Flow directed catheter
US6296631A · kind A · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 12, 2000 |
| Grant date | Oct 2, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 12, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61M2025/0042
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A flow directed microcatheter is formed having a gradually changing flexibility and diameter between a proximal end and a distal end of the microcatheter. The changing properties of the microcatheter according to the present invention provide the flexibility of the distal tip needed to allow the microcatheter to be directed by the flow of blood within the vasculature, and the columnar strength and torquability at the proximal end and along the length of the microcatheter needed to advance and direct the distal tip to the target site. A proximal segment of the microcatheter includes a plurality of strands which vary in diameter to change the flexibility of the microcatheter. A distal segment of the microcatheter includes an inner layer which is compatible with solvents, such as DMSO, and an outer layer which provides strength and flexibility. The proximal segment and the distal segment of the microcatheter are joined by a kink resistant fuse joint.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.