摘要 |
A dilatation catheter having a balloon (20) of unique and novel configuration which enhances critical properties of the catheter. In at least one section (26), the balloon (20) has a substantially semi-circular cross section when in an uninflated, unwrapped condition. A groove (28) is formed in the resulting flat surface (30) of the balloon (20) accommodate an elongate guide wire lumen (40) and improves fold memory. The guide wire lumen (40) extends along and beside a distal section (23) of the catheter, and is bonded near its distal end into the groove (28) in the balloon (20). At the distal end of the groove (28), the balloon (20) is configured such that the guide wire lumen (40) passes through the balloon wall, such that the distal end of the lumen is disposed in the interior inflation chamber of the balloon (20). In this way, the guide wire (42) follows an essentially straight path in the region of the balloon (20).
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