AKUSTISCHES FENSTER UND SEPTUM FÜR KATHETER ZUR BILDERZEUGUNG

摘要

A catheter, an acoustic septum and method for diagnosing body interiors utilizing the transmission and receiving of ultrasonic waves generated therewith. The catheter includes an elongated catheter sheath with a proximal end open to the atmosphere and an acoustic septum disposed at the distal end thereof. The septum is formed of a flexible sheet or tube of foraminous thermoplastic material, the depths of the foramina being at a predetermined ratio relative to their diameters. A hydrophilic coating is disposed on the sheet or tube and covers at least the edges of the foramina to allow the passage of liquid therethrough to fill the sheath. The coating is absorbent of the liquid to close the foramina and prevent the passage of liquids in either direction. A mechanism for generating and receiving ultrasonic waves is disposed within the distal end of the catheter and is in an operating relationship with the septum whereby to enable the mechanism to be bathed in the fluid and enable sonic transmissions.