Patent Number: 6,254,588

Title: Microcatheter

Abstract: Disclosed is an elongate flexible microcatheter, for diagnostic and or therapeutic applications. The microcatheter is provided with a small outside diameter and high degree of flexibility, to facilitate negotiation of small, tortuous vessels such as those encountered in intercranial catheterizations. The catheter is formed from a composite of a series of tubular elements, each extending axially for a different distance along the tubular body. A distal section on one or more of the tubular components is provided with a spiral cut, to modify the flexibility properties of the finished catheter. The catheter may also be provided with an inflatable balloon, and a valve to permit the use of a single lumen for both receiving a guidewire and for conveying inflation media.

Inventors: Jones; Michael L. (Capistrano Beach, CA), Evans; Scott (Santa Ana, CA), Wallace; George B. (Coto de Caza, CA)

Assignee: Micro Therapeutics, Inc.

International Classification: A61M 25/00 (20060101); A61M 025/00 ()

Expiration Date: 07/03/2018