Patent ID: 6569144
Filing Date: 2003-05-27
Classification: A61B,A61M

Abstract:
A method of delivering therapeutic agents through a catheter to the heart of a patient, comprising the steps of:providing a catheter comprising: an outer catheter body with a proximal end and a distal end; a penetrating tubular element disposed within the distal end of the outer catheter body, said penetrating element being longitudinally movable relative to the outer catheter body; a delivery tube running from the proximal end of the outer catheter body to the distal end of the outer catheter body and in communication with the penetrating tubular element; a distensible conduit which connects the penetrating element to the delivery tube, said distensible element permitting longitudinal movement of the penetrating element relative to the delivery tube; and inserting the catheter into the patient such that the penetrating tubular element is capable of delivering the therapeutic agent to a desired location within the heart of the patient; and delivering the therapeutic agent to the desired location.