Providing Varying Degrees Of Flexibility Along Longitudinal Axis Patents (Class 604/525)
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Publication number: 20140114287Abstract: A neuromodulation catheter includes an elongate shaft and a neuromodulation element. The shaft includes two or more first cut shapes and two or more second cut shapes along a helical path extending around a longitudinal axis of the shaft. The first cut shapes are configured to at least partially resist deformation in response to longitudinal compression and tension on the shaft and torsion on the shaft in a first circumferential direction. The second cut shapes are configured to at least partially resist deformation in response to longitudinal compression on the shaft and torsion on the shaft in both first and second opposite circumferential directions.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 22, 2013Publication date: April 24, 2014Inventors: Rudy Beasley, Justin Goshgarian, Vincent Ku
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Publication number: 20140114288Abstract: A neuromodulation catheter includes an elongate shaft and a neuromodulation element. The shaft includes two or more first cut shapes and two or more second cut shapes along a helical path extending around a longitudinal axis of the shaft. The first cut shapes are configured to at least partially resist deformation in response to longitudinal compression and tension on the shaft and torsion on the shaft in a first circumferential direction. The second cut shapes are configured to at least partially resist deformation in response to longitudinal compression on the shaft and torsion on the shaft in both first and second opposite circumferential directions.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 22, 2013Publication date: April 24, 2014Inventors: Rudy Beasley, Justin Goshgarian, Vincent Ku, Bhavin Nasit
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Patent number: 8696646Abstract: A turbulator for promoting mixing of fluids passing through a body lumen includes an elongate flow perturbing component and an elongate shape controlling component freely slidable within the flow perturbing component. The turbulator is adjustable from a low profile, lumen access configuration to a deployed configuration via sliding the shape controlling component within the flow perturbing component. Adjusting the turbulator within a body lumen of a patient induces turbulence within a flow of fluid passing through the body lumen to increase mixing of a treatment fluid with the body fluid by way of the induced turbulence.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 2011Date of Patent: April 15, 2014Assignee: Cook Medical Technologies LLCInventors: James R. Randolph, Thomas A. Osborne
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Patent number: 8663196Abstract: An endovascular sheath apparatus 2 is provided. The endovascular sheath apparatus 2 includes an inner tube 12 that includes a lumen 26 for introducing medical fluids or devices and an outer surface. The apparatus 2 further includes an outer tube 22 with an interior surface. The outer and inner surfaces define a cavity 28 therebetween. The apparatus 2 still further includes a stiffening component 20 which in one embodiment includes a braided material that is at least partially received in at least part of the cavity 28. An actuating mechanism 18 cooperates with the stiffening component 20. A method of providing intravascular delivery of a sheath includes the steps of providing an inner tube 12; positioning a stiffening component 20 around the inner tube 12; and deploying an actuating mechanism 18 that cooperates with the stiffening component 20, a stiffness characteristic of which being adjustable extra-corporeally by movement of the actuating mechanism in combination with the stiffening component.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2008Date of Patent: March 4, 2014Assignee: Kassab Kughn Endovascular Devices LLCInventors: Elias Habib Kassab, Mark Edwin Zyzelewski
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Publication number: 20140052107Abstract: Medical devices and methods for making and using the same are disclosed. An example medical device may include a guidewire. The guidewire may include a core wire having a distal portion. A tubular member may be disposed over the distal portion. The tubular member may have a plurality of slots formed therein and may have a longitudinal axis. The tubular member may include a variably spaced slot section that has a flexural rigidity that varies from a first flexural rigidity to a second flexural rigidity. The transition from the first flexural rigidity to the second flexural rigidity may be a function of a fourth power equation. The first flexural rigidity may be in the range of about 1×10?6 to about 9×10?5 lbs-inches2. The second flexural rigidity may be in the range of about 1×10?3 to about 5×10?3 lbs-inches2.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 8, 2013Publication date: February 20, 2014Applicant: BOSTON SCIENTIFIC SCIMED, INC.Inventors: VIRGIL F. VOELLER, CLAY NORTHROP, TED LAYMAN
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Publication number: 20140052053Abstract: An infusion sleeve has a flexible tube enclosing a lumen. The tube has a plurality of wall segments, each wall segment located between the lumen and an exterior surface of the tube and extending parallel to a central axis of the tube. The plurality of wall segments includes at least two thick wall segments and at least two thin wall segments alternately arranged such that each thick wall segment is adjacent to two thin wall segments, and each thin wall segment is adjacent to two thick wall segments.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 25, 2013Publication date: February 20, 2014Applicant: ALCON RESEARCH, LTD.Inventor: Alcon Research, Ltd.
