subject, the guide wire defining a longitudinally extending axis, and terminating at one end in a proximal portion, and at an opposite end in a distal portion for accessing the remote site, the distal portion terminating adjacent a distal end thereof in a guide portion, the guide portion being adapted to be shaped to a desired curved configuration for facilitating guiding of the guide wire into a branched vessel of the subject, characterized in that a reinforcing means is provided on the distal portion for minimizing axial twisting of the distal portion between a proximal end of the distal portion and the guide portion thereof. The present invention relates to a guide wire for use in a surgical or other procedure for accessing a remote site in the body of a human or animal subject, and in particular though not limited to a guide wire for use ...

GUIDEWIRE FOR CANNULA PLACEMENT

A guidewire for backloading and inserting a percutaneous pump affixed to a cannula includes a proximal section made of a first material, with a first diameter, a rounded proximal end, and a distal end. The guidewire also includes a distal section made of a second material, with a second diameter which is greater than the first diameter, a distal end, and a proximal end abutting the distal end of the proximal section. The first material of the proximal section is selected to be softer than a material of the percutaneous pump to reduce damage to the pump during backloading. The distal section of the guidewire is configured to be stiffer than the proximal section to insert the percutaneous pump in a desired location without damaging the guidewire. 1. A system for the insertion of a percutaneous pump , the system comprising:a percutaneous pump;a cannula with a cannula diameter, a proximal inlet, and a distal outlet with the percutaneous pump;a guidewire with a proximal section with a first stiffness and having a first diameter, and a distal section connected to the proximal section, the distal section with a second stiffness and having a second diameter greater than the first diameter,wherein the distal section is stiffer than the proximal section to insert the cannula in a desired location without displacing the guidewire.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the proximal section uses a first material which is softer than a material of the percutaneous pump to reduce damage to the percutaneous pump during backloading of the cannula onto the guidewire.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the proximal section is made of a first material with the first stiffness and the distal section is made of a second material with the second stiffness.4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the proximal section is made of a first structure with the first stiffness and the distal section is made of a second structure with the second stiffness.5. The system of claim 1 , the guidewire further ...

Medical guide element with diameter transition

Improved medical filaments for use with dilators to be inserted into a patient, for example into the vascular lumen, are provided, as well as combinations of filaments and dilators. Methods for use of such filaments and filament-dilator combinations are also described. The filament includes a proximal segment and a distal segment. The diameter of the distal segment is greater than the diameter of the proximal segment. The change in diameter is abrupt, providing a discrete step transition at a point along the filament which presents a proximally-facing surface on the distal segment. When the proximal segment of the filament is fully inserted into a dilator having a distal tip adapted for insertion into a patient, the dilator distal tip firmly abuts the proximally-facing end surface of the distal segment. The relative dimensions of the dilator tip and the discrete stepped transition of the filament provides full shielding or over shielding of the dilator tip, thereby facilitating passage of the dilator tip along the tissue track, through the puncture hole and into the orifice.

Steerable endoluminal punch

A steerable transseptal punch system and method of using the steerable transseptal punch system to access the left atrium.

Advanced Electromagnetic Motion and Tracking Peripherally Inserted Central Venous Catheter System with Extended Endovascular Applications

A method of inserting a catheter and catheter placement apparatus that were designed for improving the safety and efficiency in the placement of a PICC (Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter) implant are described. The invention enables placement of the catheter into the body while the catheter is maintained in a sterile environment.

HYBRID INTRODUCER

A hybrid introducer and its use are provided. In one form, a method includes one or more of the following steps: feeding a guidewire through a hybrid introducer into a scope, the hybrid introducer including a proximal thumb advance portion and a distal tapered portion coupled to the proximal thumb advance portion; removing the proximal thumb advance portion; and feeding an accessory instrument through the distal tapered portion into the scope. 1. A method comprising:feeding a guidewire through a hybrid introducer into a scope, the hybrid introducer including a proximal thumb advance portion and a distal tapered portion coupled to the proximal thumb advance portion;removing the proximal thumb advance portion; andfeeding an accessory instrument through the distal tapered portion into the scope.2. The method of wherein removing the proximal thumb advance portion includes decoupling the proximal thumb advance portion from the distal tapered portion.3. The method of wherein the distal tapered portion is coupled to the proximal thumb advance portion with a snap fit mechanism.4. The method of wherein the distal tapered portion is coupled to the proximal thumb advance portion with a screw mechanism.5. The method of wherein the scope is an endoscope.6. The method of further comprising advancing a distal end of the guidewire to a desired location in a patient's body as the guidewire is being fed through the hybrid introducer.7. The method of further comprising imaging the guidewire in the patient's body to determine if the distal end of the guidewire is at the desired location.8. The method of wherein imaging the guidewire includes generating an x-ray image of the guidewire in the patient's body.9. The method of further comprising feeding a second endoscope over the guidewire.10. The method of further comprising removing the proximal thumb advance portion of the hybrid introducer and feeding an accessory instrument through the distal tapered portion of the hybrid introducer ...

GUIDEWIRE

Guidewires suitable for use in a system for implanting a lung volume reduction device are disclosed. The guidewire includes an outer sheath having proximal and distal ends, and comprising a proximal section, a transition section, and a distal section. The proximal section extends from the proximal end of the sheath to the transition section, and the distal section extends from the transition section to the distal end of the sheath. The distal section defines a bore extending from the transition section to the distal end of the sheath and an inner core having proximal and distal ends. The inner core extends through the bore of the distal section of the sheath, wherein the inner core is fixed to the sheath at the transition section, and wherein the distal end of the inner core is fixed to the distal end of the sheath at the distal end of the sheath. 1. A guidewire , comprising:an outer sheath having a proximal end and a distal end, and comprising a proximal section, a transition section, and a distal section,wherein the proximal section extends from the proximal end of the outer sheath to the transition section, and the distal section extends from the transition section to the distal end of the outer sheath, andwherein the distal section defines a bore extending from the transition section to the distal end of the outer sheath; andan inner core having a proximal end and a distal end,wherein the inner core extends through the bore of the distal section of the outer sheath,wherein the inner core is fixed to the outer sheath at the transition section, andwherein the distal end of the inner core is fixed to the distal end of the outer sheath at the distal end of the sheath.2. The guidewire as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the proximal section of the outer sheath defines a bore extending from the proximal end of the sheath to the transition section.3. The guidewire as claimed in claim 2 , wherein the bore of the proximal section of the outer sheath is substantially ...

Apparatus and methods for removing obstructive material from body lumens

A method for removing material within a body lumen of a patient is disclosed. The method include introducing a distal end of a tubular member into a body lumen. The tubular member has a guide member extending distally from the distal end. Next, the tubular member is positioned such that the distal end is disposed adjacent material to be removed and a distal tip of the guide member is disposed beyond the material. One or more lumen clearing elements are then deployed from the distal tip of the guide member. Each lumen clearing element includes an expandable structure that expands from a contracted condition within the guide member to an expanded condition when deployed from the distal tip. Then, the deployed one or more lumen clearing elements are retracted along a track of the guide member to engage the material disposed adjacent the distal end of the tubular member and draw the material into a lumen of the tubular member.

MEDICAL GUIDEWIRE

A guidewire system may include a guidewire having a relatively stiff proximal section and a relatively flexible distal section joined by a transition region, and a TAVI device slidably disposed on the guidewire. The guidewire may include an expandable element disposed about the transition region. The expandable element may be configured to expand from a collapsed configuration to an expanded configuration. The guidewire may include an expandable element disposed at the distal end. The distal section may be pre-configured to form more than one distal loop. A method of protecting an apex of a left ventricle during a TAVI procedure may include inserting a guidewire into the left ventricle, positioning a transition region adjacent the apex, expanding an expandable element such that the expandable element spans the apex, advancing a TAVI device distally over the guidewire to an aortic valve, and performing a TAVI procedure at the aortic valve. 1. (canceled)2. A method of protecting an apex of a left ventricle of a heart of a patient during a TAVI procedure , the method comprising:inserting a guidewire upstream through an aorta of the patient and into the left ventricle, the guidewire including a relatively stiff proximal section, a relatively flexible distal section joined to the relatively stiff proximal section by a transition region, and an expandable element disposed about the transition region;advancing the relatively flexible distal section into the left ventricle until a distal curve forms in contact with a left ventricle wall;positioning the transition region adjacent the apex;expanding the expandable element from a collapsed configuration to an expanded configuration within the left ventricle such that the expandable element spans the apex;advancing a TAVI device distally over the guidewire to an aortic valve; andperforming a TAVI procedure at the aortic valve.324. The method of claim 2 , wherein the relatively flexible distal section is sufficiently flexible to ...

