Abstract: A device for occluding a body lumen, and particularly contraceptive or sterilization device for occluding a reproductive tract or lumen to prevent the passage of reproductive cells through the tract or lumen, generally comprising a tubular member, and a mesh member, transversely disposed on the tubular member lumen. The mesh member is permeable to allow for tissue ingrowth, which produces a tissue impregnated mesh occluding the body lumen. The occluding device of the invention can be used in the fallopian tubes of a female patient, the vas deferens of a male patient, or other body lumen.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a guide wire having at least two different polymeric jackets that impart different handling characteristics to the portions of the guide wire they surround. Preferably, the guide wire may have jackets of different grades of polymer, such as polyurethane 55D and 90A. Alternatively, the guide wire may have jackets of different types of polymers such as polyurethane and polytetrafluoroethylene, or may have a single polymeric jacket with continuously varying properties along its length. The invention also comprises methods of making such guide wires.