Embolization microcatheter head having slitted pattern

The present invention, in some embodiments thereof, relates to an infusion catheter and, more specifically, to an embolic microcatheter having a side opening, although not exclusively.

Therapeutic embolization is a non-surgical, minimally invasive procedure in which one or more agents are dispersed into a target blood vessel for selective vascular occlusion and to block the blood supply to a particular area or organ. is there. This procedure is used for the treatment of several medical conditions, such as blocking aneurysms and shrinking tumors in the liver, kidneys and other organs.

Several types of agents can be used during embolization, including coils, gel foam, polyvinyl alcohol, alcohol, tissue adhesives, and different types of microspheres. The microspheres may be embolic and / or drug-eluting, as in the case of chemoembolization using chemotherapeutic coated embolic particles and radiation embolization using radioactive microspheres.

Regurgitation (intravascular regurgitation) often occurs during embolization procedures. Reflux can cause off-target delivery of embolic agents to healthy surrounding tissue. This results in potential side effects and various complications.

An object of the present invention is to provide the concept and design of an embolic microcatheter having a unique ability to reduce the risk of off-target embolization.

The present invention, in some embodiments thereof, relates to an infusion catheter and, more specifically, to an embolic microcatheter having a side opening, although not exclusively.

According to aspects of some embodiments of the invention, an embolizing microcatheter is provided, the embolizing microcatheter can be connected to a suspension reservoir at its proximal body end and suspended in suspension. It comprises an elongated microcatheter body configured to allow a pre-prepared suspension of turbid particles to pass through it, and a microcatheter head connected to the distal body end of the microcatheter body. The microcatheter head comprises a proximal head portion and a distal head portion, the distal head portion being terminated by a head tip. The proximal head section includes a proximal lumen that is laterally opened with multiple through holes that allow the suspension to flow out. The distal head section includes a distal lumen at its end that is laterally sealed and has an anterior opening at its end that allows the outflow of suspension containing particles.

In some embodiments, each said side through hole is shaped and / or sized to allow passage of the suspension while blocking the passage of embolic forming particles.

In some embodiments, each of the through holes has a minimum cross-sectional dimension in the range between about 10 microns and about 700 microns.

In some embodiments, at least one of the through holes has a minimum cross-sectional dimension of about 50 microns or less. In some embodiments, each of the through holes has a minimum cross-sectional dimension of about 50 microns or less.

In some embodiments, each of the through holes is in the range between about 15 microns and about 40 microns, or between about 40 microns and about 100 microns, or between about 100 microns and about 700 microns. It has a minimum cross-sectional dimension in the range between.

In some embodiments, at least one of the through holes has a minimum cross-sectional dimension of about 25 microns or greater. In some embodiments, each of the through holes has a minimum cross-sectional dimension of about 25 microns or less.

In some embodiments, the minimum diameter of the proximal lumen is substantially larger than the maximum diameter of the distal lumen. Optionally, at least a portion of the distal lumen can have a stenotic diameter below the maximum diameter. According to some embodiments, the distal portion, or at least its constricted portion, can have a length of about 15 mm, about 10 mm, about 7 mm, or about 5 mm. Each possibility is a separate embodiment. Optionally, the stenosis diameter is from about 1 mm to about 20 mm, optionally, particularly about 10 mm or less, or about 7 mm or less. Optionally, the stenosis length extends between the proximal head portion and the suspension delivery opening at the distal end of the microcatheter head.

According to some embodiments, the length of the distal end, as well as the number and / or size of the plurality of through holes, may vary depending on the size and properties of the embolic forming particles in which it is used.

As a non-limiting example, microcatheter for delivering 70-700 micron embolization particles (eg, 250 micron embolization particles) may be 5-100, 10-50, 15-30, 20-30 or It may include any other suitable amount of slits (eg, 27 slits) within the range of 5-100 slits. According to some embodiments, the slit can have a width in the range of 25-75 microns (eg, about 50 microns) and a length in the range of 400-800 microns (eg, about 600 microns). Further, or alternative, the microcatheter for delivering 70-700 micron embolic forming particles is distally essentially equal to (or similar to) (ie, not restricted to) the diameter of the proximal end lumen. Can have end partial lumen diameter. Further, or / or, the microcatheter for delivering 70-700 micron embolization particles can have a distal end length of 5-10 mm (eg, about 7 mm). Such a ratio allows the flow of suspension through the through hole to flow through the suspension delivery opening while retaining sufficient flow for optimal delivery of the embolizing particles through the suspension delivery opening. It is understood that it can be ensured that it is sufficient to create a fluid flow barrier that prevents backflow of the delivered particles.

