Patent ID: 6056719
Filing Date: 2000-05-02
Classification: A61M

Abstract:
A convertible catheter assembly for performing an intravascular procedure comprising:(a) a first elongate tubular member having a proximal end and a distal end with a lumen extending therethrough;(b) a second elongate tubular member having a proximal end and a distal end with a guide wire receiving lumen extending therethrough with a proximal guide wire opening on the proximal end thereof and a distal guide wire opening on the distal end thereof, said second elongate tubular member coaxially disposed within said first elongate tubular member, said second elongate tubular member including a proximal segment and a distal segment, said proximal segment including a collapsible tube;(c) an inflatable balloon having a proximal end sealed to said first elongate tubular member proximate the distal end thereof and a distal end sealed to said second elongate tubular member proximate the distal end thereof, said balloon defining an internal volume therein in fluid communication with said lumen of said first elongate tubular member, wherein when said balloon is pressurized, said proximal segment of said second elongate tubular member collapses radially within said lumen of said first elongate tubular member; and,(d) an intermediate guide wire opening through the wall of said distal segment of said second elongate tubular member and the wall of said first elongate tubular member at a point substantially distal of the proximal end of said elongate tubular members, said opening configured for receiving a guide wire therethrough.