Capacitive Intravascular Pressure-Sensing Devices and Associated Systems and Methods

Intravascular devices, systems, and methods are disclosed. In some embodiments, the intravascular devices are guide wires that include a capacitive pressure-sensing component disposed at a distal portion of the guide wire. Methods of making such intravascular devices, including various manufacturing and assembling techniques, are disclosed. Systems associated with such intravascular devices and methods of using such devices and systems are also disclosed.

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR ENDOLUMINAL STENT TRANSIT

An endoluminal stent transit device. The endoluminal stent transit device includes a wire having a distal end and a proximal end, and a guide element attached to the wire at the distal end, which is movable between a first position and a second position. The guide element in the first position is in a contracted configuration while located within a lumen of a catheter and has a first diameter smaller than the catheter, and in the second position is in an expanded configuration while located outside of the lumen of the catheter and has a second diameter larger than the catheter. 1. An endoluminal stent transit device , comprisinga wire having a distal end and a proximal end; anda guide element attached to the wire at the distal end, the guide element movable between a first position and a second position,wherein the guide element in the first position is in a contracted configuration while located within a lumen of a catheter and has a first diameter smaller than the catheter, and in the second position is in an expanded configuration while located outside of the lumen of the catheter and has a second diameter larger than the catheter.2. The endoluminal stent transit device of claim 1 , wherein the guide element while in the second position maintains a radial position of the wire within an inner lumen of an in situ stent while the wire transits the in situ stent.3. The endoluminal stent transit device of claim 2 , wherein the radial position is substantially centered within the inner lumen.4. The endoluminal stent transit device of claim 1 , wherein the guide element includes one or more fronds.5. The endoluminal stent transit device of claim 1 , wherein the guide element is shaped as an umbrella.6. The endoluminal stent transit device of claim 1 , wherein the guide element is shaped as a balloon.7. A method for transiting a catheter through a lumen of a stent claim 1 , comprising:positioning a catheter proximal to an in situ stent, wherein the catheter defines a ...

Nickel-titanium core guide wire

A guide wire for use in a medical procedure having a shapeable tip integral with and made from the distal end of a superelastic nitinol distal section of the guide wire, wherein the shapeable tip can be finger kinked. Such a guide wire includes an elongated core made from a superelastic nitinol alloy at the distal end, the distal end of the elongated core having a tapered section leading to a shapeable distal tip. The shapeable tip is an extension of the distal end of the nitinol distal section, and includes permanent strain hardening from at least two different radial directions imparting crystallographic texture in the radial directions that eliminate superelasticity so that permanent deformation can be achieved with finger pressure.

GUIDEWIRE WITH INTERNAL PRESSURE SENSOR

A pressure guidewire is provided that has a proximal end and a distal end. The pressure guidewire has a proximal section a sensor housing section, and an intermediate section. The proximal section extends from the proximal end of the pressure guidewire to a distal end of the proximal section. The sensor housing section is disposed adjacent to the distal end of the pressure guidewire. The intermediate section disposed between the proximal section and the sensor housing section. The intermediate section has a proximal end separate from the proximal section. The proximal end can be coupled to the distal end of the proximal section. The pressure guidewire has a tubular body positioned within the intermediate section. A pressure sensor is positioned in the sensor housing section 1. A pressure guidewire comprising: a proximal section comprising a first tubular body comprising a proximal end, a distal end, a proximal outside surface and a proximal inside surface, the proximal inside surface enclosing a proximal portion of a central lumen, the proximal outside surface comprising an outer surface of the pressure guidewire;', 'a middle section comprising a proximal end, a middle section outside surface, a middle section inside surface, the middle section inside surface disposed about a space within the pressure guidewire, the proximal end of the middle section being separate from and coupled to the distal end of the proximal section;', 'a sensor housing section extending distally relative to the middle section;, 'a shaft tube assembly comprisinga hypotube comprising a proximal end portion and a distal end portion, the hypotube extending through the space about which the middle section inside surface is disposed, the proximal end portion of the hypotube coupled with the distal end of the proximal section and the distal end portion of the hypotube being coupled to the sensor housing; anda tip pressure sensor positioned in the sensor housing section.2. The pressure guidewire of ...

System and Method for Targeted Delivery of Therapeutic Agents to Tissue

Novel systems for and methods of delivering therapeutic agents to target tissues are disclosed. The method of delivering a therapeutic agent to a target tissue involves identifying a target tissue via an imaging modality and then using a guidewire capable of anchoring in tissue to advance a cannula to the target tissue. The guidewire and novel cannula configurations enable rapid and repeated treatments of the target tissue without the need for subsequent imaging. The cannula is coupled to a source of ultrasound, radiation, radiofrequency energy, or chemotherapeutic agents which can then be delivered to from the cannula the target tissue. The system and method can be used to treat tumors that are small or surgically inoperable. In addition, the system can be used to treat lymphatic tissue that may contain metastases from the tumors. 118-. (canceled)19. A method of treating tumor cells in lymphatic tissue , the method comprising;identifying a tumor via an imaging modality;providing a needle having a distal end and a proximal end and a lumen;inserting the needle into a patient so that its distal end is proximate a tumor;inserting a guidewire having a proximal end and a distal end through the lumen of the needle;advancing the guidewire in the lumen so that its distal end is positioned proximate the tumor;removing the needle from the patient;providing a cannula having a proximal end and a distal end and at least two lumens;inserting the proximal end of the guidewire into one of the lumens of the cannula and advancing the cannula over the guidewire until the distal end of the cannula is proximate the tumor but not within a blood vessel;coupling one of the lumens on the proximal end of the cannula to a source of therapeutic agent; and,delivering the therapeutic agent to the target tissue so as to enable local lymphatic vessels to absorb the therapeutic agent.2021-. (canceled)22. The method of claim 19 , wherein the imaging modality is selected from the group consisting of ...

Atraumatic Guidewire And Method Of Use

An atraumatic guidewire kit and method including a guidewire having a soft tip of increased diameter that spreads any force placed on tissue over an increased area resulting in reduced trauma to the tissue. 1. A guidewire comprising:a body having a diameter;a distal tip portion having a diameter greater than the body diameter.2. The guidewire of wherein said distal tip portion is compressible.3. The guidewire of wherein said distal tip portion is expandable.4. The guidewire of wherein said distal tip portion comprises a material selected from the group foam claim 1 , polymeric mesh claim 1 , metallic mesh claim 1 , braid claim 1 , gel and balloon.5. The guidewire of wherein said distal tip portion is shapeable.6. The guidewire of wherein said distal tip portion is curved.7. The guidewire of further comprising a lumen passing through said body and said distal tip portion.8. A guidewire kit comprising: a body having a diameter;', 'a distal tip portion having a diameter greater than the body diameter; and,', 'a lumen extending through said body and said distal tip portion;, 'an atraumatic guidewire comprisinga secondary guidewire sized to fit through said lumen; and,a sheath sized to slidingly contain said atraumatic guidewire such that said distal tip portion is in a compressed state when disposed within said sheath.9. The kit of wherein said distal tip portion is expands when released from said sheath.10. The guidewire of wherein said distal tip portion comprises a material selected from the group foam claim 8 , polymeric mesh claim 8 , metallic mesh claim 8 , braid claim 8 , gel and balloon.11. The guidewire of wherein said distal tip portion is shapeable.12. The guidewire of wherein said distal tip portion is curved.13. A method of atraumatically placing a guidewire at a target location comprising:providing a distal tip portion on the guidewire having a feature that results in increased surface area contacting tissue of the target location; and,navigating the ...

GUIDE WIRE

A guide wire has excellent flexibility of a distal portion thereof, followability for a blood vessel and the like and transmutability of delicate interactions such as resistance produced when the distal portion slides in contact with a wall surface of a blood vessel and the like, and resistance produced when the distal portion bumps against a stenosed section and the like. The guide wire has a core shaft and a coil body covering a distal portion of the core shaft, the coil body being formed by helically winding a stranded wire having three or more elemental wires interwound together, and the stranded wire being hollow and having a first void at the center thereof. 1. A guide wire comprising:a core shaft; and 'wherein the coil body is a helically wound stranded wire having three or more elemental wires interwound together, the stranded wire being hollow and having a first void at a center thereof.', 'a coil body covering a distal portion of the core shaft,'}2. The guide wire according to claim 1 , further comprising:a second void between adjacent coils of the coil body.3. The guide wire according to claim 1 , wherein the stranded wire includes 4 elemental wires interwound together.4. The guide wire according to claim 2 , wherein the stranded wire includes 4 elemental wires interwound together.5. The guide wire according to claim 1 , wherein the elemental wires include:first elemental wires, andsecond elemental wires arranged between the first elemental wires and having diameters smaller than diameters of the first elemental wires.6. The guide wire according to claim 2 , wherein the elemental wires include:first elemental wires, andsecond elemental wires arranged between the first elemental wires and having diameters smaller than diameters of the first elemental wires.7. A guide wire comprising:a core shaft;a first coil body covering a first part of a distal portion of the core shaft and including a helically wound stranded wire having three or more elemental wires ...