As another non-limiting example, microcatheter for delivering 20-200 micron embolic particles (eg, 40 micron embolic particles) are 5-100, 10-75, 20-60, 25- It may include any other suitable amount of slits (eg, 50 slits) within the range of 50 or 5-100 slits. According to some embodiments, the slit can have a width in the range of 10-30 microns (eg, about 18 microns) and a length in the range of 200-800 microns (eg, about 800 microns). Further, or / or, the microcatheter for delivering 20-200 micron embolic forming particles is more than the diameter of the proximal end lumen (also referred to herein as the "restricted lumen" or "restrictor"). Can also have a small distal end partial lumen diameter (at least along part of its length). Further, or / or, the length of the distal end portion of the microcatheter for delivering 20-200 micron embolic forming particles ranges from 4 mm to 10 mm, or in some cases exceeds 7 mm (eg, about 10 mm). As mentioned above, such a ratio is sufficient for the flow of suspension through the through holes to create a fluid flow barrier that prevents backflow of particles delivered through the suspension delivery opening. While being able to ensure that it is, it retains sufficient flow to optimally deliver the embolizing particles through the suspension delivery opening.

As another non-limiting example, microcatheter for delivering 500-900 micron embolic particles (eg, 700 micron embolic particles) has a width in the range of 50-100 microns and 200-800 microns (eg). It may include any other number of slits in the range of 5-50, 10-40 or 5-50 slits, having a length in the range of (for example, about 600 microns). Additional or alternative, microcatheter for delivering 500-900 micron embolic forming particles is substantially equal to (or similar to) (ie, not limited to) the diameter of the proximal end lumen. It can have a distal portion lumen diameter. In addition, or alternative, microcatheter for delivering 500-900 micron embolic forming particles can have a distal end length in the range of 4 mm-10 mm, or optionally less than 7 mm. As mentioned above, such a ratio is sufficient for the flow of suspension through the through hole to create a fluid flow barrier that prevents backflow of particles delivered through the suspension delivery opening. While being able to ensure that it is, it retains sufficient flow to optimally deliver the embolizing particles through the suspension delivery opening.

In some embodiments, the proximal portion is about 2.5 mm to about 15 mm in length. In some embodiments, the length of the microcatheter head is about 5 to about 30 mm, or optionally about 10 to about 15 mm.

In some embodiments, the maximum outer diameter of the microcatheter head is about 10 mm or less, about 5 mm or less, about 2 mm or less, about 1.5 mm or less, or about 1 mm or less. Each possibility is a separate embodiment.

In some embodiments, each of the side through holes may be a slit having a gap having a width smaller than the minimum diameter of the particles so as to block the passage of the particles.

In some embodiments, the side through holes are distributed around the proximal head portion along the length of the proximal head portion in the form of a slit pattern, the slit pattern being spaced in a plurality of longitudinal directions. Each circumferential segment includes a plurality of slits arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction, that is, radial slits.

According to some embodiments, the slits may be radial (ie, perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the catheter). In some embodiments, the length of each slit is between about 0.2 mm and about 1 mm or about 0.4 mm and 0.8 mm.

In some embodiments, each of the two adjacent slits within the circumferential segment is spaced from about 50 microns to about 250 microns.

In some embodiments, the two adjacent circumferential segments are spaced from about 50 microns to about 250 microns apart.

In some embodiments, each of the two adjacent slits between two adjacent circumferential segments may be radially offset with respect to the other.

In some embodiments, the slit pattern allows bending or bending of the microcatheter head between adjacent circumferential segments. In some embodiments, the flexion or curvature has a maximum pre-twist radius of at least about 0.5 mm between the head tip and the distal end of the body (ie, the distal end of the catheter to which it is attached). Make it possible with. According to some embodiments, the spacing between adjacent circumferential segments is configured to prevent twisting.

In some embodiments, the total opening area of all the through holes is about 0.1 mm.²And about 7.5mm²Is between. In some embodiments, the total opening area of all the through holes is about 2.5 mm.²And about 7.5mm²Is between. In some embodiments, the total opening area of all the through holes is about 0.5 mm.²And about 1.5mm²Is between.

