Collapsible and expandable support frame for catheter tip

Abstract

Systems and devices disclosed herein are for catheter tips that include a support frame. The support frame may include a longitudinal axis, a collapsed delivery configuration, and an expanded deployment configuration. The support frame may include a collapsed inner diameter in the collapsed delivery configuration and a larger expanded inner diameter in the expanded deployed configuration when the support frame is placed in an axially compressed state. In some examples, the support frame may include one or more shaped ridge members extending along a longitudinal axis and a plurality of ribs extending from the one or more shaped ridge members. In some examples, the support frame may include a connector rib and a plurality of offset ribs extending from the connector rib. One or more connector members may connect respective ones of the offset ribs. In some examples, the support frame may include struts forming a grid structure.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention generally relates to devices and methods for removing acute blockages from blood vessels during endovascular medical treatment. More specifically, the present invention relates to a retrieval catheter having an expandable tip into which one or more objects may be retrieved. Background Art

[0002] Clot retrieval aspiration catheters and devices are frequently used in mechanical thrombectomy for endovascular intervention in patients with conditions such as acute ischemic stroke (AIS), myocardial infarction (MI), and pulmonary embolism (PE). Accessing neurovascular beds is particularly challenging using conventional techniques because the target vessels are small in diameter, distal relative to the insertion site, and highly tortuous. Conventional devices are typically either too large in profile, lack the deliverability and flexibility required to traverse particularly tortuous vessels, or are ineffective in removing clots when delivered to the target site.

[0003] Many existing designs of aspiration retrieval catheters are typically limited to, for example, 6Fr or an inner diameter between approximately 0.068 inches and 0.074 inches. Larger sizes require the use of larger guides or sheaths, which in turn require the closure of larger femoral access holes. Most physicians prefer to use an 8Fr guide / 6Fr sheath combination, and few physicians feel comfortable exceeding a 9Fr guide / 7Fr sheath combination. This means that once at the target site, the clot is typically larger in size than the inner diameter of the aspiration catheter, and the clot must be compressed immediately before it can enter the catheter port. This compression can cause the clot to clumping and subsequent shearing during retrieval. Fibrin-rich, compacted clots may also aggregate in the fixed port ends of these catheters, making them more difficult to extract. This aggregation can also lead to shearing, where the softer portions of the clot break away from the more compact areas.

[0004] The small diameter and fixed tip size are also less effective at guiding the aspiration required to remove blood and thrombotic material during surgery. The fixed tip size can cause the clot to shear or split as the clot enters the tip opening. The aspiration must be strong enough so that any fragmentation that may occur due to aspiration or the use of a mechanical thrombectomy device can remain stationary so that the fragments cannot migrate and occlude the distal vessel. However, when aspiration is performed with a fixed-port catheter, a large portion of the aspiration stream terminates the vascular fluid from the proximal side of the catheter tip, where there is no clot, because the diameter of the funnel catheter is smaller than the diameter of the vessel. This significantly reduces the efficiency of aspiration, thereby reducing the success rate of clot removal.

[0005] Any catheter design that attempts to overcome these challenges with an expanded distal tip or structure needs to have the strength to extract clots and exert a steady radial force in the expanded state. The same structure also needs to be flexible and resilient enough to withstand the severe mechanical strains imparted when traversing the tortuous vasculature in the collapsed state.

[0006] Therefore, there remains a need for improved catheter designs that attempt to overcome the above-mentioned design challenges.The present invention is designed to provide an improved retrieval catheter having an expandable tip section and methods of using such catheters that enable improved performance. Summary of the invention

[0007] The present invention aims to provide devices and methods that meet the above needs. These designs can be used for clot retrieval catheters that can remove clots from the cerebral arteries of patients with AIS, the coronary arteries of patients with MI, native or grafted vessels, and the pulmonary arteries of patients with PE, as well as other peripheral arterial and venous vessels where clots have caused obstruction.

[0008] An example of the present disclosure provides a catheter tip. The catheter tip may include a support frame. The support frame may include a longitudinal axis, a collapsed delivery configuration, and an expanded deployment configuration. The support frame may include one or more shaped spine members extending along the longitudinal axis. The one or more shaped spine members may connect the distal-most rib to the proximal-most rib. The support frame may include a plurality of ribs extending from the one or more shaped spine members to form the periphery of the support frame. The support frame may include one or more connector struts, each connector strut connecting corresponding adjacent ribs in the plurality of ribs. The plurality of connector struts may be offset from the one or more shaped spine members. The support frame may also include a collapsed inner diameter in the collapsed delivery configuration, and a larger expanded inner diameter in the expanded deployment configuration when the support frame is placed in an axially compressed state.

[0009] In some examples, the support frame is configured to expand from a collapsed inner diameter to an expanded inner diameter when impacted by an ingested clot.

[0010] In some examples, the support frame may further include a proximal collar at the proximal end of the support frame.

[0011] In some examples, the plurality of ribs may each include a curvilinear, non-planar profile.

[0012] In some examples, each of the one or more connector stays is substantially parallel to the one or more contoured ridge members.

[0013] In some examples, each of the one or more connector stays may be spaced apart from each of the one or more contoured ridge members substantially around the perimeter of the support frame.

[0014] In some examples, the one or more contoured ridge members may include two contoured ridge members.

[0015] In some examples, two or more ribs in the plurality of ribs are not connected by one or more connector struts.

[0016] In another aspect, a catheter tip is disclosed. The catheter tip may include a support frame. The support frame may include a longitudinal axis, a collapsed delivery configuration, and an expanded deployment configuration. The support frame may include a connector rib extending around the periphery of the support frame in a first direction. The support frame may include a plurality of offset ribs extending from the connector rib around the periphery of the support frame in a second direction. The support frame may include one or more connector members, each connector member connecting a corresponding rib of the plurality of offset ribs. The support frame may also include a collapsed inner diameter in the collapsed delivery configuration, and a larger expanded inner diameter in the expanded deployment configuration when the support frame is placed in an axially compressed state.

[0017] In some examples, one or more connector components may also include one or more connector braces.

[0018] In some examples, one or more connector struts are substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0019] In some examples, one or more connector struts connect respective adjacent ribs of the plurality of offset ribs.

[0020] In some examples, one or more connector components may also include one or more compression units.

[0021] In some examples, one or more compression units may include a generally diamond-shaped pattern.

[0022] In some examples, one or more compression units may include a generally oval pattern.

[0023] In some examples, the first direction and the second direction are substantially orthogonal.