Method and apparatus for placing a catheter within a vasculature

A catheter for insertion into vasculature of a patient to a target area in the vasculature includes a hollow inner shaft, a non-occluding self-expandable scaffold coupled to the distal end of the inner shaft and disposed at the distal end of the inner shaft, and a hollow outer shaft. The outer shaft is slidable over the inner shaft and scaffold such that the scaffold is in a non-expanded state when the outer shaft is around the scaffold. The outer shaft has a state where the distal end of the outer shaft remains near the target area without the inner shaft and the scaffold being within the outer shaft. The inner shaft and the scaffold are removable through the proximal end of the outer shaft while the distal end of the outer shaft remains near the target area.

TARGETING GUIDEWIRE

The disclosure is directed to a targeting guidewire. The guidewire includes a distal portion including four portions and three transition zones between the adjacent portions. A first and a third portions have a smaller stiffness than a second and a fourth portions. The first and the third portions may also have a smaller overall outer diameters than the second and the fourth portions. The three transition zones comprises marking elements so as to delineate their locations. 1. A guidewire , comprising:a distal section, a proximal section, and a middle section between the distal section and the proximal section;a first portion of a first stiffness disposed at a distal end of the distal section, the first portion having a first overall outer diameter;a second portion of a second stiffness having a second overall outer diameter and disposed adjacent to the first portion;a third portion of a third stiffness having a third overall outer diameter and disposed adjacent to the second portion;a fourth portion of a fourth stiffness disposed adjacent to the third portion and configured to connect to the middle section, the fourth portion having a fourth overall outer diameter;a first transition zone disposed between the first portion and the second portion, wherein a first end of the first transition zone is adjacent to the first portion and has a same overall outer diameter as the first portion, and a second end of the first transition zone is adjacent to the second portion and has a same overall outer diameter as the second portion;a second transition zone disposed between the second portion and the third portion, wherein a first end of the second transition zone is adjacent to the second portion and has a same overall outer diameter as the second portion, and a second end of the second transition zone is adjacent to the third portion and has a same overall outer diameter as the third portion;a third transition zone disposed between the third portion and the fourth portion, ...

GUIDEWIRE FOR CATHETER INSERTION

A guidewire configured to reduce the incidence of medical accidents when using guidewires including, but not limited to, the incidence of guidewires accidentally being pushed completely into a patient through a needle in the patient, guidewires accidently being left inside patients after the placement of central venous (and other) catheters, and guidewires accidently being left inside patients after removal of the catheter (at the end of an operation of other medical procedure). In particular, an intermediary portion (in the form of a new shape (referred to herein as “an obstruction portion”), an impeding portion, or an alternate (e.g., more flexible) material) of the guidewire inhibits further advancement into the needle with pushing motion. (The intermediary portion can be implemented as an additional portion connected between the patient-side portion and the doctor-side portion of the guidewire as well.) 1. A guidewire for insertion into at least one of a needle and a mini-catheter during a medical procedure comprising:a patient-side portion;a doctor-side portion; andan intermediary portion interposed between the patient-side portion and the doctor-side portion having, a diameter greater than the inner diameter of the at least one of the needle and the mini-catheter and greater than the first diameter of the patient-side portion_such that the intermediary portion does not advance into the at least one of the needle and the mini-catheter during the medical procedure when a medical professional pushes axially on the doctor-side portion.2. The guidewire as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the intermediary portion comprises an obstruction portion having a reducible diameter that reduces under force exerted by a medical professional after insertion of the patient-side portion of the guidewire into the at least one of the needle and the mini-catheter.3. The guidewire as claimed in claim 2 , wherein the obstruction portion has a temporarily reducible diameter.4. The ...

Guidewire And Catheter System For In-Vivo Forward Viewing Of The Vasculature

A medical system comprising a guidewire that is connectable to a catheter is described. The guidewire has a housing connected to the distal end of a core wire. A printed circuit board (PCB) electrically connected to a camera chip resides in the housing. An atraumatic lens is supported by the housing with the camera chip residing between the atraumatic lens and the housing so that light rays entering the atraumatic lens are refracted to a focal plane aligned along a distal face of the camera chip. A proximal connector powered by a controller is wired to a visual display. With the proximal end of the guidewire connected to the proximal connector, the controller provides electrical power to the camera chip via a power cable extending along the core wire to the PCB. The catheter has an axially-extending primary lumen and a plurality of optical fibers extending to respective light-emitting lenses. During a medical procedure, the guidewire is first inserted into the vasculature of a patient. The guidewire is then received in the primary lumen of the catheter to connect the catheter to the guidewire. Then, the guidewire is connected to the proximal connector to enable the controller to provide electrical power to the camera chip. This provides the surgeon with a visual image of the vasculature illuminated by the light-emitting lenses of the catheter during the medical procedure. 1. A guidewire , comprising:a) a core wire extending along a longitudinal axis from a core wire proximal end to a core wire distal portion having a core wire distal end;b) a housing connected to the core wire distal end;c) a printed circuit board (PCB) electrically connected to a camera chip, wherein the PCB is connected to the housing;d) a power cable extending along the core wire to the PCB to thereby provide electrical power to the camera chip; ande) an atraumatic lens supported by the housing, wherein the camera chip resides between the atraumatic lens and the housing so that light rays ...

Optical Tip-Tracking Systems and Methods Thereof

An optical tip-tracking system is disclosed including a light-emitting stylet, a light detector, and a console configured to operably connect to the light-emitting stylet and the light detector. The light-emitting stylet is configured to be disposed in a lumen of a catheter. The light-emitting stylet includes a light source in a distal-end portion of the light-emitting stylet configured to emit light. The light detector is configured to be placed over a patient. The light detector includes a plurality of photodetectors configured to detect the light emitted from the light source. The console is configured to instantiate an optical tip-tracking process for optically tracking the distal-end portion of the light-emitting stylet while the light-emitting stylet is disposed in a vasculature of the patient, the light source is emitting light, the light detector is disposed over the light-emitting stylet, and the photodetectors are detecting the light emitted from the light source. 1. An optical tip-tracking system , comprising:a light-emitting stylet configured to be disposed in a lumen of a catheter, the light-emitting stylet including a light source in a distal-end portion of the light-emitting stylet configured to emit light;a light detector configured to be placed over a patient, the light detector including a plurality of photodetectors configured to detect the light emitted from the light source; anda console configured to operably connect to the light-emitting stylet and the light detector, the console including memory and a processor configured to instantiate an optical tip-tracking process for optically tracking the distal-end portion of the light-emitting stylet while the light-emitting stylet is disposed in a vasculature of the patient, the light source is emitting light, the light detector is disposed over the light-emitting stylet, and the photodetectors are detecting the light emitted from the light source.2. The optical tip-tracking system of claim 1 , ...

METHOD AND DEVICES FOR FLOW OCCLUSION DURING DEVICE EXCHANGES

A method of reducing the risk of clinical sequelae to catheter induced vascular injuries may include introducing a guide wire into a vascular sheath residing in a blood vessel, proximally retracting the vascular sheath while leaving the wire in place, and observing indicia of the presence or absence of a vascular injury caused to the blood vessel by the vascular sheath or a procedural catheter previously advanced through the vascular sheath. If indicia of a vascular injury are observed, the method may further involve proximally retracting the guide wire to position the inflatable balloon adjacent the injury and inflating the balloon to reduce blood flow past the injury, while leaving the guide wire in place to provide subsequent access to the injury. The inflatable balloon can be inflated and deflated through a valve positioned at the proximal end of the guide wire. 1. A vascular guide wire , comprising: a proximal portion;', 'a flexible distal portion that is at least about 15 cm long and is more flexible than the proximal portion;', 'a transition portion between the proximal and distal portions;, 'an elongate tubular body having a proximal end, a distal end and a lumen extending longitudinally through at least part of the body, the elongate body comprising;'}an inflatable balloon secured to the elongate body and in communication with the lumen, the inflatable balloon spanning the transition portion;a sealing member having an inner diameter and an outer diameter positioned in the lumen of the elongate body at the proximal portion of the elongate body and configured to couple with an inflation device to allow for inflation and deflation of the balloon;a piston assembly without a lumen for insertion into the lumen of the elongate body at the proximal end, the piston assembly having a handle with an integral piston, the piston extending through the inner diameter of the sealing member when the sealing member is in a closed state and the piston retracted axially from ...

Micro-fabricated medical device having a non-helical cut arrangement

The present disclosure relates to interventional devices such as catheters and guidewire devices having micro-fabricated features for providing flexibility while maintaining good torquability. An interventional device includes an elongated member (500) having an arrangement of fenestrations which define a plurality of axially extending beams coupling a plurality of circumferentially extending rings. The fenestrations are arranged so that the resulting beams form a distributed, non-helical and non-linear pattern along the length of the elongated member. The pattern of fenestrations thereby minimizes or eliminates preferred bending axes.

