Importance

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Abstract

An improved vascular catheter having a tubular member of composite structure with a tubular substrate and a resin-impregnated fibrous covering extending over a substantial part of the length thereof. The tubular substrate which is longitudinally flexible but relatively inextendible, is preferably polyimide tubing with a lubricious coating on the inner surface thereof defining an inner lumen. The fibrous covering is preferably epoxy-impregnated aramid or polyester (Dacron) multi-filament fibers. The strands are is snugly wrapped around the tubular substrate and then impregnated with a suitable resin. One or more of the strands in the distal portion are at an angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the tubular substrate between about 20.degree. and about 45.degree. greater than the angle of one or more strands in the proximal portion. Individual strand wraps in the distal portion are at an angle of about 60.degree. to about 85.degree. and strand wraps in such as the proximal portion are at an angle of about 30.degree. to about 60.degree.. The composite tubular member is preferably utilized in balloon dilatation catheters used in angioplasty procedures.

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First Claim