[0024] In another aspect, a catheter tip is disclosed. The catheter tip may include a support frame. The support frame may include a longitudinal axis, a collapsed delivery configuration, and an expanded deployment configuration. The support frame may include a first connector rib extending from a proximal end of the support frame around the periphery of the support frame. The support frame may include a first plurality of offset ribs extending from the first connector rib around the periphery of the support frame. The support frame may include a second connector rib extending from the proximal end of the support frame and around the periphery of the support frame. The support frame may include a second plurality of offset ribs extending from the second connector rib around the periphery of the support frame. The support frame may include a collapsed inner diameter in the collapsed delivery configuration, and a larger expanded inner diameter in the expanded deployment configuration when the support frame is placed in an axially compressed state.

[0025] In some examples, the catheter tip can include one or more connector struts, each connector strut connecting respective adjacent ribs of the first plurality of offset ribs or the second plurality of offset ribs.

[0026] In another aspect, a catheter tip is disclosed. The catheter tip may include a support frame including a longitudinal axis, a collapsed delivery configuration, and an expanded deployment configuration. The support frame may include a plurality of struts extending from a proximal end of the support frame. The plurality of struts may form a lattice structure. The support frame may include a collapsed inner diameter in the collapsed delivery configuration, and a larger expanded inner diameter in the expanded deployment configuration when the support frame is placed in an axially compressed state.

[0027] In some examples, the grid structure may further include a plurality of proximal cells near the proximal end, which have a proximal cell angle; and a plurality of distal cells near the distal end of the support frame, which have a distal cell angle. In some examples, the proximal cell angle may be greater than the distal cell angle.

[0028] In some examples, the plurality of struts form a generally V-shaped void near the proximal end of the support frame. The generally V-shaped void may include an apex extending toward the distal end of the support frame.

[0029] In another aspect, a catheter tip is disclosed. The catheter tip may include a support frame including a longitudinal axis, a collapsed delivery configuration, and an expanded deployment configuration. The support frame may include one or more spiral ridges extending from a proximal end of the support frame. The support frame may include one or more offset ribs extending from each of the one or more spiral ridges. The support frame may include a collapsed inner diameter in the collapsed delivery configuration, and a larger expanded inner diameter in the expanded deployment configuration when the support frame is placed in a compressed state.

[0030] In some examples, one or more offset ribs extend around the perimeter of the support frame.The one or more offset ribs may be generally orthogonal to the longitudinal axis.

[0031] In some examples, the one or more spiral ridges may include one spiral ridge.

[0032] In some examples, the one or more spiral ridges may include four spiral ridges.

[0033] In some examples, the one or more spiral ridges may include a number of ridges between one spiral ridge and twelve spiral ridges.

[0034] Other aspects of the present disclosure will become apparent after viewing the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Additional features or manufacturing steps and use steps may be included as will be understood and appreciated by those skilled in the relevant art. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0035] The above aspects and other aspects of the present invention will be further discussed with reference to the following description and in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which similar numbers indicate similar structural elements and features in various figures. The accompanying drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, but instead, the focus is on illustrating the principles of the present invention. The accompanying drawings depict one or more specific implementations of the apparatus of the present invention by way of example only and not by way of limitation. It is expected that those skilled in the relevant art will be able to conceive and combine elements from multiple drawings to better meet the needs of the user.

[0036] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a collapsible and expandable support frame having a plurality of ribs in an expanded configuration according to aspects of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a collapsible and expandable support frame having a plurality of offset ribs in an expanded configuration according to aspects of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a collapsible and expandable support frame having a plurality of offset ribs and generally diamond-shaped compression cells in an expanded configuration according to aspects of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a collapsible and expandable support frame having a plurality of offset ribs and generally oval-shaped compression cells in an expanded configuration according to aspects of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 5 is a perspective view of a collapsible and expandable support frame having a plurality of offset ribs connected to one or more connector struts in an expanded configuration according to aspects of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 6 is a perspective view of a collapsible and expandable support frame having proximal and distal cells in an expanded configuration according to aspects of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 7 is a perspective view of a shortened collapsible and expandable support frame having proximal and distal cells in an expanded configuration according to aspects of the present invention.

[0043] Figure 8 is a perspective view of a collapsible and expandable support frame having proximal and distal cells in an expanded configuration, the support frame having a V-shaped void, according to aspects of the present invention.

[0044] Fig. 9 is a perspective view of a collapsible and expandable support frame with helical struts in an expanded configuration according to aspects of the present invention.

[0045] Fig.10 is a perspective view of a shortened collapsible and expandable support frame with helical struts in an expanded configuration according to aspects of the present invention.

[0046] Fig.11 is a perspective view of a shortened collapsible and expandable support frame with spiral spines in an expanded configuration according to aspects of the present invention.

[0047] Fig. 12A is a cross-sectional view of a collapsed inner diameter of an example support frame according to aspects of the present invention.

[0048] Fig. 12B is a cross-sectional view of an expanded inner diameter of an example support frame according to aspects of the present invention.

[0049] Fig.13 is a schematic illustration of a clot retrieval catheter tip having an expandable support frame advanced through vasculature in accordance with aspects of the present invention.

[0050] FIG. 14A to FIG. 14C is an illustration of example treatment steps that may be performed using a collapsible and expandable catheter tip support frame in accordance with aspects of the present invention.

[0051] FIG. 15A to FIG. 15C is an illustration of example treatment steps that may be performed using a collapsible and expandable catheter tip support frame in accordance with aspects of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0052] Specific examples of the present invention are now described in detail with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals indicate functionally similar or identical elements. These examples address many of the deficiencies associated with conventional clot retrieval aspiration catheters, such as the inability to properly or accurately deploy to the target site and ineffective clot removal.

[0053] The designs herein (showing various configurations of catheter tip support frames) can be incorporated into an aspiration clot retrieval catheter having a membrane cover, a proximal shaft, a large bore lumen, and a distal low shear tip (LST) that can expand to a diameter larger than the nominal diameter upon interaction with an ingested clot or a stent retriever. The designs herein can also be pre-expanded and heat set to be incorporated into a collapsible super large bore (CSB) catheter having a membrane cover and a proximal shaft to provide a catheter that collapses for delivery through a guide catheter and expands upon exiting the guide catheter to be advanced to a target vessel for aspiration of a clot.

