| 摘要 |
A balloon catheter for insertion in a vessel includes a catheter shaft and an inflatable balloon attached to the catheter shaft. Radiopaque markings along a longitudinal axis of the catheter are provided in an interior of the balloon, such as for measuring a distance within the vessel. A first distance separating a first radiopaque marking from a second adjacent radiopaque marking may be different from a second distance separating the second radiopaque marking from a third adjacent radiopaque marking. The markings may also be used for ensuring the proper positioning of the balloon and, in particular, the working surface thereof, relative to a treatment area. The non-equidistant markings are positioned to account for the longitudinal expansion of the balloon, such that the working surface is accurately located by providing the clinician with several precise markers at predetermined locations relative to the inflated balloon. In particular, at least one radiopaque marking on the catheter shaft is positioned to substantially align with the mid-point location of the inflated balloon. Related methods are disclosed. |
