Collapsible and expandable support frame for a catheter tip - Patent application

Abstract

The systems and devices disclosed herein are for a catheter tip section including a support frame. The support frame can have a longitudinal axis, a folded delivery configuration, and an expanded deployed configuration. The support frame can have a folded inner diameter in the folded delivery configuration and a larger expanded inner diameter in the expanded deployed configuration when the support frame is placed in axial compression. In some examples, the support frame can include one or more contoured spine members extending along the longitudinal axis and a plurality of ribs extending from the one or more contoured spine members. In some examples, the support frame can include connector ribs and a plurality of offset ribs extending from the connector ribs. One or more connector members can connect each of the offset ribs. In some examples, the support frame can include struts forming a lattice structure.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates generally to devices and methods for removing acute occlusions from blood vessels during endovascular treatment. More particularly, the present invention relates to a retrieval catheter having an expandable tip capable of retrieving an object or objects. [Background technology]

[0002] Clot retrieval aspiration catheters and devices are often used in mechanical thrombectomy procedures to perform endovascular interventions when patients suffer from conditions such as acute ischemic stroke (AIS), myocardial infarction (MI), and pulmonary embolism (PE). Accessing neurovascular beds, in particular, is challenging with conventional techniques due to the small diameter of the target vessels, their remote location relative to the insertion site, and their highly tortuous nature. Conventional devices are often either too bulky in profile, lack the deliverability and flexibility necessary to navigate particularly tortuous vessels, or are ineffective at removing clots once delivered to the target site.

[0003] Many existing designs for aspiration retrieval catheters are often limited to an inner diameter of 6 French, approximately 0.068 to 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 8 French guide / 6 French sheath combination, and few would be comfortable with combinations greater than a 9 French guide / 7 French sheath. This means that once the target site is reached, the clot size may often be larger than the inner diameter of the aspiration catheter and must be immediately compressed to otherwise enter the catheter port. This compression can cause bunching during retrieval and subsequently lead to shearing of the clot. Tough, fibrin-rich clots can also become lodged in the tips of the fixed ports of these catheters, making their extraction more difficult. This blockage can also lead to shearing, in which softer portions of the clot break away from the tougher regions of the clot.

[0004] Small diameters and fixed tip sizes are also inefficient at directing the suction necessary for the removal of blood and thrombus material during procedures. Fixed tip sizes can shear or break clots as they enter the tip opening. Suction must be strong enough to ensure that any fragmentation that may occur as a result of suction or the use of a mechanical thrombus removal device can be held stationary to prevent the fragments from migrating and occluding the distal vessel. However, when aspirating with a fixed-port catheter, because the diameter of the funnel catheter is smaller than the vessel diameter, a significant portion of the aspirated flow comes from the vascular fluid proximal to the catheter tip, where no clot is present. This significantly reduces aspiration efficiency and reduces the success rate of clot removal.

[0005] Any catheter design attempting to overcome these challenges with an expanding distal tip or structure would need to be strong enough to extract clots and apply a consistent radial force in the expanded state, and the structure would also need to be sufficiently flexible and resilient in the collapsed state to withstand the severe mechanical strains imposed when navigating tortuous vasculature. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] As a result, there remains a need for improved catheter designs that attempt to overcome the design challenges described above. The present design aims to provide an improved retrieval catheter having an expandable tip section, and methods for using such an improved performing catheter. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] It is an object of the present design to provide a device and method that meets the above needs. The present design may be for a clot retrieval catheter that can remove clots from the cerebral arteries of patients with AIS, from the native coronary or graft vessels of patients with MI, from the pulmonary arteries of patients with PE, and from other peripheral arteries and veins where a clot is causing an obstruction.

[0008] One example of the present disclosure provides a catheter tip section. The catheter tip section can include a support frame. The support frame can include a longitudinal axis, a collapsed delivery configuration, and an expanded deployed configuration. The support frame can include one or more contoured spine members extending along the longitudinal axis. The one or more contoured spine members can connect a distal-most rib to a proximal-most rib. The support frame can include a plurality of ribs extending from the one or more contoured spine members that form a periphery of the support frame. The support frame can include one or more connector struts, each connecting a respective adjacent rib of the plurality of ribs. The plurality of connector struts can be offset from the one or more contoured spine members. The support frame can further 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 axial compression.

[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 blood clot.

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

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

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

[0013] In some examples, each of the one or more connector posts may be spaced apart from each of the one or more contoured spine members approximately around the circumference of the support frame.

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

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

[0016] In another aspect, a catheter tip is disclosed. The catheter tip can include a support frame. The support frame can include a longitudinal axis, a folded delivery configuration, and an expanded deployed configuration. The support frame can include a connector rib extending around the circumference of the support frame in a first direction. The support frame can include a plurality of offset ribs extending from the connector rib around the circumference of the support frame in a second direction. The support frame can include one or more connector members, each connecting a respective rib of the plurality of offset ribs. The support frame can further include a folded inner diameter in the folded delivery configuration and a larger expanded inner diameter in the expanded deployed configuration when the support frame is placed in axial compression.

[0017] In some examples, the one or more connector members may further include one or more connector posts.

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

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

[0020] In some examples, one or more connector members may further include one or more compression cells.

[0021] In some examples, the one or more compression cells can include a generally diamond-shaped pattern.

[0022] In some examples, the one or more compression cells can include a generally oval-shaped pattern.

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

[0024] In another aspect, a catheter tip is disclosed. The catheter tip can include a support frame. The support frame can include a longitudinal axis, a folded delivery configuration, and an expanded deployed configuration. The support frame can include a first connector rib extending from a proximal end of the support frame around a circumference of the support frame. The support frame can include a first plurality of offset ribs extending from the first connector rib around a circumference of the support frame. The support frame can include a second connector rib extending from the proximal end of the support frame around a circumference of the support frame. The support frame can include a second plurality of offset ribs extending from the second connector rib around a circumference of the support frame. The support frame can include a folded inner diameter in the folded delivery configuration and a larger expanded inner diameter in the expanded deployed configuration when the support frame is placed in axial compression.