[0054] The design of this article may have a proximal elongated body for the shaft of the catheter, and a distal end with an expanded internal frame so that the end has atraumatic properties. That is, the expanded internal frame can be easily and repeatedly collapsed for delivery, and locally expanded under the load from the clot (when used in combination with the LST catheter) or by heat setting (when used in combination with the CSB catheter), so that the catheter end can expand beyond the nominal diameter to ingest the clot. The expanded internal frame can have a proximal ring for attaching to the braided catheter shaft, and can have an offset port, thereby allowing a larger opening for clot retrieval and a reduced stiffness for easier expansion. This management of clots during intake can significantly reduce the shearing of clots. The design of the catheter can have enough flexibility to traverse the highly tortuous areas of the anatomical structure, and when displaced in the blood vessel, it can restore its shape to maintain the inner diameter of the lumen. Alternatively, the design of this article can be integrally formed with the laser cutting shaft support structure or otherwise attached to the laser cutting shaft support structure.

[0055] This innovation of utilizing the clot itself to expand the tip segment as needed allows for greatly improved clot handling and reduced shearing compared to conventional designs. The nominal unexpanded outer diameter maximizes distal access to the same distance as a standard fixed-port catheter. Once a clot is subsequently ingested, the stiffer fibrin-rich portion of the clot accommodated by additional radial expansion can gradually compress the clot, resulting in significantly less clot shearing compared to catheters lacking this capability. In addition, the compliant nature of the tip allows it to be advanced atraumatically through calcifications without dislodging plaque material.

[0056] Access to the various vessels within the vascular system (whether coronary, pulmonary or cerebral) involves well-known surgical procedures and the use of many conventional commercially available auxiliary products. These products, such as angiographic materials, mechanical thrombectomy devices, microcatheters and guidewires, are widely used in laboratories and medical procedures. When these products are used in conjunction with the apparatus and methods of the present invention described below, their functions and exact constructions are not described in detail. In addition, although this specification is in many cases in the context of thrombectomy treatment of intracranial arteries, the disclosure may also be applicable to other procedures and other body passages.

[0057] Turning to the attached figure, Figure 1 An example collapsible and expandable support frame 210 for use in a clot retrieval catheter tip 100 is shown. When used in conjunction with an LST catheter, the support frame 210 may be manufactured using superelastic nickel titanium or nitinol (NiTi), shape memory NiTi, or stainless steel. Although the LST catheter does not require a shape memory material, it can provide the additional benefit of enabling the support frame 210 to recover its shape if deformed during use, or if the support frame 210 is expanded by a clot during a first retrieval and needs to be easily recovered to be returned through the guide sheath for a second retrieval. When used in conjunction with a CSB catheter, the shape memory material enables the support frame 210 to self-expand as it leaves the distal end of the catheter tip 100 and approaches a clot for retrieval. The shape memory alloy used may include an austenite finish temperature of less than approximately 30 degrees Celsius.

[0058] The support frame 210 can be manufactured by taking a raw tubing of the material as discussed above and laser cutting the material to produce the desired configuration of the support frame 210, as will be further described below. The raw tubing can have an outer diameter of approximately 2.00 mm, a wall thickness of approximately 0.05 mm, and an inner diameter of approximately 1.90 mm. The support frame 210 can also be manufactured with a light electropolishing or other such surface treatment. A matte finish can provide the benefit of enhanced adhesion to a polymer catheter jacket.

[0059] The support frame may include a longitudinal axis 111, a collapsed delivery configuration ( Fig.14A , Fig.15A or Fig. 15B ), and the expanded configuration ( Fig. 14B , Fig. 14C or Fig. 15C). The support frame 210 may include one or more shaped ridges 214, which may be spaced 180 degrees around the longitudinal axis 111. Ribs 215 may extend from the one or more shaped ridges 214 so that the one or more shaped ridges 214 connect the most distal ribs to the most proximal ribs. The ribs 215 may form a perimeter of the support frame 210. The distal end 114 of the support frame may include a mouth 213, which is formed by the perimeter of the support frame formed by the ribs 215. According to some embodiments, the proximal end 112 of the support frame 210 may include a collar 115 having a plurality of collar forks 116, which may help connect the catheter tip 100 to the elongated body of the catheter delivery system by providing additional surface area to facilitate welding or bonding the catheter tip 100 to the catheter system. Some of the ribs 215 may be connected by one or more connector struts 216. The connector struts 216 may be rotated approximately 90 degrees around the longitudinal axis 111 relative to the one or more shaped ridges 214. When the catheter tip 100 is positioned for clot retrieval, this configuration of the connector struts 216 may improve the crush resistance of the dilated tip when tracking through tortuous vasculature.

[0060] Figure 2 Another example expandable support frame 310 for use in the clot retrieval catheter tip 100 is shown. The support frame 310 may include one or more features that are the same or similar to those described above with respect to the support frame 210. In addition, the manufacture of the support frame 310 may be the same or similar to the manufacture of the support frame 210, as discussed above. The support frame 310 may also be manufactured to be electropolished, pickled to roughen the surface of the support frame 310, and / or heated to have an oxide finish.

[0061] The support frame 310 may include a longitudinal axis, a collapsed delivery configuration, and an expanded deployment configuration. The support frame 310 may include a connector rib 315 extending around the periphery of the support frame in a first direction. Extending from the connector rib 315 may be a plurality of offset ribs extending around the periphery of the support frame 310 in a second direction. In some examples, the first direction and the second direction may be substantially orthogonal to each other. The support frame 310 may also include one or more connector stays 316. One or more connector stays 316 may connect corresponding ribs in a plurality of offset ribs 317. One or more connector stays 316 may extend substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 111. The connection between the offset rib 317 and the connector rib 315 may facilitate smooth compression of the support frame 310 when pressing into the wall of the vascular system when traversing a tortuous anatomical structure.

[0062] The support frame 310 may also include a proximal loop 115 at its proximal end 112. The proximal loop 115 may be used to attach the support frame 310 to a braided shaft of a clot retrieval catheter. The proximal loop 115 may include a loop fork 116 that may facilitate the attachment process of attaching the support frame 310 to the braided shaft of the clot retrieval catheter.

[0063] The support frame 310 may also include a port 313 at the distal end 114. Similar to the support frame 210, the support frame 310 may include a collapsed inner diameter when in the collapsed delivery configuration and may include a larger inner diameter in the expanded deployment configuration when the support frame 310 is placed in a compressed state. When used in conjunction with an LST or CSB catheter, when the support frame 310 is in its expanded deployment configuration, its maximum outer diameter may be less than the inner diameter 13 of the target vessel 12 at the treatment site, so that the support frame 310 can be independent of the vessel 12 and advanced distally toward the clot 40 without sealing to the vessel.