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Publication number: 20140046297Abstract: Distal access aspiration guide catheter system and methods for delivering implantable devices, catheters, or substances in or near and/or restoring flow through body lumens, such as blood vessel lumens are described. A Distal access aspiration guide catheter having a proximal, medial, and distal possessing high flexibility, high resistance to kinking and a large lumen to wall thickness ratio.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 3, 2011Publication date: February 13, 2014Applicant: Coviden LPInventors: Lynn Shimada, Seferino Torres, Brian Strauss, Jeffrey Valko
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Publication number: 20140039464Abstract: A catheter includes a first opening portion positioned at a distal end; a first curved portion positioned proximally of the first opening portion, and is curved in a first direction; a second curved portion positioned proximally of the first curved portion, and is curved in a second direction; an intermediate portion provided between the first curved portion and the second curved portion; and a second opening portion formed in the intermediate portion. In a transverse sectional view of the intermediate portion, the first direction and the second direction are directions directed towards a first side of the intermediate portion. In addition, in the transverse sectional view of the intermediate portion, the second opening portion opens in a third direction directed towards a second side of the intermediate portion that is opposite to the first side.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 12, 2013Publication date: February 6, 2014Inventor: Fuminobu YOSHIMACHI
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Patent number: 8636270Abstract: A low cost, flexible, torqueable structure for use as at least a portion of a medical device comprises a coil formed of a wound element. The coil includes a plurality of adjacent windings. Connected portions of a region between the adjacent windings are formed (by, for example, laser welding) such that torque can be transmitted between adjacent windings.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2008Date of Patent: January 28, 2014Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.Inventor: Isaac Ostrovsky
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Publication number: 20140018776Abstract: A joint-ring for an endoscope-bending-tube that fits with and is fixed to a rigid-member on a distal end side, the joint-ring being formed by plastically deforming a tube-material, the joint-ring including a joint-ring-convex portion provided in the tube-material before the plastic deformation, configured to fit with distal end rigid concave portions of the distal end rigid-member to perform positioning, and protrudingly provided to the distal end side, a plastically deformed shape portion provided in the joint-ring such that an axial direction position thereof overlaps the joint-ring-convex-portion and formed by force of stretching along a circumferential surface in the plastic deformation, and joint-ring-convex-portions provided in the tube-material before the plastic deformation near both sides in the circumferential direction of the joint-ring-convex-portion to interrupt the force of stretching along the circumferential surface to keep the force from reaching the joint-ring-convex-portion to thereby preveType: ApplicationFiled: July 26, 2013Publication date: January 16, 2014Inventors: Yasuo TAKEUCHI, Keigo TAKESHIMA, Kiwamu FUJITANI, Motohiro KURODA
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Publication number: 20140005638Abstract: An introducer assembly (10) includes a sheath (18) having a proximal portion (26) with a greater wall thickness and a distal portion (30) with a smaller wall thickness. A transition portion (28) may be provided to give a gradual transition between the proximal and distal portions (26, 30). The outer surface (32) of the sheath (18) has a substantially smooth and preferably even form and preferably constant diameter. The sheath (18) can thus have a greater flexibility at its distal end that at its proximal end, to improve trackability and thus to facilitate deployment of an implantable medical device (16) carried by the introducer (10). The smooth outer surface (22) prevents snagging of the introducer assembly (10) during and after the deployment procedure.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 6, 2013Publication date: January 2, 2014Inventor: Palle Munk Hansen
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Publication number: 20140005639Abstract: A stiffenable structure is made of longitudinal beams that are positioned around a longitudinal axis. In one state, the longitudinal beams are bendable so that the structure is bendable. As the structure bends, the longitudinal beams slide longitudinally with reference to one another. In a second state, the beams are clamped in a fixed position relative to one another so that the structure is stiffened. In some aspects the longitudinal beams are made of two or more longitudinal laminar elements. As each beam bends, the laminar elements slide longitudinally with reference to one another. Each beam, and accordingly the structure, is stiffened by preventing the laminar elements from sliding longitudinally relative to one another.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 2, 2013Publication date: January 2, 2014Applicant: Intuitive Surgical Operations, Inc.Inventor: Theodore W. Rogers