[0025] In some examples, the catheter tip section can include one or more connector struts each 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 can include a support frame including a longitudinal axis, a collapsed delivery configuration, and an expanded deployed configuration. The support frame can include a plurality of struts extending from a proximal end of the support frame. The plurality of struts can form a lattice structure. The support frame can 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 axial compression.

[0027] In some examples, the lattice structure can further include a plurality of proximal cells proximal to the proximal end having a proximal cell angle and a plurality of distal cells proximal to the distal end of the support frame having a distal cell angle, hi some examples, the proximal cell angle can be greater than the distal cell angle.

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

[0029] In another aspect, a catheter tip is disclosed. The catheter tip can include a support frame having a longitudinal axis, a collapsed delivery configuration, and an expanded deployed configuration. The support frame can include one or more helical spines extending from a proximal end of the support frame. The support frame can include one or more offset ribs extending from each of the one or more helical spines. The support frame can 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 a compressed state.

[0030] In some examples, the one or more offset ribs extend around the circumference of the support frame. The one or more offset ribs can be substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0031] In some examples, the one or more helical spines can include one helical spine.

[0032] In some examples, the one or more helical spines can include four helical spines.

[0033] In some examples, the one or more helical spines can include as many spines as one helical spine to twelve helical spines.

[0034] Other aspects of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying figures. Additional features or steps of manufacture and use may be included as will be recognized and understood by those skilled in the art. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0035] The above and further aspects of the present invention will be further discussed with reference to the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like numerals indicate like structural elements and features in the various drawings. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, with emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the present invention. The figures depict one or more implementations of devices of the present invention by way of example only, and not by way of limitation. It is expected that one skilled in the art will be able to conceive and combine elements from multiple drawings to better suit the needs of a user. [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view of a collapsible and expandable support frame having a plurality of ribs in an expanded configuration, according to an aspect of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a collapsible and expandable support frame having a plurality of offset ribs in an expanded configuration, according to an aspect of the present invention. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 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 an aspect of the present invention. [Figure 4]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a collapsible and expandable support frame having a plurality of offset ribs and a generally oval-shaped compression cell in an expanded configuration, according to an aspect of the present invention. [Figure 5] 1 is a perspective view of a collapsible and expandable support frame having a plurality of offset ribs in an expanded configuration connected with one or more connector posts, according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a collapsible and expandable support frame having proximal and distal cells in an expanded configuration, according to an aspect of the present invention. [Figure 7] 1 is a perspective view of a shortened collapsible and expandable support frame having proximal and distal cells in an expanded configuration, according to an aspect of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 8] 1 is a perspective view of a collapsible and expandable support frame having proximal and distal cells in an expanded configuration with a V-shaped void, according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 9] 1 is a perspective view of a collapsible and expandable support frame having helical struts in an expanded configuration, according to an aspect of the present invention. [Figure 10] 1 is a perspective view of a shortened collapsible and expandable support frame having helical struts in an expanded configuration, according to an aspect of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a shortened collapsible and expandable support frame having a helical spine in an expanded configuration, according to an aspect of the present invention. [Figure 12A] 10A is a cross-sectional view of a collapsed inner diameter of an exemplary support frame, according to an aspect of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 12B] 1 is a cross-sectional view of an expanded inner diameter of an exemplary support frame, in accordance with an aspect of the present invention. [Figure 13] 1 is a diagram of a clot retrieval catheter tip with an expandable support frame being advanced through the vasculature, according to an aspect of the present invention. [Figure 14A]1A-1C are illustrative diagrams of exemplary treatment steps that can be performed using a collapsible and expandable catheter tip support frame in accordance with aspects of the present invention. [Figure 14B] 1A-1C are illustrative diagrams of exemplary treatment steps that can be performed using a collapsible and expandable catheter tip support frame in accordance with aspects of the present invention. [Figure 14C] 1A-1C are illustrative diagrams of exemplary treatment steps that can be performed using a collapsible and expandable catheter tip support frame in accordance with aspects of the present invention. [Figure 15A] 1A-1C are illustrative diagrams of exemplary treatment steps that can be performed using a collapsible and expandable catheter tip support frame in accordance with aspects of the present invention. [Figure 15B] 1A-1C are illustrative diagrams of exemplary treatment steps that can be performed using a collapsible and expandable catheter tip support frame in accordance with aspects of the present invention. [Figure 15C] 1A-1C are illustrative diagrams of exemplary treatment steps that can be performed using a collapsible and expandable catheter tip support frame in accordance with aspects of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0036] Specific embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numbers indicate functionally similar or identical elements. The embodiments address many of the deficiencies associated with conventional clot retrieval aspiration catheters, such as insufficient or inaccurate deployment at the target site and ineffective clot removal.

[0037] The designs herein, illustrating various configurations of the catheter tip support frame, can be incorporated into an aspiration clot retrieval catheter with a membrane cover or proximal shaft, a large bore lumen, and a distal low shear tip (LST) that can expand to a diameter larger than its nominal diameter upon interaction with an ingested clot or a stentreaver. The designs herein can also be incorporated into a collapsible super bore (CSB) catheter with a membrane cover and proximal shaft, providing a catheter that can be pre-expanded and heat-set, collapsed for delivery through a guide catheter, expanded upon exiting the guide catheter, and advanced into a target vessel for clot aspiration.

[0038] The designs herein can have a proximal elongated body for the catheter shaft and a distal tip with an expandable inner frame to provide atraumatic tip section. That is, the expandable inner frame can be easily and repeatedly collapsed for delivery and can be locally expanded under load from the clot (when used in conjunction with an LST catheter) or by being heat-set (when used in conjunction with a CSB catheter), thereby allowing the catheter tip to expand beyond its nominal diameter and ingest the clot. The expandable inner frame can have a proximal ring for attachment to a braided catheter shaft and can have an offset port that allows for a larger opening for clot retrieval and reduced stiffness for easier expansion. This management of the clot during ingestion can significantly reduce clot shear. The catheter design can be sufficiently flexible to navigate highly tortuous areas of the anatomy and recover and maintain the shape of the lumen's inner diameter when displaced within the vessel. Alternatively, the designs herein can be integrally formed with or attached to a laser-cut shaft support structure.

