A CATHETER

摘要

A retrieval catheter having a retrieval catheter tip 1 at a distal end thereof, the tip being suitable for retrieving an embolic protection filter (6) into the tip (1). The tip (1) comprises a flexible tip body and two stiff reinforcement columns. The tip body is radially expandable to facilitate retrieval of a filter into the tip (1), and the columns extend longitudinally along the tip body to prevent buckling of the tip (1) upon retrieval of the filter into the tip. The cross-sectional area of the columns, the cross sectional area of the tip body, and the overall cross-sectional area of the tip (1) all remain substantially unchanged along the length of the tip (1). This ensures the reinforcement provided to the tip by the columns remains substantially uniform along the length of the tip (1). Thus no longitudinal squeezing of the filter (6) as it is retrieved into the tip (1) will be caused.