Abstract:
Intravascular devices, systems, and methods are disclosed. In some embodiments, side-loading electrical connectors for use with intravascular devices are provided. The side-loading electrical connector has at least one electrical contact configured to interface with an electrical connector of the intravascular device. A first connection piece of the side-loading electrical connector is movable relative to a second connection piece between an open position and a closed position, wherein in the open position an elongated opening is formed between the first and second connection pieces to facilitate insertion of the electrical connector between the first and second connection pieces in a direction transverse to a longitudinal axis of the intravascular device and wherein in the closed position the at least one electrical contact is electrically coupled to the at least one electrical connector received between the first and second connection pieces.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    The present application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/745,472, filed Dec. 21, 2012, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. 
     
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
       [0002]    The present disclosure relates to intravascular devices, systems, and methods. In some embodiments, the intravascular devices are guidewires that include one or more electronic components. 
       BACKGROUND 
       [0003]    Heart disease is very serious and often requires emergency operations to save lives. A main cause of heart disease is the accumulation of plaque inside the blood vessels, which eventually occludes the blood vessels. Common treatment options available to open up the occluded vessel include balloon angioplasty, rotational atherectomy, and intravascular stents. Traditionally, surgeons have relied on X-ray fluoroscopic images that are planar images showing the external shape of the silhouette of the lumen of blood vessels to guide treatment. Unfortunately, with X-ray fluoroscopic images, there is a great deal of uncertainty about the exact extent and orientation of the stenosis responsible for the occlusion, making it difficult to find the exact location of the stenosis. In addition, though it is known that restenosis can occur at the same place, it is difficult to check the condition inside the vessels after surgery with X-ray. 
         [0004]    A currently accepted technique for assessing the severity of a stenosis in a blood vessel, including ischemia causing lesions, is fractional flow reserve (FFR). FFR is a calculation of the ratio of a distal pressure measurement (taken on the distal side of the stenosis) relative to a proximal pressure measurement (taken on the proximal side of the stenosis). FFR provides an index of stenosis severity that allows determination as to whether the blockage limits blood flow within the vessel to an extent that treatment is required. The normal value of FFR in a healthy vessel is 1.00, while values less than about 0.80 are generally deemed significant and require treatment. 
         [0005]    Often intravascular catheters and guidewires are utilized to measure the pressure within the blood vessel. To date, guidewires containing pressure sensors or other electronic components have suffered from reduced performance characteristics compared to standard guidewires that do not contain electronic components. For example, the handling performance of previous guidewires containing electronic components have been hampered, in some instances, by the limited space available for the core wire after accounting for the space needed for the conductors or communication lines of the electronic component(s), the stiffness of the rigid housing containing the electronic component(s), and/or other limitations associated with providing the functionality of the electronic components in the limited space available within a guidewire. Further, due to its small diameter, in many instances the proximal connector portion of the guidewire (i.e., the connector(s) that facilitate communication between the electronic component(s) of the guidewire and an associated controller or processor) is fragile and prone to kinking, which destroys the functionality of the guidewire. For this reason, surgeons are reluctant to remove the proximal connector from the guidewire during a procedure for fear of breaking the guidewire when reattaching the proximal connector. However, having the guidewire coupled to the proximal connector further limits the maneuverability and handling of the guidewire. 
         [0006]    Accordingly, there remains a need for improved connectors for use with intravascular devices (e.g., catheters and guidewires) that include one or more electronic components. 
       SUMMARY 
       [0007]    Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to intravascular devices, systems, and methods. 
         [0008]    In some embodiments, side-loading electrical connectors for use with intravascular devices are provided. The side-loading electrical connector has at least one electrical contact configured to interface with an electrical connector of the intravascular device. A first connection piece of the side-loading electrical connector is movable relative to a second connection piece between an open position and a closed position, wherein in the open position an elongated opening is formed between the first and second connection pieces to facilitate insertion of the electrical connector between the first and second connection pieces in a direction transverse to a longitudinal axis of the intravascular device and wherein in the closed position the at least one electrical contact is electrically coupled to the at least one electrical connector received between the first and second connection pieces. 
