High density mapping catheter

摘要

The present invention is directed to a high density mapping catheter including a number of shape memory electrode fibers and associated methods of construction and operation. The invention ensures good electrical contact between a large number of mapping electrodes and cardiac tissue in relation to a number of cardiac tissue approach angles, including head-on approaches. In addition, the invention allows for a reduced range of deflection angles in relation to deployment and retraction of the electrode fibers, thereby reducing resistance to retraction and reducing stress on the fibers and associated concerns regarding patient safety. The catheter of the present invention allows for rapid acquisition of a large amount of mapping data and allows for a variety of different geometries in relation to sweeping of the catheter across the cardiac tissue.

主权项

1. A catheter for use in electrical mapping of internal tissue, comprising:
a sheath; a catheter body comprising a distal tip and a proximal portion, said catheter body defining a longitudinal axis, wherein said catheter body is movable relative to said sheath between a retracted position within said sheath and an extended position where said distal tip and a sidewall portion of said catheter extend beyond a distal end of said sheath; a plurality of fibers each comprising a first end fixedly connected to said sidewall portion of said catheter body and a second free end, wherein, in an unconstrained state in said extended position, free ends of said fibers extend outward from said sidewall portion of said catheter body and forwardly in the distal direction, wherein each of said plurality of fibers comprises: a shape memory alloy tube comprising a conductive core disposed within an interior of said shape memory alloy tube, wherein said shape memory alloy tube is conformally disposed in direct contact with an outside surface of said conductive core and surrounds said conductive core, wherein said conductive core and said shape memory alloy tube are comprised of first and second different materials; and a tip electrode, supported on said free end of said fiber, wherein said conductive core functions as an electrical pathway for said tip electrode.