Abstract: Guiding catheter for angioplasty, substantially consisting of a hollow tube (lumen) of flexible torsion-stiff material, onto an end of which connects a tubular extension of flexible material, which is curved according to predetermined varying radii of curvature, and the free end portion of which is provided with a softer material than the flexible material, wherein the end portion of softer material is provided with at least three radially protruding elements, preferably having an arc-like outer curvature seen in tangential direction. A very great stability of the end portion of softer material is herewith achieved at the transition between the aorta and the blood vessel, e.g. the ostium irrespective of the great speed of the blood flow and reactive forces due to the introduction of the balloon catheter or any other catheter.

Abstract: A balloon catheter for the widening of passages in the body, such as blood vessels, comprises a tubular body connected at one side to the interior of a cylindrical balloon and at another side to a pump unit. The balloon can be enlarged from a first predetermined diameter to a second predetermined diameter without completely withdrawing the catheter from the body passages.