In some embodiments, the total open area of the suspension delivery opening (also referred to herein as the end opening) is about 0.1 mm.²And about 1mm²Is between.

In some embodiments, the total open area of the through hole, the size and / or shape of the through hole, or the size and / or shape of the proximal lumen (including length and inner diameter), and / or The dimensions and / or shape of the distal lumen and / or the total open area, size and / or shape of the suspension delivery opening are suspended through the through hole through the suspension delivery opening. It is selected to maintain a fixed ratio of turbidity flow rate to suspension flow rate.

In some embodiments, the fixed ratio is about 1: 1 or, optionally, at least about 2: 1. According to some embodiments, the ratio ranges from 1: 4 to 4: 1. According to some embodiments, the ratio ranges from 1: 3 to 3: 1.

In some embodiments, the microcatheter head is formed as a single component.

In some embodiments, the proximal head portion and the distal head portion are formed and assembled (eg, integrally molded or otherwise) as separate elements when forming the microcatheter head. It may be attached with).

In some embodiments, the proximal head portion comprises at least one layer of a polymer tube having a wall perforated by the through hole. Optionally, the polymer tube is optionally composed of an inner polymer liner made of PTFE and an outer polymer extruded material optionally made of a thermoplastic elastomer such as thermoplastic polyurethane or polyether blockamide. including. According to some embodiments, the through holes extend through both the outer polymer extrusion and the inner polymer liner. Optionally, the polymeric tube is reinforced with a coil, in which case a through hole is formed between the windings of the coil and / or overlaps the winding of the coil, leaving the coil intact. Can be done.

In some embodiments, the proximal head and / or the distal head optionally comprises or is made of a metal tube made from stainless steel, cobalt chromium or a Ni-Ti alloy. May be good.

In some embodiments, the proximal head portion and / or the distal head portion comprises a hydrophilic coating perforated by the through hole.

In some embodiments, the proximal head portion comprises an embedded tungsten powder, platinum iridium (or any other material suitable as a radiation impermeable marker). According to some embodiments, the marker material may or may not be perforated by the through holes.

In some embodiments, the distal head portion comprises an embedded tungsten powder, platinum iridium (or any other material suitable as a radiation opaque marker).

In some embodiments, the proximal head portion has a substantially elastic wall and the distal head portion has a substantially more rigid wall. Such a configuration may allow the inner diameter of the proximal head to expand as the suspension passes through it, while the inner diameter of the distal head substantially maintains its size. In some embodiments, the dilated inner diameter obtained during injection is substantially greater than the maximum inner diameter of the distal head portion, so that the flow rate of the suspension through the through hole is the through hole and suspension. It gradually increases with the expansion of the inner diameter of the proximal head until a predetermined flow ratio with the delivery opening is reached. According to some embodiments, the proximal head portion may be expandable. Optionally, the predetermined flow ratio is in the range 4: 1 to 1: 4, 3: 1 to 1: 3 or 1: 2 to 2: 1. According to some embodiments, the predetermined flow ratio is 1: 1.

Unless expressly defined or described herein, technical and / or scientific words, terms, or / and phrases used herein are generally understood by those skilled in the art to which this invention relates. Has the same or similar meaning as. Illustrative embodiments of methods (steps, procedures), devices (devices, systems, components thereof), equipment, and materials exemplified herein are merely exemplary and descriptive. , Not intended to be limited. Methods, devices, equipment, and materials, equivalent or similar to those described herein, can be used in carrying out and / or testing embodiments of the invention, but exemplary methods, Devices, devices, and materials are exemplified below.

Implementations of some embodiments of the invention can include performing or completing selected tasks manually, automatically, or in combination thereof. Further, according to the actual implementations and devices of some embodiments of the present invention, some selected tasks are implemented by hardware, software, firmware, or a combination thereof, using an operating system. be able to.

