Abstract: A controller for use with a guidewire, such as a vascular guidewire, provides a mechanism for gripping and applying a torque to the guidewire without the need to thread the guidewire axially through the controller and at a location close to a point of access of the guidewire. In one embodiment, the controller includes a side-access, multi-part assembly including a collet or other gripping element that applies a uniform radially inward force on the guidewire. In another embodiment, for use with guidewires having active electrically controllable elements, the controller integrally or removably incorporates a switch or other mechanism to initiate an energized state. The controller thereby permits ergonomic, single-handed control of an electronically steerable guidewire, including axially displacing, torquing and steering the guidewire.

Abstract: A method of use for a vascular guidewire and related equipment involves, in one embodiment, control of the guidewire from a location close to the entry point of the vasculature (or other entry point). It also permits convenient loading and unloading of coaxial equipment over the guidewire and it can accommodate doing so by removably and conveniently engaging a proximal end of the guidewire, taking into account the diameter of the proximal portion not being appreciably greater than any other portion of the guidewire.

Abstract: A controller for use with a guidewire, such as a vascular guidewire, provides a mechanism for gripping and applying a torque to the guidewire without the need to thread the guidewire axially through the controller and at a location close to a point of access of the guidewire. In one embodiment, the controller includes a side-access, multi-part assembly including a collett or other gripping element that applies a uniform radially inward force on the guidewire. In another embodiment, for use with guidewires having active electrically controllable elements, the controller integrally or removably incorporates a switch or other mechanism to initiate an energized state. The controller thereby permits, among other advantages, ergonomic, single-handed control of an electronically steerable guidewire, including axially displacing, torquing and steering the guidewire.

Abstract: An energizer for use with a guidewire, such as a vascular guidewire, in one embodiment engages a proximal end of the guidewire and applies energy to be transmitted to a distal portion of the guidewire. A jack or other receptacle accommodates, in a releasably secured fashion, a proximal portion of the guidewire having a diameter that is not substantially larger than, but preferably is equal to or less than, the maximal diameter associated with the guidewire. The jack may be structured so that designated portions of the proximal end of the guidewire will be disposed in selective contact with corresponding portions of the jack in order to permit, for example, an electrical potential to be applied across such portions, thereby energizing an electrically controllable part of the guidewire, such as a steering mechanism. In this manner, the energizer permits rapid engagement and disengagement of a proximal portion of the guidewire.

Abstract: A vascular guidewire in an embodiment of the present invention, having such features as uniform diameter, low-profile cross section over its length and a distal tip capable of deflection and variable configurations, provides a range of advantages. A variable distal tip of shape-memory alloy deflects into varied configurations when remotely actuated. Such actuation, according to an aspect of the present invention, can be by way of a side entry, easily repositioned, single-handed controller that allows both rotational control of the guidewire and control of the variable tip. In another aspect, a longitudinal element in the guidewire, such as an exterior wire wrap, can provide dual functionality, including structural support as well as an electrical path for use in energizing, and thus deflecting, the distal tip.