Method and apparatus for increasing blood flow through an obstructed blood vessel
US8702652B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 8, 2012 |
| Grant date | Apr 22, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 8, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61M2025/1095
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A method of increasing blood flow through an obstructed blood vessel includes providing an expandable member substantially made of a mesh having a plurality of interstices. The expandable member is inserted into the blood vessel, positioned within the blood vessel with the proximal member end upstream of the distal member end and the member body located radially adjacent at least a portion of an obstruction, and expanded to bring at least a portion of the member body into contact with the obstruction. An outward radial force is exerted on the obstruction to dislodge at least one fragment from the obstruction and to enhance blood flow through the blood vessel past the obstruction. The at least one fragment is passed through at least one interstice of the member body in the radial direction, and is selectively retained within the expandable member.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.