Abstract: Apparatus and method are described for delivery of a treating element, such as a radiation source, through a catheter to a desired site in the intraluminal passageways of a patient, such as a coronary artery, for inhibiting the formation of scar tissue such as may occur in restenosis following balloon angioplasty. The apparatus includes an elongated flexible catheter tube having proximal and distal end portions, with a lumen extending therebetween, and a diameter sufficiently small for insertion in to a patient's intraluminal passageways. One or more treating elements, such as a capsule or pellet containing radioactive material, is positionable within the lumen and movable between the proximal and distal end portions under the force of liquid flowing through the lumen. A method for using such apparatus, including a method for using such apparatus simultaneously with a balloon angioplasty procedure, is disclosed.

Abstract: This invention is a transfer device and catheter assembly for the delivery of treatment elements to a selected location within the intraluminal passageways of a patient as part of an intraluminal radiation system. The transfer device includes a gate member that permits the treatment elements to leave the transfer device only if the catheter is attached thereto. A pressure indicator provides a visual indication of the fluid pressure within the transfer device, and a pressure relief valve provides for a release of the fluid if the pressure exceeds a predetermined pressure. Transfer device also includes a treatment element detection system, low power indicator, a counter system, and an electromagnetic locking mechanism to prevent the opening or closing of the gate member when less than all of the treatment elements are in the transfer device.

Abstract: Apparatus and method are described for delivery of a treating element, such as a radiation source, through a catheter to a desired site in the intraluminal passageways of a patient, such as a coronary artery, for inhibiting the formation of scar tissue such as may occur in restenosis following balloon angioplasty. The apparatus includes an elongated flexible catheter tube having proximal and distal end portions, with a lumen extending therebetween, and a diameter sufficiently small for insertion in to a patient's intraluminal passageways. One or more treating elements, such as a capsule or pellet containing radioactive material, is positionable within the lumen and movable between the proximal and distal end portions under the force of liquid flowing through the lumen. A method for using such apparatus, including a method for using such apparatus simultaneously with a balloon angioplasty procedure, is disclosed.

Abstract: A fabrication process for a guidewire. A guidewire core is provided by drawing down a metal wire in stages. The wire is drawn through a first die to produce a first diameter wire. This first diameter wire is then partially drawn through a second die to provide a second, reduced diameter wire segment at one end of the core wire.