Patent ID: 7257434
Filing Date: 2007-08-14
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. A catheter comprising: an elongated catheter body having proximal and distal ends and at least one lumen therethrough; a basket-shaped electrode assembly at the distal end of the catheter body, the basket assembly having proximal and distal ends and comprising a plurality of spines connected at their proximal and distal ends, each spine comprising at least one electrode, the basket assembly having an expanded arrangement wherein the spines bow radially outwardly and a collapsed arrangement wherein the spines are arranged generally along the axis of the catheter body; an expander attached at or near its distal end to the distal ends of the spines and having a length extending through the catheter body, having a proximal end that extends out the proximal end of the catheter body, and having a lumen extending substantially the length of the expander, whereby, in use, the expander can be moved longitudinally relative to the catheter body to expand and contract the basket assembly; wherein the basket assembly at its proximal end includes a first inner tubing configured to provide a tunnel through which the expander can be moved longitudinally relative to the catheter body; wherein a second inner tubing is provided at a junction of the basket assembly and catheter body, the second inner tubing being configured to provide a second tunnel through which the expander can be moved longitudinally relative to the junction of the catheter body and basket assembly; and wherein the basket assembly at its proximal end further includes a third tubing around the first inner tubing, the third tubing configured to enable longitudinal movement of electrode lead wires or a sensor cable relative to the catheter body between the first inner tubing and the third tubing.