         [0009]    Additional aspects, features, and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0010]    Illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, of which: 
           [0011]      FIG. 1  is a diagrammatic side view of an intravascular device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 
           [0012]      FIG. 2  is a diagrammatic schematic view of an intravascular system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 
           [0013]      FIG. 3  is a diagrammatic perspective view of a connector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 
           [0014]      FIG. 4  is a diagrammatic perspective view of a portion of the connector of  FIG. 4  and a proximal connector portion of an intravascular device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 
           [0015]      FIG. 5  is a diagrammatic, partial cross-sectional side view of a connector having an opening in communication with a central lumen according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 
           [0016]      FIG. 6  is a diagrammatic, partial cross-sectional side view of a connector having an opening in communication with a central lumen according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. 
           [0017]      FIG. 7  is a diagrammatic cutaway end view of a connector in an open position according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 
           [0018]      FIG. 8  is a diagrammatic cutaway side view of the connector of  FIG. 7  in the open position according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 
           [0019]      FIG. 9  is a diagrammatic cutaway end view of the connector of  FIGS. 7 and 8  in a closed position according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 
           [0020]      FIG. 10  is a diagrammatic cutaway side view of the connector of  FIGS. 7-9  in the closed position according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 
           [0021]      FIG. 11  is a diagrammatic top view of a contact forming structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 
           [0022]      FIG. 12  is a diagrammatic top view of the contact forming structure of  FIG. 11  in a subsequent step of manufacturing according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 
           [0023]      FIG. 13  is a diagrammatic top view of a mounting structure with a plurality of electrical contacts secured thereto according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 
           [0024]      FIG. 14  is a diagrammatic end view of a mounting structure and associated electrical contact in an open position, spaced from a connection portion of an intravascular device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 
           [0025]      FIG. 15  is a diagrammatic end view of the mounting structure and associated electrical contact of  FIG. 14  in a closed position, engaged with the connection portion of the intravascular device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 
           [0026]      FIG. 16  is a diagrammatic perspective view of an electrical contact according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0027]    For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the present disclosure, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings, and specific language will be used to describe the same. It is nevertheless understood that no limitation to the scope of the disclosure is intended. Any alterations and further modifications to the described devices, systems, and methods, and any further application of the principles of the present disclosure are fully contemplated and included within the present disclosure as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the disclosure relates. In particular, it is fully contemplated that the features, components, and/or steps described with respect to one embodiment may be combined with the features, components, and/or steps described with respect to other embodiments of the present disclosure. For the sake of brevity, however, the numerous iterations of these combinations will not be described separately. 
         [0028]    As used herein, “flexible elongate member” or “elongate flexible member” includes at least any thin, long, flexible structure that can be inserted into the vasculature of a patient. While the illustrated embodiments of the “flexible elongate members” of the present disclosure have a cylindrical profile with a circular cross-sectional profile that defines an outer diameter of the flexible elongate member, in other instances all or a portion of the flexible elongate members may have other geometric cross-sectional profiles (e.g., oval, rectangular, square, elliptical, etc.) or non-geometric cross-sectional profiles. Flexible elongate members include, for example, intravascular catheters and intravascular guidewires. In that regard, intravascular catheters may or may not include a lumen extending along its length for receiving and/or guiding other instruments. If the intravascular catheter includes a lumen, the lumen may be centered or offset with respect to the cross-sectional profile of the device. 
         [0029]    In most embodiments, the flexible elongate members of the present disclosure include one or more electronic, optical, or electro-optical components. For example, without limitation, a flexible elongate member may include one or more of the following types of components: a pressure sensor, a temperature sensor, an imaging element, an optical fiber, an ultrasound transducer, a reflector, a minor, a prism, an ablation element, an fro electrode, a conductor, and/or combinations thereof. Generally, these components are configured to obtain data related to a vessel or other portion of the anatomy in which the flexible elongate member is disposed. Often the components are also configured to communicate the data to an external device for processing and/or display. In some aspects, embodiments of the present disclosure include imaging devices for imaging within the lumen of a vessel, including both medical and non-medical applications. However, some embodiments of the present disclosure are particularly suited for use in the context of human vasculature. Imaging of the intravascular space, particularly the interior walls of human vasculature can be accomplished by a number of different techniques, including ultrasound (often referred to as intravascular ultrasound (“IVUS”) and intracardiac echocardiography (“ICE”)) and optical coherence tomography (“OCT”). In other instances, infrared, thermal, or other imaging modalities are utilized. Further, in some instances the flexible elongate member includes multiple electronic, optical, and/or electro-optical components (e.g., pressure sensors, temperature sensors, imaging elements, optical fibers, ultrasound transducers, reflectors, mirrors, prisms, ablation elements, fro electrodes, conductors, etc.). 