Some embodiments of the invention are described herein by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings. With particular reference to the drawings in detail here, it is emphasized that the details shown are intended, by way of example, for exemplary illustration of some embodiments of the present invention. In this regard, the description interpreted with the accompanying drawings will reveal to those skilled in the art how some embodiments of the invention may be practiced.<figref num="1">FIG. 1 shows an exemplary embolic microcatheter according to some embodiments of the present invention.</figref><figref num="2">(A) to (B) of FIG. 2 show an isometric exploded view and a side cut view of the first exemplary microcatheter head according to some embodiments of the present invention.</figref><figref num="3A">FIG. 3A shows an isometric view of each of the second exemplary microcatheter heads according to some embodiments of the present invention.</figref><figref num="3B">FIG. 3B shows a cross-sectional view of each of the second exemplary microcatheter heads according to some embodiments of the present invention.</figref><figref num="4A">FIG. 4A schematically illustrates a suitable slit pattern variant of a through hole in an exemplary microcatheter head according to some embodiments of the present invention.</figref><figref num="4B">FIG. 4B schematically illustrates a suitable slit pattern variant of a through hole in an exemplary microcatheter head according to some embodiments of the present invention.</figref><figref num="4C">FIG. 4C schematically illustrates a suitable slit pattern variant of a through hole in an exemplary microcatheter head according to some embodiments of the present invention.</figref><figref num="5">5 (A)-(C) are top views and cross sections of an exemplary slit pattern having an exemplary total opening area, dimensions, and / or shape of a through hole according to some embodiments of the present invention. The figure and the plane pattern (spread) figure are shown.</figref><figref num="6A">FIG. 6A schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of an exemplary microcatheter head with an expandable perforation proximal head portion according to some embodiments of the invention.</figref><figref num="6B">FIG. 6B schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of an exemplary microcatheter head having an expandable perforation proximal head portion according to some embodiments of the present invention.</figref>

The present invention, in some embodiments thereof, relates to an infusion catheter and, more specifically, to an embolic microcatheter having a side opening, although not exclusively.

In order to further understand the exemplary embodiments of the present invention, FIGS. 1-5 will be referred to in the following description. Throughout the description below and the accompanying drawings, the same reference number refers to the same component, element, or feature. It should be understood that the present invention is not necessarily limited in its application to the particular details of the structure and / or arrangement of exemplary devices, devices, and / or system components described in the exemplary description below. The present invention can be implemented or implemented in other exemplary embodiments or in various ways.

In one aspect of some embodiments, an embolic microcatheter configured to deliver particles suspended in suspension (eg, embolic forming beads) is provided. The embolic microcatheter head comprises a suspension delivery opening located at the tip of the microcatheter head and a side through hole (also referred to herein as a "slit") that covers a portion of the microcatheter head. Is sized and configured to deliver the suspension while blocking the passage of embolic forming particles.

In some such embodiments, the through holes are patterned as multiple circumferential slits. As used herein, the terms "circumferential slit" and "radial slit" refer to a slit having a longitudinal axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the microcatheter. According to some embodiments, the slit is sized and shaped to allow bending and / or bending of at least a portion of the microcatheter head with respect to the proximally connected microcatheter body. According to some embodiments, the slit has a predetermined minimal bend while avoiding deformation and / or twisting of the microcatheter head and unwanted remodeling and / or expansion of through-holes that causes the passage of embolic forming particles. It is formed in a size and shape that allows bending in a radius. Non-limiting examples of suitable bend radii may be about 0.5 mm or about 1 mm.

In some embodiments, the microcatheter of the present invention is designed and configured for controlled, accurate and / or selective therapeutic embolization and / or angiography of peripheral blood vessels. Optionally, the microcatheter of the present invention is designed to resist, reduce, and / or prevent regurgitation of embolic forming particles by creating a fluid barrier proximal to the suspension delivery opening. And composed.

In some embodiments, the microcatheter of the invention is intended for use in angiographic procedures, optionally specifically in embolic formation procedures, optionally with contrast agents, therapeutic agents and / or embolic material in peripheral blood vessels. It may be applicable for injection into selected sites of the system. In some embodiments, the microcatheter of the present invention can be used, for example, by an interventional radiologist in an interventional radiologist's room. In some embodiments, the microcatheter of the present invention is a sterile, single-use (disposable) catheter. In some embodiments, the microcatheter of the present invention may optionally be suitable for limited exposure to blood contact (within 24 hours). The microcatheter of the present invention may have a hydrophilic coating to facilitate non-adhesive vascular navigation and / or to increase visibility during imaging.

