Patent ID: 7972324
Filing Date: 2011-07-05
Classification: A61M

Abstract:
1. A catheter comprising: a catheter shaft portion having a proximal end and a distal end, the catheter shaft portion being made of a first material and having a first diameter; a balloon having a proximal end and a distal end, the balloon being arranged at the distal end of the catheter shaft portion; a joint portion being more flexible than the catheter shaft portion and extending distally from the distal end of the catheter shaft portion, the joint portion including a portion of the catheter shaft portion and an overlying member disposed over the portion of the catheter shaft portion, the overlying member including a second material which is more flexible than the first material of the catheter shaft portion, the joint portion being disposed distal of the balloon and having a second diameter substantially equal to the first diameter; and a catheter tip portion disposed on an opposite side of the joint portion from the catheter shaft portion and extending distally from the joint portion; wherein the catheter tip portion is made of a material having a flexibility equal to or lower than the first material.