Patent ID: 8708954
Filing Date: 2014-04-29
Classification: A61M,A61P

Abstract:
1. A catheter configured for controlled whipping in rotational increments, wherein a portion of the catheter is forced to assume a curved shape in a patient's vasculature to position a distal portion in an operative position for performing a medical procedure, comprising: an elongated tubular shaft having proximal and distal shaft portions, and a lumen therein, the proximal shaft portion configured for transmitting a torque from the proximal shaft portion to the distal shaft portion; a first section of the proximal shaft portion having a first flexural modulus; and a second section of the proximal shaft portion having circumferentially spaced voids, each of which extending lengthwise over the second section; wherein the second section is such that the flexural modulus of the second section would be substantially higher than the first flexural modulus if the voids were not formed in the second section; and wherein the second section occupies a position along the proximal shaft portion that substantially assumes the curved shape.