Electroactive polymer-based percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube and methods of use

Abstract From the Canadian patent

Embodiments of the present invention generally provide methods and devices for providing percutaneous access to a tissue. In one exemplary embodiment a PEG tube is provided having an elongate member with a proximal end adapted to be positioned adjacent to a tissue surface a distal end adapted to be inserted through tissue and an inner lumen extending between the proximal and distal ends and adapted to allow fluid flow there through. The PEG tube can also include an electrically actuatable element coupled to the distal end of the elongate member and configured to change dimensionally upon delivery of electrical energy thereto. In use the electrically actuatable element can be adapted to …