Intravascular temperature sensor

US6514214B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Scimed Life Systems, Inc. · US

Inventors

• Jaydeep Y. Kokate · Maple Grove, US
• Eric DoBrava · Crystal, US
• Marwane Berrada · Minneapolis, US
• Scott Kimmel · Okabena, US
• Suzana Prstic · Chandler, US
• Michael Hoey · Shoreview, US
• Avram Bar-Cohen · River Islands, US
• Paul A. Iaizzo · White Bear Lake, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Feb 13, 2001
• Grant date: Feb 4, 2003
• Expiry date: Feb 24, 2021

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A61B2017/22051
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

Devices and methods for detecting vulnerable plaque within a blood vessel are disclosed. A catheter in accordance with the present invention includes an elongate shaft having a proximal end, a distal end, and an outer surface. At least one temperature sensor is disposed proximate to the distal end of the elongate shaft. In one preferred embodiment, the at least one temperature sensor is adapted to contact an inner surface of the blood vessel. In another preferred embodiment, at least one temperature sensor is disposed within a channel defined by a body member that is disposed about the elongate shaft.