The intended use of the embolic microcatheter of the present invention may include one or more of the following steps: Embolic microcatheter is usually delivered to its target site using a guide catheter and / or guide wire with minimally invasive procedures. Contrast-enhanced fluid is injected through a guide catheter and / or microcatheter to enhance fluoroscopic imaging of the artery and its branches and to position the treatment site. Once the target site (eg, bleeding or abnormality) is located, the embolic forming particles are injected into the bloodstream via a microcatheter. The particles are carried by the bloodstream, which causes obstruction of the target blood vessels. Additional contrast fluid can then be injected and x-ray images can be taken to assess the success of the procedure, ie reduced blood flow and / or malformations within the target vessel.

FIG. 1 shows an exemplary embolic microcatheter 100, which comprises an elongated body 101 and a microcatheter head 102. The elongated microcatheter body 101 is connectable to the suspension reservoir at its proximal end 103 (via an optional luer taper fitting 104) and is suspended in suspension from the suspension reservoir. It is configured to pass a prefabricated suspension containing embolic forming particles.

The length L of the microcatheter head 102 is optionally about 5 to about 30 mm, preferably about 10 to about 15 mm, and the maximum outer diameter is about 10 mm or less. The microcatheter head 102 is connected to the distal body end 105 of the microcatheter body 101 and terminates at the proximal head 106 and the head tip 108 (eg, (A) and (A) in FIG. 2). B) and) are included. The proximal head portion 106 includes a wall 113 forming the proximal partial lumen 109. The wall 113 includes a plurality of through holes 110i. The distal head portion 107 includes a wall 114 forming a distal partial lumen 111 that is sealed against lateral outflow, and a suspension delivery opening 112 located in the head tip 108 that facilitates anterior outflow. including.

Each of the side through holes 110i is shaped and / or sized to allow passage of the suspension while blocking the passage of embolic forming particles. The embolic microcatheter of the present invention may have through holes having a size and / or shape suitable for a particular intended use (eg, corresponding to a particular bead formulated for use). Therefore, to allow proper utilization for different bead sizes (eg, between 20 microns (um) and 900 microns), each through hole 110i is in the range between about 15 microns and about 700 microns. Has a minimum cross-sectional dimension. In some such embodiments, each of the through holes 110i is essentially between about 15 microns and about 40 microns (eg, corresponding to beads of size about 50 microns, or as described above, or Between about 40 microns and about 100 microns (eg, for beads of about 150 micron size, or more), or between about 100 microns and about 700 microns (eg, about 800). It has a minimum cross-sectional dimension in the range (or larger) for micron-sized beads. In some embodiments, at least one through hole 110i has a minimum cross-sectional dimension of about 50 microns or less. In some embodiments, at least one through hole 110i has a minimum cross-sectional dimension of about 25 microns or more.

The size and shape of the through hole 110i and the suspension delivery opening 112 are for the outflow of the suspension only through the through hole 110i and for the suspension (fluids and particles) through the suspension delivery opening 112. Further set to ensure the desired flow distribution with the outflow. In some embodiments, the total open area, dimensions, and / or shape of the through hole 110i is such that the suspension maintains a fixed ratio of suspension fluid flow velocity to suspension fluid flow velocity through the through hole 110i. Selected via the delivery opening 112 (optionally, parameters such as total flow rate, fluid viscosity remain unchanged). Optionally, alternatively or additionally, the dimensions (including length and inner diameter) and / or shape of the proximal lumen are such penetration with respect to suspension fluid flow through the suspension delivery opening. It is selected to maintain a fixed ratio of suspension fluid flow through the holes. Optionally, additionally or optionally, the dimensions (including length and inner diameter) / and / or shape of the distal lumen are said to penetrate the suspension fluid flow through the suspension delivery opening. It is selected to maintain a fixed ratio of suspension fluid flow through the holes. Optionally, additionally or alternatively, the total open area, dimensions, and / or shape of the suspension delivery opening is that of the suspension fluid flow through the through hole relative to the suspension fluid flow through the suspension delivery opening. Selected to maintain a fixed ratio.

In some embodiments, the total open area of all through holes 110i is about 2.5 mm.²And about 7.5mm²It is between and about 3mm at any option²And about 5mm²It is between and about 3.5mm at any option²Is. In some embodiments, the total open area of the suspension delivery opening 112 is about 0.1 mm.²And about 1mm²Between and optional about 0.15mm²And about 0.3mm²Between and optional about 0.16mm²Is. Fixed ratios of suspension flow rates can range from 4: 1 to 1: 4, 3: 1 to 1: 3, 2: 1 to 1: 2 or about 1: 1. Each possibility is a separate embodiment.