         [0030]    The electronic, optical, and/or electro-optical components of the present disclosure are often disposed within a distal portion of the flexible elongate member. As used herein, “distal portion” of the flexible elongate member includes any portion of the flexible elongate member from the mid-point to the distal tip. As flexible elongate members can be solid, some embodiments of the present disclosure will include a housing portion at the distal portion for receiving the electronic components. Such housing portions can be tubular structures attached to the distal portion of the elongate member. Some flexible elongate members are tubular and have one or more lumens in which the electronic components can be positioned within the distal portion. 
         [0031]    The electronic, optical, and/or electro-optical components and the associated communication lines are sized and shaped to allow for the diameter of the flexible elongate member to be very small. For example, the outside diameter of the elongate member, such as a guidewire or catheter, containing one or more electronic, optical, and/or electro-optical components as described herein are between about 0.0007″ (0.0178 mm) and about 0.118″ (3.0 mm), with some particular embodiments having outer diameters of approximately 0.014″ (0.3556 mm) and approximately 0.018″ (0.4572 mm)). As such, the flexible elongate members incorporating the electronic, optical, and/or electro-optical component(s) of the present application are suitable for use in a wide variety of lumens within a human patient besides those that are part or immediately surround the heart, including veins and arteries of the extremities, renal arteries, blood vessels in and around the brain, and other lumens. 
         [0032]    “Connected” and variations thereof as used herein includes direct connections, such as being glued or otherwise fastened directly to, on, within, etc. another element, as well as indirect connections where one or more elements are disposed between the connected elements. 
         [0033]    “Secured” and variations thereof as used herein includes methods by which an element is directly secured to another element, such as being glued or otherwise fastened directly to, on, within, etc. another element, as well as indirect techniques of securing two elements together where one or more elements are disposed between the secured elements. 
         [0034]    Referring now to  FIG. 1 , shown therein is a portion of an intravascular device  100  according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In that regard, the intravascular device  100  includes a flexible elongate member  102  having a distal portion  104  adjacent a distal end  105  and a proximal portion  106  adjacent a proximal end  107 . A component  108  is positioned within the distal portion  104  of the flexible elongate member  102  proximal of the distal tip  105 . Generally, the component  108  is representative of one or more electronic, optical, or electro-optical components. In that regard, the component  108  is a pressure sensor, a temperature sensor, an imaging element, an optical fiber, an ultrasound transducer, a reflector, a minor, a prism, an ablation element, an RF electrode, a conductor, and/or combinations thereof. The specific type of component or combination of components can be selected based on an intended use of the intravascular device. In some instances, the component  108  is positioned less than 10 cm, less than 5, or less than 3 cm from the distal tip  105 . In some instances, the component  108  is positioned within a housing of the flexible elongate member  102 . In that regard, the housing is a separate component secured to the flexible elongate member  102  in some instances. In other instances, the housing is integrally formed as a part of the flexible elongate member  102 . 
         [0035]    The intravascular device  100  also includes a connector  110  adjacent the proximal portion  106  of the device. In that regard, the connector  110  is spaced from the proximal end  107  of the flexible elongate member  102  by a distance  112 . Generally, the distance  112  is between 0% and 50% of the total length of the flexible elongate member  102 . While the total length of the flexible elongate member can be any length, in some embodiments the total length is between about 1300 mm and about 4000 mm, with some specific embodiments have a length of 1400 mm, 1900 mm, and 3000 mm. Accordingly, in some instances the connector  110  is positioned at the proximal end  107 . In other instances, the connector  110  is spaced from the proximal end  107 . For example, in some instances the connector  110  is spaced from the proximal end  107  between about 0 mm and about 1400 mm. In some specific embodiments, the connector  110  is spaced from the proximal end by a distance of 0 mm, 300 mm, and 1400 mm. 
         [0036]    The connector  110  is configured to facilitate communication between the intravascular device  100  and another device. More specifically, in some embodiments the connector  110  is configured to facilitate communication of data obtained by the component  108  to another device, such as a computing device or processor. Accordingly, in some embodiments the connector  110  is an electrical connector. In such instances, the connector  110  provides an electrical connection to one or more electrical conductors that extend along the length of the flexible elongate member  102  and are electrically coupled to the component  108 . In other embodiments, the connector  110  is an optical connector. In such instances, the connector  110  provides an optical connection to one or more optical communication pathways (e.g., fiber optic cable) that extend along the length of the flexible elongate member  102  and are optically coupled to the component  108 . Further, in some embodiments the connector  110  provides both electrical and optical connections to both electrical conductor(s) and optical communication pathway(s) coupled to the component  108 . In that regard, it should again be noted that component  108  is comprised of a plurality of elements in some instances. In some instances, the connector  110  is configured to provide a physical connection to another device, either directly or indirectly. In other instances, the connector  110  is configured to facilitate wireless communication between the intravascular device  100  and another device. Generally, any current or future developed wireless protocol(s) may be utilized. In yet other instances, the connector  110  facilitates both physical and wireless connection to another device. 
