FLEXIBLE FLOW APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR THE DISRUPTION OF OCCLUSIONS

摘要

The invention encompasses methods and flexible apparatus for creating fluid flow from one location to another through the repetitive expansion and collapse of bubbles generated as a result of the absorption of repetitive pulses of radiation in a fluid. This pumping phenomenon can be used to aid removal of a total or partial occlusion in a body passage by disrupting the surface of the occlusion with acoustic shock and pressure waves and/or by causing mechanical disruption of the occlusive material. Flexibility is improved with choice of materials and particular constructions.