[0064] Figure 3 Another example expandable support frame 410 for use in the clot retrieval catheter tip 100 is shown. The support frame 410 may include one or more features that are the same or similar to those described above with respect to the support frame 310. In addition, the manufacture of the support frame 410 may be the same or similar to the manufacture of the support frame 310, as discussed above. The support frame 410 may also be manufactured to be electropolished, pickled to roughen the surface of the support frame 410, and / or heated to have an oxide layer finish.

[0065] The support frame 410 may be substantially similar to the support frame 310, but instead of the connector struts 317 of the support frame 410, the support frame 310 may include a substantially diamond-shaped compression unit 416. The substantially diamond-shaped compression unit 416 may connect the corresponding offset ribs. Unlike the connector struts 317, the compression unit 416 may connect a greater number of offset ribs 417. Figure 3 As shown, the compression unit 416 may connect three or more offset ribs 317 instead of connecting two offset ribs 417 as in the support frame 310. The compression unit 416 may allow the support frame 410 to compress more smoothly over a greater number of offset ribs 417 while promoting lateral flexure of the support frame 410.

[0066] Similar to support frame 210, support frame 410 may include a collapsed inner diameter when in a collapsed delivery configuration and may include a larger inner diameter in an expanded deployment configuration when support frame 410 is placed in a compressed state. When used in conjunction with an LST or CSB catheter, when support frame 410 is in its expanded deployment configuration, its maximum outer diameter may be less than the inner diameter 13 of the target vessel 12 at the treatment site, such that support frame 310 may be independent of vessel 12 and advanced distally toward clot 40 without sealing to the vessel.

[0067] Figure 4 Another example expandable support frame 510 for use in the clot retrieval catheter tip 100 is shown. The support frame 510 may include one or more features that are the same or similar to those described above with respect to the support frame 410. In addition, the manufacture of the support frame 510 may be the same or similar to the manufacture of the support frame 410, as discussed above. The support frame 510 may also be manufactured to be electropolished, pickled to roughen the surface of the support frame 510, and / or heated to have an oxide finish.

[0068] The support frame 510 may be substantially similar to the support frame 410, but instead of the generally diamond-shaped compression unit 416 of the support frame 510, the support frame 410 may include a generally oval-shaped compression unit 516. The generally oval-shaped compression unit 516 may be connected to the corresponding biasing ribs. Similar to the pressure sensor 416, the pressure sensor 516 may be connected to a greater number of biasing ribs 517. That is, the compression unit 516 may be connected to three or more biasing ribs 517, such as Figure 4 The compression unit 516 may allow the support frame 510 to compress more smoothly over a greater number of offset ribs 517 while promoting lateral flexure of the support frame 510 .

[0069] Similar to support frame 210, support frame 510 may include a collapsed inner diameter when in a collapsed delivery configuration and may include a larger inner diameter in an expanded deployment configuration when support frame 510 is placed in a compressed state. When used in conjunction with an LST or CSB catheter, when support frame 510 is in its expanded deployment configuration, its maximum outer diameter may be less than the inner diameter 13 of the target vessel 12 at the treatment site, such that support frame 510 may be independent of vessel 12 and advanced distally toward clot 40 without sealing to the vessel.

[0070] Figure 5Another example expandable support frame 610 for use in the clot retrieval catheter tip 100 is shown. The support frame 610 may include one or more features that are the same or similar to those described above with respect to the support frame 210. In addition, the manufacture of the support frame 610 may be the same or similar to the manufacture of the support frame 210, as discussed above. The support frame 610 may also be manufactured to be electropolished, pickled to roughen the surface of the support frame 610, and / or heated to have an oxide finish.

[0071] The support frame 610 may include a longitudinal axis 111, a collapsed delivery configuration, and an expanded deployment configuration. The support frame 610 may include a first connector rib 615a extending from the proximal end 112 of the support frame and around the periphery of the support frame 610. A first plurality of offset ribs 617a may extend from the first connector rib 615a and around the periphery of the support frame 610. The support frame 610 may also include a second connector rib 615 extending from the proximal end 112 of the support frame and around the periphery of the support frame 610. Extending from the second connector rib 615b may be a second plurality of offset ribs 617b extending around the periphery of the support frame 610. The connection between the offset ribs 617a, 617b and the connector ribs 615a, 615b may allow the support frame 610 to compress smoothly when pressing into the wall of a blood vessel when traversing a tortuous anatomical structure. In some examples, the support frame 610 can include one or more connector struts 616, each of which can connect respective adjacent ribs in the first plurality of offset ribs 617a or the second plurality of offset ribs 617b. When the catheter tip 100 is positioned for clot retrieval, the connector struts 616 can improve the crush resistance of the dilated tip when tracking through tortuous vasculature.

[0072] According to some embodiments, the proximal end 112 of the support frame 610 may include a loop 115 having a plurality of loop prongs 116 that may help connect the catheter tip 100 to the elongated body of the catheter delivery system by providing additional surface area to facilitate welding the catheter tip 100 to the catheter system.

[0073] Figure 6 Another example expandable support frame 710 for use in the clot retrieval catheter tip 100 is shown. The support frame 710 may include one or more features that are the same or similar to those described above with respect to the support frame 210. In addition, the manufacture of the support frame 710 may be the same or similar to the manufacture of the support frame 210, as discussed above. The support frame 710 may also be manufactured to be electropolished, pickled to roughen the surface of the support frame 710, and / or heated to have an oxide finish.

[0074] The support frame 710 may include a longitudinal axis 111, a collapsed delivery configuration, and an expanded deployment configuration. The support frame 710 may include a plurality of struts 715 extending from the proximal end 112 of the support frame 710. The plurality of struts 715 may intersect with each other to form a grid structure. The intersecting struts 715 of the support frame 710 may form a unit. In some examples, the support frame 710 may include a proximal unit 719 having a proximal unit angle 721 and a distal unit 720 having a distal unit angle 722. When in the collapsed configuration, the proximal unit angle 721 of the proximal unit 719 may be greater than the distal unit angle 722 of the distal unit 720. When in the collapsed configuration, the distal unit angle 722 can effectively reduce the radial force on the support frame 710, making it easy to track the catheter tip 100 through the outer guide sheath. When the support frame 710 is expanded to the expanded deployed configuration, the proximal cell angle 721 of the proximal cell may not substantially change, while the distal cell angle 722 of the distal cell 720 may increase in the expanded deployed configuration. The expansion of the distal cell angle of the distal cell 720 may improve crush resistance when the catheter tip 100 using the support frame 710 is used to aspirate a clot and / or when the catheter tip 100 is tracked through a tortuous vasculature while approaching a clot to be aspirated.

