Flexible tubular device for use in medical applications
US5741429A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 31, 1995 |
| Grant date | Apr 21, 1998 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 31, 2015 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB29L2031/7542
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Manufacturing processes for apparatus, including slotted hypotube, for use as a catheter, a guidewire, a catheter sheath for use with catheter introducers or a drug infusion catheter/guidewire are disclosed. The manufacturing process includes creating a pattern of slots or apertures in a flexible metallic tubular member, by processes including but not limited to, electrostatic discharge machining (EDM), chemical milling, ablation and laser cutting. These slots or apertures may be cut completely or partially through the wall of the flexible metallic tubular member. These manufacturing processes may include the additional step of encasing the flexible metallic member such that a fluid tight seal is formed around the periphery of the tubular member.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.