Importance

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Abstract

A dual tubular member intra-aortic balloon assembly (1) has an inflatable balloon (4) bonded, at its proximal end, to an outer tubular member (2), and at its distal end, to an inner tubular member (3). The inner tubular member is composed of metal, being axially rigid yet bendable along its length. A flexible forwardly projecting extension (12) is attached to the inner tubular member for guiding the relatively stiff balloon assembly over a guide wire (9) through a tortuous arterial path, without causing buckling or misplacement of the guide wire. The junction between the inner tubular member and the flexible tubular member extension is embedded within a flexible tip (10) which reinforces the juncture to prevent balloon failure due to bending stress at the same time, enables a tighter balloon wrapping by eliminating the enlarged junction of the inner tubular member and flexible tip within the balloon membrane.

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First Claim