[0039] This innovation, which utilizes the clot itself to expand the tip section as needed, results in significantly improved clot handling and reduced shearing compared to previous designs. The nominal, unexpanded outer diameter maximizes distal access range, similar to standard fixed-port catheters. Then, once the clot is entrapped, additional radial expansion can accommodate the tough, fibrin-rich portion of the clot, progressively compressing it to significantly reduce clot shearing compared to catheters lacking this capability. Furthermore, the conformability of the tip allows for atraumatically advancing the tip past calcified lesions without dislodging plaque material.

[0040] Accessing various vessels within the vascular system, whether they are coronary, pulmonary, or cerebral vessels, involves well-known procedural steps and the use of numerous conventional, commercially available accessory 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 with the devices and methods of the present invention in the following description, their function and exact configuration will not be described in detail. Additionally, while these descriptions are often related to thrombectomy treatment in intracranial arteries, the present disclosure can be adapted to other procedures and other body passageways as well.

[0041] Referring to the figures, FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary collapsible and expandable support frame 210 for use in a clot retrieval catheter tip 100. When used in conjunction with an LST catheter, the support frame 210 can be fabricated using superelastic nickel titanium or nitinol (NiTi), shape-memory NiTi, or stainless steel. Shape-memory materials are not required for LST catheters, but can provide the added benefit of allowing the support frame 210 to recover its shape if distorted during use, or if the support frame 210 is expanded by the clot during a first retrieval pass and needs to be easily recovered to return through the guide sheath to perform a second retrieval pass. When used in conjunction with a CSB catheter, shape-memory materials allow the support frame 210 to self-expand as it exits the distal end of the catheter tip 100 and approaches the clot for retrieval. The shape-memory alloy used can include an austenite finish temperature of less than about 30 degrees Celsius.

[0042] The support frame 210 can be manufactured by taking blank tubing of the material as discussed above and laser cutting the material to produce the desired configuration of the support frame 210, as described further below. The blank tubing can have an outer diameter of about 2.00 millimeters, a wall thickness of about 0.05 millimeters, and an inner diameter of about 1.90 millimeters. The support frame 210 can also be manufactured with a light electropolish or other such finish. A matte finish can provide the benefit of enhanced adhesion to a polymer catheter jacket.

[0043] The support frame 210 can include a longitudinal axis 111, a collapsed delivery configuration (FIG. 14A, 15A, or 15B), and an expanded deployed configuration (FIG. 14B, 14C, or 15C). The support frame 210 can include one or more contoured spines 214, which can be spaced 180 degrees apart about the longitudinal axis 111. Ribs 215 can extend from the one or more contoured spines 214, such that the one or more contoured spines 214 connect a distal-most rib with a proximal-most rib. The ribs 215 can form a circumference of the support frame 210. The distal end 114 of the support frame can include a mouth 213 formed by the circumference of the support frame formed by the ribs 215. The proximal end 112 of the support frame 210, according to some embodiments, can include a collar 115 having a plurality of collar prongs 116 that can assist in connecting the catheter tip section 100 to the elongate body of a catheter delivery system by providing additional surface area to aid in welding or bonding the catheter tip section 100 to the catheter system. Several of the ribs 215 can be connected by one or more connector struts 216. The connector struts 216 can be rotated approximately 90 degrees about the longitudinal axis 111 relative to one or more contoured spines 214. Such a configuration of the connector struts 216 can improve the crush resistance of the dilator tip as it tracks through tortuous vasculature when the catheter tip section 100 is positioned for clot retrieval.

[0044] 2 illustrates another exemplary expandable support frame 310 for use within clot retrieval catheter tip 100. Support frame 310 can include one or more features the same or similar to those described above with respect to support frame 210. Additionally, the manufacture of support frame 310 can be the same or similar to the manufacture of support frame 210, as discussed above. Support frame 310 can also be manufactured to be electropolished, pickled to roughen the surface of support frame 310, and / or heated to have an oxide layer finish.

[0045] The support frame 310 can include a longitudinal axis, a folded delivery configuration, and an expanded deployed configuration. The support frame 310 can include connector ribs 315 extending around the circumference of the support frame in a first direction. Extending from the connector ribs 315 can be a plurality of offset ribs extending around the circumference of the support frame 310 in a second direction. In some examples, the first direction and the second direction can be approximately perpendicular to one another. The support frame 310 can also include one or more connector struts 316. The one or more connector struts 316 can connect respective ribs of the plurality of offset ribs 317. The one or more connector struts 316 can extend approximately parallel to the longitudinal axis 111. The connection between the offset ribs 317 and the connector ribs 315 can facilitate smooth compression of the support frame 310 when pressing against the walls of the vasculature when navigating tortuous anatomical structures.

[0046] The support frame 310 may also include a proximal collar 115 at its proximal end 112. The proximal collar 115 may be used to attach the support frame 310 to the braided shaft of the clot retrieval catheter. The proximal collar 115 may include collar prongs 116 that may aid in the attachment process of the support frame 310 to the braided shaft of the clot retrieval catheter.

[0047] The support frame 310 can also include a port 313 at the distal end 114. Similar to the support frame 210, the support frame 310 can include a collapsed inner diameter when in a collapsed delivery configuration and a larger inner diameter in an expanded, deployed configuration when the support frame 310 is placed in a compressed state. When used in conjunction with either an LST catheter or a CSB catheter, the support frame 310, when in its expanded, deployed configuration, can have a maximum outer diameter that is less than the inner diameter 13 of the target vessel 12 at the treatment site, thereby allowing the support frame 310 to be advanced distally toward the clot 40 independently of and without sealing against the vessel 12.

[0048] 3 illustrates another exemplary expandable support frame 410 for use in the clot retrieval catheter tip 100. The support frame 410 can include one or more features the same or similar to those described above with respect to the support frame 310. Additionally, the manufacture of the support frame 410 can be the same or similar to the manufacture of the support frame 310, as discussed above. The support frame 410 can 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.