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Patent number: 8613751Abstract: Ultrasound catheter devices and methods provide enhanced disruption of blood vessel obstructions. Ultrasound catheter devices generally include an elongate flexible catheter body with one or more lumens, an ultrasound transmission member extending longitudinally through the catheter body lumen and a distal head coupled with the transmission member and positioned adjacent the distal end of the catheter body for disrupting occlusions. Improved features of ultrasound catheters include catheter bodies and ultrasound transmission members with increasing distal flexibility, guidewire tubes allowing contact between a guidewire and an ultrasound transmission member, distal heads with improved guidewire lumens, and torquable proximal housings for enhancing disruption of blood vessel occlusions.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2008Date of Patent: December 24, 2013Assignee: Flowcardia, Inc.Inventors: Henry Nita, Jeff Sarge
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Publication number: 20130338640Abstract: High flow rate catheters, and related methods, are useful in dialysis and other procedures. A catheter according to the invention comprises a hub and a generally elongated conduit. The conduit has a substantially continuous and smooth wall. The conduit also defines at least one lumen and has a length extending from a proximal end to a distal end of the conduit. The proximal end is coupled to a hub and the distal end has an opening in communication with the lumen. The conduit has a conical shape which tapers along the length.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 21, 2013Publication date: December 19, 2013Applicant: AngioDynamics, Inc.Inventors: Christopher T. Davey, Michael R. Sansoucy, Matthew N. McCarthy
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Publication number: 20130338580Abstract: An endoscopic device has a longitudinal member having a longitudinal axis, a bending portion formed on a distal end side of the longitudinal member, a lumen formed along the longitudinal axis of the longitudinal member, and an opening portion that communicate with the lumen, and opens toward the inner side of a bend of the bending portion when the bending portion is bent.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 28, 2013Publication date: December 19, 2013Inventors: Ken YAMATANI, Kunihide KAJI
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Publication number: 20130331821Abstract: The present invention provides a silicone rubber-based hardening composition which can produce a silicone rubber having excellent tensile strength and tear strength, a molded article which is made using the silicone rubber-based hardening composition, and a medical tube which is obtained by using the molded article, and the silicone rubber-based hardening composition according to the present invention contains linear organopolysiloxane having a vinyl group (A); linear organohydrogen polysiloxane (B); and silica filler (C) of which the surface is treated with a silane coupling agent having a trimethylsilyl group.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 22, 2012Publication date: December 12, 2013Applicant: SUMITOMO BAKELITE CO., LTD.Inventors: Jun Okada, Kazunobu Senoo
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Patent number: 8603067Abstract: A catheter that comprises a hub, an elongated conduit, and at least one lumen therein. The lumen includes a proximal lumen section, a distal lumen section, and an intermediate lumen section extending between the proximal and distal lumen sections. The cross-sectional dimension of the intermediate lumen section is less than the cross-sectional dimension of the distal lumen section. In one embodiment, the cross-sectional dimension of the intermediate lumen section is less than the cross-sectional dimension of the proximal lumen section. In certain embodiments, the lumen tapers from the distal and/or proximal lumen sections to the intermediate lumen section.Type: GrantFiled: May 17, 2012Date of Patent: December 10, 2013Assignee: NaviLyst MedicalInventors: Raymond Lareau, Benjamin Bell, Mark Girard
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Publication number: 20130324972Abstract: Ureteral access sheaths can have a nonuniform axial-stiffness. A nonuniform axial-stiffness ureteral access sheath can have an inner liner defining a longitudinally extending and generally uniform bore. A non-uniform axial-stiffness outer jacket can define a longitudinally tapered outer surface, and a reinforcement layer can be encapsulated between the inner liner and the non-uniform axial-stiffness outer jacket. The reinforcement layer can have a non-uniform axial-stiffness. For example, a proximal portion of the reinforcement layer can be thicker than a distal portion of the reinforcement layer. A coil of wire can be included in the reinforcement layer, and a diameter of the wire in a proximal portion of the reinforcement layer can be larger than a diameter of the wire in a distal portion of the reinforcement layer. In some instances, the diameter of the wire tapers from the proximal portion to the distal portion.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 8, 2013Publication date: December 5, 2013Applicant: Gyrus ACMI, Inc.Inventors: Rich Faherty, Anthony Tremaglio
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Patent number: 8574219Abstract: A catheter shaft including a metallic tubular member including a plurality of apertures formed in the tubular wall of the metallic tubular member to provide a desired degree of flexibility to the metallic tubular member. The metallic tubular member includes a tapered region intermediate a region and a second, reduced diameter region relative to the first region.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 2006Date of Patent: November 5, 2013Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.Inventors: Mark L. Adams, Todd Beaupre, Christopher Nardone, Mark Girard, Raymond Lareau
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Patent number: 8562517Abstract: The invention relates to a medico-technical device for at least partially introducing into a body passage. Said device comprises an elongate, tubular, flexible internal body (2), an elongate exterior enveloping body (3) which surrounds, at least partially, said internal body (2) on the periphery thereof, and a device (4) for transferring the device (1) from a flexible state to a rigid state and vice-versa. The invention is characterized in that the internal body (2), which is in the form of a double tube (5), comprises an inner tube (6) which forms an inner wall (8) of the internal body (2) and an external tube (7) which forms an external wall (9) of the internal body (2), said external tube (7) surrounding the inner tube (6) in a concentric manner on the periphery thereof.Type: GrantFiled: August 8, 2006Date of Patent: October 22, 2013Inventor: Alexander Von Weymarn-Schärli
