Patent ID: 7922691
Filing Date: 2011-04-12
Classification: A61B,A61F,A61M

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for insertion into a vessel-like structure, the apparatus comprising: a catheter for insertion into the vessel-like structure, the catheter having a catheter wall and a lumen extending longitudinally therethrough; a moveable member disposed within the lumen; at least one helically twisted flexible strut fixedly connected to the catheter wall and to the moveable member; and a membrane operably connected to the at least one flexible strut to form a trap, wherein relative motion between the catheter wall and the moveable member actuates the trap between a helically twisted contracted position and a helically twisted expanded position, and further wherein the at least one strut forms a profile having a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion has a first radius of curvature and the second portion has a second radius of curvature, the first radius of curvature is larger than the second radius of curvature causing the first portion to contract first to form a cocoon.