Patent ID: 9198638
Filing Date: 2015-12-01
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. An imaging probe for use in a catheter for ultrasonic imaging, the catheter including a sheath having an opening at a distal end for conducting a fluid there through, the imaging probe comprising: (a) a transducer configured to generate and sense ultrasonic waves; and (b) a distal housing that houses the transducer at an angle sloping toward a catheter center axis in a proximal direction and that is coupled to a drive shaft for rotation, the distal housing including a tapered cutout surface proximal to the transducer and a distal tip wall distal to the transducer, the distal tip wall having a distal tip wall opening, wherein the distal housing facilitates fluid flow down the tapered cutout surface, over the transducer, and out the distal tip wall opening to prevent air bubble formation near the transducer.