Patent ID: 6544215
Filing Date: 2003-04-08
Classification: A61B,A61M

Abstract:
An apparatus for use with a catheter that supports at least one of a diagnostic and a therapeutic element, the apparatus comprising:an elongate body defining a proximal portion, a distal portion and a distal end and including a wall defining an inner surface, an outer surface and a lumen configured to receive the catheter extending from the proximal portion to a substantially unobstructed aperture in the distal end; a steering wire having a distal portion defining a non-circular cross-section and a proximal portion defining a circular cross-section, the distal portion of the steering wire being fixedly secured to the distal portion of the elongate body and the proximal portion of the steering wire being longitudinally movable relative to the elongate body such that the elongate body deflects in response to longitudinal movement of the proximal portion of the steering wire; and a handle secured to the elongate body defining an exterior and a substantially unobstructed handle lumen configured to receive the catheter and extending proximally from the proximal portion of the elongate body lumen to the exterior of the handle.