Shaft apparatus for a catheter

Abstract

Shaft apparatus (101) include an inner layer (103) enclosing a first lumen (201) extending in a direction (115) of a longitudinal axis (113) of the shaft apparatus. The inner layer includes an inner circumferential surface (202) defining a first lumen, an outer circumferential surface (333), and at least one inner layer channel extending in the direction of the longitudinal axis. The at least one inner layer channel (203) comprises an interior comprising an opening at the outer circumferential surface such that the opening extends in the direction of the longitudinal axis. Each inner layer channel further includes a wire (204) extending through the interior of the inner layer channel in the direction of the longitudinal axis, wherein a shape of an inwardly facing surface of each wire matches a shape of an outwardly facing surface of a bases of the inner layer channel that the wire extends through.

Description

ATTORNEY DOCKET NO. A0011446WO01SHAFT APPARATUS FORA CATHETERCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 681,234, filed August 9, 2024, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference.FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to a shaft apparatus for a catheter which may be usable having a tubular core which may be usable with a minimally invasive procedure such as an intravascular medical treatment system.BACKGROUND

[0003] Intravascular medical procedures allow the performance of therapeutic treatments in a variety of locations within a patient’s body while requiring only relatively small access incisions. An intravascular procedure may, for example, eliminate the need for open-heart surgery, reducing risks, costs, and time associated with an open-heart procedure. An example of an intravascular procedure that significantly reduces procedure and recovery time and cost over conventional open surgery is a heart valve replacement or repair procedure in which an artificial valve or valve repair device is guided to the heart through the patient’s vasculature using a catheter device. Precise control of the distal end of a catheter device allows for more reliable and faster positioning of a medical device and / or implant and other improvements in the procedures. Apart from structural heart applications, catheter devices are also used for minimally invasive procedures such as neurovascular, coronary, structural heart, peripheral vascular, or endoscopic type procedures for gastrointestinal applications or other.

[0004] An intravascular delivery device needs to be placed precisely to ensure a correct positioning of a medical device, which is essential for its functionality, as the device may be difficult to reposition after the device is fully deployed from the delivery system. Additionally, catheter devices are required to have the ability to turn or rotate the distal end of the catheter with like-for-like movement of the proximal section or catheter handle. It is achieved through torque transfer along the length of the shaftATTORNEY DOCKET NO. A0011446WO01 apparatus. For example, single steer to traverse an anatomical challenge. At the same time, catheter devices are required to achieve movements of parts of the catheter device independent the rest of the catheter device. The design of the catheter shaft apparatus is a significant factor in determining the formation of curves, angles of deflection and levels of steerability. The choice of material determines the level of pushability, torque, and flexibility, and it can be manipulated along the length of the catheter device through a variety of means to achieve the desired results.

[0005] A catheter shaft apparatus needs to be placed precisely to ensure a correct positioning of the medical device. Multiple lumens are created within catheter shaft apparatus for the passage of guidewires, catheters, fluids, and gases. The number of lumens depends on material and cross-sectional area, and the lumens can be shaped to meet user requirements. It is known to use single or multilumen shaft apparatus and braided, coiled, or other layers arranged thereon for enhanced torqueability and deflection. Reinforcement bars and pull wires may be placed in situ during the braiding process.

[0006] Lack of symmetry in the braid reinforcement layers due to the presence of varying thickness of wire height lead to suboptimal and poor torque performance throughout the length of the catheter shaft apparatus. Further, shaft apparatus with multiple shafts with spine wires in several of the shafts may further generate asymmetry of the braid reinforcement layers.

[0007] In light of the above, a need exists for a shaft apparatus for a catheter device that has improved mechanical properties to optimize torsional response of the braid reinforcement layers with traditional manufacturing processes.SUMMARY

[0008] The following presents a simplified summary of the disclosure to provide a basic understanding of some aspects described in the detailed description.

[0009] Aspects of the disclosure include a shaft apparatus comprising an inner layer enclosing a first lumen extending in a direction of a longitudinal axis of the shaft apparatus. The inner layer can include an inner circumferential surface defining a first lumen, an outer circumferential surface, and at least one inner layer channel extending in the direction of the longitudinal axis. The at least one inner layer channel can comprise an interior comprising an opening at the outer circumferential surface. TheATTORNEY DOCKET NO. A0011446WO01 opening can extend in the direction of the longitudinal axis. Each inner layer channel can comprise a wire extending through the interior of the inner layer channel in the direction of the longitudinal axis. A shape of an inwardly facing surface of each wire can match a shape of an outwardly facing surface of a base of the inner layer channel that the wire extends through. The shaft apparatus can further comprise an inner layer circumferential covering that circumscribes the outer circumferential surface of the inner layer. The inner layer circumferential cover can further extend over the opening of the at least one inner layer channel to trap the wire within the interior of the at least one inner layer channel.

