Intravascular Devices Having Artificial Muscles and Associated Systems and Methods

摘要

Intravascular devices, systems, and methods are disclosed. In some embodiments, the intravascular device includes at least one artificial muscle segment. In some instances, the artificial muscle segment or a plurality thereof is configured to move a distal portion of the intravascular device, change the shape of the tip of the intravascular device, rotate a portion of the intravascular device, and any combination thereof. A method for using an associated intravascular device is also provided. The method includes inserting an intravascular device into a vessel of a patient. The intravascular device has an actuator segment. The method further includes moving a portion of the intravascular device by selectively rotating the actuator segment and returning the portion of the intravascular device to a pre-activation position by selectively deactivating the actuator segment.