In some embodiments, the diameter 113 (eg, minimum diameter) of the proximal lumen 109 is substantially larger than the maximum diameter "Dmax" of the distal lumen 111. The distal lumen 111 may include a constriction portion having a constriction diameter 114 equal to or less than the diameter Dmax along its constriction length 115 (which includes the proximal head portion 109 and the head tip 108). Between, at least a portion of the distal lumen 111, or optionally the entire length). The stenosis length 115 may be about 1 mm or more, about 3 mm or more in the optional selection, about 7 mm or more in the optional selection, about 10 mm or more in the optional selection, about 15 mm or more in the optional selection, and about 30 mm or more in the optional selection. The aperture diameter 114 may be from about 1 mm to about 20 mm, and may be optionally about 7 mm or less.

Each of the through holes 110i can be in the form of a slit having a width smaller than the minimum diameter of the defined particles utilized so as to block the passage of the particles. The through hole 110i is radially distributed over the proximal head portion 106 in the form of a slit pattern 117. The length of the slit pattern 117 can be about 2.5 mm to about 7.5 mm. The slit pattern 117 optionally includes a plurality of longitudinally spaced circumferential segments 118i (eg, as shown in FIGS. 5A-C), with each circumferential segment having a slit 119i. Includes multiple circumferentially spaced (radial) slits, such as. In some embodiments, the length of each slit is between about 0.5 mm and about 1 mm. Optionally, each of the two adjacent slits, such as slits 119i and 119j, within a particular circumferential segment, such as segment 118i, can be spaced by about 50 to about 250 microns. Optionally, between two adjacent circumferential segments such as segments 118i and 118j, each two adjacent slits such as slits 119i and 119k are spaced approximately 50 to 250 microns apart. May be good. Optionally, each of the two adjacent slits, eg, slits 119i and 119k, between two adjacent circumferential segments, eg, segments 118i and 118j, is radially offset with respect to the other. That is, they may be located at different circumferential and longitudinal positions on the catheter.

According to some embodiments, the proximal and / or distal ends are particularly rigid materials and / or bend resistant materials, especially for relatively long microcatheter heads (rigid polymers). Microslits (as used herein) configured to prevent (plastic) deformation while increasing the flexibility and maneuverability of the microcatheter in non-linear passages when using elastically resistant metal alloys, etc.) It can include, but is not limited to, bending points such as (also called a hinge). According to some embodiments, the bend points can be sized and shaped to prevent substantial outflow of suspension through them. In some embodiments, some or all of the through holes (eg, slits) may be configured to increase flexibility. In some embodiments, the slit pattern 117 allows for improved / increased bending or curvature between adjacent circumferential segments such as segments 118i and 118j. Such bending or bending optionally allows a maximum bending radius of at least about 0.5 mm (before twisting of the microcatheter head 102) between the head tips with respect to the distal body end. Optionally, additionally or optionally, the microcatheter head 102 comprises at least one portion made of soft, flexible and / or superelastic material to facilitate the desired bend radius.

In some embodiments, the microcatheter head 102 can be formed as a single component or from multiple components (same or different material and / or mechanical properties).

The proximal head portion 106 is optionally formed separately from the distal head portion 107 and is assembled to the distal head portion 107 when forming the microcatheter head.

Here, a view showing an isometric view and a side sectional view of an exemplary modification of the microcatheter head 102, in which the proximal head portion 106 is formed of a metal alloy and the distal head portion 107 is formed of a polymer, respectively. Refer to 2 (A) and (B). The metal alloy used to form the proximal head portion 106 may include Ni-Ti alloys, stainless steel, cobalt-chromium alloys, tungsten alloys, platinum iridium alloys, or combinations thereof. Each option is a separate embodiment.