[0010] Further aspects of the disclosure include a shaft apparatus comprising an inner layer enclosing a first lumen extending in a direction of a longitudinal axis of the shaft apparatus. The inner layer can include an inner circumferential surface defining the first lumen, an outer circumferential surface, and a single inner layer channel extending in the direction of the longitudinal axis. The single inner layer channel can comprise an interior comprising an opening at the outer circumferential surface. The opening can extend in the direction of the longitudinal axis. The single inner layer channel can comprise a wire extending through the interior of the single inner layer channel in the direction of the longitudinal axis. The shaft apparatus can further comprise an inner layer circumferential covering that circumscribes the outer circumferential surface of the inner layer. The inner layer circumferential covering can further extend over the opening of the single inner layer channel to trap the wire within the interior of the single inner layer channel. An axis of symmetry of the inner layer circumferential covering can be radially spaced a distance from an axis of symmetry of the first lumen, wherein the axis of symmetry of the inner layer circumferential covering can be positioned a first radial distance from the single inner layer channel, the axis of symmetry of the first lumen can be spaced a second radial distance from the single inner layer channel, and the second radial distance can be greater than the first radial distance.

[0011] Additional features and advantages of the aspects disclosed herein will be set forth in the detailed description that follows, and in part will be clear to those skilled in the art from that description or recognized by practicing the aspects described herein, including the detailed description which follows, the claims, as well as the appended drawings. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general descriptionATTORNEY DOCKET NO. A0011446WO01 and the following detailed description present aspects intended to provide an overview or framework for understanding the nature and character of the aspects disclosed herein. The accompanying drawings are included to provide further understanding and are incorporated into and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate various aspects of the disclosure, and together with the description explain the principles and operations thereof.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] These and other features, aspects, and advantages are better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0013] FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic partial exploded view of an example shaft apparatus with an inner and outer layer in accordance with one embodiment of the disclosure;

[0014] FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the shaft apparatus of FIG. 1 ;

[0015] FIG. 3 illustrates a schematic perspective view of an inner layer of a shaft apparatus of FIG. 2 in accordance with one embodiment of the disclosure;

[0016] FIG. 4 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an inner layer of a shaft apparatus of FIG. 3;

[0017] FIG. 5 illustrates an example cross-sectional extrusion of the inner layer of FIG. 4;

[0018] FIG. 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an inner layer of a shaft apparatus in accordance with another embodiment of the disclosure;

[0019] FIG. 7 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an inner layer of a shaft apparatus in accordance with yet another embodiment of the disclosure;

[0020] FIG. 8 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a portion of the shaft apparatus of the embodiment of FIG. 2 illustrating the embodiment of the inner layer of FIGS. 3-5 in combination with an embodiment of the outer layer;

[0021] FIG. 9 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a shaft apparatus including the embodiment of the inner layer of FIG. 6 in combination with the embodiment of the outer layer of FIG. 8;ATTORNEY DOCKET NO. A0011446WO01

[0022] FIG. 10 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a shaft apparatus including the embodiment of the inner layer of FIGS. 3-5 in combination with another embodiment of the outer layer;

[0023] FIG. 11 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a shaft apparatus including the embodiment of the inner layer of FIG. 6 in combination with the embodiment of the outer layer of FIG. 10;

[0024] FIG. 12 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a shaft apparatus including an inner layer or an outer layer in accordance with embodiments of the disclosure;

[0025] FIG. 13 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a shaft apparatus including an inner layer or an outer layer in accordance with yet further embodiments of the disclosure; and

[0026] FIG. 14 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a shaft apparatus including the inner layer of the embodiment of FIG. 7 in combination with an outer layer in accordance with another embodiment of the outer layer.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027] Aspects will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings in which example aspects are shown. Whenever possible, the same reference numerals are used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts. However, this disclosure may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the aspects set forth herein.

