Patent ID: 7004914
Filing Date: 2006-02-28
Classification: A61M

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for modulating the pressure of a fluid within an expandable member on a guide wire or tubular instrument, the apparatus comprising an inflation tool which comprises: means for controllably gripping an open, proximal end of a guide wire or tubular instrument; means for introducing a fluid into said expandable member on said guide wire or tubular instrument through said open end, thereby inflating said expandable member on said guide wire or tubular instrument to a desired extent; and means for effecting the sealing of said open proximal end of said guide wire or tubular instrument to maintain said fluid in said guide wire or tubular instrument, while maintaining said expandable member inflated to a desired extent, the apparatus further comprising a means for re-opening said proximal end of said guide wire or tubular instrument, said re-opening means comprising a cutting tool arranged to sever said guide wire or tubular instrument distally of said sealed proximal end, said cutting tool further being arranged to entrap said severed proximal end.