Method for closing and sealing an artery after removing a catheter
US4929246A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 27, 1988 |
| Grant date | May 29, 1990 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 27, 2008 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61F2/06
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A method for closing and sealing a puncture at a puncture site in an artery located beneath the skin after a catheter is removed from the puncture. The method includes the steps of applying pressure directly to the artery at the puncture site, and applying laser energy directly to the artery at the puncture site while pressure is applied. The laser energy is sufficient to thermally weld the artery at the puncture site. Preferably, the step of applying pressure directly to the artery includes the steps of advancing a tube having an inflatable balloon at its distal end through the overlying tissue to the punction site, and inflating the balloon. Laser energy is carried thorugh an optical fiber to the balloon and is directed through the wall of the balloon to the puncture site.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.