Here, FIGS. 3A and 3B show isometric and cross-sectional views of another exemplary variant of the microcatheter head 102, where both the proximal head portion 106 and the distal head portion 107 are made of polymer, respectively. Refer to. In some embodiments, the proximal head portion 106 comprises a two-layer polymer tube 120 that is concentrically joined to each other so that the through holes 110i form a perforated wall. The through hole 110i can be formed by laser cutting or chemical photoetching. The polymer tube 120 includes an inner polymer liner 121, optionally made from polyimide, and optionally a thermoplastic polyurethane (eg, Pellethane TPU by The Lubrizol Corporation, OH, USA) or polyether blockamide (eg, Arkema Group). Includes outer polymer extrusion 122 made from Pebax TPE), nylon, polyimide, silicone or any combination thereof, by Colombes, France. Each option is a separate embodiment.

To increase resistance to twisting and / or twisting while minimizing the effect on the desired bending or bending, the polymer tube 120 is made of tungsten, stainless steel, nitinol, cobalt chromium, platinum iridium, or any It can be reinforced with a metal coil 123 which can be made from other suitable metals or combinations of metals. Each option is a separate embodiment. The through hole 110i can be formed so as to overlap the winding of the metal coil 123 (for example, as shown in FIG. 4A, the coil is left as it is, which is also referred to as selective cutting in the present specification). .. In addition to or instead, through holes 110i can be formed between the windings of the metal coil 123 (eg, as shown in FIG. 4 (b)). FIG. 4C shows another variant of the slitted pattern 117 in which the slit is spiral in the direction opposite to the winding of the coil 123. Coil 123 is optionally mounted between two polymer layers (eg, a PTFE inner layer and a Pebax outer layer). All of these were reflowed together, followed by a hydrophilic coating and then laser cutting to form slits. The coil 123 can be made of coiled wire / strip or in the form of a coil from a laser cutting tube. Figures 5 (A) to (C) show 2.7 French-sized (equivalent to about 0.9 mm) microcatheter with an outer diameter of about 1 mm, specifically designed for embolic particles (beads) with a size of 40 microns or larger. A top view, a cross-sectional view, and a plan pattern (spread) view of an exemplary modification of the 100 slit patterns 117 are shown. The configuration and dimensions of the slit 110i will be described with reference to the drawings. This particular exemplary embodiment of the microcatheter 100 and the slit pattern 117 can include at least one of the following:

&gt; Example stenosis length 115: 7 mm&gt; Example slit length 116: 4.37 mm&gt; Example stenosis diameter 114: 0.45 mm&gt; Example diameter of proximal lumen 109 113: 0.64 mm&gt; Each slit 110i Example width (gap): 25 micron to 32 micron&gt; Example arc length of each slit: 0.745 mm&gt; Example axial pitch between slits 110i: 0.078 mm Next, expandable perforated near See FIGS. 6A and 6B, which schematically show a cross-sectional view of an exemplary microcatalyst 200 having a position head section. The microcatheter 200 has an elongated microcatheter body 201 configured to allow embolic particles suspended in suspension to pass through, and a proximal head portion 203 and a distal head portion 204 terminating at a head tip 205. Includes with microcatheter head 202.

Proximal head portion 203 includes a wall 213 forming the proximal partial lumen 206. The wall 213 includes a through hole 207 of a shape and / or size that allows the passage of the suspension while blocking the passage of the embolic particles. The distal head portion 204 is sealed against lateral outflow but includes a wall 214 forming a distal partial lumen 208 terminating at a suspension delivery opening 209 at the head tip 205.

Optionally, at least one of the through holes 207 has a minimum cross-sectional dimension of about 200 microns or less, or about 100 microns or less, or about 50 microns or less.

Optionally, each through hole 207 has the form of a slit having a width smaller than the minimum diameter of the particles to ensure that the passage of the particles is blocked.

Optionally, the side through holes 207 are in a predetermined slit pattern containing a plurality of longitudinally spaced circumferential segments, along and around the length of the proximal head portion 203. Distributed, each circumferential segment contains a plurality of slits spaced apart in the circumferential direction. Optionally, the length of each slit is between about 0.5 mm and about 1 mm.

In some embodiments, the wall 213 of the proximal head portion 203 may be formed from a material that is substantially elastic and expandable, while the wall 214 of the distal head portion 204 is substantially more rigid. It may be formed from a material. This configuration ensures that the proximal head portion 203 is configured to expand its inner diameter as the suspension passes, while the distal head portion 204 substantially maintains its inner diameter. To do.

