3D CATHETER-BASED ULTRASOUND ASSEMBLY WITH GIMBAL-MOUNT TRANSDUCER AND SINGLE-COIL DRIVE

摘要

Described are embodiments of devices and methods for imaging a body conduit, such as a blood vessel. In particular embodiments, the catheter has a chamber within which is a transducer mounted to a pivot mechanism. A coil provides a pivot force to the transducer. A magnet is attached to the transducer and is receptive of a torque applied by a magnetic field produced by energizing of the coil. A driving mechanism receives an impact from the pivot member and causes the pivot mechanism to rotate about a rotation axis.

主权项

1. A medical device for insertion into a body of a patient, comprising:
a transducer for transmitting or receiving or transmitting and receiving ultrasound signals; a pivot mechanism rotatable about a rotation axis; a pivot member mounted to the pivot mechanism and pivotable along a pivot path that extends about a pivot axis that is substantially perpendicular to the rotation axis; and a driving mechanism positioned within the pivot path of the pivot member, wherein during rotation about the pivot axis, a portion of the pivot member strikes the driving mechanism and causes the pivot mechanism to rotate about the rotation axis.