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Publication number: 20130253328Abstract: A catheter a first sheath having a proximal end and a distal end, and a length extending between the proximal end and the distal end. The first sheath being devoid of any bonds between the proximal end and the distal end, and a flexural modulus of the first sheath varying along the length. A method of making a catheter having more than one flexural modulus.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 15, 2013Publication date: September 26, 2013Applicant: ACIST MEDICAL SYSTEMS, INC.Inventors: Robert Zelenka, Ruth E. Beeby, Kendall R. Waters
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Publication number: 20130253417Abstract: Distal access balloon guide catheter system and methods for delivering implantable devices, catheters, or substances in or near and/or restoring flow through body lumens, such as blood vessel lumens, or inflating balloons affixed to the distal end of the guide catheter system are described. A Distal access balloon guide catheter having a proximal region, an optional medial region of intermediate flexibility, and distal region possessing high flexibility, high resistance to kinking and a large lumen to wall thickness ratio. The balloon is inflated by means of a kink-resistant secondary lumen embedded within the walls of the balloon guide catheter system tubing.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 21, 2012Publication date: September 26, 2013Inventors: James Dinh, Maricruz Castenada, Lynn Miyeko Shimada, Seferino Enrique Torres, Brian Michael Strauss, Jeffrey J. Valko
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Patent number: 8540695Abstract: A catheter body includes a hollow coil whose outer and inner surfaces are coated with outer and inner resin layers. A resin tip is provided at a distal end of the catheter body. The tip has a tapered section at a distal end of the tip. Also, an axially extending braid is embedded in the catheter body and the tip to extend from the catheter body to the tip.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 2009Date of Patent: September 24, 2013Assignee: Asahi Intecc Co., Ltd.Inventors: Manabu Shimogami, Nobuyoshi Watanabe
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Publication number: 20130245610Abstract: A catheter body having a variable stiffness along its longitudinal length and a method for manufacturing same is disclosed wherein an inner layer having an uninterrupted length serves as a backbone for segments of coextrusion of, e.g., Pebax or nylon and a tie layer which are then bonded to the backbone to create a multi-stiffness catheter body.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 8, 2013Publication date: September 19, 2013Applicant: Abbott Cardiovascular Systems Inc.Inventors: Thomas F. Haslinger, John A. Simpson
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Patent number: 8535293Abstract: Ureteral access sheaths can have a nonuniform axial-stiffness. A nonuniform axial-stiffness ureteral access sheath can have an inner liner defining a longitudinally extending and generally uniform bore. A non-uniform axial-stiffness outer jacket can define a longitudinally tapered outer surface, and a reinforcement layer can be encapsulated between the inner liner and the non-uniform axial-stiffness outer jacket. The reinforcement layer can have a non-uniform axial-stiffness. For example, a proximal portion of the reinforcement layer can be thicker than a distal portion of the reinforcement layer. A coil of wire can be included in the reinforcement layer, and a diameter of the wire in a proximal portion of the reinforcement layer can be larger than a diameter of the wire in a distal portion of the reinforcement layer. In some instances, the diameter of the wire tapers from the proximal portion to the distal portion.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2011Date of Patent: September 17, 2013Assignee: Gyrus ACMI, Inc.Inventors: Rich Faherty, Anthony Tremaglio
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Patent number: 8535294Abstract: The present invention is a carotid sheath that has a proximal portion that is stiffer than the distal portion of the sheath as a result of the proximal portion having a higher durometer of the outer plastic coating of the sheath's proximal portion with a lower durometer for the plastic coating on the more flexible distal portion of the sheath. Another means to increase the flexibility of the sheath's distal portion compared to a stiffer proximal portion is by having a slightly smaller outside diameter for the outer plastic coating of the distal portion of the sheath. A more flexible distal portion of the sheath allows easier access for angiography, angioplasty or stenting when the sheath is used to access the tortuous path encountered when entering the carotid arteries.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 2011Date of Patent: September 17, 2013Assignee: Fischell Innovations LLCInventors: Robert E. Fischell, Timothy J. Lynch, Tim A. Fischell
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Patent number: 8529504Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for manipulating an elongated flexible shaft of a catheter provide ease and reliability of positioning electrodes against or near tissue. Dual-bend flexible distal tips may be used in combination with flat wires. In some embodiments, flat wires which are free to rotate upon initial bending of shaft segments are employed. In some embodiments, one or more transition segments are used to relocate the satellite lumen-to-main lumen transition of pull wires away from a change in shaft stiffness.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2011Date of Patent: September 10, 2013Assignee: C.R. Bard, Inc.Inventors: Charles A. Gibson, Gary O'Boyle, Gary S. Falwell