[0028] As used herein, the term “about” means that amounts, sizes, formulations, parameters, and other quantities and characteristics are not, and need not be, exact, but may be approximate and / or larger or smaller, as desired, reflecting tolerances, conversion factors, rounding off, measurement error and the like, and other factors known to those of skill in the art.

[0029] Ranges can be expressed herein as from “about” one value, and / or to “about” another value. When such a range is expressed, aspects include from the one value to the other value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations by use of the antecedent “about,” it will be understood that the value forms another aspect. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to the other endpoint, and independently of the other endpoint.ATTORNEY DOCKET NO. A0011446WO01

[0030] Directional terms as used herein - for example up, down, right, left, front, back, top, bottom, upper, lower, etc. - are made only with reference to the figures as drawn and are not intended to imply absolute orientation.

[0031] Unless otherwise expressly stated, it is in no way intended that any methods set forth herein be construed as requiring that its steps be performed in a specific order, nor that with any apparatus, specific orientations be required. Accordingly, where a method claim does not actually recite an order to be followed by its steps, or that any apparatus claim does not actually recite an order or orientation to individual components, or it is not otherwise specifically stated in the claims or description that the steps are to be limited to a specific order, or that a specific order or orientation to components of an apparatus is not recited, it is in no way intended that an order or orientation be inferred in any respect. This holds for any possible non-express basis for interpretation, including matters of logic relative to arrangement of steps, operational flow, order of components, or orientation of components; plain meaning derived from grammatical organization or punctuation, and; the number or type of aspects described in the specification.

[0032] As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “a” component includes aspects having two or more such components, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0033] The word “exemplary,” “example,” or various forms thereof are used herein to mean serving as an example, instance, or illustration. Any aspect or design described herein as “exemplary” or as an “example” should not be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs. Furthermore, examples are provided solely for purposes of clarity and understanding and are not meant to limit or restrict the disclosed subject matter or relevant portions of this disclosure in any manner. It can be appreciated that a myriad of additional or alternate examples of varying scope could have been presented but have been omitted for purposes of brevity.

[0034] As used herein, the terms “comprising,” “including,” and variations thereof shall be construed as synonymous and open-ended, unless otherwise indicated. A list of elements following the transitional phrases comprising or including is a nonexclusive list, such that elements in addition to those specifically recited in the list may also be present.ATTORNEY DOCKET NO. A0011446WO01

[0035] The terms “substantial,” “substantially,” and variations thereof as used herein are intended to represent that a described feature is equal or approximately equal to a value or description. For example, a “substantially planar” surface is intended to denote a surface that is planar or approximately planar. Moreover, “substantially” is intended to denote that two values are equal or approximately equal. The term “substantially” may denote values within about 10% of each other, for example, within about 5% of each other, or within about 2% of each other.

[0036] Modifications may be made to the instant disclosure without departing from the scope or spirit of the claimed subject matter. Unless specified otherwise, “first,” “second,” or the like are not intended to imply a temporal aspect, a spatial aspect, an ordering, etc. Rather, such terms are merely used as identifiers, names, etc. for features, elements, items, etc. For example, a first end and a second end generally correspond to end A and end B or two different ends.

[0037] Unless otherwise indicated, the terms “distal” and “proximal” are used in the following description with respect to a position or direction relative to the treating clinician. “Distal” and “distally” are positions distant from or in a direction away from the clinician, and “proximal” and “proximally” are positions near or in a direction toward the clinician.

[0038] FIGS. 1-2 illustrate an example shaft apparatus 101 with an inner layer 103, 603, 703, 1203, 1303 and an outer layer 105, 1005, 1205, 1305, 1405 in accordance with one embodiment of the disclosure. As shown in FIG. 1, the shaft apparatus 101 comprises an elongated length extending along a longitudinal axis 113 in a direction 115 of the longitudinal axis 113. Various components of the shaft apparatus 101 such as layers (e.g., inner layer, outer layer) and components (e.g., wires extending in channels) discussed below likewise include elongated lengths along the longitudinal axis 113 in the direction 115 of the longitudinal axis 113. As further illustrated in FIGS . 1-2, the shaft apparatus 101 may optionally include either, one, or both of a stability member 107 and an in-line sheath 109 in combination with one or more of the outer layer 105, 1005, 1205, 1305, 1405, inner layer 103, 603, 703, 1203, 1303 and inner shaft 111. The stability member 107 may circumferentially enclose at least a portion of the outer layer 105, 1005, 1205, 1305, 1405 extending in a longitudinal direction of the shaft apparatus 101. The stability member 107 may comprise one or more of the following in combination: a PTFE liner, a braided layer, and an outer jacket. TheATTORNEY DOCKET NO. A0011446WO01 braided layer may be comprised of but is not limited to 304V Stainless Steel, and the outer jacket may be comprised of but is not limited to Vestamid ML 24 (75D) . The inline sheath 109 may enclose at least a portion of the stability member 107 in the direction 115 of the longitudinal axis 113 of the shaft apparatus 101. The in-line sheath 109 may include one or more of the following in combination: a PTFE sheath liner, a sheath coil wire, and a sheath jacket. The sheath coil wire can be comprised of but is not limited to SS304V spring temper welded coil, and the sheath jacket can be comprised of but is not limited to 90% Pebax7033 and 10% Orevac 18300.

