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Abstract

A catheter apparatus for obtaining an image of interior surface characteristics of a vascular vessel is provided. The catheter apparatus comprises an outer tubular element adapted for insertion into the vascular vessel, a rotatable inner tubular element disposed within the outer tubular element, and a non-rotating acoustic waveguide disposed within the inner tubular element and coupled to a source of an ultrasonic signal located external to the vascular vessel. The inner tubular element is rotated about an axis of the vascular vessel by use of an external driving member, such as a motor. The inner tubular element is provided with an acoustic reflecting or refracting element that directs the ultrasonic signal from a distal end of the acoustic waveguide through the outer tubular element at an angle relative to the axis of the vascular vessel. Sterile fluid disposed between the outer and inner tubular elements provides for acoustic coupling of the ultrasonic signal into the vessel, and further provides for lubrication of the rotating elements.

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First Claim