Forward viewing ultrasonic imaging catheter
First Claim
1. An ultrasound imaging catheter comprisinga catheter having a first end extending along a longitudinal axis,bearing structure mounted near said first end for supporting a transducer and mirror, said bearing structure permitting rotation about an axis extending in a generally forward direction relative to said first end,an ultrasound transducer and an ultrasound mirror supported by said bearing structure to direct ultrasound waves in said generally forward direction relative to said first end, said transducer being offset from said longitudinal axis, anddrive means for imparting relative rotational motion to said transducer and said mirror whereby an ultrasound beam is translated generally in a pattern extending in said forward direction.
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Accused Products
Abstract
A simple forward viewing ultrasound catheter includes one or more transducers and an ultrasound mirror supported by a bearing in a sealed end of a catheter with a drive cable imparting relative motion to the transducer and mirror. The mirror directs ultrasound waves forward of the catheter. An optical fiber can be provided to direct a laser beam for ablation of atheroma while under guidance of simultaneous intravascular ultrasound.
162 Citations
24 Claims
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1. An ultrasound imaging catheter comprising
a catheter having a first end extending along a longitudinal axis, bearing structure mounted near said first end for supporting a transducer and mirror, said bearing structure permitting rotation about an axis extending in a generally forward direction relative to said first end, an ultrasound transducer and an ultrasound mirror supported by said bearing structure to direct ultrasound waves in said generally forward direction relative to said first end, said transducer being offset from said longitudinal axis, and drive means for imparting relative rotational motion to said transducer and said mirror whereby an ultrasound beam is translated generally in a pattern extending in said forward direction.
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14. An ultrasound imaging catheter comprising
a catheter having a distal end and a longitudinal axis, ultrasound means mounted within said catheter and spaced from said longitudinal axis for generating an ultrasound beam at an angle to said longitudinal axis, a mirror mounted within said catheter adjacent to the distal end for redirecting said ultrasound beam in a forward direction, and means for imparting relative rotational motion between said ultrasound means and said mirror whereby said ultrasound beam is redirected generally in a pattern extending forward of said distal end, said relative rotational motion being about an axis extending in a generally forward direction.
Specification