[0039] As will be discussed below, shaft apparatus 101 can have a wide range of combinations of embodiments of inner layers 103, 603, 703, 1203, 1303 and outer layers 105, 1005, 1205, 1305, 1405 that may be provided alone or in combination. Furthermore, unless otherwise stated, any embodiment of any of the inner layers 103, 603, 703, 1203, 1303 discussed and / or illustrated in this disclosure can be used alone or in combination with any embodiment of the outer layers 105, 1005, 1205, 1305, 1405 discussed and / or illustrated in this disclosure. Although various shaft apparatus 101 are illustrated with a wide range of layers and components, with some embodiments of shaft apparatus, less than all of the illustrated components or more than the illustrated components can be provided. For example, for purposes of this disclosure, shaft apparatus can comprise any embodiment of the inner layer 103, 603, 703, 1203, 1303 alone, any embodiment of the outer layer 105, 1005, 1205, 1305, 1405 alone, or any inner layer 103, 603, 703, 1203, 1303 in combination with any outer layer 105, 1005, 1205, 1305, 1405 either alone or in combination with other features (e.g., as further illustrated in FIGS. 1-2).

[0040] The example shaft apparatus 101 of FIG. 1 is illustrated in a cross- sectional view in FIG. 2. For illustration purposes, FIG. 2 appears with the inner layer 103 in accordance with the example embodiment illustrated in FIGS . 3 -5 although other embodiments of inner layers 603, 703, 1203, 1303 can be provided with the features otherwise illustrated in FIG. 2 in further embodiments. In some embodiments, an optional inner shaft 111 may extend at least partially longitudinally in the direction 115 of the longitudinal axis 113 within a first lumen 201 defined by an inner circumferential surface 202 of any of the inner layers 103, 603, 703, 1203, 1303. As depicted in FIG. 2, the inner shaft 111 may comprise a hollow shaft positioned within the first lumen 201 of any of the inner layers such as the illustrated inner layer 103. Further, the innerATTORNEY DOCKET NO. A0011446WO01 shaft 111 may optionally include at least one interior channel 203 having an elongated length extending in the direction 115 of a longitudinal axis 113 of the shaft apparatus 101. The at least one interior channel 203 can further include at least one axial wire 204 having an elongated length extending longitudinally in the direction 115 of a longitudinal axis 113 within the at least one interior channel 203. The at least one interior channel 203 can include a rectangular cross-section as depicted in FIG. 2 wherein at least one axial wire 204 extending through the interior of the at least one interior channel 203 can comprise an interior facing flat surface configured to abut and contact a corresponding outwardly facing flat base surface of the at least one interior channel 203. The cross-sectional shape of the at least one interior channel 203 is not meant to be limiting however, as the at least one interior channel 203 could contain a circular cross-section, a convex cross-section, or a concave cross-section for example. The inner shaft 111 may further include optional layers circumferentially surrounding the interior or exterior of the inner shaft 111 including but not limited to: a PTFE- polyimide inner layer, an outer braided layer, and an outer polyimide layer. The outer braided layer may further be comprised of but is not limited to, stainless steel wire.

