Patent ID: 7857786
Filing Date: 2010-12-28
Classification: A61M

Abstract:
1. An apparatus suitable for facilitating folding of a balloon before, during or after a medical procedure, the apparatus comprising: at least one catheter shaft member comprising proximal and distal ends; a balloon comprising a proximal taper, a distal taper, and a central region formed therebetween, wherein the balloon is coupled to the catheter shaft member; at least one folding member disposed along at least a portion of the proximal taper of the balloon, wherein the folding member terminates proximal to the central region of the balloon, wherein the folding member comprises at least one radially-projecting member having a proximal tapered region, a central region, and a distal tapered region; and at least one biasing member disposed between the folding member and an adjacent portion of the balloon to promote folding of the balloon in a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction.