COAXIAL BI-DIRECTIONAL CATHETER

Abstract

A deflectable catheter including an outer member having a proximal portion and a distal portion, an elongated column member extending distally from the outer member and an inner member positioned coaxial with the outer member and attached to the column member. The inner member extends distally of the outer member and has a distal tip portion. A reinforcement member is positioned over the column member to restrict axial movement of the column member such that when one of the inner member or outer member is moved with respect to the other, axial compression of the column member is restricted by the reinforcement member causing the distal tip portion of the inner member to deflect laterally.

Claims

1-20. (canceled)

21. A deflectable catheter comprising: an outer tubular member having a proximal section, a distal section and a lumen; an inner tubular member having a proximal section and a distal section, the inner member positioned concentrically within the lumen of the outer member, one or both of the inner member and outer member being movable relative to the other member to effect deflection of a distal tip of the inner member; an elongated column member fixed to the inner member; and a restriction member positioned over the column member, the restriction member restricting movement of the column member; wherein the column member and restriction member effect axial push deflection to deflect the distal tip in a first direction and axial pull deflection to deflect the distal tip in second direction, the column member forming an eccentrically loaded column during axial pull deflection and forming an eccentrically loaded beam during axial push deflection.

22. The catheter of claim 21, wherein the column member is composed of one of a wire or ribbon having a cross-sectional dimension less than a cross-sectional dimension of the distal section of the inner member.

23. The catheter of claim 21, wherein the column member has a cross-sectional shape different than a cross-sectional shape of the inner member.

24. The catheter of claim 21, wherein the column member in the absence of the restriction member is configured to bend away from a longitudinal axis at a region spaced from a distalmost end of the column member.

25. The catheter of claim 24, wherein the column member in the absence of the restriction member is bendable into a U-shape.

26. The catheter of claim 21, wherein the proximal section of the inner member is stiffer than the distal section of the inner member.

27. The catheter of claim 21, wherein the proximal section of the outer member is stiffer than the distal section of the outer member.

28. The catheter of claim 21, wherein the column member is fixed at a proximal end to a distal end of the outer member.

29. The catheter of claim 21, wherein the inner member includes a braid and a polymeric reinforcement layer.

30. The catheter of claim 21, wherein a distal opening of the inner member is distal of a distal opening in the outer member.

31. The catheter of claim 21, wherein the column member is positioned external of an outer wall of the inner member.

32. The catheter of claim 21, wherein deflection of the distal tip is effected by an axial motion and not a pulling down on the distal tip.

33. The catheter of claim 21, wherein the distal section of the inner member is tubular and has a distal opening fluidly communicating with a lumen of the inner member for fluid flow.

34. The catheter of claim 21, wherein the restriction member comprises a helically wound coil.

35. The catheter of claim 31, wherein the column member moves into contact with a wall of the restriction member during deflection.

36. The catheter of claim 21, wherein the column member is fixed at a proximal end to a distal end of the outer member, and further comprising a marker band at a region where the column member is fixed to the inner member.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025] Preferred embodiments of the present disclosure are described herein with reference to the drawings wherein:

[0026] FIG. 1 is a side view of a deflectable catheter of one embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] FIG. 2 is a side view of one embodiment of an inner catheter of the deflectable catheter of FIG. 1;

[0028] FIG. 2A is an enlarged view of the distal portion of the inner catheter of FIG. 2;

[0029] FIG. 3 illustrates an inner catheter in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] FIG. 4 illustrates an inner catheter of yet another embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] FIG. 5 illustrates an inner catheter of still another embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] FIG. 6 is a side view of one embodiment of the outer catheter of the deflectable catheter of FIG. 1;

[0033] FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of the distal portion the outer catheter of FIG. 6;

[0034] FIG. 8 is a side view of an outer catheter of another embodiment of the present invention;

[0035] FIG. 9 illustrates the inner catheter of FIG. 2 positioned inside the outer catheter of FIG. 6 to form the deflectable catheter;

[0036] FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of the distal portion of the catheter of FIG. 9 with the lateral reinforcement (support) tube removed to show the column;

[0037] FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of the distal portion of the deflectable catheter of FIG. 10 with the lateral reinforcement tube;

[0038] FIG. 12A is a side view of the internal structure of the inner catheter of FIG. 5 showing the effect on the column of axial movement of the inner catheter in the proximal direction in the absence of the lateral support tube;

[0039] FIG. 12B is an enlarged view of the internal structure of the inner catheter of FIG. 5 showing the effect on the column of axial movement of the inner catheter in the distal direction in the absence of the lateral support tube;

[0040] FIG. 13A is an enlarged view showing the effect of axial movement of the inner catheter in the proximal direction in the presence of the lateral support tube;

[0041] FIG. 13B is an enlarged view showing the effect of axial movement of the inner catheter in the distal direction in the presence of the lateral support tube;

[0042] FIG. 13C is a side partial cutaway view illustrating movement of the column as in FIG. 13A;

[0043] FIG. 13D is a side partial cutaway view illustrating movement of the column as in FIG. 13B;