GUIDEWIRE DEVICES HAVING SHAPEABLE POLYMER TIPS

The present disclosure relates to guidewire devices having shapeable tips and effective torquability. A guidewire device includes a core having a proximal section and a tapered distal section. A tube structure is coupled to the core such that the tapered distal section of the core extends into and distally beyond the tube structure. The portion of the core extending distally beyond the tube forms a shapeable tip. A polymer covering encompasses the tip. The tip is configured to reduce the tendency of resilient forces from the tube structure to disrupt a customized shape of the tip. 1. A guidewire device comprising:a core having a proximal section and a distal section, the distal section having a smaller diameter than the proximal section;a tube structure coupled to the core such that the distal section of the core passes into the tube structure and passes distally beyond the tube structure to form a tip;a braided material coupled to a distal end of the tube structure and extending distally from the tube structure, the braided material encompassing at least a portion of the tip; anda polymer encompassing at least a portion of the tip.2. The guidewire device of claim 1 , wherein the distal section of the core tapers from the proximal section of the core.3. The guidewire device of claim 1 , wherein the tip extends distally beyond the tube a distance of about 0.5 cm to 5 cm.4. The guidewire device of claim 1 , further comprising a coil partially disposed within the tube structure and partially extending distally beyond the tube structure.5. The guidewire device of claim 4 , wherein the portion of the coil extending distally beyond the tube structure is encompassed by the polymer.6. The guidewire device of claim 4 , wherein the portion of the coil disposed within the tube structure encompasses the core and is positioned between an outer surface of the core and an inner surface of the tube structure.7. The guidewire device of claim 4 , wherein the coil is formed from a ...

Endoscopic ultrasound guided access needle

An access needle includes a hollow shaft having a lumen sized and shaped to slidably receive a guidewire therein and having a distal end including an angled surface extending proximally and transversely from a sharpened distal-most tip of the shaft to a beveled smoothed area of the shaft proximal and transverse to the sharpened tip. The beveled smoothed area is positioned to slidably engage a guidewire extended distally out the distal end of the needle so that, as the guidewire is retracted proximally into the needle, the beveled smoothed area slidably engages the guidewire to minimize abrasion to the guidewire.

MEDICAL DEVICES FOR ACCESSING BODY LUMENS

Medical devices and methods for making and using medical devices are disclosed. An example medical device may include a medical guidewire including a core wire. The core wire may include a distal constant diameter, a first tapered section, an intermediate constant diameter section, a second tapered section, and a proximal constant diameter section. The distal end of the first tapered section may be attached to the proximal end of the distal constant diameter section such that a first inflection point is defined where the distal end of the first tapered section and the proximal end of the distal constant diameter section meet. The core wire may be configured such that when a first predetermined longitudinal force is applied to the distal end of the distal constant diameter section along the longitudinal axis, the distal constant diameter section prolapses such that a first loop is defined about the first inflection point. 1. A medical guidewire , comprising: a distal constant diameter section having a distal end and a proximal end, the distal end of the distal constant diameter section defining a distal end of the core wire;', 'a first tapered section having a distal end and a proximal end, the distal end of the first tapered section being attached to the proximal end of the distal constant diameter section such that a first inflection point is defined where the distal end of the first tapered section and the proximal end of the distal constant diameter section meet;', 'an intermediate constant diameter section having a proximal end and a distal end, the distal end of the intermediate constant diameter section being attached to the proximal end of the first tapered section;', 'a second tapered section having a proximal end and a distal end, the distal end of the second tapered section being attached to the proximal end of the intermediate constant diameter section such that a second inflection point is defined where the distal end of the second tapered section and ...

Coaxial guide coil for interventional cardiology procedures

The present application describes a coaxial guide coil catheter device to be placed inside of a standard cardiovascular guide catheter for facilitating extra support in the coronary artery when advancing interventional cardiology devices such as balloon catheters and stent delivery systems. This device is passed through the main lumen of a standard guide catheter so that the tip of the coaxial guide coil device is extended past the tip of the guide catheter and into the coronary artery. The proximal portion of the coaxial guide coil will remain within the guide catheter. The device improves the ability of the guide catheter to remain seated in the coronary ostium during interventional procedures.

TISSUE CUTTING SYSTEMS AND METHODS

The disclosure provides various embodiments of systems to facilitate the cutting of luminal tissue structures percutaneously. 1. An electrosurgical guidewire , comprising:a core wire having a proximal end, and a distal end and being defined by an outer surface between the proximal end and the distal end of the core wire, said core wire having a centerline that traverses the length of the core wire from the proximal end to the distal end of the core wire;a radiopaque marker pattern disposed over the core wire to indicate a location proximate a middle section of the guidewire to be kinked and used to cut through tissue during an electrosurgical procedure; anda dielectric coating disposed about the core wire and the radiopaque marker pattern, wherein the proximal end and distal end of the core wire are exposed and the proximal end is configured to be coupled to an electrosurgical generator, and further wherein the dielectric coating is configured to be stripped from the guidewire proximate the radiopaque marker pattern,2. The electrosurgical guidewire of claim 1 , wherein the radiopaque marker pattern defines a central region to be crimped and stripped of the dielectric coating claim 1 , and a plurality of measurement indicia on either side of the central region.3. The electrosurgical guidewire of claim 2 , wherein the radiopaque marker pattern includes a radiopaque metallic material.4. The electrosurgical guidewire of claim 3 , wherein the marker pattern includes gold metallic material deposited over the core wire.5. The electrosurgical guidewire of claim 4 , wherein the marker pattern includes gold metallic material electroplated on the core wire using a mask to form the marker pattern.6. The electrosurgical guidewire of claim 3 , wherein the radiopaque marker pattern includes an uneven surface configured to enhance its visual signature under fluoroscopy.7. The electrosurgical guidewire of claim 1 , wherein the dielectric material has a dielectric strength at 1 mil ...

CANNULA AND INFUSION DEVICES

An infusion device according to certain embodiments is provided for subcutaneous delivery of a therapeutic agent to a patient. The infusion device generally includes a cannula and a hub part. The cannula includes a tubular body member including a tubular wall at least partly enclosing a longitudinally-extending internal bore. A distal portion of the tubular body member includes a distal tip end including at least one tip opening. The tubular wall includes at least two weakened portions capable of allowing the cannula to flex in an area including the weakened portions when the cannula is exposed to a compression force and/or an increased internal pressure. The hub part is configured to be fastened onto the patient's skin via a mounting pad. 134-. (canceled)35. An infusion device for subcutaneous delivery of a therapeutic agent to a patient comprising:a cannula comprising a tubular body member comprising a tubular wall at least partly enclosing a longitudinally-extending internal bore, a distal portion of the tubular body member having a distal tip end comprising at least one tip opening, wherein the tubular wall comprises at least two weakened portions in the wall, the weakened portions being capable of allowing the cannula to flex in an area comprising the weakened portions when the cannula is exposed to a compression force and/or an increased internal pressure; anda hub part configured to be fastened onto the patient's skin via a mounting pad.36. (canceled)37. (canceled)38. The infusion device of claim 35 , wherein the weakened portions result from material properties of the tubular wall.39. The infusion device of claim 35 , wherein the weakened portions result from a portion of the tubular wall being thinner as compared to the rest of the wall.40. The infusion device of claim 35 , wherein at least one of the weakened portions comprises a slit claim 35 , a hole claim 35 , or a groove.4146-. (canceled)47. The infusion device of claim 35 , wherein when the cannula is ...

Guidewire

Embodiments include a transition section for coupling a distal section and a proximal section of the guidewire. The transition section includes a main body having a first outer diameter; proximal and distal pin extensions having second and third outer diameters, wherein the proximal pin extension is configured to be fixed to the proximal section of the guidewire, and the distal pin extension is configured to be inserted into and fixed to the distal section of the guidewire. The distal pin extension includes a bore for receiving an inner core of the distal section of the guidewire. The first outer diameter may be greater than the second and third outer diameters. Also disclosed are methods of manufacturing a guidewire with such a transition section. 1. A transition section for coupling a distal section and a proximal section of a guidewire , the transition section comprising:a main body having a first outer diameter;a proximal pin extension having a second outer diameter, wherein the proximal pin extension extends proximally from the main body, and wherein the proximal pin extension is configured to be fixed to the proximal section of the guidewire; anda distal pin extension having a third outer diameter, wherein the distal pin extension extends distally from the main body, and wherein the distal pin extension is configured to be inserted into and fixed to the distal section of the guidewire, the distal pin extension comprising a bore for receiving an inner core of the distal section of the guidewire;wherein the first outer diameter is greater than the second and third outer diameters.2. The transition section of claim 1 , wherein the proximal section of the guidewire comprises a coil claim 1 , and wherein the proximal pin extension is configured to be fixed to an open end of the coil.3. The transition section of claim 1 , wherein the distal section of the guidewire comprises a coil claim 1 , and wherein the distal pin extension is configured to be fixed to an open ...