         [0037]    As noted above, in some instances the connector  110  provides a connection between the component  108  of the intravascular device  100  and an external device. Accordingly, in some embodiments one or more electrical conductors, one or more optical pathways, and/or combinations thereof extend along the length of the flexible elongate member  102  between the connector  110  and the component  108  to facilitate communication between the connector  110  and the component  108 . Generally, any number of electrical conductors, optical pathways, and/or combinations thereof can extend along the length of the flexible elongate member  102  between the connector  110  and the component  108 . In some instances, between one and ten electrical conductors and/or optical pathways extend along the length of the flexible elongate member  102  between the connector  110  and the component  108 . For the sake of clarity and simplicity, the embodiments of the present disclosure described below include three electrical conductors. However, it is understood that the total number of communication pathways and/or the number of electrical conductors and/or optical pathways is different in other embodiments. More specifically, the number of communication pathways and the number of electrical conductors and optical pathways extending along the length of the flexible elongate member  102  is determined by the desired functionality of the component  108  and the corresponding elements that define component  108  to provide such functionality. 
         [0038]    Referring now to  FIG. 2 , shown therein is a system  150  according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the system  150  includes an instrument  152 . In that regard, in some instances instrument  152  is an intravascular device as described above in the context of  FIG. 1 . Accordingly, in some instances the instrument  152  includes features similar to those discussed above with. In the illustrated embodiment, the instrument  152  is a guide wire having a distal portion  154  and a housing  156  positioned adjacent the distal portion. In that regard, the housing  156  is spaced approximately  3  cm from a distal tip of the instrument  152 . The housing  156  is configured to house one or more sensors, transducers, and/or other monitoring elements configured to obtain the diagnostic information about the vessel. In the illustrated embodiment, the housing  156  contains at least a pressure sensor configured to monitor a pressure within a lumen in which the instrument  152  is positioned. A shaft  158  extends proximally from the housing  156 . A torque device  160  is positioned over and coupled to a proximal portion of the shaft  158 . A proximal end portion  162  of the instrument  152  is coupled to a connector  164 . Connector  164  will be described in greater detail below with reference to at least  FIGS. 3-10 . A cable  166  extends from connector  164  to a connector  168 . In some instances, connector  168  is configured to be plugged into an interface  170 . In that regard, interface  170  is a patient interface module (PIM) in some instances. In some instances, the cable  166  is replaced with a wireless connection. In that regard, it is understood that various communication pathways between the instrument  152  and the interface  170  may be utilized, including physical connections (including electrical, optical, and/or fluid connections), wireless connections, and/or combinations thereof. 
         [0039]    The interface  170  is communicatively coupled to a computing device  172  via a connection  174 . Computing device  172  is generally representative of any device suitable for performing the processing and analysis techniques discussed within the present disclosure and, in particular, the processing and analysis techniques for the intravascular devices described in the context of  FIG. 1 . In some embodiments, the computing device  172  includes a processor, random access memory, and a storage medium. In that regard, in some particular instances the computing device  172  is programmed to execute steps associated with the data acquisition and analysis described herein. Accordingly, it is understood that any steps related to data acquisition, data processing, instrument control, and/or other processing or control aspects of the present disclosure may be implemented by the computing device using corresponding instructions stored on or in a non-transitory computer readable medium accessible by the computing device. In some instances, the computing device  172  is a console device. In some particular instances, the computing device  172  is similar to the s5™ Imaging System or the s5i™ Imaging System, each available from Volcano Corporation. In some instances, the computing device  172  is portable (e.g., handheld, on a rolling cart, etc.). Further, it is understood that in some instances the computing device  172  comprises a plurality of computing devices. In that regard, it is particularly understood that the different processing and/or control aspects of the present disclosure may be implemented separately or within predefined groupings using a plurality of computing devices. Any divisions and/or combinations of the processing and/or control aspects across multiple computing devices are within the scope of the present disclosure. 