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Patent number: 8523841Abstract: A catheter comprising a sheath to be inserted into a living body, wherein the sheath includes a tubular reinforcement layer of at least one layer, which is formed with a spiral slit continuous from the distal side to the proximal side thereof; a termination end of the spiral slit is provided on the proximal side of the slit proximal portion at the site of the proximal side of the spiral slit; and at the same time, there is formed a slit termination portion in which inclination angle of the spiral slit with respect to the circumferential direction of the reinforcement layer is larger than that of the slit proximal portion.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 2011Date of Patent: September 3, 2013Assignee: Terumo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Youichi Itou, Yasunori Yamashita, Youichirou Kuwano
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Patent number: 8523786Abstract: The invention relates to a guide device (1), in particular for positioning catheters in a body duct. The guide device (1) has an extended first thread (2) and at least one extended second thread (3) made from wire, which runs close to the first thread (2). According to the invention, the guide device (1) has a device (8), provided for one of the threads (2, 3) by means of which it is possible to actively control a relative movement between the threads (2, 3) or at least make the same difficult. The control device (8) is for example embodied such that the first thread (2), prepared from a flexible material, exerts a pressure, preferably acting a radial direction, on the several second threads, or that magnetic fields (4) of differing polarities along the first thread (2), prepared from a flexible material and along the second thread (3), may be generated for the selective introduction of an opposing attraction of the threads (2, 3) for reinforcing the guide device (1).Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 2010Date of Patent: September 3, 2013Inventor: Alexander Von Weymarn-Scharli
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Patent number: 8518014Abstract: A surgical suction instrument is provided that is flexible enough to bend in any direction creating a custom shaped suction device. The surgical suction device reduces surgeon fatigue and is rigid enough for use as a retractor. The surgical suction device preferably has the exit suction port below the handle to create a more ergonomic device and reduce user fatigue during surgery.Type: GrantFiled: October 25, 2006Date of Patent: August 27, 2013Inventors: Thomas M. Fassuliotis, Ginger E. Lowery, John D. Witzigreuter
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Patent number: 8512282Abstract: An elongate shaft of a medical catheter including a thermoset polymeric tubular member including a skived distal portion. The skived distal portion includes a distally extending trough having a convex surface and a concave surface. A thermoplastic tubular sleeve may be positioned over at least a portion of the skived distal portion of the thermoset polymeric tubular member. In some instances, the thermoplastic tubular sleeve includes a crescent-shaped tubular portion defining a crescent-shaped lumen. The trough of the skived distal portion may extend through the crescent-shaped lumen. The thermoplastic tubular sleeve is thermally bonded to the inner and outer tubular members of a distal section of the elongate shaft at a guidewire port joint.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2011Date of Patent: August 20, 2013Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.Inventors: Adam D. Grovender, Benjamin Grundale, Thomas Knowles, Roger W. McGowan, Todd Rowe, Charles Rundquist, Chuanjing Xu
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Patent number: 8500733Abstract: A steerable catheter sheath for use in directing a catheter into a desired position is provided. The sheath includes an elongated member configured to receive the catheter therein. The distal end of the elongated member is steerable in two directions, each direction having a different bent configuration, e.g., a sharp curve in one direction and an open arching curve in the other direction. A resilient structure having different bending properties in each of its lateral sides is carried in the distal portion of the elongated member and causes the asymmetric bending. In one embodiment, the resilient structure includes a hypotube with a plurality of notches and slits in the sides. In another embodiment, the resilient structure is covered in an outer coating having different durometer portions. The sheath is particularly useful for accessing left and right pulmonary veins when a transeptal entry approach is used into the left atrium.Type: GrantFiled: February 12, 2010Date of Patent: August 6, 2013Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.Inventor: James R. Watson
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Publication number: 20130184654Abstract: A catheter proximal section is preferably formed from a relatively soft part and a relatively rigid part, and includes a proximal terminal end that defines a perimeter of an opening into a lumen of the catheter. The proximal section may further include a feature for interlocking engagement with an accessory tool. An inner surface of each of the relatively soft and rigid parts may be located opposite one another, on either side of the catheter lumen. The relatively soft and rigid parts may be included in a sealing assembly that further includes an attachment feature for removable connection of the assembly to the proximal section catheter.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 6, 2013Publication date: July 18, 2013Applicant: MEDTRONIC, INC.Inventor: MEDTRONIC, INC.
