Flexible elongate device having a distal extremity with current controlled adjustable stiffness and adjustable bend location and method

摘要

Flexible elongate device comprising a flexible elongate member having proximal and distal extremities, a shape-memory element is disposed in the flexible elongate member and is capable of assuming martensitic and austenitic states and has first and second portions. A layer of conductive material is formed on at least one of said portions. The layer has a conductivity greater than that of the shape-memory element. Electrical current is supplied to the shape-memory element. The conductive layer serves to conduct current and shunts current flow around that portion of the shape-memory element having the layer of conductive material thereon.