[0044] FIG. 14 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a rotation control member for controlling rotation between the inner catheter and the outer catheter in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0045] FIG. 15 is a side view of a proximal portion of an alternate embodiment of the deflectable catheter having a locking assembly with a side arm for fluid introduction;

[0046] FIG. 16 is a side view of an alternate embodiment of a locking assembly for manipulating and locking the distal deflecting tip of the catheter;

[0047] FIG. 17 is a side view of an alternate embodiment of the deflectable catheter of the present invention having a rapid exchange port;

[0048] FIG. 18A is a side view of another alternate embodiment of the mechanism for deflecting the distal tip of the catheter with the lateral reinforcement tube removed for clarity;

[0049] FIG. 18B illustrates the mechanism for deflecting the distal tip of catheter of FIG. 18A with the lateral reinforcement tube shown; and

[0050] FIGS. 19A and 19B are side views of a distal portion of alternate embodiments of the deflectable catheter of the present invention having a balloon.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0051] The present application provides a bi-directional deflectable catheter with enhanced deflection to enable and facilitate tip deflection in narrow tortuous vasculature. Various embodiments of the deflectable catheter are disclosed herein which include various embodiments of both the inner catheter (inner member) and the outer catheter (outer member) which make up the structure of the microcatheter. The catheter has a deflectable distal tip portion which is deflected due to the arrangement of the inner catheter, outer catheter and column member which is attached to the inner catheter. The column member has a movement restriction member thereover. Relative movement of the outer catheter and inner catheter effects lateral deflection of the distal tip portion due to the restriction member limiting lateral movement of the column. This is explained in more detail below. The structural elements of the catheter and variations thereof will first be described.

[0052] Turning to a first embodiment and with reference to FIG. 1 a bi-directional coaxial deflectable microcatheter is illustrated and designated generally by reference numeral 10. The catheter 10 includes an inner catheter (member) 12, an outer catheter (member) 24 and a distal portion 48 with a deflectable tip.

[0053] The inner catheter 12, which extends through a lumen in outer catheter 24, is composed of a catheter body that is constructed of a thin walled body or tube 14 that extends between proximal end 16 and distal end 58 having an inner lumen with a diameter in the range of about 0.001″ inches to about 1.993″ inches with a preferred inner diameter of about 0.017″ inches. Coupled to the proximal end of inner catheter body 14 is winged hub 20, which sits on a strain relief 22 which optionally can be provided. The winged hub (luer) 20 can be made of plastic. If desired, winged hub 20 can also be fitted with a rotating hemostatic valve (RHV) 18 to provide a channel into the inner lumen of inner catheter 12 for insertion of an accessory or fluid introduction through the side arm. Possible accessories may include by way of example: guidewires, coils, fiberscopes, forceps, video cameras, laser or electrohydraulic lithotripsy devices, and illumination or laser fibers. Other accessories can also be inserted through the channel.

[0054] Outer catheter 24 is composed of a catheter body that is constructed of a thin walled body or tube 26 having an inner lumen that extends between proximal end 28 and distal end 44 having an inner lumen with a diameter in the range of about 0.007″ to about 1.999″ with a preferred inner diameter of about 0.027″. Outer catheter body 26 also features a relatively stiff proximal section 40 that is joined to a relatively flexible distal section 42. Coupled to the proximal end of outer catheter body 26 is winged hub (luer) 34, which sits on strain relief 38 which optionally can be provided. Attached to winged hub 20 is rotating hemostatic valve (RHV) 32 with end cap 30 and side arm 31. End (lock) cap 30 acts as the locking assembly for the deflectable catheter while side arm 31 is used for introduction of fluids for lubrication and possibly visualization. The lubrication can facilitate relative movement of inner catheter 12 during the procedure which facilitates deflection by ensuring smoother relative movement of the inner and outer catheters. When cap 30 is fully opened, inner catheter 12 is free to move axially resulting in distal tip 48 deflection as described below. Cap 30 can be tightened at any point in the deflection process to clamp and hold inner catheter 12 in position and thereby lock the tip 48 in place.

[0055] Deflectable tip 48 of inner catheter 12 is covered with lateral support tube 50, which overlies the column member described below. Support tube 50 is adhered at its proximal and distal ends 46 and 52, respectively, as shown in FIG. 11 and described below. Preferably lateral support tube 50 is a helically wound flexible coil with an outside diameter in the range of about 0.008″ to about 2.00″ with a preferred diameter of about 0.034″. The coil may be made from a polymer or metal material but the preferred material is platinum/iridium for radiopacity. Disposed distally of lateral support tube 50 is marker band 54, which is adhered at end 56 to the distalmost end 58 of the inner catheter 10. The band 54 can be made from a polymer or metal, the preferred material is platinum/iridium for radiopacity.