         [0040]    Together, connector  164 , cable  166 , connector  168 , interface  170 , and connection  174  facilitate communication between the one or more sensors, transducers, and/or other monitoring elements of the instrument  152  and the computing device  172 . However, this communication pathway is exemplary in nature and should not be considered limiting in any way. In that regard, it is understood that any communication pathway between the instrument  152  and the computing device  172  may be utilized, including physical connections (including electrical, optical, and/or fluid connections), wireless connections, and/or combinations thereof. In that regard, it is understood that the connection  174  is wireless in some instances. In some instances, the connection  174  includes a communication link over a network (e.g., intranet, internet, telecommunications network, and/or other network). In that regard, it is understood that the computing device  172  is positioned remote from an operating area where the instrument  152  is being used in some instances. Having the connection  174  include a connection over a network can facilitate communication between the instrument  152  and the remote computing device  172  regardless of whether the computing device is in an adjacent room, an adjacent building, or in a different state/country. Further, it is understood that the communication pathway between the instrument  152  and the computing device  172  is a secure connection in some instances. Further still, it is understood that, in some instances, the data communicated over one or more portions of the communication pathway between the instrument  152  and the computing device  172  is encrypted. 
         [0041]    It is understood that one or more components of the system  150  are not included, are implemented in a different arrangement/order, and/or are replaced with an alternative device/mechanism in other embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, in some instances, the system  150  does not include interface  170 . In such instances, the connector  168  (or other similar connector in communication with instrument  152 ) may plug into a port associated with computing device  172 . Alternatively, the instrument  152  may communicate wirelessly with the computing device  172 . Generally speaking, the communication pathway between the instrument  152  and the computing device  172  may have no intermediate nodes (i.e., a direct connection), one intermediate node between the instrument and the computing device, or a plurality of intermediate nodes between the instrument and the computing device. 
         [0042]    Referring now to  FIG. 3 , shown therein is a diagrammatic perspective view of the connector  164 . As shown the connector  164  is defined by a housing having a body portion  180  and a nose portion  182 . In the illustrated embodiment, the nose portion  182  is rotatable relative to the body portion  180  between an open position and a closed or locked position. In that regard, as will be discussed below, in the open position the connector  164  is configured to receive a connector portion of an intravascular device and in the closed position the connector  164  engages the received connector portion of the intravascular device. To this end, the connector  164  includes visual indicators that inform a user as to the current position of the connector relative to the open and closed position. In particular, the body portion  180  includes an indicator  184 , while the nose portion  182  includes indicators  186  and  188 . In the illustrated embodiment, the indicators  184 ,  186 , and  188  take the form of line markings. However, it is understood that the indicators can take any suitable visible form. As shown, when the indicator  184  is aligned with the indicator  186 , the connector  164  is in the open position. When the indicator  184  is aligned with the indicator  188 , the connector  164  is in the closed position. It is also understood that in some embodiments, the indicators are active indicators that emit a signal (e.g., light or sound) based on the relative positions of the body portion  180  and the nose portion  182  and/or changes to the relative positions. For example, a first color of light may be emitted when the connector is in the open position and a second color of light may be emitted when the connector is in the closed position. Similarly, an audible sound may indicate movement of the connector between the open and closed positions and/or a proper engagement between a connection portion of an intravascular device and the connector. In some embodiments, the body portion  180  and/or the nose portion  182  is formed of a transparent or translucent material such that a proximal section of an intravascular device received within the connector  164  may be visualized by a user. 
         [0043]    Referring now to  FIG. 4 , shown therein is a diagrammatic perspective view of the connector  164  and the proximal connector  110  of the intravascular device  100  according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the body portion  180  of the connector  164  includes an opening  190  at its distal end that is sized and shaped to receive the proximal end of the intravascular device  100 , including proximal connector  110 . In the illustrated embodiment, the proximal connector  110  includes a plurality of conductive elements  192  separated by a plurality of insulating spacers  194 . It is understood, however, that the proximal connector  110  may have any number of conductive elements or electrical contacts, including one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, and so on. However, for most applications the proximal connector  110  will have between two and seven conductive elements. 