[0075] The distal cell angle 722 in the collapsed configuration can be in the range of 20 degrees to 130 degrees, more preferably in the range of 30 degrees to 90 degrees, and even more preferably in the range of 30 degrees to 60 degrees. A smaller angle can allow the end to expand to a larger diameter than a larger angle, and for a given strut width, a larger angle can provide the end with higher crush resistance. The proximal angle 721 can be in the range of 20 degrees to 160 degrees, more preferably in the range of 30 degrees to 120 degrees, and even more preferably in the range of 60 degrees to 90 degrees. Making the proximal angle 721 greater than the distal angle 722 can facilitate more gradual expansion of the end during clot uptake. For the LST embodiment, when expanding, the angles 721, 722 will depend on the diameter to which the end expands during clot uptake. For CSB embodiments, the distal cell angle 722 should be set so that the tip is sufficiently resistant to compression while having a sufficiently low radial force so that the tip can be collapsed and pushed through the outer guide catheter - for this purpose, the distal cell angle 722 can be in the range of 60 degrees to 130 degrees, more preferably in the range of 90 degrees to 120 degrees, and even more preferably in the range of 100 degrees to 110 degrees. For CSB, the proximal cell angle 721 can be less than or greater than the distal cell angle 722. The proximal angle 721 can be in the range of 20 degrees to 160 degrees, more preferably in the range of 30 degrees to 120 degrees, and even more preferably in the range of 60 degrees to 90 degrees. Making the proximal cell angle 721 less than the distal angle 722 can provide more push when collapsing the expanded portion for delivery, while making the proximal angle 721 greater than the distal angle 722 can give the tip a more gradual expansion / compression during delivery / collapse.

[0076] The proximal end 112 of the support frame 710 may include a wide collar 115 having a plurality of collar cavities 117. The wide collar 115 is provided to provide sufficient material for the braided structure welded to the elongated body of the catheter delivery system by providing additional surface area to facilitate welding of the catheter tip 100 to the catheter system. The collar cavities 117 may be provided to allow material to flow back during the lamination process, thereby improving adhesion between the support frame 710 and the elongated body of the catheter delivery system. The collar cavities 117 may also effectively prevent excess material from accumulating on the collar 115 so as to keep the outer diameter profile of the catheter tip 100 low and uniform throughout the structure. If the braided structure is positioned above or below the collar 115, the cavities 117 may also be used as a well for guiding adhesive.

[0077] Figure 7Another example expandable support frame 810 for use in the clot retrieval catheter tip 100 is shown. The support frame 810 may include one or more features that are the same or similar to those described above with respect to the support frame 710. In addition, the manufacture of the support frame 810 may be the same or similar to the manufacture of the support frame 710, as discussed above. The support frame 810 may also be manufactured to be electropolished, pickled to roughen the surface of the support frame 810, and / or heated to have an oxide finish.

[0078] The support frame 810 may include a longitudinal axis 111, a collapsed delivery configuration, and an expanded deployment configuration. The support frame 810 may include a plurality of struts 815 extending from the proximal end 112 of the support frame 810. The plurality of struts 815 may intersect with each other to form a grid structure. The intersecting struts 815 of the support frame 810 may form a unit. In some examples, the support frame 810 may include a proximal unit 819 having a proximal unit angle 821 and a distal unit 820 having a distal unit angle 822. When in the collapsed configuration, the proximal unit angle 821 of the proximal unit 819 may be greater than the distal unit angle 822 of the distal unit 820. When in the collapsed configuration, the distal unit angle 822 can effectively reduce the radial force on the support frame 810, making it easy to track the catheter tip 100 through the outer guide sheath. When the support frame 810 is expanded to the expanded deployed configuration, the proximal cell angle 821 of the proximal cell may not substantially change, while the distal cell angle 822 of the distal cell 820 may increase in the expanded deployed configuration. The expansion of the distal cell angle of the distal cell 820 may improve crush resistance when the catheter tip 100 using the support frame 810 is used to aspirate a clot and / or when the catheter tip 100 is tracked through a tortuous vasculature while approaching a clot to be aspirated.

[0079] and Figure 6 The distal unit angle 822 and the proximal unit angle 821 may be configured to provide the characteristics of an LST catheter or a CSB catheter. The distal unit angle 822 and the proximal unit angle 821 may have similar Figure 6. The distal cell angle 822 in the collapsed configuration may be in the range of 20 to 130 degrees, more preferably in the range of 30 to 90 degrees, and even more preferably in the range of 30 to 60 degrees. A smaller angle may allow the tip to expand to a larger diameter than a larger angle, and for a given strut width, a larger angle may provide the tip with greater crush resistance. The proximal angle 821 may be in the range of 20 to 160 degrees, more preferably in the range of 30 to 120 degrees, and even more preferably in the range of 60 to 90 degrees. Making the proximal angle 821 greater than the distal angle 822 may facilitate more gradual expansion of the tip during clot uptake. For the LST embodiment, when expanding, the angles 821, 822 will depend on the diameter to which the tip expands during clot uptake. For CSB embodiments, the distal cell angle 822 should be set so that the tip is sufficiently resistant to compression while having a sufficiently low radial force so that the tip can be collapsed and pushed through an outer guide catheter - for this purpose, the distal cell angle 822 can be in the range of 60 degrees to 130 degrees, more preferably in the range of 90 degrees to 120 degrees, and even more preferably in the range of 100 degrees to 110 degrees. For CSB, the proximal cell angle 821 can be less than or greater than the distal cell angle 822. The proximal angle 821 can be in the range of 20 degrees to 160 degrees, more preferably in the range of 30 degrees to 120 degrees, and even more preferably in the range of 60 degrees to 90 degrees. Making the proximal cell angle 821 less than the distal angle 822 can provide more push when collapsing the expanded portion for delivery, while making the proximal angle 821 greater than the distal angle 822 can give the tip a more gradual expansion / compression during delivery / collapse.

[0080] The proximal end 112 of the support frame 810 may include a wide collar 115 having a plurality of collar cavities 117. The wide collar 115 is provided to provide sufficient material for the braided structure welded to the elongated body of the catheter delivery system by providing additional surface area to facilitate welding of the catheter tip 100 to the catheter system. The collar cavities 117 may be provided to allow material to flow back during the lamination process, thereby improving adhesion between the support frame 810 and the elongated body of the catheter delivery system. The collar cavities 117 may also effectively prevent excess material from accumulating on the collar 115 so as to keep the outer diameter profile of the catheter tip 100 low and uniform throughout the structure.