[0056] FIGS. 2 and 2A illustrate one embodiment of inner catheter 12 of deflectable catheter 10. The inner catheter 12 as discussed above includes a winged hub 20, which sits on an optional strain relief 22 and optional RHV 18. Inner catheter 12 also includes catheter body 14 which preferably has a stiff proximal section 60 made up of a braid reinforced polymer tube that has an outer diameter in the range of about 0.002″ to about 1.994″ with a preferred diameter of about 0.023″ and a length that extends between proximal end 16 and distal end 62 in the range of about 0.5 inches to about 34 feet with a preferred length around 110 cm. Proximal section 60 is coupled at a distal end to a less stiff distal tube 64 that can be made of a braid or coil reinforced polymer but is preferably made up of high density polyethylene (HDPE) that has an outer diameter in the range of about 0.002″ to about 1.994″ with a preferred diameter of about 0.022″ and length that extends from a proximal end (adjacent distal end 62 of proximal section 60) to distal end 68 in the range of about 0.5 inches to about 34 feet with a preferred length around 45 cm. The overall usable length for the combined proximal and distal sections has a range of about 0.5 inches to about 34 feet with a continuous inner diameter in the range of about 0.001″ to about 1.993″ with a preferred useable length being approximately 150 cm and with a preferred inner diameter of about 0.017″. Inner catheter body 14 further includes laser cut tube 76, with window 74, which is coupled to distal tube 64 at its distal end 70. Laser cut tube 76 can be made of plastic or metal but is preferably made of super elastic nitinol with an inner diameter in the range of about 0.001″ to about 1.993″ with a preferred diameter of about 0.017″. The outer diameter for laser cut tube 76 can range from about 0.002″ to about 1.994″ with a preferred outer diameter of about 0.022″. The length of the laser cut tube can range from about 0.5 inches to about 34 feet with a preferred length of approximately 1 cm.

[0057] Distal portion 66 of inner catheter body 14 includes laser cut tube 76 that is coupled to distal tube 64 using a tube 78, which is preferably a polyimide tube coated with adhesive 72. Preferably polyimide tube 78 has an inner diameter in the range of about 0.001″ to about 1.993″ with a preferred inner diameter of about 0.0165″. The outer diameter of polyimide tube 78 can range from about 0.002″ to about 1.994″ with a preferred diameter of about 0.0175″. Preferably, the length of polyimide tube 78 can range between about 0.25 mm and about 1 cm with a preferred length of approximately 3 mm.

[0058] The overall useable length of the inner catheter 12, which ranges from about 0.5 inches to about 34 feet, need not have separate materials for all of the sections (proximal, distal, and laser cut tube) described above. For instance, a laser cut nitinol tube (or other metal or plastic material such as polyimide) can have the necessary stiffness variations for the proximal and distal sections designed into it resulting in a suitable inner catheter body that meets the ranges for inner catheter 14.

[0059] FIG. 3 illustrates an alternate embodiment of the inner catheter designated by reference numeral 312. In this embodiment, the inner catheter body 314 has a lubricious inner liner 82 that runs from proximal end 316 to distal end 358. The purpose of the liner is to help reduce the coefficient of friction to aid in guidewire movement within the inner catheter 314. The liner can be made of materials such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP).

[0060] The liner 82 is topped with a combination of a continuous braid 84, coil 102, and laser cut tube 106 to help with lumen integrity (reinforcement) and to aid in stiffness variation. The braid 84, which can be made of flat or round wire or a combination, runs from proximal end 316 to distal end 398. The braid can be made of materials such as stainless steel, nitinol, polymer, fiber or even a combination of materials. The coil 102, which can be made of flat or round wire, runs from proximal end 398 to distal end 104. The coil 102 can be made of materials such as stainless steel, nitinol, platinum/iridium or even a polymer. The laser cut tube 106 runs from proximal end 104 just about to distal end 358. Laser cut tube 106 can be nitinol or other metal or it can be cut from polyimide as done by MicroLumen (Oldsmar, Fla.) or another polymer.

[0061] The reinforcement layer is topped with polymers with varying stiffnesses to create three distinct sections: proximal section 86, mid section 90, and distal section 96. Proximal section 86 extends distally from proximal end 316 to distal end 362. Mid section 90 extends distally from end 362 to distal end 94. Distal section 96 extends from end 94 to distal end 358. The stiffness will decrease from proximal section 86 to distal section 96. Reduction in stiffness can be achieved by using decreasing durometers of material from proximal to distal. Preferably, proximal section 86 can be formed using material 88 which can be a nylon or pebax having a durometer in the range of 60 D to 75 D or any other material having a relative durometer hardness value of around 72 D, mid section 90 can be formed using a lower hardness material 92 with a durometer of around 63D, and distal section 96 can be formed with an even lower hardness material 100 such as a pellethane material having a durometer of 25 D to 55 D or other material having a durometer between 25 D and 40 D. These are just examples of materials and durometers that can be used. Also, each section does not need to be formed with a single layer of material, if desired, sections can be constructed of two or more layers. Actual material selection will be based on design needs for flexibility and stiffness. Additional layers of coils or braids may also be added as needed.

[0062] These layers are then fused together using a re-flow process (heat). Strain relief 322 and winged hub 320 are then added. Lastly, the inner catheter may optionally be coated on its outer diameter for a length with a hydrophilic coating 108. The purpose of the coating is to aid in axial movement of the inner catheter relative to the outer catheter during the deflection process. If the coating requires hydration, liquid can be injected through the side arm 31 on RHV 32 attached to outer catheter 10 (see FIG. 1).

