Apparatus and method for an ultrasonic medical device engaging a flexible material

摘要

The present invention provides an apparatus and a method for an ultrasonic medical device having a flexible material engaging an ultrasonic probe. The flexible material surrounds a portion of a longitudinal axis of an ultrasonic probe of the ultrasonic medical device. The flexible material may extend beyond a probe tip. The flexible material cushions a tip of the ultrasonic probe and reduces the stresses on the ultrasonic probe as the ultrasonic probe is navigated within the vasculature. The ultrasonic probe may be shaped to increase a radial span of the ultrasonic medical device. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the flexible material comprises a polymer material. Additionally, the flexible material may have a high radiopacity.