LOW PROFILE CATHETER WITH EXPANDABLE OUTER TUBULAR MEMBER

摘要

2136631 9402197 PCTABS00030 A dilatation catheter with a catheter shaft (10) having an outer tubular member (13) with an expandable distal section (17) which expands elastically upon the introduction of fluid under a pressure within a first pressure range to a larger diameter and which contracts by elastic recoil upon the withdrawal of the inflation fluid. The expandable distal section is relatively noncompliant at pressures above the first pressure range. Preferably, the dilatation catheter has an inflatable member or balloon (16) disposed distal to the expandable distal section which is formed of the same polymeric material as the expandable distal section and is in fluid communication with the expandable inner lumen within the expandable distal section.