Guide wire with operator controllable tip stiffness
US6146339A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 24, 1999 |
| Grant date | Nov 14, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 24, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61M2025/09175
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An improved method and apparatus for providing a readily insertable guide wire that is also accurately steerable. One embodiment of the present invention comprises one or more thin diameter, liquid filled, polymer balloons enclosed by the guide wire coils and connected through a hypotube lumen to a pressure transducer. The pressure transducer exerts pressure via a fluid medium to the balloon(s), which then expand and exert pressure onto the inner surface of the coils, thereby stiffening the distal section of the guide wire. In operation, the guide wire will typically be inserted with the balloons deflated, hence the distal tip is very flexible. Once the distal tip reaches its destination, the balloons are inflated and expanded to stiffen and/or reorient the distal tip to allow it to perform as required, typically by aiding in the positioning of a catheter or stent in the desired location.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.