Importance

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Abstract

A torque transmitting assembly for guidewires, steerable fixed wire catheters and the like with a drive mechanism wherein the rotational output is greater than the rotational input. The assembly has a supporting structure with proximal and distal end pieces and a connecting arm or strut extending between and secured to the end pieces. An outer cylindrical shaped housing is rotatably mounted about the connecting arm and between the ends. A ring gear or other torque transmitting element is secured to the interior of the housing. A pinion gear or other torque transmitting element having a smaller diameter than the ring gear is rotatably mounted within support structure and the housing and is adapted to engage the ring gear in a torque transmitting relationship. The proximal end of a guidewire or the guiding element of a steerable catheter is secured to the pinion gear so that rotation thereof by the rotation of the housing causes a much greater the rotation of the attached guidewire or guiding element. Preferably means are provided to restrict the number of rotations which can be imparted to the guidewire or guiding means.

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First Claim