Abstract: An elongate tubular shaft having a lumen extending from a proximal portion to a distal portion may include an outer jacket forming an outer surface of the elongate tubular shaft, the outer jacket being formed from a first material having a first modulus of elasticity, a helical member extending from the proximal portion to the distal portion, a braided support member disposed about the helical member, and a strain relief layer formed from a second material having a second modulus of elasticity less than the first modulus of elasticity, wherein the strain relief layer is disposed about the helical member and radially inward of the outer jacket.

Abstract: A medical device configured to be flexible and maintain kink resistance while also reducing strain fractures. The medical device may include an elongate tubular shaft defining a lumen extending from a proximal portion to a distal portion. The elongate tubular shaft may comprise an outer jacket forming an outer surface of the elongate tubular shaft, a support member including at least one filament extending in a helical configuration along at least a portion of the a length of the elongate tubular shaft, and a strain relief layer comprising a material that has a modulus of elasticity less than a modulus of elasticity of the outer jacket, the strain relief layer positioned at least between adjacent windings of the support member. The strain relief layer and the support member may collectively form an inner surface of the elongate tubular shaft.