Abstract: The variable stiffness optical fiber shaft includes a optical fiber, and at least one coaxial layer of heat shrink polymer disposed over the optical fiber of a length shorter than the optical fiber, to provide variations in stiffness along the length of the shaft. The variable stiffness optical fiber shaft preferably includes a plurality of coaxial layers of heat shrink polymer encapsulating the optical fiber, extending from the proximal end of the optical fiber toward the distal end, the plurality of coaxial layers having different lengths to provide said optical fiber shaft with varying stiffness over the length of the optical fiber shaft. The plurality of coaxial layers can be arranged in successive progressively shorter coaxial layers, and can be formed of heat shrink polymeric material, such as polyethylene, PTFE, PEEK, PET or PPS.

Abstract: The endoluminal device delivery system and method for delivering an endoluminal device within a body lumen uses shape memory material in the form of a tubular collar to engage the endoluminal device during delivery to the desired location. The endoluminal device is engaged internally within the tubular collar either mechanically by crimping the tubular collar around a portion of the endoluminal device, or through an adhesive bond. The tubular collar can be crimped about a rounded portion of the stem of the endoluminal device. Once the endoluminal device is maneuvered through the body lumens to the desired location, it is decoupled from the delivery system by applying heat to the tubular collar of shape memory material.

Abstract: The variable stiffness optical fiber shaft includes a optical fiber, and at least one coaxial layer of heat shrink polymer disposed over the optical fiber of a length shorter than the optical fiber, to provide variations in stiffness along the length of the shaft. The variable stiffness optical fiber shaft preferably includes a plurality of coaxial layers of heat shrink polymer encapsulating the optical fiber, extending from the proximal end of the optical fiber toward the distal end, the plurality of coaxial layers having different lengths to provide said optical fiber shaft with varying stiffness over the length of the optical fiber shaft. The plurality of coaxial layers can be arranged in successive progressively shorter coaxial layers, and can be formed of heat shrink polymeric material, such as polyethylene, PTFE, PEEK, PET or PPS.

Abstract: This is a medical device. In particular, it is a surgical device usually delivered through an intravascular catheter. It may be used in several ways. It may, for instance, be used to open a clear passageway adjacent thrombus to allow both blood and medication to bypass the clot. It may be used to pierce and to remove thrombus. These thrombus are often found in tortuous vasculature. The device includes several sections. The device has a core element, typically a core wire. Placed around the distal end of the core element is a collapsible but preferably self expanding cage assembly. The cage assembly is preferably radio-opaque. The proximal end of the cage is typically is affixed to an actuator in such a way as to allow expansion of the cage after deployment. The cage assembly may have a generally conical distal or "trailing" portion when expanded and also a proximal section. The cage assembly may be used for collecting emboli or for displacing them to allow blood flow to resume.