Abstract: An angioplasty apparatus for removing abnormal deposits such as atheromatic plaque from the interior coronary or peripheric arterial walls and the like is provided. The apparatus includes an elongate hollow outer tube for insertion into an arterial vessel. A rotatable driving rod is engaged with the tube and extends forwardly into the arterial vessel. An actuator is provided in the tube for rotating the driving rod alternately in opposite directions. A milling tool having milling flutes is coupled to the driving rod exterior to the tube and mills the deposits when the milling tool is rotated and brought into contact with the abnormal deposits. The apparatus also includes an electrical sensor for determining when the deposit has been removed from the arterial walls in order to preserve existing healthy arterial wall tissue and a suction device in communication with the tube for withdrawing the milled micro-particles of the abnormal deposits from the arterial vessel.

Abstract: A hydrodynamically propelled pacing catheter primarily intended for use in the placement of permanent pacemaker leads into the heart of a patient. The cephalic end of the catheter is constructed to define a plurality of nozzle orifices for the expulsion of a pressurized fluid so that the catheter will be propelled through the patient's vascular system into the heart. Dependent upon whether placement of the pacemaker lead is intended for the right atrium or the right ventricle, the catheter cephalic end will be curved or straight, respectively.

Abstract: A hydrodynamically propelled catheter primarily intended for use in the placement of temporary pacemakers into the right ventricle of a patient. The cephalic end of the catheter is constructed to define a plurality of nozzle orifices for the expulsion of a pressurized fluid so that the catheter will be propelled through the patient's vascular system, past the tricuspid valve, and into the right ventricle. Standard electrodes are provided, and the cathether may further include a balloon segment disposed rearwardly of the cephalic end.