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Publication number: 20130144267Abstract: An elongate medical device includes an elongate core and a substantially flat sheet formed into a tubular body defining a longitudinal axis and disposed around at least a portion of the elongate core, where the flat sheet has a length, and where a cross-sectional thickness of the sheet varies along the length of the sheet. The tubular body has proximal and distal portions, and a cross-sectional thickness of the sheet forming the distal portion of the tubular body may be less than a cross-sectional thickness of the sheet forming the proximal portion of the tubular body. A cross-sectional thickness of the sheet forming the tubular body preferably tapers from the proximal portion to the distal portion.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 27, 2012Publication date: June 6, 2013Applicants: STRYKER NV OPERATIONS LIMITED, STRYKER CORPORATIONInventors: Stryker Corporation, Stryker NV Operations Limited
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Patent number: 8454578Abstract: A medical device includes a proximal end, a distal end sized for introduction into a body lumen, and a lumen extending between the proximal and distal ends. The tubular device includes an inner liner including a coating on an inner surface thereof, a reinforcing layer surrounding at least a portion of the liner; and an outer layer surrounding the reinforcing layer and inner liner. The liner and outer layer may include multiple sections having different properties than one another, adjacent sections attached together by seams, which may be offset from one another. Apparatus and methods for making tubular devices with coated liners are also provided.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2009Date of Patent: June 4, 2013Assignee: AUST Development, LLCInventors: Stephen Arie Leeflang, Christian Scott Eversull
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Patent number: 8449526Abstract: A medical device or intravascular device, and methods of use. The devices may be tubular and may have a flexible polymer tip. The body may be nitinol and may have cuts part way through along its length to facilitate bending. The device may have a liner which may extend through the tip or form the tip. The device may have markers readily visible on an X-ray viewer during insertion. The tip may have an anti-collapsing structure and may be shaped before use to perform a medical procedure such as treating an aneurysm. The device may have a strong fiber through it for complete removal. The method may include selecting the device, bending the tip, setting the shape, and inserting the device into the patient's anatomy. The shape of the tip may be set by heating with steam and then removing a mandrel.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2007Date of Patent: May 28, 2013Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.Inventors: Edward J. Snyder, Clark C. Davis, Todd H. Turnlund
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Publication number: 20130116651Abstract: The presently disclosed subject matter relates to a catheter and method. The catheter can be configured as a guiding catheter with a flexible shaft section, a hub disposed at a proximal portion of the shaft section, and a strain relief section that surrounds a predetermined proximal-side range of the shaft section. A distal end of the strain relief section can be moved along an axial direction of the shaft section at least toward the side where the hub is located.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 27, 2012Publication date: May 9, 2013Applicant: TERUMO KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventor: Terumo Kabushiki Kaisha
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Publication number: 20130096535Abstract: Medical devices such as catheters can include structure or provision that permit a physician or other health care professional to adjust the stiffness of at least a portion of the medical device. In some instances, the medical device may be adjusted prior to inserting the medical device into a patient. In some cases, the medical device may be adjusted while in use within the patient.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 5, 2012Publication date: April 18, 2013Applicant: BOSTON SCIENTIFIC SCIMED, INC.Inventor: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.
