Enhanced ultrasound visualization of intravascular devices
AssigneeCovidien LP
InventorsRobert C. Lichty, II, Jan R. Lau, Rodney D. Raabe, Monte Madsen
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Abstract
Methods and devices for providing improved ultrasound visibility of medical devices intended for intravascular use are described. The inclusion of gas/solid boundary regions within a medical devices improves the resolution of the device under ultrasound visualization. Gas/solid boundary regions may be provided through the use of embedded gas-filled microlumens, microwells, or enclosed pockets within the medical device.
Claims20
1-12. (canceled)
A medical device for use under ultrasound visualization, the medical device comprising:
- an elongate shaft comprising an outer surface and an inner surface defining an inner lumen,
- wherein the elongate shaft comprises expanded polytetrafluoroethylene containing enclosed gas pockets to increase the visibility of the medical device under ultrasound imaging, and
- wherein the expanded polytetrafluoroethylene is in one of (a) a closed cell configuration or (b) an open cell configuration having an enclosing sheath.
A system for dispensing a vein-occluding substance, the system comprising:
- an elongate shaft comprising an outer surface and an inner surface defining an inner lumen, wherein the elongate shaft comprises expanded polytetrafluoroethylene containing enclosed gas pockets to increase the visibility of the medical device under ultrasound imaging, and wherein the expanded polytetrafluoroethylene is in one of (a) a closed cell configuration or (b) an open cell configuration having an enclosing sheath;
- and
- a syringe configured to couple to the elongate shaft, the syringe configured to dispense the vein-occluding substance into the inner lumen of the elongate shaft.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.