Expandable lumen device and method of use

Abstract

Abstract A device (9) for removing undesirable material from a tubular structure within the human body features a cylindrical body (9) with a lumen (12) therethrough. The distal portion of the body is divided into a number of flexible members (23). An inflatable cuff (26) is attached to the flexible members (23). When the cuff (26) is inflated, the members (23) flex radially outwardly so that the distal opening of the lumen (12) is expanded. An inflation tube (28) is used to inflate, and deflate the cuff (26) by means of a syringe (32). An elastomeric membrane sleeve (40) surrounds the flexible members (23) so that the latter are contracted towards their original position when the cuff (26) is deflated. The sleeve (40) also prevents material from escaping between the flexible members (23) when the cuffs (26) are inflated.

Inventors

• 👤 Shaun L. W. Samuels

Bibliographic Details