Delivery guidewire

A delivery guidewire for navigating a catheter in the heart to deliver a valve prosthesis. The delivery guidewire comprising an elongated core, an outer sleeve disposed on the elongated core, and a coil disposed on a distal portion of the elongated core. The delivery guidewire having a first section having a generally uniform diameter and a second section having a tapering section. A distal portion of the second section of the delivery guidewire comprises a pigtail shape atraumatic tip which can remain in the left ventricle.

STEERABLE INTRAVASCULAR ANCHOR AND METHOD OF OPERATION

A steerable intravascular anchor comprises an anchor portion that is steerable to a position and then pinned thereto by an external device protruding through the superficial temporal artery. The pin is steered through the skin into the anchor under, for example, by fluoroscopic guidance. The anchor portion, in one embodiment, may have a figure-eight shape, and that comprises two wires, each wire forming a ring. The rings may be located in the same plane or at an angle with respect to one other. Alternatively, the anchor portion comprises a plurality of wires, each wire forming a ring, each ring being connected to at least one other ring. It will be appreciated that other wire shapes may be used, including loops, triangles, squares, pentagons, hexagons, and the like, and combinations thereof. 1. An intravascular system comprising:a guidewire; and a first ring connected to the guidewire; and,', 'a second ring connected to at least one of the first ring and the guidewire., 'a micro-anchor having a figure eight shape connected to the guidewire, the micro-anchor comprising2. The intravascular system of claim 1 , wherein the first ring is at an angle relative to the second ring.3. The intravascular system of claim 1 , further comprising a third ring claim 1 , wherein the third ring is connected to at least one of the first ring claim 1 , second ring and the guidewire.4. The intravascular system of claim 1 , wherein the first ring and the second ring each comprise a support extending from one end of the ring to an opposite end of the ring.5. The intravascular system of claim 4 , wherein the support of the first ring is coaxial with the support of the second ring.6. The intravascular system of claim 5 , wherein the support of the first ring and the support of the second ring are further coaxial with a longitudinal axis of the guidewire.7. The intravascular system of claim 1 , further comprising a pin claim 1 , the pin guidable through at least one of the first ring and the ...

Catheter Assembly Including ECG Sensor And Magnetic Assemblies

A stylet for use in guiding a distal tip of a catheter to a predetermined location within the body of a patient. In one embodiment the stylet is configured for use within a lumen of the catheter and comprises a core wire, an ECG sensor, and a magnetic assembly. The ECG sensor senses an ECG signal of a patient when the stylet is disposed within the lumen of the catheter and the catheter is disposed within the body of the patient. The magnetic assembly includes at least one element capable of producing a magnetic or electromagnetic field for detection by a sensor external to the patient. In another embodiment, the stylet includes a pre-shaped distal segment that is deflected with respect to a more proximal portion of the stylet, which in turn causes a distal segment of the catheter to be deflected when the stylet is received within the lumen. 1. A catheter assembly , comprising: a core wire having a straight proximal segment aligned with a longitudinal axis of the core wire, and a pre-shaped distal segment having a bent configuration deflected from the longitudinal axis; and', 'a sleeve positioned over the pre-shaped distal segment to maintain the pre-shaped distal segment in the bent configuration; and, 'a stylet includinga catheter having a distal portion, the core wire pre-shaped distal segment designed to bend the distal portion into the bent configuration upon insertion of the stylet into the lumen.2. The catheter assembly according to claim 1 , wherein the stylet includes a memory shape material claim 1 , and wherein the pre-shaped distal segment of stylet defines an arc shape.3. The catheter assembly according to claim 2 , wherein the stylet includes nitinol claim 2 , and wherein the stylet further includes a handle to axially rotate the stylet.4. The catheter assembly according to claim 1 , wherein the proximal segment of the core wire has a first diameter claim 1 , and wherein the distal segment of the core wire includes a second diameter less than the first ...

System and method for tracking patient movement during guided medical procedure

A medical instrument includes an instrument position sensor operable to generate an instrument position signal. A first head position sensor is configured to be secured in a first fixed location on or in a patient's head and generate a first head position signal. Field generating elements are configured to generate an electromagnetic field around the patient's head. A processor processes the instrument position signal to determine positioning of the patient's instrument within the electromagnetic field. The processor also processes the first head position signal to determine positioning of the patient's head within the electromagnetic field. The processor determines the position of the instrument within the patient's head based on the determined position of the patient's instrument within the electromagnetic field and based further on the determined position of the patient's head within the electromagnetic field.

Guide wire

A guide wire that includes a core shaft that is made of a first material, a coil that is provided to cover an outer periphery of the core shaft and is formed by twisting a first wire made of the first material and a plurality of second wires made of a second material different from the first material, and a distal end joint that joints a distal end of the core shaft and a distal end of the coil, and the distal end joint is made of the first material and is continuous from the distal end of the core shaft and the distal end of the first wire, and the distal end joint wraps the distal ends of the plurality of second wires.

CONTROLLABLE INSERTION SLEEVE

The present application relates to an insertion sleeve (), in which a guide wire () extends in order to guide the insertion sleeve (). A cavity () is formed in the sleeve wall (), which cavity extends in parallel with a longitudinal direction of the insertion sleeve () over the whole length of the sleeve, wherein said cavity () accommodates the guide wire (). In addition to the cavity () at least one control wire () is integrated into the sleeve wall (), which at least one control wire is designed to cause a curvature of the insertion sleeve (). 1. An endovascular insertion sleeve configured to receive a guide wire for guiding the insertion sleeve the insertion sleeve comprising:a cavity formed in a wall of the insertion sleeve, wherein the cavity extends parallel to a longitudinal direction of the insertion sleeve over an entire length of the insertion sleeve, wherein the cavity is configured to receive the guide wire extending in the cavity, and wherein at least one control wire is integrated within the insertion sleeve, wherein the at least one control wire is configured to control a curvature of the insertion sleeve.213-. (canceled)14. The insertion sleeve according to claim 1 , wherein the cavity is positioned entirely within the sleeve wall.15. The insertion sleeve according to claim 1 , wherein the cavity is positioned partially or entirely in a protrusion of the sleeve wall.16. The insertion sleeve according to claim 15 , wherein the protrusion of the sleeve wall is configured to protrude outwardly or inwardly in cross-section.17. The insertion sleeve according to claim 1 , wherein the guide wire has a soft claim 1 , flexible and proximally curved tip.18. The insertion sleeve according to claim 1 , wherein the at least one control wire is configured to be shortened and/or lengthened to control the curvature of the insertion sleeve.19. The insertion sleeve according to claim 1 , wherein an effective length of the control wire is continuously adjustable or ...

THROMBECTOMY CATHETER AND METHODS OF USE

A thrombectomy catheter with a catheter or delivery sheath having a dual lumen extending therethrough, the catheter having a proximal segment and a distal segment and a linear section coupled therebetween, the distal segment configured as a loop, a port or aperture formed therein said dual lumen of said catheter, the port positioned proximate the distal segment, and a guidewire configured to longitudinally traverse therethrough one of the dual lumen of the catheter, said guidewire having a first end affixed to a mesh strainer, the mesh strainer configured to longitudinally traverse therethrough the other of the dual lumen of the catheter and exit therethrough said port and follow said loop to form retractable mesh strainer. 1. A remotely operated surgical device , said surgical device comprising:a flexible positioning instrument having an elongated catheter with a dual lumen bore therein extending from a first catheter end to a second catheter end, said dual lumen bore having a first lumen and a second lumen, and a pigtail attached thereto said second catheter end, said first lumen extends therethrough said elongated catheter and said pigtail, said second lumen extends therethrough said elongated catheter;a guidewire extendable therethrough said first lumen of said elongated catheter and said pigtail, and extendable therefrom said pigtail, said guidewire configured to angle said pigtail; anda retraction instrument configured having a proximal member and a distal member coupled to said proximal member, said distal member having a deformable rim and a barrier membrane affixed thereto said deformable rim and extendable therethrough said second lumen of said elongated catheter.2. The remotely operated surgical device of claim 1 , further comprising a guidewire entrance aperture positioned proximate said first catheter end and a guidewire exit aperture positioned proximate a pigtail end of said pigtail.3. The remotely operated surgical device of claim 1 , wherein a ...