[0063] As stated above, the typical microcatheter is formed using a re-flow technique which fuses all of the layers together with heat and, if necessary removable heat shrink tubing. As the length of the inner catheter (or outer catheter) increases to greater than 180 cm this may be a problem due to current equipment restrictions. An alternate method is to use non-removable heat shrink tubing of varying stiffnesses to create the proximal, mid, and distal sections. Also, although FIG. 3 shows the braid 84, coil 102, and laser cut tube 106 stopping or starting in either the proximal, mid, or distal section, each of those components can be made longer or shorter and as a result end or start at points different than shown.

[0064] FIG. 4 illustrates another embodiment of the inner catheter designated generally by reference number 312. Construction of inner catheter body 314′ is much the same as that of FIG. 3 with the exception of a longer, continuous coil 102′ for the laser cut tube 106. A marker band 110 is provided. The marker band 110 may be made of platinum/iridium to aid in visualization under fluoroscopy or of other metals or plastics. The band 110 can also be made from a coil rather than a solid tube as shown or even omitted from the design. The remaining structure of the catheter is the same as in FIG. 3 and therefore identical reference numerals are used to identify identical parts.

[0065] Another embodiment of the inner catheter is shown in FIG. 5. In this embodiment, the inner catheter body 412 is made from a single stainless steel or nitinol hypotube (or alternatively a plastic or polyimide) that has a laser cut spiral section 116 that extends from proximal end 114 (adjacent distal section 415) to distal end 458. If needed, the proximal end of the inner catheter body 414 can have texturing, such as axial knurling, contouring, or even additional layers or perpendicular features added to aid in pushing/pulling and locking. The catheter 412 includes strain relief 422 and winged hub 420 at proximal 416. As in other embodiments, an optional outer shrink tubing or polymer layer and/or an inner lubricious layer can be added to the embodiment of FIG. 5 to restrict stretching or misalignment of the spiral coil due to axial movement and bending.

[0066] Turning now to the outer catheter structure of the microcatheter, and with initial reference to FIG. 6, this Figure illustrates one embodiment of outer catheter 24 of deflectable catheter 10. In this embodiment, as noted above, outer catheter body 26 has RHV 32 with locking cap 30 and side arm 31 attached to winged hub 34. Winged hub 34 sits on strain relief 38, both of which are coupled to catheter body 26.

[0067] Outer catheter body 26 has a lubricious liner 128 that runs from proximal end 28 to distal end 44 and has an inner diameter with a range of about 0.007″ to about 1.999″ and a preferred inner diameter of approximately 0.27″. The purpose of the liner 128 to is aid in movement of the inner catheter during the deflection process by reducing the coefficient of friction between the outer catheter inner diameter and the inner catheter outer diameter. The liner can be made of materials such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP).

[0068] The liner 128 is topped with a reinforcement layer of a continuous open pitch coil 130 that runs from proximal end 28 to distal end 44. The coil 130 can be made of flat or round wire. The coil 130 can be made of materials such as stainless steel, nitinol, platinum/iridium or even a polymer or fiber. Also, the coil 130 need not be open pitch or a continuous length for the entire length of outer catheter body 26. For instance, the distal end may need to have a certain length of radiopacity and therefore require a platinum/iridium coil. To keep cost low, only the section requiring radiopacity could be platinum/iridium while the remainder of the body could be covered with a lower cost coil, such as a stainless steel version.

[0069] The reinforcement layer is topped with polymers with varying stiffnesses to create three distinct sections: proximal section 118, mid section 120, and distal section 122. Proximal section 118 extends distally from proximal end 28 to distal end 124. Mid section 120 extends distally from distal end 124 of proximal section 118 to distal end 126. Distal section 122 extends from distal end 126 of mid section 120 to distal end 44. The stiffness will decrease from proximal section 118 to distal section 122. Reduction in stiffness can be achieved by using decreasing durometers of material from proximal to distal. For instance, proximal section 118 can be formed using material 132 which can be a nylon or pebax having a durometer in the range of 60 D to 75 D or any other material having a relative durometer hardness value of around 72 D, mid section 120 can be formed using a lower durometer material 134 with a durometer of around 63 D, and distal section 122 can be formed with an even lower hardness material 136 such as a pellethane material having a durometer of 25 D to 55 D or other material having a durometer between 25 D and 40 D. These are just examples of durometers that can be used, as actual material selection can be modified to optimize the balance of flexibility and stiffness. The layers that are selected are then fused together using heat. Alternatively, the entire outer catheter body can be made of a single durometer tube from materials such as HDPE, LDPE, nylon polyimide or polyurethane. A lubricious liner and reinforcement coil or braid may optionally be added to this tube as well. If needed, one or more lumens (for delivery or balloon inflation) can then be added in parallel along the length of outer catheter body 26 using adhesive or one or more heat shrink tubings, which may or may not be removed and may have differing durometers. The winged hub 34, strain relief 38, and RHV 32 with locking cap 30 and side arm 31 are then added.

