Patent ID: 7303572
Filing Date: 2007-12-04
Classification: A61B,A61M

Abstract:
1. A balloon catheter assembly, comprising: an elongate catheter shaft having a proximal portion and a distal portion; an inflatable balloon secured to said distal portion of said catheter shaft; and a plurality of cutters disposed along an outer surface of the balloon, said cutters comprising a pair of spaced base segments in fixed engagement with said balloon outer surface, said base segments of each cutter having an open space between said base segments along a circumference of said balloon such that a spacing between said base segments along the circumference of said balloon is variable, said cutters further including respective body portions that extend radially from each base segment and converge toward one another, said respective converging body portions configured and aligned to meet to define a cutting edge, said cutters being shielded by folds of the balloon when said balloon is in an uninflated condition, and being arranged and configured to facilitate breakdown of a vascular restriction when said balloon is in an inflated condition, said cutters being fixedly engaged with said outer surface of said balloon.