MEDICAL DEVICES WITH ANTITHROMBOGENIC COATINGS

Pressure sensing guidewires are disclosed. The pressure sensing guidewires may include a tubular member having a proximal portion and a distal portion. The distal portion may have a plurality of slots formed therein. The distal portion may have a first wall thickness along a first region and a second wall thickness smaller than the first wall thickness along a second region. A pressure sensor may be disposed within the distal portion of the tubular member and housed within the second region. An anti-thrombogenic coating may be disposed on an inner surface, an outer surface, or both of the second region of the distal portion of the tubular member. 2. The pressure sensing guidewire of claim 1 , wherein the anti-thrombogenic coating comprises a hydrophilic coating.3. The pressure sensing guidewire of claim 2 , wherein the hydrophilic coating comprises a heparinized hydrophilic coating.4. The pressure sensing guidewire of claim 1 , wherein the anti-thrombogenic coating comprises a hydrophobic coating.5. The pressure sensing guidewire of claim 4 , wherein the hydrophobic coating comprises silicone.6. The pressure sensing guidewire of claim 4 , wherein the hydrophobic coating is disposed on the pressure sensor.7. The pressure sensing guidewire of claim 1 , wherein the first region of the distal portion is disposed proximal to the second region of the distal portion.8. The pressure sensing guidewire of claim 1 , further comprising one or more apertures formed in the second region of the distal portion.9. The pressure sensing guidewire of claim 8 , wherein the second region of the distal portion is free from the plurality of slots.10. The pressure sensing guidewire of claim 8 , wherein the pressure sensor is positioned proximal to the one or more apertures.12. The pressure sensing guidewire of claim 11 , wherein the anti-thrombogenic coating comprises a hydrophilic coating.13. The pressure sensing guidewire of claim 12 , wherein the hydrophilic coating comprises a ...

Medical device guidewire with a position sensor

A guidewire for a medical device is disclosed. In one embodiment, the guidewire includes a corewire having a proximal end portion and a distal end portion, an elongate shroud disposed about the corewire, the shroud having a distal end, and a plug coupled with the distal end portion of the corewire and the distal end of the shroud, the plug having a distal, non-traumatic tip portion, an interior between the corewire and the shroud being configured to receive a sensor.

Catheter-based devices and methods for identifying specific anatomical landmarks of the human aortic valve

A valve-plane-defining catheter includes a hollow flexible sheath having a distal end and defining a distal opening, a guidewire assembly, and three radiopaque valve-nadir markers. The guidewire assembly has a guidewire slidably disposed in the flexible sheath and having a distal end, three wire arms each having a terminating end and a proximal end offset from the terminating end and attached to the distal end of the guidewire to dispose the three wire arms approximately 120 degrees from one another about a circle defined by the terminating end of the three wire arms. The three radiopaque valve-nadir markers disposed respectively at the terminating end of each of the three wire arms, each of the valve-nadir markers being sized to fit within the distal opening.

INTRAVASCULAR DEVICES SYSTEMS AND METHODS WITH A SOLID CORE PROXIMAL SECTION AND A SLOTTED TUBULAR DISTAL SECTION

The present disclosure is directed to intravascular devices, systems, and methods having a solid core proximal section and a slotted, tubular distal section. In some aspects, a sensing guide wire is provided. The sensing guide wire can include a proximal portion having a solid core member and a plurality of conductors embedded in an outer layer surrounding the solid core member; and a distal portion coupled to the proximal portion, the distal portion having a slotted tubular member and a sensing element, the sensing element being electrically coupled to the plurality of conductors of the proximal portion. In other aspects, methods of forming a sensing guide wire are provided. 1. A sensing guide wire , comprising:a proximal portion having a solid core member and a plurality of conductors embedded in an outer layer surrounding the solid core member; anda distal portion coupled to the proximal portion, the distal portion having a slotted tubular member and a sensing element, the sensing element being electrically coupled to the plurality of conductors of the proximal portion.2. The guide wire of claim 1 , wherein the distal portion further comprises a tip coil coupled to the slotted tubular member.3. The guide wire of claim 2 , wherein the sensing element is positioned within the slotted tubular member.4. The guide wire of claim 2 , further comprising a housing claim 2 , the sensing element being disposed within the housing.5. The guide wire of claim 4 , wherein the housing is positioned between the tip coil and the slotted tubular member.6. The guide wire of claim 1 , wherein the sensing element is positioned within the slotted tubular member.7. The guide wire of claim 6 , wherein the slotted tubular member extends to a distal tip of the sensing guide wire.8. The guide wire of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of conductors includes between two conductors and six conductors.9. The guide wire of claim 1 , wherein the sensing element comprises a pressure sensor or flow ...

Drug delivery systems and methods

Drug delivery systems and methods are disclosed herein. In some embodiments, a drug delivery system can be configured to deliver a drug to a patient in coordination with a physiological parameter of the patient (e.g., the patient's natural cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pulsation or the patient's heart or respiration rate). In some embodiments, a drug delivery system can be configured to use a combination of infusion and aspiration to control delivery of a drug to a patient. Catheters, controllers, and other components for use in the above systems are also disclosed, as are various methods of using such systems.

WIRE GUIDE WITH MULTIPLE TIPS

A medical wire guide may include a mandril having a distal tip, a first coil coupled with the distal tip of the mandril, and a second coil configured to releasably engage with the mandril or the first coil. The second coil comprises a distal tip and defines an inner cavity dimensioned to contain a distal tip of the first coil when the second coil is engaged with the mandril or the first coil. 116-. (canceled)17. A medical wire guide , comprising:a mandril having a body portion and a distal tip;a first coil coupled with the distal tip of the mandril;a cannula having a proximal end and a distal end; anda second coil coupled with the distal end of the cannula and having an inner cavity;where the cannula is configured to releasably engage with the body portion of the mandril, and the first coil is contained within the inner cavity of the second coil when the cannula is engaged with the body portion of the mandril.18. The medical wire guide of claim 17 , where the first coil comprises a different material claim 17 , wire winding pitch claim 17 , or wire diameter than the second coil.19. The medical wire guide of claim 17 , where the cannula comprises an inner surface that defines a first threaded area claim 17 , where the mandril comprises an outer surface that defines a second threaded area claim 17 , and where the cannula is configured to releasably engage with the mandril through a threaded connection between the first threaded area and the second threaded area.20. The medical wire guide of claim 19 , where the second threaded area of the mandril comprises a channel formed in the outer surface of the mandril and the first threaded area of the cannula comprises protruding threads on the inner surface of the cannula.21. The medical wire guide of claim 17 , where a distal-most tip of the first coil is soldered to form a first atraumatic distal tip claim 17 , and where a distal-most tip of the second coil is soldered to form a second atraumatic distal tip.22. The medical ...

MEDICAL INSTRUMENT WITH CONTROLLED TORQUE TRANSMISSION

A medical instrument such as a guidewire that is designed to have controlled torque transmission along its length. Specially treated areas are placed in selected and equal areas along the entire length of the elongated shaft of the medical instrument, and are separated from one another by untreated areas. This process ensures that any torque is transmitted distally, in a smooth manner, regardless of the guidewire position, thus resulting in a substantial reduction in whipping. In one embodiment, a stainless steel guidewire is utilized, and is subjected to annealing heat treatment in selected areas. This annealing process creates a mandrel that has repeated temper properties along its length. Torque applied at one end of this mandrel is transmitted to the opposite end in an even and controlled manner, even when the mandrel is formed into a loop. 1. An elongated medical instrument that is subject to torque when in use, comprising: a first plurality of sections that have been subjected to a selected treatment process; a second plurality of sections located between each of the sections of the first plurality of sections, the second plurality of sections not having been subjected to the selected treatment process; and wherein the first plurality of sections and the second plurality of sections have different torque transmission characteristics. This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 14/481,454 filed Sep. 9, 2014 which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 13/617,117 filed Sep. 14, 2012, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,845,552, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 12/835,541 filed Jul. 13, 2010, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,292,829, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/428,240 filed May 1, 2003, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,780,611.The invention relates to medical instruments such as guidewires, and more particularly to a medical instrument such as a guidewire that is designed to have controlled torque transmission along its length. ...

Medical device for accessing and/or treating the neural vasculature

Medical devices and methods for making and using a medical device are disclosed. An example medical device may include a guidewire for accessing and treating a region of the neural vasculature. The guidewire may include an elongate shaft having a distal end region. The elongate shaft may include an inner tubular member and an outer tubular member. The inner tubular member may have a plurality of openings formed therein. The outer tubular member may have a plurality of slots formed therein. An occlusive balloon may be coupled to the distal end region of the elongate shaft and disposed about at least some of the plurality of openings. The inner tubular member may define a lumen in fluid communication with the occlusive balloon through the plurality of openings. The tip member may be coupled to the distal end region of the elongate shaft.