[0070] The final useable length for outer catheter 26 can range from about 0.5 inches to about 34 feet with a preferable useable length of about 135 cm. The proximal outer diameter can range from about 0.008″ (0.61 Fr) to about 2.00″ (152 Fr) with a preferred proximal outer diameter of about 1 mm (3 Fr) and a preferred distal outer diameter of about 0.93 mm (2.8 Fr).

[0071] Outer catheter body 26 further includes a marker band 138, which is inserted mid way into the inner diameter at the distal end of outer catheter body 26. Preferably marker band 138 has a length in the range of about 0.005″ to about 1″ with a preferred length of about 0.039″ and an inner diameter in the range of about 0.0065″ to about 1.9985″ with a preferred inner diameter of about 0.0265″. The outer diameter has a range from about 0.0075″ to about 1.9995″ with a preferred outer diameter of about 0.0285″. The marker band 138 can be made of a metal or a polymer tube or coil with a preferred material of platinum/iridium.

[0072] The catheter 10 includes a column member e.g., a wire or tube, which extends distally of the outer catheter 24, is attached to the inner catheter and is surrounded by a restriction (support) tube to restrict lateral movement of the column member. In one embodiment the column member includes a column 140, which at its proximal end sits on marker band 138 or alternatively in a slot cut along the length of the marker band 138. The proximal portion of column 140 is also inserted into the inner diameter, i.e., the catheter body wall, at the distal end of outer catheter body 26. Adhesive 146 is then added to secure the parts in place. Preferably column 140 has a substantially rectangular cross section with a thickness in the range of about 0.0005″ to about 0.5″ with a preferred thickness of approximately about 0.002″. The width can range from about 0.0005″ to about 1.95″ with a preferred width of approximately about 0.005″. The column can have a length that ranges from 0.25 mm to 10 cm with a preferred length of approximately 8 mm. The column's preferred cross section is rectangular however other shapes such as oval can be used. A non-circular cross section is preferred to effect bending in a desired direction. In a preferred embodiment, the column is in the form of a substantially rectangular wire or flat ribbon to control the plane of deflection. Also, cuts or other features can be added to the column to influence movement. For example, the spacing and/or number of the cuts will effect movement as it will affect flexibility. The thickness of the walls and the dimensions will also affect flexibility and movement. The column can be made of any metal or metal alloy and even a plastic, however the preferred material is super elastic nitinol. Note the column 140 extends distally from the outer catheter distal end.

[0073] Distal portion 142 of outer catheter 24 includes distal end 44 having flare 144 (FIG. 7) so that marker band 138 can be inserted approximately midway into outer catheter body 24 leaving a partial length exposed to create lip 148. Column 140 is then inserted in between lubricious liner 128 and marker band 138 (which may or may not have a slot to accommodate the column) until its proximal end is approximately flush with the proximal end of marker band 138. Adhesive 146 is then applied to join all of the parts.

[0074] As an alternative to column 140 and marker band 138 being inserted as two separate parts, the two can be made out of a single nitinol tube (laser cut) if desired or attached as a sub-assembly and then inserted. The band and column assembly may also be added during outer tube manufacture in which case marker band 138 would be slid over a lubricious liner.

[0075] An alternate embodiment of the outer catheter of deflectable catheter 10 is illustrated in FIG. 8 and designated by reference numeral 524. In this embodiment, the coil 130 has been replaced by a proximal hypotube 550 with a spiral cut that is butted or attached to the distal braid 552. Lengths for the parts may vary depending on required flexibility and stiffness needed for the part. The spiral cut hypotube 550 can be manufactured from stainless steel, nitinol, polymers or a combination. Likewise, the braid can also be manufactured from stainless steel, nitinol, a polymer, fiber or a combination. The remaining components of catheter 524 are identical to catheter 24 of FIG. 6 and are therefore labeled with the same reference numerals.

[0076] By comparing FIGS. 2 through 8 it can be seen that the inner catheter body 14 and outer catheter body 526 can if desired be manufactured using the same materials and methods. Therefore, with the exception of lengths and diameters, it is possible that both structures can be built using a singular design or a mix of the designs presented.

[0077] FIG. 9 illustrates inner catheter 12 and outer catheter 24, with column 140 attached, aligned at distal portion 150. In manufacture, inner catheter 12 is inserted into outer catheter 24 until distal end 58 of laser cut tube 76 is flush with the distal end of the column 140. The laser cut tube 76 is then rotated until connectors or ribs 80 are about 90 degrees out of phase with the column 140 (and in a transverse plane and not underneath the column 140) to effect deflection in the desired plane. The distal end alignment can be done before or after rotation for orientation.

[0078] Inner catheter 12 and outer catheter 24 are aligned and joined together with marker band 54 and adhesive or solder joint 56 at distal portion 150 (see FIG. 10). Preferably marker band 54 has a length in the range of about 0.005″ to about 1″ with a preferred length of about 0.039″ and an inner diameter in the range of about 0.0065″ to about 1.9985″ with a preferred inner diameter of about 0.0265″. The outer diameter has a range from about 0.0075″ to about 1.9995″ with a preferred outer diameter of about 0.0285″. The marker band can be made of a metal or a polymer tube or coil with a preferred material of platinum/iridium. As one alternate construction, lip 148, column 140, and marker band 54 can all be made out of a single laser cut part made of nitinol, stainless steel or other suitable material. As another alternate construction, column 140 can be soldered to marker band 138 and marker band 54 as a sub-assembly. In another alternate construction, column 140 and laser cut tube 76 can be joined together at the distal ends using a joint formed from solder, glue, laser (depending on material), or other joining process not requiring a band.