[0081] Support frame 810 may be similar to support frame 710, except that support frame 810 may have a reduced axial length along longitudinal axis 111 compared to support frame 710. The reduced length of support frame 810 may effectively improve maneuverability of support frame 810 as support frame 810 traverses tortuous vasculature.

[0082] Figure 8Another example expandable support frame 910 for use in the clot retrieval catheter tip 100 is shown. The support frame 910 may include one or more features that are the same or similar to those described above with respect to the support frame 710. In addition, the manufacture of the support frame 910 may be the same or similar to the manufacture of the support frame 710, as discussed above. The support frame 910 may also be manufactured to be electropolished, pickled to roughen the surface of the support frame 910, and / or heated to have an oxide finish.

[0083] The proximal end 112 of the support frame 910 may include a wide collar 115 having a plurality of collar cavities 117. The wide collar 115 is provided to provide sufficient material for the braided structure welded to the elongated body of the catheter delivery system by providing additional surface area to facilitate welding of the catheter tip 100 to the catheter system. The collar cavities 117 may be provided to allow material to flow back during the lamination process, thereby improving adhesion between the support frame 910 and the elongated body of the catheter delivery system. The collar cavities 117 may also effectively prevent excess material from accumulating on the collar 115 so as to keep the outer diameter profile of the catheter tip 100 low and uniform throughout the structure.

[0084] The support frame 910 may include a longitudinal axis 111, a collapsed delivery configuration, and an expanded deployment configuration. The support frame 910 may include a plurality of struts 915 extending from the proximal end 112 of the support frame 910. The plurality of struts 915 may intersect with each other to form a grid structure. The intersecting struts 915 of the support frame 910 may form a unit. In some examples, the support frame 910 may also include a V-shaped unit 924, which may be a V-shaped gap in the grid formed by the intersecting struts 915. The V-shaped unit 924 may be positioned so that the V-shaped unit vertex 927 of the V-shaped unit 924 is positioned to face the distal end 114 of the support frame 910. The V-shaped unit 924 may be positioned near the proximal end 112, and may effectively allow the support frame 910 to flex laterally to a greater degree between the collar 115 and the distal end 114.

[0085] Fig. 9 and Fig.10 Another example expandable support frame 1010 for use in a clot retrieval catheter tip 100 is shown. The support frame 1010 may include one or more features that are the same or similar to those described above with respect to the support frame 210. In addition, the manufacture of the support frame 1010 may be the same or similar to the manufacture of the support frame 210, as discussed above. The support frame 1010 may also be manufactured to be electropolished, pickled to roughen the surface of the support frame 1010, and / or heated to have an oxide finish.

[0086] The proximal end 112 of the support frame 1010 may include a wide collar 115 having a plurality of collar cavities 117. The wide collar 115 is provided to provide sufficient material for the braided structure welded to the elongated body of the catheter delivery system by providing additional surface area to facilitate welding of the catheter tip 100 to the catheter system. The collar cavities 117 may be provided to allow material to flow back during the lamination process, thereby improving adhesion between the support frame 1010 and the elongated body of the catheter delivery system. The collar cavities 117 may also effectively prevent excess material from accumulating on the collar 115 so as to keep the outer diameter profile of the catheter tip 100 low and uniform throughout the structure.

[0087] The support frame 1010 may include a longitudinal axis 111, a collapsed delivery configuration, and an expanded deployment configuration. The support frame 1010 may include a plurality of spiral struts 1017 extending from a collar 115. The spiral struts 1017 may be angled relative to the longitudinal axis 111 so that the spiral struts 1017 surround the periphery of the support frame 1010. The support frame 1010 may include a connector strut 1015 extending from the spiral struts 1017. The connector struts 1015 and the spiral struts 1017 may intersect to form a grid structure. The grid structure of the support frame 1010 may include a grid unit 1019. The grid unit may include a grid unit corner 1022. Fig. 9 1022a when the support frame 1010 is axially uncompressed, and Fig.10 The support frame 1010 is shown in an axially compressed state, resulting in grid cell angle 1022b being greater than grid cell angle 1022a.

[0088] In some examples, the pitch of the helical struts 1017 can be increased in the expanded deployed state to facilitate pushing the support frame 1010 through the outer guide sheath without causing further expansion of the support frame 1010 when the catheter tip 100 is delivered to the treatment site. In some examples, the grid cell angles 1022 can be reduced in the collapsed, non-deployed state to prevent expansion of the support frame 1010 when it is delivered to the treatment site through the guide sheath.

[0089] Fig.11 Another example expandable support frame 1110 for use in the clot retrieval catheter tip 100 is shown. The support frame 1110 may include one or more features that are the same or similar to those described above with respect to the support frame 210. In addition, the manufacture of the support frame 1110 may be the same or similar to the manufacture of the support frame 210, as discussed above. The support frame 1110 may also be manufactured to be electropolished, pickled to roughen the surface of the support frame 1110, and / or heated to have an oxide finish.

[0090] The proximal end 112 of the support frame 1110 may include a wide collar 115 having a plurality of collar cavities 117. The wide collar 115 is provided to provide sufficient material for the braided structure welded to the elongated body of the catheter delivery system by providing additional surface area to facilitate welding of the catheter tip 100 to the catheter system. The collar cavities 117 may be provided to allow material to flow back during the lamination process, thereby improving adhesion between the support frame 1110 and the elongated body of the catheter delivery system. The collar cavities 117 may also effectively prevent excess material from accumulating on the collar 115 so as to keep the outer diameter profile of the catheter tip 100 low and uniform throughout the structure.

[0091] The support frame 1110 may include one or more spiral ridges 1114 extending from the collar 115. The spiral ridges 1114 may extend from the collar 115 in a spiral pattern around the perimeter of the support frame 1110. Fig.11 114, but in some examples, the support frame 1110 may have one spiral ridge 1114 to 12 spiral ridges 1114. More spiral ridges 1114 with the same strut thickness may result in a more rigid end laterally and increase the pushability of the catheter. Additionally or alternatively, more spiral ridges 1114 may allow for thinner and / or shorter ribs 1117 and therefore smaller openings between the ribs 1117. The spacing between the ribs 1117 is preferably small enough to reduce the possibility that the membrane on the catheter tip may be sucked during use to extend radially inward if a very soft membrane is used.

