Intravascular Devices Having Artificial Muscles and Associated Systems and Methods

摘要

Intravascular devices, systems, and methods are disclosed. In some embodiments, the intravascular device includes at least one artificial muscle segment. In some instances, the artificial muscle segment or a plurality thereof is configured to move a distal portion of the intravascular device, change the shape of the tip of the intravascular device, rotate a portion of the intravascular device, and any combination thereof. A method for using an associated intravascular device is also provided. The method includes inserting an intravascular device into a vessel of a patient. The intravascular device has an actuator segment. The method further includes moving a portion of the intravascular device by selectively rotating the actuator segment and returning the portion of the intravascular device to a pre-activation position by selectively deactivating the actuator segment.

主权项

1. An intravascular device comprising:
a flexible elongate member having a proximal portion and a distal portion, at least one torsional actuator segment, the torsional actuator segment being coupled to the flexible elongate member and having a first and a second end, wherein the first end of the torsional actuator segment rotates along an axis of the flexible elongate member relative to a second end of the torsional actuator segment when the torsional actuator segment is supplied with an activation energy.