STEERABLE INTRA-LUMINAL MEDICAL DEVICE

The disclosure provides a flexible, narrow medical device (such as a micro-catheter or a guidewire) that is controllably moved and steered through lumens of a body. The medical device may include an electrically-actuatable bendable portion at a distal end, which may be provided by a polymer electrolyte layer, electrodes distributed about the polymer electrolyte layer, and electrical conduits coupled to the electrodes, such that the polymer electrolyte layer deforms asymmetrically in response to an electrical signal through one or more conduits. The disclosure further includes a controller for moving the device into and out of bodily lumens and for applying the electrical signal for steering the device. The device further includes methods of preparing the polymer electrolyte layer in tubular shape. 1. A method of preparing a polymer electrolyte layer in tubular shape , comprising:providing a substrate having a flattened surface;providing a mandrel having a diameter of a desired size for the polymer electrolyte layer;providing a volume of a liquid dispersion of a base material selected from the group consisting of fluoropolymers and intrinsically conducting polymers;disposing the liquid dispersion on the substrate;curing the liquid dispersion of the selected base material to form, on the substrate, a cured polymer film having a thickness of between 10 microns and 50 microns;wrapping the cured polymer film onto a portion of the mandrel to provide a generally tubular sleeve formed of a plurality of wraps of the cured polymer film; andproviding a heat-shrink tube;covering a portion of the mandrel and the generally tubular sleeve thereon with the heat shrink tube; andheating the heat-shrink tube to cause reflow of the cured polymer film to form a homogenous tubular polymer electrolyte layer.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the fluoropolymers comprise perfluorinated ionomers claim 1 , polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF) or co-polymers thereof.3. The method of claim 1 , ...

APPARATUS FOR USE IN A MEDICAL PROCEDURE IN THE VASCULATURE COMPRISING A GUIDEWIRE AND A CATHETER AND A METHOD OF USING THE SAME

There is provided an apparatus for use in a bodily lumen. The apparatus comprises a guidewire and a catheter. The guidewire has a proximal end portion and a distal end portion. The catheter has a proximal end portion and a distal end portion. The catheter includes a lumen for receiving the guidewire. The catheter is configured to be translated along the guidewire. The catheter is configured to be biased towards a translated position along the guidewire by a magnetic attraction between the guidewire and the catheter. 1. An apparatus for use in a bodily lumen , comprising:a guidewire having a proximal end portion and a distal end portion; anda catheter having a proximal end portion and a distal end portion, the catheter including a lumen for receiving the guidewire, the catheter being configured to be translated along the guidewire,wherein the catheter is configured to be biased towards a translated position along the guidewire by a magnetic attraction between the guidewire and the catheter, and wherein the catheter and the guidewire are configured to snap fit into alignment with each other.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the guidewire and/or the catheter includes a magnet.3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the guidewire and/or the catheter includes a magnetically responsive element.4. The apparatus of claim 3 , wherein the magnetically responsive element is a ferromagnet.5. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the catheter is biased towards only the translated position.6. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the magnetic attraction between the guidewire and the catheter is the greatest at the translated position.7. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the magnetic attraction between the guidewire and the catheter is due to a magnetic attraction between the distal end portion of the guidewire and the distal end portion of the catheter.8. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the guidewire comprises a radiopaque marker.9. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the distance ...

GUIDEWIRE WITH TACTILE FEEL

Medical devices and methods for making and using medical devices are disclosed. An example medical device may include a guidewire. The guidewire may include a core wire having a body region and a distal tip region. A distal tip member may be disposed along the distal tip region. The distal tip member may have a proximal end. A sleeve may be disposed along the body region. The sleeve may be disposed adjacent to the proximal end of the distal tip member and extending proximally therefrom. The sleeve may include a first member and a heat shrink member. The first member may have an uneven outer surface. 1. A guidewire , comprising:a core wire having a body region and a distal tip region;a distal tip member disposed along the distal tip region, the distal tip member having a proximal end;a sleeve disposed along the body region, the sleeve being disposed adjacent to the proximal end of the distal tip member and extending proximally therefrom;wherein the sleeve includes a first member and a heat shrink member; andwherein the first member has an uneven outer surface.2. The guidewire of claim 1 , wherein the core wire includes a nickel-titanium alloy.3. The guidewire of claim 1 , wherein the core wire includes stainless steel.4. The guidewire of claim 1 , wherein the first member includes a braid.5. The guidewire of claim 1 , wherein the first member includes a coil.6. The guidewire of claim 1 , wherein the first member includes a helically-oriented region.7. The guidewire of claim 1 , wherein the sleeve is designed to have a substantially constant outer surface prior to manufacturing the guidewire.8. The guidewire of claim 7 , wherein the heat shrink member is designed to shrink during manufacturing of the guidewire such that the sleeve has an uneven outer surface after manufacturing the guidewire.9. The guidewire of claim 1 , wherein the first member includes a polymer.10. The guidewire of claim 1 , wherein the first member includes a metal.11. The guidewire of claim 1 , ...

GUIDEWIRE DEVICES HAVING SHAPEABLE TIPS AND BYPASS CUTS

The present disclosure relates to guidewire devices having shapeable tips and effective torquability. A guidewire device includes a core having a proximal section and a tapered distal section. A tube structure is coupled to the core such that the tapered distal section extends into the tube structure. The tube structure includes a plurality of bypass cuts formed tangentially within the tube structure to increase the flexibility of the tube structure and to reduce the tendency of resilient forces from the tube structure to disrupt a shaped distal tip of the guidewire device. 1. A guidewire device having a shapeable tip , the guidewire device comprising:a core having a proximal section and a distal section; and wherein the tube structure includes a cut pattern which forms a plurality of axially extending beams coupling a plurality of circumferentially extending rings,', 'wherein the cut pattern forms a single beam between each pair of adjacent rings within the second section, the beams in the second section forming a preferred bending plane,, 'a tube structure coupled to the core such that the distal section of the core passes into the tube structure, the tube structure having a first section and a second section distal to the first section,'}wherein at least a portion of the distal section of the core passing through the second section of the tube is a flat ribbon having a major plane lying substantially perpendicular to the preferred bending plane, andwherein a distal tip of the guidewire device is configured to be manually shapeable.2. The guidewire device of claim 1 , wherein the second section is between about 0.5 cm and 5 cm in length.3. The guidewire device of claim 1 , wherein the second section is between about 1 cm and 2 cm in length.4. The guidewire of claim 1 , wherein the beams between rings in the second section alternate in position from a first side of the tube structure to a second side of the tube structure claim 1 , the second side being opposite ...

METHOD AND DEVICES FOR FLOW OCCLUSION DURING DEVICE EXCHANGES

A method of reducing the risk of clinical sequelae to catheter induced vascular injuries may include introducing a guide wire into a vascular sheath residing in a blood vessel, proximally retracting the vascular sheath while leaving the wire in place, and observing indicia of the presence or absence of a vascular injury caused to the blood vessel by the vascular sheath or a procedural catheter previously advanced through the vascular sheath. If indicia of a vascular injury are observed, the method may further involve proximally retracting the guide wire to position the inflatable balloon adjacent the injury and inflating the balloon to reduce blood flow past the injury, while leaving the guide wire in place to provide subsequent access to the injury. The inflatable balloon can be inflated and deflated through a valve positioned at the proximal end of the guide wire. 1. A vascular guide wire , comprising: a proximal portion;', 'a flexible distal portion that is at least about 15 cm long and is more flexible than the proximal portion;', 'a transition portion between the proximal and distal portions;, 'an elongate tubular body having a proximal end, a distal end and a lumen extending longitudinally through at least part of the body, the elongate body comprising;'}an inflatable balloon secured to the elongate body and in communication with the lumen, the inflatable balloon spanning the transition portion;a sealing member having an inner diameter and an outer diameter positioned in the lumen of the elongate body at the proximal portion of the elongate body and configured to couple with an inflation device to allow for inflation and deflation of the balloon;a piston assembly without a lumen for insertion into the lumen of the elongate body at the proximal end, the piston assembly having a handle with an integral piston, the piston extending through the inner diameter of the sealing member when the sealing member is in a closed state and the piston retracted axially from ...

Sinuplasty instrument with moveable navigation sensor

An apparatus includes a handle assembly, a guide member extending distally from the handle assembly, and a dilation catheter slidably disposed relative to the guide member. The dilation catheter includes an expandable element configured to dilate a paranasal sinus ostium of a patient. A navigation sensor is movably disposed at the distal end of the guide member and is operable to generate a signal corresponding to a location thereof within the patient. The navigation sensor is configured to translate distally with the dilation catheter relative to the guide member when a distal end of the dilation catheter translates distally beyond the distal end of the guide member. The navigation sensor is further configured to assume a position at the distal end of the guide member when the distal end of the dilation catheter retracts proximally of the distal end of the guide member.

