Method and catheter for dilatation of the lacrimal system
US5169386A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 25, 1990 |
| Grant date | Dec 8, 1992 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 25, 2010 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61M2025/1079
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A dilation catheter having an inflatable member and an element for retaining a curved shape, and a method of using same to restore patency to an obstructed portion of the lacrimal system. The catheter is inserted into the lacrimal system and the inflatable member is positioned in the obstructed portion. Insertion of the catheter is facilitated by mechanically imparting a curved shape to a distal portion of the catheter. The inflatable member is inflated to dilate the obstructed portion to restore patency to the lacrimal system. Preferably, the catheter includes one or more visually perceivable markers having a known spaced relationship to one of the ends of the inflatable member. Positioning of the inflatable member is assisted by aligning the marker relative to an opening into the lacrimal system.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.