Patent ID: 8206384
Filing Date: 2012-06-26
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. A method of using a catheter having a handle, a flexible shaft having a longitudinal axis, and a tip assembly, the shaft being connected between the handle and the tip assembly, a proximal end of the tip assembly including a bend of approximately ninety degrees relative to the longitudinal axis of the shaft, and the distal end of the tip assembly including an arcuate curve having a diameter, the arcuate curve being oriented in a plane that is approximately perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the shaft, the method comprising acts of: introducing the distal end of the tip assembly inside a heart of a patient; steering the tip assembly in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the shaft by actuating at least one pull cable anchored proximal to the tip assembly; contacting an inner surface of the heart vessel with the arcuate curve; and remotely, from outside the patient, applying a radially outward pressure with the distal end of the tip assembly against the inner surface of the heart vessel.