TORQUES AND CATHETERS

Abstract

A torquer with a simple configuration is described, which detects the strain generated when a guide wire is actuated. The torquer (30) comprises a cylindrical body through which the base end (12) of a guide wire (10) is inserted. The guide wire is attached to a catheter (100) and moves to a desired position. The torquer (30) holds the guide wire (10) within the cylindrical body, extends to the outside of the cylindrical body on the side opposite the distal end of the guide wire (10), and, together with the guide wire (10), actuates the movement of the guide wire (10) to the desired position. The torquer (30) includes strain gauges (71, 73) for detecting the strain generated when the guide wire (10) is actuated within the torquer (30) and for generating an analog signal corresponding to the strain.