STEERABLE INTRA-LUMINAL MEDICAL DEVICE

The disclosure provides a flexible, narrow medical device (such as a micro-catheter or a guidewire) that is controllably moved and steered through lumens of a body. The medical device may include an electrically-actuatable bendable portion at a distal end, which may be provided by a polymer electrolyte layer, electrodes distributed about the polymer electrolyte layer, and electrical conduits coupled to the electrodes, such that the polymer electrolyte layer deforms asymmetrically in response to an electrical signal through one or more conduits. The disclosure further includes a controller for moving the device into and out of bodily lumens and for applying the electrical signal for steering the device. The device further includes methods of preparing the polymer electrolyte layer in tubular shape. 136-. (canceled)37. A method of preparing a polymer electrolyte layer in tubular shape , comprising:providing a substrate having a flattened surface;providing a mandrel having a diameter of a desired size for the polymer electrolyte layer;providing a volume of a liquid dispersion of a base material selected from the group consisting of fluoropolymers and intrinsically conducting polymers;disposing the liquid dispersion on the substrate;curing the liquid dispersion of the selected base material to form, on the substrate, a cured polymer film having a thickness of between 10 microns and 50 microns;wrapping the cured polymer film onto a portion of the mandrel to provide a generally tubular sleeve formed of a plurality of wraps of the cured polymer film; andproviding a heat-shrink tube;covering a portion of the mandrel and the generally tubular sleeve thereon with the heat shrink tube; andheating the heat-shrink tube to cause reflow of the cured polymer film to form a homogenous tubular polymer electrolyte layer.38. The method of claim 37 , wherein the fluoropolymers comprise perfluorinated ionomers claim 37 , polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF) or co-polymers thereof.39. The ...

Guidewire having enlarged, micro-fabricated distal section

Disclosed is a guidewire having a core wire and an outer tube within which the distal section of the core is inserted. The outer diameter of the tube is greater than the outer diameter of the proximal section of the core wire. The guidewire also includes a proximal coil and a distal, radiopaque coil each disposed over the distal section of the core. A bushing coil is disposed over the proximal coil and distal coil. The proximal coil, distal coil, and bushing coil aid in filling the annular space between the core and the tube and thereby centering and aligning the core and tube.

TUNNELLING DEVICE WITH TUBE AND OLIVE

An improved medical tunnelling device for introducing and positioning a catheter in a patient with a longitudinally extended hollow tube, which has a distal and proximal open end, is characterized in that the distal end is provided with a rounded, rotationally symmetrical thickening. 1. A medical tunneling device for introducing and positioning a catheter in a patient has a elongate hollow tube , which has a distal and a proximal open end , wherein the distal end is provided with a rounded , rotationally symmetrical thickening .2. The tunneling device of claim 1 , wherein the thickening is substantially oblong in shape claim 1 , seen in a cross section taken in parallel with the central longitudinal axis of the tube claim 1 , so that the thickening has an olive-like shape.3. The tunneling device of claim 1 , wherein the thickening has the distal opening of the tube provided in its distal end face.4. The tunneling device of claim 1 , wherein the tube is flexible claim 1 , with a guide wire contained in the tube lumen and removable from the tube claim 1 , said wire being provided with a rounded distal end.5. The tunneling device of claim 4 , wherein the guide wire is arranged in the tube such that the distal end of the guide wire protrudes from the distal opening of the tube and completes the roundness of the distal end of the thickening.6. The tunneling device of claim 1 , wherein in the region of the proximal end of the tube claim 1 , a grip element is provided for gripping and guiding the tube claim 1 , the element surrounding the tube. The invention relates to a medical tunneling device for introducing a catheter into a patient and positioning the catheter in the patient.Known tunneling devices comprise an elongate hollow tube with a distal and a proximal open end. US 2002/0052576 A1 describes a tunneling device having a guide needle for penetrating the skin of a patient. After the removal of the guide needle, an introduction catheter remains in part under the ...

STEERABLE SURGICAL ROBOTIC SYSTEM

Provided herein as a steerable surgical robotic system for positioning a catheter comprising a sheath and a guidewire within a patient body, including a sheath driver configured to advance and retract a sheath having a hollow interior along a sheath advance and retract path extending therein, a guidewire driver configured to advance and retract a guidewire along a guidewire advance and retract path extending therein, wherein each of the sheath advance and retract path and the guidewire advance and retract path extend between pairs of rollers in the respective sheath and roller drivers, and the paths are parallel to each another. 1. A robotic controller for positioning a catheter comprising a sheath and a guidewire within a patient body , comprising;a sheath driver configured to advance and retract a sheath having a hollow interior along a sheath advance and retract path extending therein;a guidewire driver configured to advance and retract a guidewire along a guidewire advance and retract path extending therein; whereineach of the sheath advance and retract path and the guidewire advance and retract path extend between pairs of rollers in the respective sheath and roller drivers, and the paths are parallel to each another.2. The robotic controller of claim 1 , wherein the sheath advance and retract path and the guidewire advance and retract path extend between pairs of rollers claim 1 , and are collinear.3. The robotic controller of claim 1 , wherein the sheath driver is connected to a base claim 1 , and the guidewire driver is slidably supported on the base and moveable with respect thereto and with respect to the sheath driver.4. The robotic controller of claim 3 , wherein the guidewire driver further comprises a sheath attachment portion for physically fixing the proximal end of a sheath extending from the sheath driver thereto.5. The robotic controller of claim 3 , further comprising a primary motor connected to the base claim 3 , and a lead screw extending ...

STEERABLE INTRA-LUMINAL MEDICAL DEVICE

The disclosure provides a flexible, narrow medical device (such as a micro-catheter or a guidewire) that is controllably moved and steered through lumens of a body. The medical device may include an electrically-actuatable bendable portion at a distal end, which may be provided by a polymer electrolyte layer, electrodes distributed about the polymer electrolyte layer, and electrical conduits coupled to the electrodes, such that the polymer electrolyte layer deforms asymmetrically in response to an electrical signal through one or more conduits. The disclosure further includes a controller for moving the device into and out of bodily lumens and for applying the electrical signal for steering the device. The device further includes methods of preparing the polymer electrolyte layer in tubular shape. 1. A method for preparing an ionic electroactive polymer actuator of a medical device in tubular shape , comprising:providing a polymer electrolyte layer having an exterior wall;providing a mixture of a carbon-based conductive powder in a volatile solvent;providing a plurality of electrically-conductive conduits, each having a proximal end and a distal end;disposing the mixture on the exterior wall of the polymer electrolyte layer to form a carbon electrode layer thereon;contacting the distal end of each electrically-conductive conduit to the carbon electrode layer;providing a heat-shrink tube;covering the polymer electrolyte layer and the carbon electrode layer thereon with the heat-shrink tube; andheating the heat-shrink tube to cause reflow of the polymer electrolyte layer to form the ionic electroactive polymer actuator.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the polymer electrolyte layer is further impregnated with an electrolyte.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the electrolyte comprises an ionic liquid including one or more of 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate (EMI-BF4) claim 1 , 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide (EMI-TFSI) claim ...

CATHETER ASSEMBLY

A catheter assembly includes: a catheter; a hollow inner needle that is removably disposed in the catheter and has a lumen through which a guide wire is insertable; a needle hub that is fixed to a proximal end portion of the inner needle; and a guide member that is attachable to a proximal end portion of the needle hub and configured to guide the guide wire towards the inner needle. 1. A catheter assembly comprising:a catheter;a hollow inner needle that is removably disposed in the catheter and has a lumen through which a guide wire is insertable;a needle hub that is fixed to a proximal end portion of the inner needle; anda guide member that is attachable to a proximal end portion of the needle hub and configured to guide the guide wire towards the inner needle.2. The catheter assembly according to claim 1 , further comprising:the guide wire, which is slidably supported on the guide member; anda wire operation member that supports the guide wire, is relatively displaceable in an axial direction with respect to the guide member, and is configured to move the guide wire in the axial direction with respect to the guide member along with displacement of the wire operation member.3. The catheter assembly according to claim 2 , further comprising:a cover that has a hollow cylindrical shape, the cover being configured to cover the guide wire between the guide member and the wire operation member in an initial state, and to contract in the axial direction along with movement of the wire operation member in a distal end direction with respect to the guide member.4. The catheter assembly according to claim 3 , wherein:the wire operation member is relatively movable in the axial direction within a regulated range with respect to the cover, anda distal end of the guide wire is positioned in the lumen of a distal end portion of the inner needle in a state in which the guide member is attached to the needle hub, the cover contracts in the axial direction to a maximum extent, and ...

Apparatus and method for deploying medical device using steerable guidewire

Provided herein as systems, apparatus, and methods for the effective and minimally invasive deployment of medical devices or therapeutic agents using a steerable guidewire/catheter assembly. The steerable guidewire and/or catheter has a bendable distal portion comprising an ionic electroactive polymer actuator, which is allowed to deform, bend or expand from its original shape in at least one dimension.