[0092] The pitch of the spiral ridge 1114 can vary. For example, the spiral pitch of the spiral ridge 1114 can be increased to increase the lateral stiffness and pushability of the support frame 1110 to the treatment site. The spiral pitch of the spiral ridge 1114 can be reduced to reduce lateral deflection. The pitch of the spiral ridge 1114 can be in the range of 0.5mm to 50mm, more preferably in the range of 1mm to 10mm, and even more preferably in the range of 2mm to 8mm. A larger pitch can result in greater pushability, but less flexibility. One or more offset ribs 1117 can extend from the corresponding spiral ridge 1114. One or more offset ribs 1117 can extend around the periphery of the support frame 1110 and can be substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis 111.

[0093] like Fig. 12A and Fig. 12B As shown, the support frame 210 may include a collapsed inner diameter 217 ( Fig. 12A ), while the expanded configuration may include a larger inner diameter 224 ( Fig. 12BThe collapsed inner diameter 217 enables the support frame 210 to fit within the guide sheath 30 as the catheter traverses through the vessel 12 toward the treatment site ( Fig.14A ). As follows, FIG. 15A to FIG. 15C As further described, when used in conjunction with an LST catheter, the support frame 210 can maintain its collapsed inner diameter 217 as it exits the distal end 32 of the introducer sheath 30, and then expand from the collapsed inner diameter 217 to the expanded inner diameter 224 when impacted by an ingested clot 40. Alternatively, when used in conjunction with a CSB catheter, as will be described below with respect to FIG. 14A to FIG. 14C As further described, the support frame 210 can be heat set so that once the support frame 210 leaves the distal end 32 of the guide sheath 30, the support frame has an expanded inner diameter 224 that is larger than the collapsed inner diameter 217. When used in conjunction with an LST or CSB catheter, the support frame 210 is in its expanded deployed configuration ( FIG. 14B to FIG. 14C and Fig. 15C ), its maximum outer diameter can be smaller than the inner diameter 13 of the target blood vessel 12 at the treatment site, so that the support frame 210 can be independent of the blood vessel 12 and advanced distally toward the clot 40 without sealing to the blood vessel.

[0094] Fig.13 A possible sequence of approaching an obstructive clot 40 using a large-bore clot retrieval catheter 100 used in conjunction with the support frame design disclosed herein is shown. As the catheter 100 collapses within the guide sheath 30 or other access catheter, the clot 40 can be approached. When the vasculature 10 becomes too narrow and / or tortuous to be further distally traversed with the guide sheath 30, the catheter 100 can be deployed to advance further distally independently. The catheter 100 can have high flexibility, enabling it to traverse the M1 or other tortuous areas of the neurovascular system in order to reach the obstructive clot, and have an expanded outer diameter slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the target vessel, enabling the catheter to be traversed distally alone after deployment. In some examples, the catheter 100 can have an expanded outer diameter that is larger than the outer diameter of the target vessel, and the distal tip can be conformable to collapse in response to pressure applied from a smaller vessel having a diameter smaller than the expanded diameter as the distal tip moves through the smaller vessel.

[0095] The clot retrieval catheter 100 may have a flexible, elongated body 110 that serves as a shaft with a large inner caliber (in some cases, may be 0.080 inches or larger); and a distal tip segment having a collapsible support frame of the design disclosed herein, such as support frame 210. The large caliber facilitates delivery of the catheter to the target site by a variety of methods. These methods may include over a guidewire, over a microcatheter, with a dilator / access tool, or by itself.

[0096] In many cases, the design of the tip can be configured so that the entire catheter 100 can be delivered (and retrieved) through a common standard 6F sheath / 8F guide, which typically has a lumen of less than 0.090 inches. The tip is capable of self-expanding once it is advanced to an unconstrained position distal to the distal end 32 of the guide sheath 30. Because the catheter can be deployed proximal to a distal obstruction and then advanced to the distal obstruction alone, the support frame of the tip is designed to resist collapse caused by suction forces, has excellent lateral flexibility in both expanded and collapsed states, and has an atraumatic profile that prevents obstruction of vascular bifurcations.

[0097] FIG. 14A to FIG. 14C An example treatment procedure for using a clot retrieval catheter expandable support frame of the design disclosed herein in conjunction with a CSB catheter as described above is shown. FIG. 14A to FIG. 14C The use of support frame 1410 is shown, but other support frames described herein (e.g., 210, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710, 810, 910, 1010, 1110) may be used in the same or similar series of treatment steps. Fig.14A As the catheter tip moves through the target vessel 12 toward the clot 40 ( Fig. 14B ), a support frame 1410 within the catheter shaft 110 and within the distal end 32 of the guide sheath 30. As shown, the support frame 1410 includes a collapsed inner diameter 217 when within the guide sheath 30 in its collapsed delivery configuration.

[0098] Fig. 14B The support frame 1410 is shown transitioning to its expanded deployed configuration as it exits the distal end 32 of the guide sheath 30. As described above, when used in conjunction with a CSB catheter, the support frame 1410 can be heat set so that when exiting the distal end 32 of the guide sheath 30, the support frame 1410 can expand to an expanded inner diameter 224 that is larger than the collapsed inner diameter 217. The funnel profile 1416 of the support frame 210 can also be symmetrical about the longitudinal axis 111. Alternatively, the funnel profile 1416 can be inclined. In some examples, when in its expanded deployed configuration, the maximum outer diameter of the support frame 1410 can also be smaller than the inner diameter 13 of the target vessel 12, so that the support frame 1410 can be independent of the vessel 12 and advanced distally toward the clot 40 without sealing to the vessel. In some examples, the maximum outer diameter of the support frame 1410 can be larger than the inner diameter 13 of the target vessel 12, and the support frame 1410 can be conformable to collapse in response to pressure applied from the smaller target vessel 12 as the support frame 1410 moves through the target vessel 12 to reach the clot 40.

[0099] Fig. 14CPort 1413 of support frame 1410 is shown encasing a proximal portion of clot 40. As shown and discussed above, when support frame 1410 is placed in a compressed state against and / or around clot 40, it can shorten axially.

[0100] FIG. 15A to FIG. 15C An example treatment procedure for using a clot retrieval catheter expandable support frame of the design disclosed herein in conjunction with an LST catheter is shown, as described above. Fig.11 A to Fig.11 C illustrates the use of support frame 1510, but other support frames described herein (e.g., 210, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710, 810, 910, 1010, 1110) may be used in the same or similar series of treatment steps. Fig.15A As the catheter tip moves through the target vessel 12 toward the clot 40 ( Fig. 15B ), a support frame 1510 within the catheter shaft 110 and within the distal end 32 of the guide sheath 30. As shown, the support frame 1510 includes a collapsed inner diameter 217 when within the guide sheath 30 in its collapsed delivery configuration.