[0041] The inner layer 103, 603, 703, 1203, 1303 can comprise a circumferential wall 331, 631, 731, 1231, 1331 including the inner circumferential surface 202 defining the first lumen 201. The circumferential wall 331, 631, 731, 1231, 1331 further comprises an outer circumferential surface 333, 633, 733, 1233, 1333 and one or more inner layer channels 311, 611, 711, 1211, 1311. Each of the one or more inner layer channels 311, 611, 711, 1211, 1311 can comprise a length extending in the direction 115 of the longitudinal axis 113. Furthermore, the one or more inner layer channels 311, 611, 711, 1211, 1311 further comprise an interior that comprises an opening at the outer circumferential surface 333, 633, 733, 1233, 1333, wherein the opening extends in the direction 115 of the longitudinal axis 113. For example, the embodiments of FIGS. 3-5 and 12 illustrate the inner layer 103, 1203 including two inner layer channels 311, 1211 that are diametrically opposed to one another. Each inner layer channel 311, 1211 further includes a rectangular cross-section. As shown in FIGS. 3-5, pair of inner layer channels 311 of the circumferential wall 331 of the inner layer 103 can each comprise a base with an outwardly facing surface 313 that can be flat although the outwardly facing surface can comprise other surface shapes such as a convex surface, concave surface or other surface shape.ATTORNEY DOCKET NO. A0011446WO01

[0042] While the inner layers 103, 1203 are illustrated with a pair of inner layer channels, in further embodiments a single inner layer channel, or three or more inner layer channels may be provided that extend along a length in the direction 115 of the longitudinal axis 113. For instance, the embodiments of FIG. 6 and 13 illustrate the inner layer 603, 1303 comprising a single inner layer channel 611, 1311. As shown, in some embodiments, the single inner layer channel 611, 1311 can comprise a rectangular cross-section. As shown in FIG. 6, inner layer channel 611 of the circumferential wall 631 of the inner layer 603 can also comprise a base with an outwardly facing surface 613 that can be flat although the outwardly facing surface can comprise other surface shapes such as a convex surface, concave surface or other surface shape. In a further example, as shown in FIG. 13, inner layer channel 1311 of the circumferential wall 1331 of the inner layer 1303 can alternatively comprise a base with an outwardly facing surface 1313 that can comprise an outwardly convex surface although the outwardly facing surface can comprise other surface shapes such as a concave surface or other surface shape.

[0043] As shown in FIG. 7, the circumferential wall 731 of the inner layer 703 can comprise three or more inner layer channels 711 that, in some embodiments, can be equally circumferentially spaced in a circumferential array about an axis of symmetry of the first lumen and equally radially spaced about the axis of symmetry. As shown, each inner layer channel 711 can comprise an arcuate cross section. For instance, as shown, the base can comprise an outwardly facing cylindrical surface 713. As shown by the circumferential wall 331 of the inner layer 103 in FIG. 5, any of the circumferential walls 331, 631, 731, 1231, 1331 of any of the inner layers 103, 603, 703, 1203, 1303 of the disclosure can be extruded to include the first lumen 201 and the one or more inner layer channels 311, 611, 711, 1211, 1311. In alternative embodiments, the circumferential walls 331, 631, 731, 1231, 1331 can be injection molded, extruded, formed by way of 3D printing, or otherwise manufactured to produce the desired interior lumen and outer channels extending along the elongated length of the inner layer. The circumferential walls 331, 631, 731, 1231, 1331 of any of the inner layers 103, 603, 703, 1203, 1303 of the disclosure can comprise a wide range of biocompatible materials such as, but not limited to, 90% Pebax7033 and 10% Orevac 18300.ATTORNEY DOCKET NO. A0011446WO01