[0049] The support frame 410 may be substantially similar to the support frame 310, except that instead of the connector posts 317 of the support frame 310, the support frame 410 may include generally diamond-shaped compression cells 416. The generally diamond-shaped compression cells 416 may connect each offset rib. Unlike the connector posts 317, the compression cells 416 may connect more offset ribs 417. Rather than connecting two offset ribs 317 as in the support frame 310, the compression cells 416 may connect three or more offset ribs 417 as shown in FIG. 3 . The compression cells 416 may allow for smoother compression of the support frame 410 across more offset ribs 417 while facilitating lateral bending to the support frame 410.

[0050] Similar to support frame 210, support frame 410 can include a collapsed inner diameter when in a collapsed delivery configuration and a larger inner diameter in an expanded, deployed configuration when support frame 410 is placed in a compressed state. When used in conjunction with either an LST catheter or a CSB catheter, support frame 410, when in its expanded, deployed configuration, can have a maximum outer diameter that is less than the inner diameter 13 of the target vessel 12 at the treatment site, thereby allowing support frame 310 to be advanced distally toward the clot 40 independently of, and without sealing against, vessel 12.

[0051] 4 illustrates another exemplary expandable support frame 510 for use in clot retrieval catheter tip 100. Support frame 510 can include one or more features the same or similar to those described above with respect to support frame 410. Additionally, the manufacture of support frame 510 can be the same or similar to the manufacture of support frame 410, as discussed above. Support frame 510 can also be manufactured to be electropolished, pickled to roughen the surface of support frame 510, and / or heated to have an oxide layer finish.

[0052] The support frame 510 may be substantially similar to the support frame 410, except that instead of the generally diamond-shaped compression cells 416 of the support frame 410, the support frame 510 may include generally oval-shaped compression cells 516. The generally oval-shaped compression cells 516 may connect respective offset ribs. Similar to the compression cells 416, the compression cells 516 may connect more offset ribs 517. That is, the compression cells 516 may connect three or more offset ribs 517, as shown in FIG. 4 . The compression cells 516 may allow for smoother compression of the support frame 510 across more offset ribs 517 while facilitating lateral bending of the support frame 510.

[0053] Similar to support frame 210, support frame 510 can include a collapsed inner diameter when in a collapsed delivery configuration and a larger inner diameter in an expanded, deployed configuration when support frame 510 is placed in a compressed state. When used in conjunction with either an LST catheter or a CSB catheter, support frame 510, when in its expanded, deployed configuration, can have a maximum outer diameter that is less than the inner diameter 13 of the target vessel 12 at the treatment site, thereby allowing support frame 510 to be advanced distally toward clot 40 independently of, and without sealing against, vessel 12.

[0054] 5 illustrates another exemplary expandable support frame 610 for use in clot retrieval catheter tip 100. Support frame 610 can include one or more features the same or similar to those described above with respect to support frame 210. Additionally, the manufacture of support frame 610 can be the same or similar to the manufacture of support frame 210, as discussed above. Support frame 610 can also be manufactured to be electropolished, pickled to roughen the surface of support frame 610, and / or heated to have an oxide layer finish.

[0055] The support frame 610 can include a longitudinal axis 111, a folded delivery configuration, and an expanded deployed configuration. The support frame 610 can include a first connector rib 615a extending from the proximal end 112 of the support frame around the circumference of the support frame 610. A first plurality of offset ribs 617a can extend from the first connector rib 615a around the circumference of the support frame 610. The support frame 610 can also include a second connector rib 615b extending from the proximal end 112 of the support frame around the circumference of the support frame 610. Extending from the second connector rib 615b can be a second plurality of offset ribs 617b extending around the circumference of the support frame 610. The connections between the offset ribs 617 a, 617 b and the connector ribs 615 a, 615 b can allow the support frame 610 to compress smoothly when pressing against the wall of a blood vessel while navigating tortuous anatomical structures. In some examples, the support frame 610 can include one or more connector struts 616, each of which can connect adjacent ribs of the first plurality of offset ribs 617 a or the second plurality of offset ribs 617 b. The connector struts 616 can improve the crush resistance of the expanded tip as it tracks through tortuous vasculature when the catheter tip section 100 is positioned for clot retrieval.

[0056] The proximal end 112 of the support frame 610, according to some embodiments, can include a collar 115 having a plurality of collar prongs 116 that can assist in connecting the catheter tip section 100 to the elongate body of a catheter delivery system by providing additional surface area to aid in welding the catheter tip section 100 to the catheter system.

[0057] 6 illustrates another exemplary expandable support frame 710 for use in clot retrieval catheter tip 100. Support frame 710 can include one or more features the same or similar to those described above with respect to support frame 210. Additionally, the manufacture of support frame 710 can be the same or similar to the manufacture of support frame 210, as discussed above. Support frame 710 can also be manufactured to be electropolished, pickled to roughen the surface of support frame 710, and / or heated to have an oxide layer finish.

[0058] The support frame 710 can include a longitudinal axis 111, a collapsed delivery configuration, and an expanded deployed configuration. The support frame 710 can include a plurality of struts 715 extending from the proximal end 112 of the support frame 710. The plurality of struts 715 can intersect with one another to form a lattice structure. The intersecting struts 715 of the support frame 710 can form cells. In some examples, the support frame 710 can include proximal cells 719 having a proximal cell angle 721 and distal cells 720 having a distal cell angle 722. When in the collapsed configuration, the proximal cell angle 721 of the proximal cell 719 can be greater than the distal cell angle 722 of the distal cell 720. The distal cell angle 722 is effective to reduce radial forces on the support frame 710, making it easier to track the catheter tip 100 through an outer guide sheath while in the collapsed configuration. When the support frame 710 expands to the expanded deployed configuration, the proximal cell angles 721 of the proximal cells may not change substantially, while the distal cell angles 722 of the distal cells 720 may increase in the expanded deployed configuration. The expansion of the distal cell angles of the distal cells 720 may improve crush resistance while a catheter tip 100 using the support frame 710 is being used to aspirate a clot and / or while the catheter tip 100 is tracking through tortuous vasculature while approaching a clot to be aspirated.

