Balloon catheter having improved balloon folding capability
US7857786B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignees
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 29, 2007 |
| Grant date | Dec 28, 2010 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 1, 2028 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61M2025/1004
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
The present invention provides apparatus and methods for facilitating folding of a balloon before, during or after a medical procedure. In a first embodiment, the apparatus generally comprises at least one catheter shaft member, a balloon disposed on a distal region of the catheter shaft member, and at least one folding member disposed along at least a proximal region of the balloon. The folding member may comprise at least one radially-outward projecting member integrally formed with or attached to the balloon, or an internally-formed groove in the balloon, which is adapted to promote twisting of the balloon to reduce the profile of the balloon in the deflated state. Optionally, biasing members may be disposed between the folding member and an adjacent portion of the balloon to promote folding of the balloon in a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.