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Patent number: 8414524Abstract: The long nose manipulatable catheter includes a main lumen, a wire lumen with a push-pull wire therethrough, and a flexible joint region. The catheter section includes a control including a handle and a wire control member engaging the push-pull wire for manipulating the flexible joint region. The push-pull wire may be tapered, having a proximal portion of a first diameter and a smaller diameter distal portion. A coil may be placed around the smaller diameter to prevent buckling of the smaller diameter portion. A strapping coil may also disposed around the outside of the catheter, and an outer covering may be disposed around the strapping coil. An outer covering of a mesh may also be disposed around the distal tip of the catheter.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2006Date of Patent: April 9, 2013Assignee: Micrus Endovascular CorporationInventors: Marc-Alan Levine, Stephen Hebert, Thomas G. Breton, David A. Watson
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Publication number: 20130085479Abstract: A catheter apparatus includes an elongated body having a distal portion including a distal end, a plurality of flexible segments, and at least one intermediate segment that is less flexible than the flexible segments. Adjacent flexible segments are spaced from each other longitudinally by the at least one intermediate segment. Each of the flexible segments include a sidewall having at least one elongated gap extending at least partially therethrough and forming interlocking members. The at least one intermediate segment is shorter than the flexible segments.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 16, 2011Publication date: April 4, 2013Inventors: Alan de la Rama, Cary Hata
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Patent number: 8409114Abstract: An intracorporeal device includes a shaft having a proximal section including a first elongate member and a distal section including a tubular member and a second elongate member. A proximal region of the tubular member is attached to the distal region of the first elongate member. The second elongate member is disposed within the lumen of the tubular member, and a proximal region of the second elongate member is attached to the proximal region of the elongate tubular member. As such, in some embodiments, the tubular member can function both as a member joining the first and second elongate members, and as a structural element in the distal section of the shaft providing for desired flexibility, torqueability, and/or pushability characteristics.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 2007Date of Patent: April 2, 2013Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.Inventor: David J. Parins
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Publication number: 20130079753Abstract: A flexible, kink-resistant medical tube and a method and apparatus for making the same are provided. The tube includes a body having a first end, a second end, an outer surface and an inner surface. The tube includes a lumen defined by the inner surface of the body and extending between the first end and the second end. The tube also includes a helical structure within the body. The helical structure may be formed either during or after an extrusion process or by steps taken both during and after the extrusion process.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 12, 2012Publication date: March 28, 2013Applicant: Fenwal, Inc.Inventor: Fenwal, Inc.
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Patent number: 8403885Abstract: A catheter having shaft segments which are joined together by a strong bond providing a low profile shaft section with a flexibility transition and/or a compositional transition. A balloon catheter embodying features of the invention has a distal tip member and a coupling band member surrounding a junction of an inner tubular member of the shaft, and has a gradual change in bending stiffness along a distal end section of the shaft which extends distally from a location within the balloon interior. Another catheter embodying features of the invention has shaft segments joined together by a diagonal seam.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2007Date of Patent: March 26, 2013Assignee: Abbott Cardiovascular Systems Inc.Inventors: Ramon Arana, Daniel Brown, Curt A. Novak, Justin K. Mann, John A. Simpson, Bruce M. Wilson, Leonard D. Barbod
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Patent number: 8403912Abstract: Catheters having a pre-shaped tip configuration are disclosed. A catheter in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the present invention can include an elongated tubular shaft equipped with a distal tip section having a pre-shaped tip configuration that can be used to facilitate tracking of the device through particular locations of the vasculature. The catheter may include a number of features that transition the stiffness and flexibility characteristics of the device and provide a means to radiographically visualize the catheter within the body.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 2011Date of Patent: March 26, 2013Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.Inventors: Sean McFerran, Roger Farnholtz, Gitanjali V. Barry, Kristen C. Armstrong
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Publication number: 20130072905Abstract: A catheter comprising an elongate tubular member having a proximal end, a distal end, and a passageway defining a lumen extending between the proximal and distal ends. The elongate tubular member comprises a relatively stiff proximal section and a relatively flexible distal section. The proximal section includes an inner tubular liner, a first stiffener comprising a metal alloy, and a second stiffener comprising a non-metal alloy. The first and second stiffeners are coaxially wound exterior to the proximal inner liner. The distal section includes a distal inner tubular liner and the second stiffener coaxially wound exterior to the distal inner liner. The first stiffener terminates before reaching the distal section.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 12, 2012Publication date: March 21, 2013Applicant: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.Inventor: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.