[0059] The distal cell angle 722 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, while a larger angle may provide the tip with greater crush resistance for a given strut width. The proximal angle 721 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. Having a proximal angle 721 greater than the distal angle 722 may facilitate more gradual expansion of the tip during clot intake. When expanded, angles 721, 722 will depend on the diameter to which the tip is expanded during clot intake for LST embodiments. For CSB embodiments, the distal cell angle 722 should be set so that the tip has sufficient crush resistance while having a sufficiently low radial force so that the tip can be collapsed and advanced through the outer guide catheter. To this end, the distal cell angle 722 may be within a range of 60 to 130 degrees, more preferably within a range of 90 to 120 degrees, and even more preferably within a range of 100 to 110 degrees. For CSBs, the proximal cell angle 721 may be smaller or larger than the angle of the distal cell angle 722. The proximal angle 721 may be within a range of 20 to 160 degrees, more preferably within a range of 30 to 120 degrees, and even more preferably within a range of 60 to 90 degrees. Having a proximal cell angle 721 smaller than that of the distal angle 722 can provide more compression when collapsing the extension portion for delivery, while having a proximal angle 721 larger than the distal angle 722 provides more gradual expansion / compression of the tip during delivery / collapse.

[0060] The proximal end 112 of the support frame 710 may include a wide collar 115 having multiple collar cavities 117. The wide collar 115 is provided to provide sufficient material for welding to the braided structure of the elongated body of the catheter delivery system by providing additional surface area to assist in welding the catheter tip section 100 to the catheter system. The collar cavities 117 may be provided to allow material to reflow during the lamination process to improve adhesion between the support frame 710 and the elongated body of the catheter delivery system. The collar cavities 117 may also be effective in preventing excess material from gathering on the collar 115 to keep the outer diameter profile of the catheter tip section 100 low and uniform throughout the structure. The cavities 117 may also be used as wells to guide adhesive when a braided structure is positioned above or below the collar 115.

[0061] 7 illustrates another exemplary expandable support frame 810 for use in clot retrieval catheter tip 100. Support frame 810 can include one or more features the same or similar to those described above with respect to support frame 710. Additionally, the manufacture of support frame 810 can be the same or similar to the manufacture of support frame 710, as discussed above. Support frame 810 can also be manufactured to be electropolished, pickled to roughen the surface of support frame 810, and / or heated to have an oxide layer finish.

[0062] The support frame 810 can include a longitudinal axis 111, a collapsed delivery configuration, and an expanded deployed configuration. The support frame 810 can include a plurality of struts 815 extending from the proximal end 112 of the support frame 810. The plurality of struts 815 can intersect with one another to form a lattice structure. The intersecting struts 815 of the support frame 810 can form cells. In some examples, the support frame 810 can include proximal cells 819 having a proximal cell angle 821 and distal cells 820 having a distal cell angle 822. When in the collapsed configuration, the proximal cell angle 821 of the proximal cell 819 can be greater than the distal cell angle 822 of the distal cell 820. The distal cell angle 822 is effective to reduce radial forces on the support frame 810, facilitating tracking of the catheter tip 100 through an outer guide sheath while in the collapsed configuration. When the support frame 810 expands to the expanded deployed configuration, the proximal cell angle 821 of the proximal cells may not change substantially, while the distal cell angle 822 of the distal cells 820 may increase in the expanded deployed configuration. The expansion of the distal cell angle of the distal cells 820 may improve crush resistance while the catheter tip 100 using the support frame 810 is used to aspirate a clot and / or while the catheter tip 100 is tracking through tortuous vasculature while approaching a clot to be aspirated.

[0063] The distal cell angle 822 and the proximal cell angle 821 can be configured to provide the characteristics of an LST catheter or a CSB catheter, similar to the cell angles 721, 722 illustrated in FIG. 6 . The distal cell angle 822 and the proximal cell angle 821 can have measurements similar to those of the cell angles 721, 722 illustrated in FIG. 6 . The distal cell angle 822 in the collapsed configuration can 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 can allow the tip to expand to a larger diameter than a larger angle, while a larger angle can provide the tip with greater crush resistance for a given strut width. The proximal angle 821 can 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. Having a proximal angle 821 greater than the distal angle 822 can facilitate more gradual expansion of the tip during clot intake. When expanded, angles 821, 822 will depend on the diameter to which the tip is expanded during clot intake for LST embodiments. For CSB embodiments, distal cell angle 822 should be set so that the tip has sufficient crush resistance while having a sufficiently low radial force so that the tip can collapse and be advanced through the outer guide catheter. To this end, distal cell angle 822 can be in the range of 60 to 130 degrees, more preferably in the range of 90 to 120 degrees, and even more preferably in the range of 100 to 110 degrees. For CSB, proximal cell angle 821 can be smaller or larger than the angle of distal cell angle 822. Proximal angle 821 can 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. Having a proximal cell angle 821 smaller than that of the distal angle 822 can provide more compression when folding the extension portion for delivery, while having a proximal angle 821 larger than the distal angle 822 provides more gradual expansion / compression of the tip during delivery / folding.

[0064] The proximal end 112 of the support frame 810 may include a wide collar 115 having multiple collar cavities 117. The wide collar 115 is provided to provide sufficient material to weld to the braided structure of the elongate body of the catheter delivery system by providing additional surface area to aid in welding the catheter tip 100 to the catheter system. The collar cavities 117 may be provided to allow material to reflow during the lamination process to improve adhesion between the support frame 810 and the elongate body of the catheter delivery system. The collar cavities 117 may also be effective in preventing excess material from gathering on the collar 115 to keep the outer diameter profile of the catheter tip 100 low and uniform throughout the structure.

[0065] 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 be effective to improve the maneuverability of support frame 810 as support frame 810 navigates tortuous vasculature.

[0066] 8 illustrates another exemplary expandable support frame 910 for use in clot retrieval catheter tip 100. Support frame 910 can include one or more features the same or similar to those described above with respect to support frame 710. Additionally, the manufacture of support frame 910 can be the same or similar to the manufacture of support frame 710, as discussed above. Support frame 910 can also be manufactured to be electropolished, pickled to roughen the surface of support frame 910, and / or heated to have an oxide layer finish.

[0067] The proximal end 112 of the support frame 910 may include a wide collar 115 having multiple collar cavities 117. The wide collar 115 is provided to provide sufficient material to weld to the braided structure of the elongate body of the catheter delivery system by providing additional surface area to assist in welding the catheter tip 100 to the catheter system. The collar cavities 117 may be provided to allow material to reflow during the lamination process to improve adhesion between the support frame 910 and the elongate body of the catheter delivery system. The collar cavities 117 may also be effective in preventing excess material from gathering on the collar 115 to keep the outer diameter profile of the catheter tip 100 low and uniform throughout the structure.