         [0044]    Referring now to  FIG. 5 , shown therein is a diagrammatic, partial cross-sectional side view of the connector  164  according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in  FIG. 5 , the opening  190  of the connector  164  has a tapered section  196  that leads to a central lumen  198  having a substantially constant diameter. A conical surface  200  defines the tapered section  196  of the opening  190 , while a cylindrical surface  202  defines the central lumen  198 . The conical surface  200  serves to guide the proximal end  107  of the intravascular device  100  into the central lumen  198 . In that regard, the larger diameter of the opening  190  adjacent the outer, distal boundary of the body  180  facilitates easier insertion of the proximal end  107  of the intravascular device  100  into the connector, while the tapered section serves to guide the distal end  107  to the smaller central lumen  198 . As a result, the need for a user to precisely place the proximal end  107  of the intravascular device  100  directly into an opening the size of the smaller central lumen  198  is eliminated. In the illustrated embodiment of  FIG. 5 , a transition point or corner  204  is created at the junction of the conical surface  200  with the cylindrical surface  202 . In some instances, it is desirable to eliminate the transition point or corner  204  in order to prevent potential damage to the fragile proximal portion of the intravascular device  100  that will be received within the connector  164 . 
         [0045]    Referring now to  FIG. 6 , shown therein is a diagrammatic, partial cross-sectional side view of the connector  164  having an alternative implementation of opening  190  that eliminates the transition point or corner  204  of the embodiment of  FIG. 5 . In particular, as shown in  FIG. 6  the opening  190  has an arcuately tapered section  206  that leads to the central lumen  198 . In that regard, an arcuately tapering surface  208  extends from the outer, distal boundary of the body portion  180  to the cylindrical surface  202 . The arcuately tapering surface  208  curves in such a manner that no points, corners, or other sharp transitions are created. Instead, a smooth arcuate transition is created from the larger diameter of the opening  190  at the outer, distal boundary of the body portion  180  to the central lumen  198 . As a result, the potential for damage to the proximal portion of the intravascular device  100  is significantly decreased. 
         [0046]    Referring now to  FIGS. 7 and 8 , the connector  164  is illustrated in an open position. In particular,  FIG. 7  provides a diagrammatic cutaway end view of the connector in the open position, while  FIG. 8  provides a diagrammatic cutaway side view of the connector in the open position. Various components and features of the connector  164  are not shown in  FIGS. 7 and 8  in order to illustrate the general functionality of the connector  164 . It is understood that this is for clarity and no limitation to the design of the connector  164  is intended thereby. 
         [0047]    As shown, the connector  164  includes a mounting structure  210  upon which one or more electrical contacts are mounted. In the illustrated embodiment, an electrical contact  212  having contact portions  212   a ,  212   b , and  212   c  is mounted to the mounting structure. Generally, any number of electrical contacts may be secured to the mounting structure, including one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, and so on. However, for most applications between two and seven electrical contacts are used. In some instances, the number of electrical contacts is based upon the number of electrical connectors included on the intravascular device(s) that the connector  164  is to be used with. In that regard, the connector  164  may include the same number of electrical contacts as the intravascular device has electrical connectors. Alternatively, the connector  164  may include more electrical contacts than the intravascular device has electrical connectors or less electrical contacts than the intravascular device has electrical connectors. As shown, the electrical contact  212  includes a portion  214  that is fixedly secured to the mounting structure  210  and a portion  216  that extends up and away from the mounting structure  210 . Portion  214  may be fixedly secured to the mounting structure  210  using any suitable techniques for the materials used, including without limitation soldering, welding, gluing, mechanical coupling, and/or otherwise securing the components together. In the illustrated embodiment, the portion  216  is generally arcuate. In particular, portion  216  is curved such that a free end of the electrical contact is directed back down toward portion  214  and a rounded section of portion  216  is configured to engage an intravascular device received within the central lumen  198 . 
         [0048]    In some implementations, the mounting structure  210  is a printed circuit board. In that regard, the one or more electrical contacts mounted to the printed circuit board are electrically coupled to one or more leads or conductive pathways of the printed circuit board in some instances. Further, the cable  166  extending from the connector  164  is in electrical communication with the one or more leads or conductive pathways of the printed circuit board. As a result, when an intravascular device is electrically coupled to the one or more electrical contacts mounted to the printed circuit board, signals can be communicated between the interface  170  or processing system  172  and the intravascular device  100 . In some instances, a distal portion of conductors extending through the cable  166  are electrically coupled to the circuit board. In other instances, one or more conductive paths and/or conductors bridge the gap between the printed circuit board and the conductors of the cable  166 . For example, in some instances the cable  166  includes a plug that is configured to engage a socket of the connector  164 . In such instances, the plug and socket may use a standardized connection format (e.g., USB, FireWire, and/or other standard data and/or power interfaces) and/or a custom connection format. 