[0079] The preferred embodiment for alignment of the distal ends of column 140 and the inner catheter 12 (distal ends are approximately flush) is shown in FIG. 10. As an alternative, outer catheter 24 with column 140 attached can be pulled back proximally along inner catheter 12 leaving a portion of the inner catheter body 14 exposed (without column coverage). Marker band 54 can then be slid over the distal end of catheter body 14, i.e., the tube 80, and then over column 140 until its distal edge aligns with the distal end of column 140. Joint 56 can then be formed. This set up will allow the bend radius of the device to remain at approximately half the column length while decreasing the crossing profile of the catheter distal tip to the inner catheter's outer distal tip diameter. Note adjustments may have to be made to the distal tubing 80 (i.e., the laser cut tube) for flexibility and coverage.

[0080] FIG. 11 illustrates distal portion 150 with lateral support tube 50 in place which forms a cover for the column to provide the deflection method and system of the microcatheter. Preferably, lateral support tube 50 sits on lip 148 and is a closed pitch helically wound flexible coil made of platinum/iridium with an outer diameter that ranges from about 0.008″ to about 2.00″ with a preferred outer diameter of about 0.034″ and an inner diameter that ranges from about 0.007″ to about 1.999″ with a preferred inner diameter of approximately about 0.030″. The preferred length can range from about 1 mm to about 12 cm with a preferred length of approximately 6.5 mm. The coil may be made of any metal or plastic and may also be open pitched or a combination of open and closed pitch and optionally coated in plastic to form a solid flexible reinforced tube. The lateral tube support (cover) 50 can also be made of a solid tube, that may or may not be laser cut, from plastic materials such as HDPE, LDPE, CFlex, latex, silicone, pebax, nylon, polyurethane or polyisoprene. If solid tubes are used, drainage holes can be introduced on the lateral support tube or even outer catheter body to allow fluid introduced through side arm 31 to exit. The distal portion 150 further includes two joints 46 and 52 that adhere lateral support tube 50 in place. As alternate options, lateral support tube 50 can be made to cover marker band 54 at its distal end or to extend past lip 148 on its proximal end so that it sits directly on outer body 26 of outer catheter 24 or the lateral support tube 50 can be laser cut into the distal end of the outer body 26.

[0081] The addition of the lateral support tube 50 and its joints completes the deflectable catheter assembly. At this point, the outer diameter of the catheter can be hydrophilically coated or, if needed, additional lumens (as discussed earlier) for accessories, such as video cameras, fibers optics, or inflatable balloons can be added to the outer shaft. This may be accomplished with adhesives and/or shrink tubing of varying durometers. If attachments are made, the hydrophilic coating would be applied as the final step.

[0082] FIG. 12A illustrates distal portion 150 with spiral cut tip 156 (similar to the spiral cut tube of FIG. 5) on the end of inner catheter 12 under an axial pull load in the absence of the lateral support tube 50. When inner catheter body 14 is pulled axially by load 154 in the proximal direction, the internal structure will want to shorten causing column 140 to compress. FIG. 12B illustrates the effect when the inner catheter body is pushed axially by load 155 in the distal direction in the absence of lateral support tube 50. As shown, this applies a moment to the end of the column causing it to bend. Note the load 154 (or 155) required to cause column 140 to move can be increased or decreased by changing the dimensions e.g., cross sectional dimension of column 140. For instance, a stiff column formed for example by a larger cross sectional dimension will require more force to deform and therefore more force to deflect which can in certain instances be more advantageous such as providing more stability to the bent tip.

[0083] FIGS. 13A and 13C illustrate distal deflectable tip 48 under axial pull load 154 when lateral reinforcement (support) tube 50 is provided. With lateral support tube 50 in place and axial pull load 154 applied, column 140 can no longer axially compress due to the reinforcement of the column by tube 50. As a result, the entire distal tip, including main (guidewire) lumen, deflects. Note as column 50 cannot be compressed and the tip deflects it moves against the wall. As noted above, by varying the dimensions (or materials or cuts) of the underlying column 140, the load 154 to deflect the distal tip can be increased or decreased. However, if the column becomes too thin, the column will become unstable leading to multiple buckling points under load. This will result in little to no tip deflection.

[0084] FIGS. 13B and 13D illustrate the effect when the inner catheter body is moved axially by load 155 in the distal direction when lateral support tube 50 is provided. As shown, this bends the distal tip as in FIG. 12B. Note column 50 moves against the wall of the tube 50.

[0085] Note the movement discussed above and shown in FIGS. 12A-13D is movement of the inner catheter, proximally or distally, respectively, as shown. The same effect is achieved by movement distally or proximally, respectively, of the outer catheter. Movement of both the inner and outer catheters in the desired directions is also contemplated.

