| 摘要 |
A stylet (26) and hub (36) assembled for stiffening a catheter (10) in rapid exchange mode. The catheter guidewire lumen (20) has a side port (22) associated with a bi-stable guide element (24) that lies ac ross the lumen. A disengageable feature assembly (38) li mits insertion of the stylet into the lumen in rapid exchange mode. To convert fr om rapid exchange mode, disengagement of the disengageab le feature enables the stylet to displace the guide element, clearing the guide wire lumen and enabling guidewire or other device to ext end throughout the lumen. The stylet has a long proximal portion (34), a relativ ely short portion (32) tapering distally to a smaller di ameter, and enlarged end (34). The guide element is formed by plastic deformation of the catheter wall. The disengageable feature is in a remova ble housing (28) having an end cap (54) that can be replaced with a syringe for flushing liquid along the stylet. A balloon (12), prefer ably a PTCA balloon, is mounted on the catheter.
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