Balloon dilatation catheter with laser cutting capability

摘要

Balloon dilatation catheter (11) with laser cutting capabilities having a flexible elongate tubular member (12) with proximal and distal extremities (13, 14). The tubular member has at least one lumen (16) extending therethrough. A fiber optic element (21) extends through the lumen. A metallic tube (22) encloses a substantial portion of the fiber optic element (21) to provide increased rigidity and also to enhance pushability. A coil (26) is wrapped onto the distal extremity of the fiber optic element and a ball-like tip (32) is secured to the distal extremity of the fiber optic element (2). An inflatable balloon (4) is carried by the distal extremity of the tubular member. The tubular member is formed with a flow passage which is in communication with the interior of the balloon for inflating and deflating the balloon.