[0068] The support frame 910 can include a longitudinal axis 111, a collapsed delivery configuration, and an expanded deployed configuration. The support frame 910 can include a plurality of struts 915 extending from the proximal end 112 of the support frame 910. The plurality of struts 915 can intersect with one another to form a lattice structure. The intersecting struts 915 of the support frame 910 can form cells. In some examples, the support frame 910 can also include V-cells 924, which can be V-shaped voids within the lattice formed from the intersecting struts 915. The V-cells 924 can be positioned such that a V-cell apex 927 of the V-cell 924 is positioned to face toward the distal end 114 of the support frame 910. The V-cells 924 can be positioned proximal to the proximal end 112 and can be effective in allowing the support frame 910 to flex laterally to a greater extent between the collar 115 and the distal end 114.

[0069] 9 and 10 illustrate another exemplary expandable support frame 1010 for use in the clot retrieval catheter tip 100. The support frame 1010 can include one or more features the same as or similar to those described above with respect to the support frame 210. Additionally, the manufacture of the support frame 1010 can be the same as or similar to the manufacture of the support frame 210, as discussed above. The support frame 1010 can also be manufactured to be electropolished, pickled to roughen the surface of the support frame 1010, and / or heated to have an oxide layer finish.

[0070] 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 to weld to the braided structure of the elongate body of the catheter delivery system by providing additional surface area to aid in welding the catheter tip 100 to the catheter system. The collar cavities 117 may be provided to allow material to reflow during the lamination process to improve adhesion between the support frame 1010 and the elongate body of the catheter delivery system. The collar cavities 117 may also be effective in preventing excess material from gathering on the collar 115 to keep the outer diameter profile of the catheter tip 100 low and uniform throughout the structure.

[0071] The support frame 1010 can include a longitudinal axis 111, a folded delivery configuration, and an expanded deployed configuration. The support frame 1010 can include a plurality of helical struts 1017 extending from the collar 115. The helical struts 1017 can be angled relative to the longitudinal axis 111 such that the helical struts 1017 wind around the circumference of the support frame 1010. Extending from the helical struts 1017, the support frame 1010 can include connector struts 1015. The connector struts 1015 and the helical struts 1017 can intersect to form a lattice structure. The lattice structure of the support frame 1010 can include lattice cells 1019. The lattice cells can include lattice cell angles 1022. FIG. 9 shows lattice cell angle 1022a when support frame 1010 is not axially compressed, while FIG. 10 shows support frame 1010 in an axially compressed state that causes lattice cell angle 1022b to be greater than lattice cell angle 1022a.

[0072] 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 an outer guide sheath without further expanding the support frame 1010 as the catheter tip section 100 is delivered to a treatment site. In some examples, the lattice cell angle 1022 can be reduced in the collapsed, undeployed state to prevent the support frame 1010 from expanding as it is delivered through a guide sheath to a treatment site.

[0073] 11 illustrates another exemplary expandable support frame 1110 for use in clot retrieval catheter tip 100. Support frame 1110 can include one or more features the same or similar to those described above with respect to support frame 210. Additionally, the manufacture of support frame 1110 can be the same or similar to the manufacture of support frame 210, as discussed above. Support frame 1110 can also be manufactured to be electropolished, pickled to roughen the surface of support frame 1110, and / or heated to have an oxide layer finish.

[0074] The proximal end 112 of the support frame 1110 can include a wide collar 115 having multiple collar cavities 117. The wide collar 115 is provided to provide sufficient material to weld to the braided structure of the elongate body of the catheter delivery system by providing additional surface area to aid in welding the catheter tip 100 to the catheter system. The collar cavities 117 can be provided to allow material to reflow during the lamination process to improve adhesion between the support frame 1110 and the elongate body of the catheter delivery system. The collar cavities 117 can also be effective in preventing excess material from gathering on the collar 115 to keep the outer diameter profile of the catheter tip 100 low and uniform throughout the structure.

[0075] The support frame 1110 can include one or more helical spines 1114 extending from the collar 115. The helical spines 1114 can extend from the collar 115 in a helical pattern around the circumference of the support frame 1110. While a support frame 1110 having four helical spines 1114 is illustrated in FIG. 11 , in some examples, the support frame 1110 can have one to twelve helical spines 1114. Having more helical spines 1114 for the same strut thickness can make the tip stiffer laterally and increase the pushability of the catheter. Additionally or alternatively, having more helical spines 1114 can 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 likelihood of the membrane on the catheter tip being sucked in and extending radially inward when using very soft membranes.

[0076] The helical spine 1114 may vary in pitch. For example, the helical pitch of the helical spine 1114 may be increased to increase the lateral stiffness and extrudability of the support frame 1110 to the treatment site. The helical pitch of the helical spine 1114 may be decreased to reduce lateral bending. The pitch of the helical spine 1114 may be in the range of 0.5 to 50 mm, more preferably in the range of 1 to 10 mm, and even more preferably in the range of 2 to 8 mm. A higher pitch may result in more extrudability but less flexibility. Extending from each helical spine 1114 may be one or more offset ribs 1117. The one or more offset ribs 1117 may extend around the circumference of the support frame 1110 and may be substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 111.

[0077] 12A and 12B, the support frame 210 can include a collapsed inner diameter 217 (FIG. 12A) when in a collapsed delivery configuration and a larger inner diameter 224 (FIG. 12B) in an expanded, deployed configuration when the support frame 210 is placed in a compressed state. The collapsed inner diameter 217 allows the support frame 210 to fit within the guide sheath 30 (FIG. 14A) as the catheter is navigated through the blood vessel 12 toward the treatment site. As further described below with respect to FIGS. 15A-15C, 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 guide sheath 30 and then expand from the collapsed inner diameter 217 to the expanded inner diameter 224 upon impact with an ingested clot 40. Alternatively, when used in conjunction with a CSB catheter, as further described below with respect to Figures 14A-14C, the support frame 210 can be heat-set to have an expanded inner diameter 224 that is larger than the collapsed inner diameter 217 once the support frame 210 exits the distal end 32 of the guide sheath 30. When used in conjunction with either an LST catheter or a CSB catheter, when the support frame 210 is in its expanded, deployed configuration (Figures 14B-14C, and 15C), its maximum outer diameter can be less than the inner diameter 13 of the target vessel 12 at the treatment site, thereby allowing the support frame 210 to be advanced distally toward the clot 40 independently of, and without sealing against, the vessel 12.

