Devices for introduction into a body via a substantially straight conduit to form a predefined curved configuration, and methods employing such devices
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United States of America Patent
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Jun 26, 2012
Grant Date -
Oct 27, 2011
app pub date -
Apr 26, 2011
filing date -
Aug 11, 2004
priority date (Note) -
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Abstract
A device for introduction into a body in a straight configuration and assuming within the body a predefined curved configuration, includes an elongated element formed from a number of segments interconnected so as to form effective hinges therebetween. When the elongated element is confined to a straight state, the effective hinges transfer compressive forces from each segment to the next so that the elongated element can be pushed to advance it through a conduit. When the elongated element is not confined to a straight state, the effective hinges allow deflection of each segment relative to adjacent segments until abutment surfaces of the segments come into abutment, thereby defining a fully flexed state of the elongated element with a predefined curved configuration. The device can be produced with a wide range of two-dimensional and three-dimensional curved forms, and has both medical and non-medical applications.
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