Abstract: A steerable guidewire for percutaneous transluminal insertion into the vascular system and controlled negotiation of branches and turns therein, comprises an elongated tubular support which includes a proximal hypotube section and a distal spring coil. A movable pull wire extends through the support structure and is attached at its distal end to the rounded tip of the guidewire. A deflection section is provided in which a flexible deflection ribbon is mounted. The distal end of the deflection ribbon is attached to the pull wire and its proximal end is attached to the spring coil. When the pull wire is pulled axially, it applies a compressive force to the deflection ribbon which in turn applies a lateral component of force to the pull wire and spring coil in the deflection region. This causes the guidewire to bend with the deflection ribbon functioning as a fulcrum around which the guidewire bends.

Abstract: Disclosed is a guidewire particularly suited for use in rotational atherectomy. The guidewire has increased lateral flexibility in the distal region, and a substantially constant diameter throughout. The exterior diameter at any point is substantially equal to the sum of the diameter of the central core wire, and twice the diameter of the wire of the spring coil, if any, mounted thereon. At proximal portions of the guidewire, the outer spring coil may be deleted.

Abstract: A coil polymer composite tubular body is disclosed, such as for use in medical applications. The body comprises a spring coil having at least one central lumen extending axially therethrough, for receiving medical implements, fiber optics, suction or transmission of fluids such as for irrigation or drug delivery. An elastomeric layer on the spring coil provides a substantially water impermeable seal. In one particular embodiment, the composite tubular body is provided with a laterally deflectable distal tip.

Abstract: A steering device, such as for use in a guidewire for percutaneous transluminal insertion into the coronary vascular system is provided. The guidewire comprises an elongate flexible housing having proximal and distal ends and at least one lumen extending through the length of the housing. The guidewire has a steering element secured within the lumen and adapted to displace the distal end of the housing in a lateral direction. At least one deflection wire extends through the flexible housing extending from a distal point of attachment to the proximal end. Axial movement of the deflection wire displaces a distal steering region of the housing in a lateral direction.

Abstract: Disclosed is a guidewire particularly suited for use in rotational atherectomy. The guidewire has increased lateral flexibility in the distal region, and a substantially constant diameter throughout. The exterior diameter at any point is substantially equal to the sum of the diameter of the central core wire, and twice the diameter of the wire of the spring coil, if any, mounted thereon. At proximal portions of the guidewire, the outer spring coil may be deleted.

Abstract: A steering device, such as for use in a guidewire for percutaneous transluminal insertion into the coronary vascular system is provided. The guidewire comprises an elongate flexible housing having proximal and distal ends and at least one lumen extending through the length of the housing. The guidewire has a steering element secured within the lumen and adapted to displace the distal end of the housing in a lateral direction. At least one deflection wire extends through the flexible housing extending from a distal point of attachment to the proximal end. Axial movement of the deflection wire displaces a distal steering region of the housing in a lateral direction.

Abstract: An elongate steerable implement is disclosed, which may be either a steerable guidewire or catheter for coronary angioplasty applications. A floppy steerable tip on a steering region at the distal end of the implement and a control device at the proximal end are connected by means of a plurality of axially movable deflection wires extending throughout the implement. Manipulation of the control permits deflection of the steering region throughout a full 360.degree. range of motion about the axis of the implement, without axial rotation or "torquing" thereof. In another embodiment, a steering ribbon is disclosed which permits steering by lateral deflection of the tip into a deflected or bent position and then permits straightening the tip back to its original position.

Abstract: An elongate steerable implement is disclosed, which may be either a steerable guidewire or catheter for coronary angioplasty applications. A floppy steerable tip on a steering region at the distal end of the implement and a control device at the proximal end are connected by means of a plurality of axially movable deflection wires extending throughout the implement. Manipulation of the control permits deflection of the steering region throughout a full 360.degree. range of motion about the axis of the implement, without axial rotation or "torquing" thereof.