[0101] Fig. 15B The support frame 1510 is shown exiting the distal end 32 of the guide sheath 30. As described above, when used in conjunction with the LST catheter, the support frame 1510 can maintain its collapsed inner diameter 217 when exiting the distal end 32 of the guide sheath 30. As shown, the distal end section 114 of the support frame 1510 begins to align with the oblique ostial plane 1521. Alternatively, the distal support frame 1510 can have a symmetrical profile.

[0102] Fig. 15C The port 1513 of the support frame 210 is shown enveloping the proximal portion of the clot 40. As shown and discussed above, when the support frame 1510 is placed in a compressed state against and / or around the clot 40, it can be axially shortened. In addition, the funnel profile 1516 can be radially offset from the longitudinal axis 111. And similar to when the support frame 1510 is used in conjunction with a CSB catheter ( FIG. 14A to FIG. 14C ), even when in its expanded deployed configuration, the maximum outer diameter of the support frame 1510 can be less than the inner diameter 13 of the target vessel 12, so that the support frame 1510 can be independent of the vessel 12 and advanced distally toward the clot 40 without sealing to the vessel.

[0103] Catheters with angled port openings can be either LST or CSB type designs. An angled port opening provides a larger cross-sectional area in contact with the clot to increase gripping force compared to a round, non-angled opening. Frame designs suitable for angled port openings include Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 Those in . Figure 1 and Figures 6 to 11 The design in may have a circular mouth, or the contour of the membrane may follow the contour of the distal struts.

[0104] The present invention is not necessarily limited to the examples described, the configurations and details of which may vary. The terms "distal" and "proximal" are used throughout the foregoing description and refer to positions and directions relative to the treating physician. Similarly, "distal" or "distalward" refers to a position away from the physician or in a direction away from the physician. Similarly, "proximal" or "proximal" refers to a position close to the physician or in a direction toward the physician. In addition, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the / said" include plural references.

[0105] As used herein, the term "about" or "approximately" for any numerical value or range indicates a suitable dimensional tolerance that allows a collection of parts or components to achieve its intended purpose as described herein. More specifically, "about" or "approximately" may refer to a value range of ±20% of the recited value, for example, "about 90%" may refer to a value range of 71% to 99%.

[0106] In describing the example embodiments, terminology has been employed for the sake of clarity. Therefore, not all possible combinations are listed, and such variations are generally obvious to those skilled in the art and are intended to fall within the scope of the following claims. Without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention, it is intended that each term contemplates the broadest meaning understood by those skilled in the relevant art, and includes all technical equivalents that operate in a similar manner to achieve similar purposes. It should also be understood that reference to one or more steps of a method does not exclude the presence of additional method steps or intermediate method steps between those explicitly identified steps. Similarly, some steps of the method may be performed in an order different from that described herein without departing from the scope of the disclosed technology.

Claims

1. A catheter tip, comprising: A supporting frame, the supporting frame comprising: longitudinal axis; collapsed delivery configuration; Expanded deployed configuration; one or more contoured ridge members extending along the longitudinal axis connecting the distal-most rib to the proximal-most rib; a plurality of ribs extending from the one or more contoured ridge members to form a perimeter of the support frame; one or more connector stays, each connector stay connecting respective adjacent ribs of the plurality of ribs, the one or more connector stays being offset from the one or more contoured spine members; and The support frame also includes a collapsed inner diameter in the collapsed delivery configuration and a larger expanded inner diameter in the expanded deployment configuration when the support frame is placed in an axially compressed state.

2. The catheter tip of claim 1, wherein the support frame is configured to expand from the collapsed inner diameter to the expanded inner diameter when impacted by an ingested clot.

3. The catheter tip of claim 1, wherein the support frame further comprises a proximal collar at a proximal end of the support frame.

4. The catheter tip of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of ribs comprises a curvilinear, non-planar profile.

5. The catheter tip of claim 1, wherein each of the one or more connector struts is substantially parallel to the one or more contoured ridge members.

6. The catheter tip of claim 1, wherein each of the one or more connector stays is spaced approximately 90 degrees apart from each of the one or more contoured ridge members around the perimeter of the support frame.

7. The catheter tip of claim 1, wherein the one or more contoured ridge members include two contoured ridge members.

8. The catheter tip of claim 1, wherein two or more of the plurality of ribs are not connected by the one or more connector struts.

9. A catheter tip, comprising: A supporting frame, the supporting frame comprising: longitudinal axis; collapsed delivery configuration; Expanded deployed configuration; a connector rib extending in a first direction around a perimeter of the support frame; a plurality of offset ribs extending from the connector rib around the perimeter of the support frame in a second direction; one or more connector members, each connector member connecting a corresponding rib of the plurality of offset ribs; and The support frame further comprises a collapsed inner diameter in the collapsed delivery configuration, and a larger expanded inner diameter in the expanded deployed configuration when the support frame is placed in an axially compressed state.

10. The catheter tip of claim 9, wherein the one or more connector components further comprise one or more connector struts.

11. The catheter tip of claim 10, wherein the one or more connector struts are substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis.

12. The catheter tip of claim 10, wherein the one or more connector struts connect respective adjacent ribs of the plurality of offset ribs.

13. The catheter tip of claim 9, wherein the one or more connector components further comprise one or more compression units.

14. The catheter tip of claim 13, wherein the one or more compression units connect corresponding non-adjacent ribs of the plurality of offset ribs.

15. The catheter tip of claim 13, wherein the one or more compression units comprise a generally diamond-shaped pattern.

16. The catheter tip of claim 13, wherein the one or more compression units comprise a generally oval pattern.

17. The catheter tip of claim 9, wherein the first direction and the second direction are substantially orthogonal.

18. A catheter tip, comprising: A supporting frame, the supporting frame comprising: longitudinal axis; collapsed delivery configuration; Expanded deployed configuration; a first connector rib extending from a proximal end of the support frame and around a perimeter of the support frame; a first plurality of offset ribs extending from the first connector rib around the perimeter of the support frame; a second connector rib extending from the proximal end of the support frame and around the perimeter of the support frame; a second plurality of offset ribs extending from the second connector rib around the perimeter of the support frame; and The support frame further comprises a collapsed inner diameter in the collapsed delivery configuration, and a larger expanded inner diameter in the expanded deployed configuration when the support frame is placed in an axially compressed state.

19. The catheter tip of claim 18, further comprising one or more connector struts, each connector strut connecting respective adjacent ribs in the first plurality of offset ribs or the second plurality of offset ribs.

Images