Print mask technique for echogenic enhancement of a medical device
AssigneeC. R. Bard, Inc.
InventorDirk V. Hoyns
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Abstract
An echogenically enhanced medical device and method for manufacture are disclosed. A mask is applied to the surface of the medical device, and portions of bare metal are exposed through the mask. The masked device is subjected to a process which removes material from the exposed portions. The resulting depressions enhance echogenicity of the device under ultrasound. In a preferred embodiment the depressions comprise alternating rows of squares and diamonds disposed around the circumference of the device.
Claims14
A method for manufacturing an echogenically enhanced medical device, comprising the steps of:
- imprinting a mask on the surface of an object, said mask leaving portions of said surface of said object exposed through said mask;
- and
- subjecting said object with said mask imprinted thereon to a process which removes material from said portions of said surface of said object exposed through said mask.
An echogenically enhanced medical device, comprising:
- a body comprised of an echogenically reflective material;
- a plurality of depressions formed in the surface of said body, said depressions having substantially straight sides and substantially flat bottom and side walls.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.