Importance

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Abstract

A catheter is disclosed which includes an over-the-wire type balloon catheter, with a guide wire, wherein the catheter incorporates an axially movable inner tubular member which extends proximally through a proximal manifold lumen. The inner tubular member extends distally beyond the distal end of the outer tubular member with the balloon member distal waist affixed to the inner tubular member proximate the distal end. The catheter incorporates axial tension members which function to transmit force to the distal tip when the movable inner tubular member is oscillated axially. The axial tension members are preferably a plurality of wires, each having a proximal end affixed to the outside diameter of the inner tubular member proximate the manifold, and each having a distal end affixed to the outside diameter of the inner tubular member a substantial distance distal of the manifold. When the inner tubular member is pulled proximally, energy is stored in the catheter, which when the inner is released, forces the distal tip forward with added force from the distal point of attachment of the axial tension members. An actuator and a valve assembly are preferably included.

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First Claim