[0078] 13 illustrates a possible sequence for accessing an occlusive clot 40 using a large-bore clot retrieval catheter 100 used in conjunction with the support frame design disclosed herein. The clot 40 can be accessed with the catheter 100 collapsed within a guide sheath 30 or other access catheter. When the vasculature 10 is too narrow and / or tortuous for further distal navigation with the guide sheath 30, the catheter 100 can be deployed for further independent distal movement. The catheter 100 can be highly flexible to navigate M1 or other tortuous regions of the neurovasculature to reach the occlusive clot, and can have an expanded outer diameter slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the target vessel to allow for independent distal navigation 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 adapted to collapse in response to pressure exerted by a smaller vessel having a diameter smaller than the expanded diameter as the distal tip moves through the smaller vessel.

[0079] The clot retrieval catheter 100 can have a flexible elongate body 110 of the design disclosed herein, such as a support frame 210, that functions as a shaft with a large internal bore (which in some cases can be 0.080 inches or larger), and a distal tip section with a collapsible support frame. The large bore facilitates delivery of the catheter to the target site by a variety of methods. These can include over a microcatheter, over a guidewire, with a dilator / access tool, or by itself.

[0080] In many cases, the tip design can be configured to allow the entire catheter 100 to be delivered through (and retrieved through) a common standard 6F sheath / 8F guide, which typically has an internal lumen of less than 0.090 inches. The tip can self-expand once advanced to an unconstrained position distal to the distal end 32 of the guide sheath 30. To allow the catheter to be deployed proximally and then independently advanced to a remote occlusion, the tip support frame is designed to resist folding from suction forces, has excellent lateral flexibility in both the expanded and collapsed states, and has an atraumatic contour to prevent it from getting caught on bifurcations in the vessel.

[0081] 14A-14C illustrate an exemplary treatment sequence for using a clot retrieval catheter-expandable support frame of the design disclosed herein in conjunction with a CSB catheter, as described above. While FIGS. 14A-14C illustrate the use of support frame 1410, 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 treatment sequence. FIG. 14A illustrates the support frame 1410 inside the catheter shaft 110 and inside the distal end 32 of the guide sheath 30 as the catheter tip moves through the target vessel 12 toward the clot 40 (FIG. 14B). As shown, when inside the guide sheath 30 in the collapsed delivery configuration, the support frame 1410 includes a collapsed inner diameter 217.

[0082] 14B illustrates the support frame 1410 transitioning to its expanded, deployed configuration upon exiting 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 such that upon 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 contour 1416 of the support frame 210 can be symmetrical about the longitudinal axis 111. Alternatively, the funnel contour 1416 can be sloped. In some examples, when in its expanded, deployed configuration, the maximum outer diameter of the support frame 1410 can be less than the inner diameter 13 of the target vessel 12, such that the support frame 1410 can be advanced distally toward the clot 40 independently of and without sealing against the vessel 12. 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 adapted to collapse in response to pressure exerted by the smaller target vessel 12 as the support frame 1410 moves through the target vessel 12 to the blood clot 40.

[0083] 14C illustrates the mouth 1413 of the support frame 1410 encasing the proximal portion of the clot 40. As shown and discussed above, the support frame 1410 can shorten axially when placed in compression against and / or around the clot 40.

[0084] 15A-15C illustrate an exemplary treatment sequence for using a clot retrieval catheter-expandable support frame of the design disclosed herein in conjunction with an LST catheter, as described above. While FIGS. 11A-11C illustrate the use of support frame 1510, 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 treatment sequence. FIG. 15A illustrates the support frame 1510 inside the catheter shaft 110 and inside the distal end 32 of the guide sheath 30 as the catheter tip moves through the target vessel 12 toward the clot 40 (FIG. 15B). As shown, when inside the guide sheath 30 in the collapsed delivery configuration, the support frame 1510 includes a collapsed inner diameter 217.

[0085] 15B illustrates the support frame 1510 exiting the distal end 32 of the guide sheath 30. As described above, when used in conjunction with an LST catheter, the support frame 1510 can maintain its collapsed inner diameter 217 as it exits the distal end 32 of the guide sheath 30. As shown, the distal tip section 114 of the support frame 1510 begins to align with the beveled ostium plane 1521. Alternatively, the distal support frame 1510 can have a symmetrical profile.

[0086] 15C illustrates the mouth 1513 of the support frame 210 enveloping the proximal portion of the clot 40. As shown and discussed above, the support frame 1510 can shorten axially when placed in compression against and / or around the clot 40. Additionally, the funnel contour 1516 can be radially offset from the longitudinal axis 111. Also, even when the support frame 1510 is in its expanded, deployed configuration, such as when used in conjunction with a CSB catheter (FIGS. 14A-14C), the maximum outer diameter of the support frame 1510 can be less than the inner diameter 13 of the target vessel 12, thereby allowing the support frame 1510 to be advanced distally toward the clot 40 independently of and without sealing off the vessel 12.

[0087] Catheters with angled orifices can be LST or CSB type designs. An angled orifice provides a larger cross-sectional area for contact with the clot, increasing the gripping force compared to a round, non-angled orifice. Frame designs compatible with angled orifices include those in Figures 2, 3, 4, and 5. The designs in Figures 1 and 6-11 can have a circular orifice or can have a membrane shaped to follow the contours of the distal strut.