[0044] The one or more inner layer channels 311, 611, 711, 1211, 1311 ofthe inner layer 103, 603, 703, 1203, 1303 can each further include one or more axial wires 321, 621, 721, 1221, 1321 that extend within the corresponding inner layer channel with a length in the direction 115 of the longitudinal axis 113. Furthermore, an inner layer circumferential covering 341 further extends over the opening of the inner layer channel 311, 611, 711, 1211, 1311 ofthe inner layer 103, 603, 703, 1203, 1303 to trap the one or more axial wires 321, 621, 721, 1221, 1321 within the inner layer channels 311, 611, 711, 1211, 1311. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the axial wire 321, 621, 721, 1221, 1321 contacts the inner layer circumferential covering 341 to help seat and therefore trap the axial wire within the inner layer channels 311, 611, 711, 1211, 1311. In some embodiments, the one or more axial wires 321, 621, 721, 1221, 1321 can at least partially extend through the inner layer channel 311, 611, 711, 1211, 1311 by passing through the opening at the outer circumferential surface of the circumferential wall wherein the inner layer circumferential covering 341 engages the protruding portion of the wire to press against the wire to hold the wire within the channel. The inner layer circumferential covering 341 can circumscribe the outer circumferential surface 333, 633, 733, 1233, 1333 ofthe circumferential wall 331, 631, 731, 1231, 1331 inner layers 103, 603, 703, 1203, 1303. As shown, the inner layer circumferential covering 341 can extend over the opening of the inner layer channel 311, 611, 711, 1211, 1311 to trap a wire within the interior of the inner layer channel. In some embodiments, the inner layer circumferential covering 341 comprises a braided layer which can comprise but is not limited to Stainless Steel. In other embodiments, the inner layer circumferential covering 341 may include one or more of the following in combination: a braided layer, an outer jacket, and a flush tube. The outer jacket of the inner layer 103, 603, 703, 1203, 1303 can be comprised of but is not limited to a combination of Grilamid (L25), Orevac 18300, Pebax7033, and AV100. Further, the flush tube may be comprised of but is not limited to 304 Stainless Steel. In further embodiments, the inner layer 103, 603, 703, 1203, 1303 may include an Orevac Liner circumferentially embedded within the braided layer. The liner can be comprised of but is not limited to 90% Pebax7033 and 10% Orevac 18300.

[0045] In one embodiment, with reference to FIGS. 3-4, each of the two inner layer channels 311 of the inner layer 103 can comprise an axial wire 321 extending through the interior of the inner layer channel 311 in the direction 115 of theATTORNEY DOCKET NO. A0011446WO01 longitudinal axis 113. In some examples, as shown, the two axial wires 321 can comprise identical wires that are diametrically opposed to one another.

[0046] In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6, the inner layer channel 611 of the inner layer 603 can comprise an axial wire 621 extending through the interior of the inner layer channel 611 in the direction 115 of the longitudinal axis 113. As shown, each axial wire 321, 621 can comprise an outer cross-sectional perimeter comprising a rectangular shape taken along a cross-section that is perpendicular to the direction 115 of the longitudinal axis 113. Referring to FIGS. 4 and 6, each axial wire 321, 621 comprises an inwardly facing surface 423, 623 abutting the outwardly facing surface 313, 613 of the corresponding inner layer channel 311, 611. Furthermore, the inwardly facing surfaces 423, 623 of the axial wires 321, 621 can be flat to properly align with the inner layer channel 311, 611 by abutting the flat inwardly facing surface 423, 623 of the axial wires 321, 621 with the flat outwardly facing surfaces 313, 613 of the inner layer channels 311, 611 when disposing the axial wires within the inner layer channels. Furthermore, as illustrated in FIG. 4, the side edges of the rectangular shape of the two axial wires 321 can be parallel to one another to define the width of the axial wire that matches the corresponding width of the inner layer channel 311 that also has flat parallel sides. As such, the flat sides of the axial wires 321 mate with the corresponding flat sides of the inner layer channel 311 once inserted to laterally arrest the location of the axial wire with respect to the circumferential wall 331. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 6, the width between the side edges of the rectangular shape of the axial wire 621 can be slightly less than the distance between the parallel flat sides of the inner layer channel 611 to allow slight lateral clearance between the axial wire and the channel.

[0047] In another example, with reference to FIG. 7, each of the three inner layer channels 711 of the inner layer 703 can comprise an axial wire 721 extending through the interior of the inner layer channel 711 in the direction 115 of the longitudinal axis 113. In some examples, as shown, the three axial wires 721 can comprise identical wires that are equally spaced about the periphery in a circumferential array about an axis of symmetry of the first lumen an equal radial distance from the axis of symmetry of the first lumen. As shown, the wires, in some embodiments, can comprise a circular cross-section along a section taken perpendicular to the direction 115 of the longitudinal axis 113. An inwardly facing surface 723 of each wire can comprise a cylindrical surface portion that matches the outwardly facing cylindricalATTORNEY DOCKET NO. A0011446WO01 surface 713 of the inner layer channel 711 so that the axial wire 721 is seated in a secure manner within the inner layer channel 711 once positioned to extend within the inner layer channel 711.

