STEERABLE CATHETERS AND METHODS FOR MAKING THEM

摘要

Catheters, sheaths, or other tubular devices are provided that include a proximal end, a distal end sized for introduction into a patient's body, and a steerable distal portion. The tubular device includes a primary lumen extending between the proximal and distal ends; an auxiliary lumen adjacent the primary lumen; and one or more reinforcement members including windings extending helically along at least the distal portion, at least some of the windings passing between the primary and steering element lumens and at least some of the windings surrounding both the primary and steering element lumens. In one embodiment, a steering element is slidably disposed within the auxiliary lumen. Apparatus and methods for making such tubular devices are also provided.

主权项

1. A tubular device for a catheter or sheath comprising a proximal end and a distal end sized for introduction into a patient's body, the device comprising:
a central lumen extending between the proximal and distal ends; an auxiliary lumen extending at least partially between the proximal and distal ends adjacent the central lumen; one or more reinforcement members comprising windings extending helically around the central lumen between the proximal and distal ends, at least some of the windings passing between the central and auxiliary lumens and at least some of the windings surrounding both the central and auxiliary lumens; and one or more layers surrounding the one or more reinforcement members.