[0088] The present invention is not necessarily limited to the examples described, which may vary in configuration and details. The terms "distal" and "proximal" are used throughout the foregoing description and are intended to refer to a location and direction relative to a treating physician. Thus, "distal" or "distally" refers to a location away from or a direction away from the physician. Similarly, "proximal" or "proximally" refers to a location closer to or a direction toward the physician. Furthermore, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0089] As used herein, the terms "about" or "approximately" in connection with any numerical value or range of values indicates a suitable dimensional tolerance that enables a portion of a component or a collection of components to function for its intended purpose as described herein. More specifically, "about" or "approximately" may refer to a range of values of ±20% of the recited value; for example, "about 90%" may refer to a range of values of 71% to 99%.

[0090] In describing exemplary embodiments, technical terminology is employed for the sake of clarity. Consequently, not all possible combinations have been listed; such variations will often be apparent to those skilled in the art and are intended to fall within the scope of the following claims. Each term is intended to have its broadest meaning as understood by those skilled in the art and is intended to include all technical equivalents that operate in a similar manner to achieve a similar purpose without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention. It should also be understood that a reference to one or more steps of a method does not preclude the presence of additional or intervening method steps between those explicitly identified steps. Similarly, some steps of a method can be performed in a different order than described herein without departing from the scope of the disclosed technology.

[0091] [Embodiment] (1) A catheter tip, a support frame, the support frame comprising: a longitudinal axis; a folded delivery configuration; Expanded deployment configurations and one or more contoured spine members extending along the longitudinal axis and connecting a distal-most rib to a proximal-most rib; a plurality of ribs extending from the one or more contoured spine members forming a circumference of the support frame; one or more connector struts each connecting a respective adjacent rib of the plurality of ribs, the one or more connector struts being offset from the one or more contoured spine members; the support frame further comprising 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 axial compression. (2) A catheter tip portion as described in embodiment 1, wherein the support frame is configured to expand from the collapsed inner diameter to the expanded inner diameter when impacted by an ingested blood clot. (3) A catheter tip as described in embodiment 1, wherein the support frame further comprises a proximal collar at the proximal end of the support frame. (4) A catheter tip section as described in embodiment 1, wherein the plurality of ribs each have a curved, non-planar contour. (5) A catheter tip section as described in embodiment 1, wherein each of the one or more connector struts is substantially parallel to the one or more contoured spine members.

[0092] (6) A catheter tip as described in embodiment 1, wherein each of the one or more connector struts is spaced approximately 90 degrees around the circumference of the support frame from each of the one or more contoured spine members. (7) A catheter tip as described in embodiment 1, wherein the one or more contoured spine members comprise two contoured spine members. (8) A catheter tip portion as described in embodiment 1, wherein two or more of the plurality of ribs are not connected by the one or more connector struts. (9) A catheter tip, a support frame, the support frame comprising: a longitudinal axis; a folded delivery configuration; Expanded deployment configurations and a connector rib extending around a circumference of the support frame in a first direction; a plurality of offset ribs extending from the connector rib around the circumference of the support frame in a second direction; one or more connector members each connecting a respective rib of the plurality of offset ribs; the support frame further comprising 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 axial compression. (10) A catheter tip portion as described in embodiment 9, wherein the one or more connector members further comprise one or more connector posts.

[0093] (11) The catheter tip of embodiment 10, wherein the one or more connector struts are substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis. (12) The catheter tip section of embodiment 10, wherein the one or more connector struts connect each adjacent one of the plurality of offset ribs. (13) The catheter tip section of embodiment 9, wherein the one or more connector members further comprise one or more compression cells. (14) The catheter tip section of embodiment 13, wherein the one or more compression cells connect respective non-adjacent ribs of the plurality of offset ribs. (15) The catheter tip of embodiment 13, wherein the one or more compression cells comprise a generally diamond-shaped pattern.

[0094] (16) The catheter tip section of embodiment 13, wherein the one or more compressed cells comprise a generally elliptical pattern. (17) The catheter tip section according to embodiment 9, wherein the first direction and the second direction are substantially perpendicular to each other. (18) A catheter tip, a support frame, the support frame comprising: a longitudinal axis; a folded delivery configuration; Expanded deployment configurations and a first connector rib extending from a proximal end of the support frame around a circumference of the support frame; a first plurality of offset ribs extending from the first connector rib around the circumference of the support frame; a second connector rib extending from the proximal end of the support frame around the circumference of the support frame; a second plurality of offset ribs extending from the second connector rib around the circumference of the support frame; the support frame further comprising 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 axial compression. (19) The catheter tip section of embodiment 18, further comprising one or more connector struts each connecting adjacent ribs of the first plurality of offset ribs or the second plurality of offset ribs.

Claims

1. A catheter tip, a support frame, the support frame comprising: a longitudinal axis; a folded delivery configuration; Expanded deployment configurations and one or more contoured spine members extending along the longitudinal axis and connecting a distal-most rib to a proximal-most rib; a plurality of ribs extending from the one or more contoured spine members forming a circumference of the support frame; one or more connector struts each connecting a respective adjacent rib of the plurality of ribs, the one or more connector struts being offset from the one or more contoured spine members; the support frame further comprising 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 axial compression.

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 upon impact by an ingested blood 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 the plurality of ribs each comprise a curved, 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 spine members.

6. 10. The catheter tip of claim 1, wherein each of the one or more connector struts is spaced approximately 90 degrees around the circumference of the support frame from each of the one or more contoured spine members.

7. The catheter tip of claim 1 , wherein the one or more contoured spine members comprise two contoured spine 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, a support frame, the support frame comprising: a longitudinal axis; a folded delivery configuration; Expanded deployment configurations and a connector rib extending around a circumference of the support frame in a first direction; a plurality of offset ribs extending from the connector rib around the circumference of the support frame in a second direction; one or more connector members each connecting a respective rib of the plurality of offset ribs; the support frame further comprising 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 axial compression.

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

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 ones of the plurality of offset ribs.

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

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

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

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

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

18. A catheter tip, a support frame, the support frame comprising: a longitudinal axis; a folded delivery configuration; Expanded deployment configurations and a first connector rib extending from a proximal end of the support frame around a circumference of the support frame; a first plurality of offset ribs extending from the first connector rib around the circumference of the support frame; a second connector rib extending from the proximal end of the support frame around the circumference of the support frame; a second plurality of offset ribs extending from the second connector rib around the circumference of the support frame; the support frame further comprising 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 axial compression.

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

Images