| 摘要 |
PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To make the shape retention of a catheter variable by a method wherein a linear reinforcement member comprising a shape memory alloy of which the transformation point is a specified temperature or higher, is embedded in the tube wall, and is connected to a power connecting means. SOLUTION: The tube wall 2 of a catheter 3 is formed of polyethylene, etc., in such a manner that the thickness may become approx. 0.1-1.0mm. Then, in the tube wall 2, a linear reinforcement member 1 formed of a shape memory alloy of which the transformation point is higher than 37 deg.C, is embedded, and the catheter 3 is constituted. The rigidity of the shape memory alloy is improved by a temperature which is at the transformation point or higher. When the transformation point is at 37 deg.C or lower, by the temperature of a human body, a large rigidy manifests, and the guiding of the embedded catheter to a target area becomes difficult. When the temperature is too high, a feeding current amount becomes too large, and the invasive property increases. By this constitution, the temperature rises by connecting power to the linear reinforcement member 1 by the power connecting means 4, the rigidity increases, and a large shape retention can be imparted to the catheter 3. |