[0086] A rotation control member 158 for minimizing rotation between the inner catheter 12 and outer catheter 24 can be provided as shown in FIG. 14. Rotation control member 158 is fixedly attached to inner catheter body 14 with joint 170. Flat section 168 on rotation control member 158 works with flat section 166, which is formed by indentation 164 on outer catheter body 26, to control rotation or torquing of the catheters relative to one another. Rotation control member 158 further includes proximal lip 160, which acts as an axial stop when it comes in contact with shoulder 162 on indentation 164. Rotation control member 158 is preferably made of stainless steel but any metal or plastic can be used. The length can have a range from about 1″ to about 24 feet with a preferable length around 100 cm. Multiple short rotation members can also be used and placed at various points along the outer diameter of inner catheter body 14. Flat section 166 can also be formed directly on a hypotube, which can double as the proximal shaft for inner catheter body 14.

[0087] The microcatheter can include a locking assembly 172 for manipulating and locking the distal deflecting tip as shown in FIG. 15. Engagement of button 174 allows the inner catheter 12 to be pulled or pushed axially relative to the outer catheter 24 resulting in deflection of the distal tip. Once a deflected shape is decided upon, the button is released to set the shape. The button can also be held in (locked) so that the tip can be reshaped freely with catheter advancement. Alternately, the outer catheter 24 can be moved relative to the inner catheter 12 while the button is engaged also bringing about deflection. If lubrication is needed between the inner catheter and outer catheter to assist movement of the inner catheter, fluids such as saline or contrast can be injected through side arm 176 of locking assembly 172. If no lubricant is needed, side arm 176 can be excluded from the design.

[0088] An alternate locking assembly for microcatheter 178 is illustrated in FIG. 16. Locking assembly 172 is designed for manipulating and locking the distal deflecting tip and has a rotational control system 180 built in. Rotational control system 180 includes a stainless steel hypotube 182 which overlies the inner catheter body and which has been flattened in a region to create distal stop 184 and proximal stop 186, and ovalized or flattened hypotube 188, which in turn is soldered to stainless steel hypotube 180 which overlies tube 188 for fitting within the RHV housing. The flattened tubes are provided to prevent rotation. Glue 192 is used to lock the hypotube 180 assembly in place inside the housing. The locking assembly is slid over inner catheter body 194 and glued in place. A gap 196 is left distal of the hypotube 182 so that hypotube 182 can be pushed distally to cause deflection. Although the handle has been shown without a screw assembly for locking axial movement of the inner catheter, such an assembly can be added to the proximal handle, if desired.

[0089] In use, stainless steel hypotube 182 will be allowed to move proximally and distally axially until stops 184 and 186 are reached. Rotation will be restricted due to flattened region on hypotube 182 and ovalized hypotube 188 through which it freely moves. This rotational control concept can be used on deflectable microcatheter designs with a full length guidewire lumen or deflectable microcatheters with rapid exchange ports. In general, this rotational control design can be used on any design that requires pure axial movement with little or no rotation. In addition, although this design uses flattened hypotubes, the concept can be injection molded into parts such as rotation hemostasis valves (RHV) to quicken manufacturing.

[0090] FIG. 17 illustrates a coaxial bi-directional microcatheter 198 with a rapid exchange port 200. The purpose of the rapid exchange port is to allow a guidewire to be placed through the side of the inner lumen of the catheter for tracking. The rapid exchange port may be placed anywhere proximal of the deflecting section (D) of the catheter. The exact placement will depend on bending radius used for design. In some embodiments, the exchange port 200 may be 6 mm from the distal tip although other distances are also contemplated. Also, the length of the rapid exchange port which can be cut on the inner catheter may be longer in some embodiments than the cut on the outer catheter to accommodate deflection with guidewire in place. However, they can also be cut to the same length or the outer catheter can be cut longer than the inner. Because the inner and outer catheters move relative to one another, the rapid exchange ports must also be able to move relative to one another to accommodate deflection. If the guidewire or other device will not be deflected, the rapid exchange port can be placed in deflection section D.

[0091] This embodiment allows for introduction of other devices through the proximal end of the device. Shown extending from RHV 202 by way of example is an electrohydraulic lithotripsy (EHL) device 204, as made by Northgate Technologies, Inc. (Illinois). Other possible devices for insertion may include biopsy probes, guidewires or laser fibers, for example.

[0092] FIGS. 18A and 18B illustrates an alternate embodiment of the distal tip deflection mechanism 206. The design allows the inner shaft with attached components to rotate and deflect 360 degrees with respect to the outer catheter. This is achieved by not attaching the column to the outer catheter and thus the column does not extend and attach both catheters. A portion L1 of the outer catheter 208, the outer coil 210, and band 212 have been removed in FIG. 18A to show the internal construction. Column 214 is attached to distal band 216 and proximal band 218, as in previous designs; however, a section of the column continues proximally where it passes under band 220 which would be glued in place inside outer catheter 208. Attached at the proximal end of the column is stop 222. This configuration will allow the column to turn with the inner catheter body and attached components when it is torqued.

