摘要 |
<p>A multi-layer catheter tube section providing gradually increasing flexibility. One catheter tube section has a first, inner layer formed of a flexible material and a second, outer layer formed of a stiffer material. The outer layer tapers distally, having decreasing layer thickness with increasing distal position. The decreasing wall thickness provides a decreasing stiffness contribution which imparts increasing flexibility to the catheter portions having a smaller outer layer. The tube sections can be joined end to end to form longer catheter regions having a greater number of gradual flexibility changes.</p> |