Importance

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Abstract

In one embodiment, the present invention provides a mechanical thrombus maceration device which includes a flexible shaft adapted to be guided along a vascular path and rotated within a vascular channel; a rotor affixed to the shaft adjacent the distal end thereof for rotation therewith; drive means for rotating the shaft; and a rotor housing within which the rotor rotates. The rotor housing of this embodiment comprises a generally cylindrical wall substantially surrounding the rotor and having at least one port formed therein, the port or ports being positioned about the housing such that when a fluid (e.g. blood) is ejected through the ports within a vascular channel, the housing will tend to deflect toward one side of the vascular channel to permit the device to be steered during deployment. In another embodiment of the invention, the device includes an elongate, flexible shaft adapted to be guided along a vascular path and which is rotatable within a vascular channel; a plurality of rotors spaced from one another along the shaft and attached to the shaft for rotation therewith; drive means for rotating the shaft; and a rotor housing enclosing at least one of the rotors.

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First Claim