         [0049]    As shown in  FIGS. 7 and 8 , when the connector  164  is in the open position the electrical contact  212  is positioned adjacent to, but out of the central lumen  198 . As a result, the proximal end  107  of the intravascular device  100  is free to pass through the central lumen  198  without friction or engagement with the electrical contact(s) of the connector  164 . This again results in the potential for damage to the proximal portion of the intravascular device  100  being significantly decreased. In some implementations, one or more projections or surface features are formed on a proximal section of the cylindrical surface  202  defining the central lumen  198  in order to provide tactile feedback to the user that the proximal end  107  of the intravascular device  100  is approaching the proximal end of the central lumen  198  in an effort to prevent a user from accidentally ramming the proximal end  107  of the intravascular device  100  into the wall bounding the proximal end of the central lumen  198 , which could result in damage to the intravascular device  100 . In that regard, when the proximal end  107  of the intravascular device  100  reaches the one or more projections or surface features, the increase in friction or resistance associated with advancing the intravascular device  100  further into the central lumen will provide tactile feedback to the user to proceed with caution. 
         [0050]    Referring now to  FIGS. 9 and 10 , the connector  164  is illustrated in a closed position. In particular,  FIG. 9  provides a diagrammatic cutaway end view of the connector in the closed position, while  FIG. 10  provides a diagrammatic cutaway side view of the connector in the closed position. Again, various components and features of the connector  164  are not shown in  FIGS. 9 and 10  in order to illustrate the general functionality of the connector  164 . It is understood that this is for clarity and no limitation to the design of the connector  164  is intended thereby. As shown in  FIGS. 9 and 10 , when the proximal end  107  of the intravascular device  100  is positioned within the central lumen  198  of the connector  164  and the connector is moved to the closed position, the electrical contact  212  engages a conductive element  192  of the intravascular device. In that regard, when the connector  164  is moved from the open position to the closed position, the mounting structure  210  moves in the direction of arrow  218  towards the central lumen  198 . In that regard, while arrow  218  is indicated as being linear, it is understood that in some embodiments where rotation of the nose portion  182  relative to the body portion  180  causes the mounting structure  210  to move toward the central lumen  198 , the mounting structure  210  will move along an arcuate path as it moves closer to the central lumen  198 . For example, in some instances the mounting structure  210  is coupled to a cam structure such that rotation of the nose portion  182  relative to the body portion  180  causes the mounting structure  210  to move in accordance with the profile of the cam structure towards the central lumen  198  (or away from the central lumen  198  when moving from the closed position to the open position). In the closed position, the portion  216  of the electrical contact  212  engages the conductive element  192  of the intravascular device  100 . In that regard, it is understood that at least a section of the portion  216  will extend within the central lumen  198  to engage the conductive element  192 . Accordingly, in some instances, the electrical contact  212  is positioned adjacent to the central lumen  198  in the open position and extends at least partially across the central lumen  198  in the closed position to be electrically coupled a conductive element of the intravascular device positioned within the central lumen. 
         [0051]    Referring now to  FIGS. 11 and 12 , aspects of manufacturing electrical contact  212  will be described according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring initially to  FIG. 11 , a plurality of electrical contacts  212 , each having contact portions  212   a ,  212   b , and  212   c,  are shown in a planar or flattened format. Each of the contacts  212  is connected to a lead frame  220  by leads  222 . In some implementations, the electrical contacts  212  and the leads  222  are spaced apart along the length of the lead frame  220  by distance(s) corresponding to the desired spacing for the electrical contacts  212  to be coupled to a mounting structure, such as a printed circuit board, as a group (i.e., without requiring separation and/or individual placement of each of the electrical contacts  212  onto the mounting structure). In that regard, the electrical contacts  212  and associated leads  222  are equally spaced along the length of the lead frame  220  in the illustrated embodiment. However, in other embodiments the spacing between electrical contacts  212  varies along the length of the lead frame  220 . Generally, the electrical contacts  212  and associated leads  222  may be spaced by any desirable distance. In some instances, the number of electrical contacts  212  mounted to the lead frame  220  is equal to the number of electrical contacts  212  to be mounted to the mounting structure. In other instances, more or less electrical contacts  212  are coupled to the lead frame  220  than will be mounted to the mounting structure. Electrical contacts can be removed from the lead frame  220  and/or additional electrical contacts can be supplied (e.g., from other lead frames) when the number of electrical contacts is not equal to the number to be mounted to the mounting structure. 
