Patent ID: 6517765
Filing Date: 2003-02-11
Classification: A61M,B29D,B29K,B29L

Abstract:
A method for reinforcing a tubular structure for medical devices which comprises the steps of:(a) engaging at least one helical member onto an outer surface of a tubular member to form a composite tubular assembly having a first, a second end, and an inner lumen; (b) positioning said composite tubular assembly in a heating mold; (c) heating said composite tubular assembly into a temperature range, said temperature range being between a first temperature and a second temperature; (d) creating a pressure differential between said outer surface and said inner lumen; (e) reducing said pressure differential; (f) removing said composite tubular assembly from said heating mold to result in a reinforced tubular structure; and (g) applying a coating on an inner surface of said reinforced tubular structure.