Steerable catheter having intermediate stiffness transition zone
US8725228B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 18, 2010 |
| Grant date | May 13, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 4, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61M25/0147
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A flexible, steerable intravascular catheter includes an elongate flexible shaft having a heterogeneous or multi-zone stiffness profile or structure. A first or distal portion of the catheter shaft may have a substantially constant or distinct stiffness or flexibility, a second, intermediate or transition section is proximal relative to, and less flexible than, the first section, and a third section is proximal relative to, and also less more flexible than, the first section. The third section also includes a substantially constant or distinct stiffness or flexibility. The flexibility or stiffness of the second section varies along its length, e.g., in a substantially linear, step-like or ramp-like manner to provide a smooth or gradual transition between the stiffness of the first or distal section and the flexibility or stiffness of the third or proximal section.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.