[0048] With reference to FIG. 12, each of the two inner layer channels 1211 of the inner layer 1203 can comprise an axial wire 1221 extending through the interior of the inner layer channel 1211 in the direction 115 of the longitudinal axis 113. In some examples, as shown, the two axial wires 1221 can comprise identical wires that are diametrically opposed to one another. In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 13, the inner layer channel 1311 of the inner layer 1303 can comprise an axial wire 1321 extending through the interior of the inner layer channel 1311 in the direction 115 of the longitudinal axis 113. As shown, each axial wire 1221, 1321 can comprise an outer cross-sectional perimeter comprising an inwardly facing concave surface 1223, 1323 and an outwardly facing convex surface 1225, 1325. Providing the inwardly concave and outwardly convex surfaces allows the wire to more closely conform to a radial thickness of the circumferential wall 1231, 1331. Furthermore, with reference to FIG. 13, the inwardly facing concave surface 1323 abuts and matches the outwardly facing convex surface 1313 of the inner layer channel 1311 while the side edges of the axial wire 1321 snuggly abut the side surfaces of the inner layer channel 1311 to firmly seat the axial wire 1321 within the inner layer channel 1311.

[0049] The features of the inner layer embodiments can provide optimal torsional response and maximum performance when the inner layer circumferential covering 341, circumferential wall 331, 631, 731, 1231, 1331, and axial wires 321, 621, 721, 1221, 1321 remain balanced. The inner layer 103 illustrated in FIG. 4 shows that the first lumen 201 comprises an axis of symmetry that is coincident with an axis of symmetry of the inner layer 103. The inner layer 103 is therefore balanced with an example of bilateral symmetry incorporating two axial wires 321. The inner layer 703 illustrated in FIG. 7 also shows that the first lumen 201 comprises an axis of symmetry that is coincident with an axis of symmetry of the inner layer 703. The inner layer 703 is therefore balanced with an example of trilateral symmetry incorporating three axial wires 721.

[0050] It is also possible to design the inner layer with a single axial wire while still approximating symmetry. Therefore, an undesired level of stiffness can be achieved with a single wire while still achieving sufficient symmetry. For example,ATTORNEY DOCKET NO. A0011446WO01FIG. 6 illustrates a radius IR1 of the inner layer circumferential covering 341 originating at an axis of symmetry IA 1 of the inner layer circumferential covering 341. FIG 6 further illustrates a radius IR2 of the first lumen 201 originating at an axis of symmetry IA2 of the first lumen 201. As shown, the axis of symmetry IA 1 of the inner layer circumferential covering 341 is radially spaced a distance from the axis of symmetry IA2 of the first lumen 201. Furthermore, As shown in FIG. 6, the axis of symmetry IA 1 of the inner layer circumferential covering 341 is positioned a first radial distance ID1 from the single inner layer channel 611, the axis of symmetry IA2 of the first lumen 201 is spaced a second radial distance ID2 from the single inner layer channel 611, and the second radial distance ID2 is greater than the first radial distance IDE

[0051] FIGS. 2, 8, and 9 illustrate one embodiment of an outer layer 105 of the shaft apparatus 101 in accordance with the disclosure. FIGS. 10 and 11 illustrate another embodiment of an outer layer 1005 in accordance with the disclosure. FIGS. 12 and 13 illustrate still further embodiments of outer layers 1205, 1305 in accordance with the disclosure that may be identical to the previously described corresponding inner layers 1203, 1303. FIG. 14 illustrates another embodiment of an outer layer 1405 in accordance with the disclosure.

[0052] The outer layers 105, 1005, 1205, 1305, 1405 comprise a circumferential wall 851, 1051, 1251, 1351, 1451 including an inner circumferential surface 206 defining a second lumen 205 extending in the direction 115 of the longitudinal axis 113. The circumferential wall 851, 1051, 1251, 1351, 1451 further comprises an outer circumferential surface 853, 1053, 1253, 1353, 1453 and one or more outer layer channels 861, 1061, 1261, 1361, 1461. Each of the one or more outer layer channels 861, 1061, 1261, 1361, 1461 can comprise a length extending in the direction 115 of the longitudinal axis 113. Furthermore, the one or more outer layer channels 861, 1061, 1261, 1361, 1461 further comprise an interior that comprises an opening at the outer circumferential surface 853, 1053, 1253, 1353, 1453, wherein the opening extends in the direction 115 of the longitudinal axis 113.

