Medical devices formed from shape memory alloys displaying a stress-retained martensitic state and method for use thereof

Abstract

A method is disclosed for utilizing a deformable article of manufacture formed at least partly of a shape memory alloy. The method includes the steps of deforming the article from a first predetermined configuration to a second predetermined configuration while the shape memory alloy is, at least partially, in its stable martensitic state and at a first temperature. A resisting force is applied to the deformed article of manufacture using a restraining means and the article is heated from the first temperature to a second temperature in the presence of the resisting force. The stable martensitic state is transformed to a metastable stress-retained martensitic state. The resisting force is then removed allowing the alloy to transform to its austenitic state and the shape of the article to be restored substantially to its first configuration. Devices primarily medical devices operative by employing this method are also disclosed.

Description

technical field [0001] The present invention relates to devices, in particular to medical devices made of shape memory alloys and methods of use thereof. [0002] Referenced Co-Pending Patent Applications [0003] This patent application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 10 / 158,673, filed May 30, 2002, entitled "Surgical Clip Applicator Apparatus," which was filed on June 2000 Continuation-in-Part of US Patent Application No. 09 / 592,518, filed on the 12th, entitled "Surgical Clips," the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference. [0004] Vocabulary and Abbreviations [0005] Austenite (Austenite) - high temperature, high symmetry phase. The austenite phase described here includes various structures such as B2 and R. [0006] Martensite - low temperature, low symmetry phase. This phase has a different microstructure from the austenite phase, but as a sample, for example, when a device is manufactured, this phase has exactly the sa...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

There are two main disadvantages of SME in the application of medical devices: first, the use of SME requires that the device must be heated inside the human body, thus taking the risk of damaging human tissue

Second, when used in many SME-based devices, they do not provide the long-term stress capability required by many applications

The function and positioning of the SE-based drug applicator are usually quite complicated, and it will make the operation difficult to complete when its function cannot be realized

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