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SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TRANSNASAL DILATION OF PASSAGEWAYS IN THE EAR, NOSE OR THROAT

  • US 20090312745A1
  • Filed: 07/01/2009
  • Published: 12/17/2009
  • Est. Priority Date: 04/21/2004
  • Status: Active Grant
First Claim
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1. A balloon dilation catheter device useable for dilating an opening in a paranasal sinus, the device comprising:

  • a catheter shaft having a longitudinal axis, an inflation lumen, a distal end, a proximal end, a proximal shaft section that is substantially rigid and a distal shaft section that is more flexible than the proximal shaft section, wherein the catheter shaft is dark in color;

    an inflatable balloon disposed on the distal shaft section in fluid communication with the inflation lumen, wherein the balloon has a non-circular cross-sectional shape when partially inflated;

    a first proximal shaft marker disposed on the proximal shaft section and having a significantly lighter color than the catheter shaft, wherein the first proximal shaft marker allows a user to approximate, using direct visualization of the first proximal shaft marker, a position of the balloon relative to a guide catheter through which the balloon catheter is advanced; and

    a first distal shaft marker disposed on the distal shaft section proximal to a proximal end of the balloon and having a significantly lighter color than the catheter shaft, wherein the first distal shaft marker enables a user to approximate, using endoscopic visualization of the first distal shaft marker, a position of the balloon relative to an opening of a paranasal sinus.

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