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Patent number: 8398587Abstract: A steerable tube (100), comprising a hollow elongate tubular member (1) having a proximal end (2), distal end (3), a wall surface disposed between said proximal (2) and distal end (4), a bend-resistive zone (6) flanked by a proximal bendable zone (4) that forms a controller and a distal bendable zone (5) that forms an effector that moves responsive to movements of the controller, whereby the wall of the tubular member (1) in the bend-resistive zone (6) comprises a structure that is a plurality of longitudinal slits (7), forming a plurality of longitudinal strips (8, 8?), the wall of the tubular member (1) in the proximal bendable zone (4) and the distal bendable zone (5) comprises a structure that is a plurality of longitudinal wires (9, 9?, 10, 10?), at least one strip (8) is in connection with a wire (9) in the proximal bendable zone (4) and a wire (10) in the distal bendable zone (5), such that translation by said wire (9) in the controller is transmitted via the strip (8) to said wire (10) in the effectorType: GrantFiled: February 5, 2009Date of Patent: March 19, 2013Assignee: Steerable Instruments B.V.B.A.Inventors: Frank Dewaele, Cyriel Mabilde, Bart Blanckaert
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Patent number: 8382739Abstract: Composite medical devices, such as catheters, or the like. In at least some embodiments, composite medical devices, and/or shafts for use therein, that can include a more flexible inner portion and a less flexible outer portion. In some embodiments, the composite elongate shaft can be constructed by forming a metallic outer portion including a first metallic material about a metallic inner portion including a second metallic material different from the first material. The second metallic material can be more flexible than the first metallic material. A segment of the metallic outer portion can then be removed from the composite shaft to expose a segment of the metallic inner portion. As portions of the outer portion are removed, and/or portions of the inner portion are exposed, certain characteristics along the length of the shaft can be achieved. For example, portions of the shaft can be rendered more flexible by the removal of the outer portion to expose the inner portion.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 2003Date of Patent: February 26, 2013Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.Inventor: Steven E. Walak
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Patent number: 8377036Abstract: A cannula assembly having a hollow elongate cannula with a proximal end, a distal end, and a central axis. A coiled reinforcing member is disposed along a portion of the hollow elongate cannula and is adapted to provide structural support to the elongate cannula. An intermediate reinforcing band is disposed on the elongate cannula between the proximal end and the distal end to reinforce a perforated section in the wall of the cannula and includes a forward edge, a rearward edge, at least one rib and at least one protrusion extending orthogonally from the forward edge and at least one protrusion extending from the rearward edge. A distal reinforcing band is disposed at the distal end of the elongate cannula and has a plurality of fingers that taper slightly inwardly toward the central axis of the hollow elongate cannula.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2008Date of Patent: February 19, 2013Assignee: Avalon Laboratories, Inc.Inventor: Kenneth R. Jonkman
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Patent number: 8366699Abstract: The intravascular catheter has two segments; a proximal segment with high stiffness and a distal segment with lower stiffness. The catheter can also have an intermediate segment of lower stiffness than the proximal segment and higher stiffness than the distal segment. The catheter comprises a polymeric inner tube, a reinforcing inner jacket which is spirally wound over the inner tube and which becomes progressively softer from a proximal end to a distal end, and a polymeric outer sheath extruded over the inner jacket according to the teachings of U.S. Pat. No. 5,445,624. The reinforcing jacket comprises helical coiled wires or fibers of various materials and layers wound over the inner tube in order to provide improved multi-axial mechanical properties, such as torque, compression, tension and anti-kinking characteristics.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 2011Date of Patent: February 5, 2013Assignee: Micrus Design Technology, Inc.Inventors: Oscar Jimenez, Roberto Echarri, Kenneth Verduin
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Patent number: 8357140Abstract: The invention relates to an elongated torque tube for use in medical applications. The torque tube comprises an elongated tubular structure having a cylindrical cross section and defining a longitudinal axis and a circumferential axis, the elongated tubular structure including a helical cut having a finite thickness and extending along the length of the elongated tubular structure, the helical cut being aligned with the circumferential axis and including a plurality of protrusions extending along the longitudinal axis, the protrusions defined by discontinuous cuts aligned with the longitudinal axis.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 2010Date of Patent: January 22, 2013Assignee: Cordis CorporationInventors: David Christopher Majercak, Daniel Olsen