The expanded inner diameter allows the flow rate of the suspension through the hole 207 to be between the through hole 207 and the suspension delivery opening 209, as required, as essentially described herein. It can be predetermined and set to be substantially larger than the maximum inner diameter of the distal head 204 so that it gradually increases with the expansion of the inner diameter of the proximal head 203 until the desired flow ratio is reached.

For each of the following terms written in the singular grammar, the terms "a," "an," and "the" used herein mean "at least one" or "one or more." To do. The use of the phrase "one or more" herein does not change this intended meaning of "a," "an," or "the." Accordingly, the terms "a," "an," and "the" as used herein are described unless otherwise explicitly defined or described herein, or unless the context specifically dictates otherwise. It can also refer to and include multiple entities or objects. For example, there are the following phrases. As used herein, "unit", "device", "assembly", "mechanism", "component", "element", and "step or procedure" are also plural units, each. Devices (devices), multiple assemblies, multiple mechanisms, multiple components, multiple elements, and multiple steps or procedures, which may include them.

The following terms "includes", "including", "has", "having", and "comprises", as well as their linguistic / grammatical variants, derivatives, and / or conjugations used herein. Means "including, but not limited to," and should be construed as identifying the components, features, characteristics, parameters, integers, or steps mentioned, with one or more additional Does not exclude the addition of components, characteristics, characteristics, parameters, integers, steps, or groups thereof. Each of these terms is considered to be essentially equivalent in meaning to the phrase "mainly consisting of ...".

The term "method" as used herein is known from, but not limited to, steps, procedures, modes, means, or / and techniques known by practitioners in the relevant field of the disclosed invention. Refers to steps, procedures, styles, means, or / and techniques for accomplishing a given task, including steps, procedures, styles, means, or / and techniques that are or are easily developed.

Throughout this disclosure, numerical values for parameters, features, properties, objects, or dimensions may be described or described with respect to a numerical range format. Such a numerical range format as used herein illustrates the implementation of some exemplary embodiments of the invention and does not limit the scope of the exemplary embodiments of the invention. Thus, the stated or described number range also refers to all possible subranges and individual numbers within the stated or described number range (numbers can be expressed as wholes, integers, or decimals) and they. Including. For example, the numerical range "1 to 6" described or described is "1 to 3", "1 to 4", "1 to 5", "2 to 4", "2 to 6", "3 to 6". With all possible subranges such as "1", "1.3", "2", "2.8", "3", "3.5", "4", "4.6", "5", "5.2", And refers to and includes individual numbers within the stated or described numerical range "1-6", such as "6". This is true regardless of the numerical width, range, or size of the stated or described numeric range.

Furthermore, in order to describe or describe a numerical range, the phrase "in the range between the vicinity of the first numerical value and the vicinity of the second numerical value" is "from the vicinity of the first numerical value to the vicinity of the second numerical value". It is equivalent to the phrase "in range" and is considered to mean the same thing, so two equivalent phrases can be used interchangeably. For example, to describe or describe the numerical range of room temperature, the phrase "room temperature refers to the temperature between about 20 ° C and about 25 ° C" is "room temperature is from about 20 ° C." It is considered equivalent to the phrase "pointing to temperatures in the range up to about 25 ° C" and means the same thing.

The term "about" as used herein refers to ± 10% of the numbers stated.

Certain aspects, properties, and features of the invention are exemplified and presented exemplary in the context or form of multiple distinct embodiments, and are arbitrary in the context or form of a single embodiment, for clarity. It should be fully understood that it is also possible to be illustrated and presented in an appropriate combination or sub-combination. Conversely, the various aspects, properties, and features of the invention exemplified and presented in combinations or subcombinations in the context or form of a single embodiment are in the context or form of multiple distinct embodiments. It can also be illustrated and presented exemplary.

Although the present invention has been exemplary and presented by way of specific exemplary embodiments and examples, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many alternatives, modifications, and / or variations thereof. Therefore, all such alternatives, modifications, and / or modifications are intended to fall within and be embraced by the broad spirit of the appended claims.

All publications, patents, and / or patent applications cited or referenced in this disclosure are specific and specific such that each individual publication, patent, and / or patent application is incorporated herein by reference. To the same extent as indicated individually, they are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Moreover, any citation or identification of any reference herein shall not be construed or understood as admitting that such reference represents or corresponds to the prior art of the invention. As long as section headings are used, they should not necessarily be construed as limiting.