Abstract: A mechanism advances to stretch an intraaortic balloon prior to insertion or removal. One embodiment includes a member which extends through a catheter from the handle to the balloon, and which advances to extend the balloon without appreciably twisting it. A spring detent assembly in the handle defines a precise amount of extension delivered by the member. The mechanism permits the balloon to be fully relaxed once it is inserted and to be recompacted, following use, for removal from the patient. The device is of particular utility for a large diameter, irregular or polygonal non-cylindrical balloon, and for inserting a balloon along an arterial path having a narrow passage or sharp curve.

Abstract: A balloon assembly has an intrinsic curvature adapted to a passage in a blood vessel, and is straightened by a removable stiff member extending within the catheter to facilitate insertion along the passage. When the balloon is at a curved portion of the passage, the stiff member is retracted, allowing the balloon and adjacent support to conform to the curved passage and advance further without trauma to the vessel. The curved balloon may be stably positioned in a curved arterial passage and pumped with a pulsatile inflation source.