[0093] FIG. 18B illustrates the distal tip deflection mechanism 206 with outer catheter 208, distal outer coil 210 and band 212 in place and in use. The inner catheter 224 can be rotated causing the column, which is now part of the inner catheter, to rotate which allows 360 degree deflection because it can deflect in any plane. When the outer catheter 208 is advanced or the inner catheter 224 retracted, the outer catheter 208 will make contact with end 226 and further movement will cause the tip to deflect. If the outer catheter is pulled proximally or inner catheter 224 is advanced, stop 222 contacts the outer catheter and continued movement will cause the catheter to deflect in opposite direction. (Movement of the inner catheter, back and forth, will also cause deflection).

[0094] In some embodiments, a balloon 232, such as an angioplasty balloon, can be provided on the deflectable microcatheter distal portion. In the embodiment of FIG. 19A, the balloon 232 is mounted proximal of deflecting distal tip 230. In the embodiment of FIG. 19B, distal tip portion 234 of the deflectable microcatheter has balloon 236 mounted distal of deflecting distal tip 238. Other possible options include mounting the balloon in the middle of the deflection zone or at the very distal end, for example.

[0095] Note the dimensions and ranges provided herein are given by way example, it being understood that other dimensions and ranges for the components described herein are also contemplated.

[0096] The deflection of the catheter of the present invention can be summarized as follows. Bi-directional deflection of the distal tip of a coaxial microcatheter can be broken down into two distinct motions: axial pull deflection and axial push deflection. Axial pull deflection can be modeled as an eccentrically loaded column while axial push deflection can be modeled as an eccentrically loaded beam.

[0097] With respect to axial pull deflection, when no lateral support tube is present on the distal end of the catheter, the rectangular nitinol wire (or alternate column member structure such as a rod discussed above) is modeled as an unsupported eccentrically loaded column. This means that when the inner catheter is moved axially proximally with a force P in the proximal direction, the distal end of the column (rectangular nitinol wire) will want to move axially toward its proximal end, resulting in compression (buckling) of the nitinol wire. This is shown in FIG. 12A which illustrates movement of the column 140 in absence of the lateral support tube to explain the tip concept of the present invention. With the lateral support tube (e.g., coil) provided, when the inner catheter is pulled axially with a force P in the proximal direction, the column (e.g., rectangular nitinol wire) will attempt to compress (buckle) axially however it will be restricted by the lateral reinforcement (support), e.g., tube 50. Since the tip can no longer fail axially (in compression), it will fail laterally (deflect) (see FIGS. 13A and 13C). It should be appreciated that axial proximal movement of the inner catheter is discussed. However, it should be appreciated that distal movement of the outer catheter would achieve the same effect. Therefore, as used herein, relative movement includes movement of the inner catheter with respect to the outer catheter, movement of the outer catheter with respect to the inner catheter, or movement of both in opposite directions with respect to each other.

[0098] With respect to axial push deflection, when no lateral support tube is present on the distal end of the catheter, the rectangular nitinol wire (or alternate column member structure such as a rod discussed above) is modeled as an eccentrically loaded beam. This means that when the inner shaft is pushed axially with a force P it will apply a moment to the end of the beam (e.g., rectangular nitinol wire), which causes it to bend. This is shown in FIG. 12B, with the lateral support tube (e.g., coil) provided and the inner catheter is pushed axially with a force P in the distal direction, there will be a moment applied to the overall tip causing it to bend (deflect) as shown in FIG. 13B and FIG. 13D. In this case, the addition of the coil does not change the action. It should be appreciated that axial distal movement of the inner catheter is discussed. However, it should be appreciated that proximal movement of the outer catheter would achieve the same effect. Therefore, as used herein, relative movement includes movement of the inner catheter with respect to the outer catheter, movement of the outer catheter with respect to the inner catheter, or movement of both in opposite directions with respect the each other.

[0099] Axial pushing and pulling can be considered in terms of an x-y axis. Axial pushing and pulling will happen on the x axis and bending (deflection) will end up at a point (x,y). So for compression of the column, causing the tip to bend to y1 position, the distal end of the tip is traveling in the −x1 direction towards its proximal end (−x2).

[0100] Thus, as can be appreciated, in the coaxial catheter arrangement of the present invention, deflection of the distal tip is achieved by an axial motion, rather than a pulling down on the distal tip as in prior art non-coaxial catheters. Thus, the catheter itself is being used to bend the distal tip as opposed to the prior art side by side wire and catheter. Viewed in another way, the bending is achieved not by pulling in the direction of bending but by an axial movement. The structure of the deflectable catheter of the present invention saves space to reduce the overall size (diameter) of the catheter to provide a reduced profile for insertion. It also provides space for fluid flow to enhance deflection (by enhancing relative movement of the inner and outer catheters) without requiring an increase in the size (diameter) of the catheter.

[0101] While the above description contains many specifics, those specifics should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the disclosure, but merely as exemplifications of preferred embodiments thereof. Those skilled in the art will envision many other possible variations that are within the scope and spirit of the disclosure as defined by the claims appended hereto.