Methods and apparatus for imparting curves in elongated medical catheters

Number of patents in Portfolio can not be more than 2000

United States of America Patent

PATENT NO 6939338
APP PUB NO 20030199818A1
SERIAL NO

10125365

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ATTORNEY / AGENT: (SPONSORED)

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Abstract

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Curves and dynamic shapes are imparted in distal segments of medical instruments e.g., catheters, through use of a temperature-activated actuator coupled to distal segment of the instrument body. The actuator comprises includes members extending side-by-side in substantially a common plane and configured to move in opposite directions when independently activated. A first heating device is coupled to a first actuator member and configured to deliver thermal energy to the first actuator member to activate the first actuator member and cause the first actuator member to move the distal segment in a first direction. A second heating device is coupled to a second actuator member and configured to deliver thermal energy to the second actuator member to activate the second actuator member and cause the second actuator member to move the distal segment in a second direction opposed to the first direction.

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Patent Owner(s)

Patent OwnerAddress
MEDTRONIC INC710 MEDTRONIC PARKWAY MINNEAPOLIS MN 55432

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Inventor(s)

Inventor Name Address # of filed Patents Total Citations
Gardeski, Kenneth C Plymouth, MN 83 5303
Kelley, James F Coon Rapids, MN 39 4163
Laske, Timothy G Shoreview, MN 138 9006
Shipe, Gregory P Plymouth, MN 5 543
Waldhauser, Steven L Circle Pines, MN 65 4924

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