Implant delivery method and assembly
US5578074A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 22, 1994 |
| Grant date | Nov 26, 1996 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 22, 2014 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61F2210/0023
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A thermally activated occlusive implant delivery assembly is provided. The assembly includes an occlusive implant device and a pusher. The pusher has a distal section and a proximal section. The distal section includes a coupling portion which is shape memory material and exhibits different configurations depending on the coupling portion's temperature. The coupling portion interlockingly engages the implant when it is in one of the configurations and releases the implant from interlocking engagement therewith when in another one of the configurations. In operation, the assembly is introduced into the body of a mammal via a guide catheter suited for the particular lumen being navigated. When the implant is positioned at the desired site, the coupling portion of the pusher is thermally activated to effect the return of its original, pre-set configuration, which is originally formed to release the implant from interlocking engagement therewith. The pusher can then be readily removed from the mammal without imparting any significant force on the implant during retraction.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.