Device with expandable element suitable for medical procedures

Abstract From the Canadian patent

Abstract, A guiding catheter has incorporated toward its distal end, a flexible member capable of non-uniform elongation to cause the distal end portion to bend and straighten as desired so that it can be maneuvered through and accurately positioned in a tortuous, non-linear conduit containing branches, for example blood vessels. The flexible member comprises interconnected, and preferably braided filaments, with gaps between the filaments. The member has a first configuration that is axially lengthened and a second configuration that is axially shortened. Means are provided to move the member between its first and second configurations. Biasing means are provided to restrict axial …