         [0052]    Referring now to  FIG. 12 , the contact portions  212   a ,  212   b , and  212   c  of each of the plurality of electrical contacts  212  have been rolled or otherwise bent into the configuration shown in  FIGS. 6 and 7 . Any suitable technique can be utilized to transition the contact portions  212   a ,  212   b , and  212   c  from the planar or flattened configuration of  FIG. 11  into the arcuate configuration of  FIGS. 6 ,  7 , and  12 . For example, in some instances the contact portions  212   a ,  212   b , and  212   c  are bent. With the contact portions  212   a ,  212   b , and  212   c  shaped, the electrical contacts  212  can be mounted to the mounting structure. As noted above, in some instances the electrical contacts  212  are mounted to the mounting structure while still coupled to the lead frame  220  by leads  222 . Accordingly, in some instances, after coupling the electrical contacts  212  to the mounting structure the electrical contacts  212  are separated from the lead frame  220 . In the illustrated embodiment of  FIG. 12 , a line  224  indicates a separation point for the electrical contacts  212  from the leads  222  and the lead frame  220 . In other instances, the line  224  is positioned closer to the lead frame  220  such that at least portion of the leads  222  remain coupled to the electrical connectors  212 . The electrical connectors  212  may be separated from the lead frame  220  and/or leads  222  using any suitable technique. 
         [0053]    Referring now to  FIG. 13 , shown therein is a mounting structure  230  with a plurality of electrical contacts  232  secured thereto according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting structure  230  is a printed circuit board and the electrical contacts  232  are electrically coupled to lead lines and/or other conductive portions of the printed circuit board. In that regard, an electrical connector  234  having a plurality of electrical pads or contacts  236  is defined adjacent an end of the mounting structure  230 . In some instances, the electrical connector  234  and associated contact pads  236  are configured to interface, either directly or indirectly, with conductors of cable  166  and/or other communication cable. In the illustrated embodiment, the electrical contacts  232  are spaced apart by a distance  238 . 
         [0054]    Referring now to  FIGS. 14-16 , additional features of the electrical contacts  232  will be described. In that regard,  FIG. 14  shows the mounting structure  230  and associated electrical contact  232  in an open position, spaced from a connection portion of an intravascular device, while  FIG. 15  shows the mounting structure  230  and associated electrical contact  232  in a closed position, engaged with the connection portion of the intravascular device.  FIG. 16  provides a diagrammatic perspective view of the electrical contact  232 . As shown, the electrical contact  232  includes a portion  240  that is fixedly secured to the mounting structure  230  and a portion  242  that extends up and away from the mounting structure  230 . Portion  240  may be fixedly secured to the mounting structure  230  using any suitable techniques for the materials used, including without limitation soldering, welding, gluing, mechanical coupling, and/or otherwise securing the components together. In the illustrated embodiment, the portion  242  is generally arcuate, but with a recess  244  defined therein. In particular, portion  242  is curved such that a free end of the electrical contact  232  is directed back down toward portion  240  and a rounded section of portion  242  includes the recess  244  that is sized and shaped to receivingly engage an electrical connector of an intravascular device. In some instances, the recess  244  is arcuate with a radius of curvature sized to mate with the electrical connector of an intravascular device. Accordingly, in some implementations the recess  244  has a radius of curvature equal to or slightly larger than the radius of curvature of the electrical connector it is to interface with. To this end,  FIG. 14  shows the electrical contact  232  spaced from the electrical connector  192 , while  FIG. 15  shows the electrical contact  232  engaged with the electrical connector  192 . As shown, when in the closed or engaged position, the electrical connector  192  is received within the recess  244 . In some instances, the recess  244  of electrical contact  232  defines a larger contact surface than that provided by contact  212  describe previously. In this manner, the recess  244  can improve the mating engagement of the electrical contact  232  to the electrical connector  192  and, therefore, improve the electrical connection between the components. 
         [0055]    Persons skilled in the art will also recognize that the apparatus, systems, and methods described above can be modified in various ways. Accordingly, persons of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the embodiments encompassed by the present disclosure are not limited to the particular exemplary embodiments described above. In that regard, although illustrative embodiments have been shown and described, a wide range of modification, change, and substitution is contemplated in the foregoing disclosure. It is understood that such variations may be made to the foregoing without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, it is appropriate that the appended claims be construed broadly and in a manner consistent with the present disclosure.