[0053] The embodiments of FIGS. 10-12 illustrate the outer layer 1005, 1205 including two outer layer channels 1061, 1261 that are diametrically opposed to one another. Each outer layer channel 1061, 1261 further includes a rectangular crosssection. As shown in FIGS. 10-11, pair of outer layer channels 1061 of theATTORNEY DOCKET NO. A0011446WO01 circumferential wall 1051 of the outer layer 1005 can each comprise a base with an outwardly facing surface 1063 that can be flat although the outwardly facing surface can comprise other surface shapes such as a convex surface, concave surface or other surface shape.

[0054] While the outer layer channels 1061, 1261 are illustrated with a pair of outer layer channels, in further embodiments a single outer layer channel, or three or more outer layer channels may be provided that extend along a length in the direction 115 of the longitudinal axis 113. For instance, the embodiments of FIGS. 2, 8-9 and 13 illustrate the outer layer 105, 1305 comprising a single outer layer channel 861, 1361. As shown, in some embodiments, the single outer layer channel 861, 1361 can comprise a rectangular cross-section. As shown in FIGS. 8-9, the single outer layer channel 861 of the circumferential wall 851 of the outer layer 105 can each comprise a base with an outwardly facing surface 863 that can be flat although the outwardly facing surface can comprise other surface shapes such as a convex surface, concave surface or other surface shape. In a further example, as shown in FIG. 13, the single outer layer channel 1361 of the circumferential wall 1351 of the outer layer 1305 can alternatively comprise a base with an outwardly facing surface 1363 that can comprise an outwardly convex surface although the outwardly facing surface can comprise other surface shapes such as a concave surface or other surface shape.

[0055] As shown in FIG. 14, the circumferential wall 1451 of the outer layer 1405 can comprise one, two, three, or more outer layer channels 1461 that, in some embodiments, can be equally circumferentially spaced from one another in a circumferential array about an axis of symmetry at an equal distance from the axis of symmetry of the outer layer 1405. As shown, each outer layer channel 1461 can comprise an arcuate cross section. For instance, as shown, the base can comprise an outwardly facing cylindrical surface 1463. As with the inner layer, any of the outer layers of the disclosure can be extruded to include the second lumen 205 and the one or more outer layer channels 861, 1061, 1261, 1361, 1461. In alternative embodiments, the circumferential walls 851, 1051, 1251, 1351, 1451 can be injection molded, extruded, formed by way of 3D printing, or otherwise manufactured to produce the desired interior lumen and outer channels extending along the elongated length of the inner layer. The circumferential walls 851, 1051, 1251, 1351, 1451 of any of the outer layers 105, 1005, 1205, 1305, 1405 of the disclosure can comprise a wide range ofATTORNEY DOCKET NO. A0011446WO01 biocompatible materials such as, but not limited to, 90% Pebax7033 and 10% Orevac 18300.

[0056] The one or more outer layer channels 861, 1061, 1261, 1361, 1461 of the outer layers 105, 1005, 1205, 1305, 1405 can each further include one or more axial wires 871, 1071, 1271, 1371 that extend within the corresponding inner layer channel with a length in the direction 115 of the longitudinal axis 113. Furthermore, the outer layer circumferential covering 881 further extends over the opening of the outer layer channel 861, 1061, 1261, 1361, 1461 of the outer layer 105, 1005, 1205, 1305, 1405 to trap the one or more axial wires 871, 1071, 1271, 1371 within the outer layer channels 861, 1061, 1261, 1361, 1461. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the axial wire 871, 1071, 1271, 1371 contacts the outer layer circumferential covering 881 to help seat and therefore trap the axial wire within the outer layer channels 861, 1061, 1261, 1361, 1461. In some embodiments, the one or more axial wires 871, 1071, 1271, 1371 can at least partially extend through the outer layer channel 861, 1061, 1261, 1361, 1461 by passing through the opening at the outer circumferential surface of the circumferential wall wherein the outer layer circumferential covering 881 engages the protruding portion of the wire to press against the wire to hold the wire within the channel.

[0057] In some embodiments, with reference to FIGS. 10-11, each of the two outer layer channels 1061 of the outer layer 1005 can comprise an axial wire 1071 extending through the interior of the outer layer channel 1061 in the direction 115 of the longitudinal axis 113. In some examples, as shown, the two axial wires 1071 can comprise identical wires that are diametrically opposed to one another. Each of the two axial wires 1071 can comprise an outer cross-sectional perimeter comprising a rectangular shape taken along a cross-section that is perpendicular to the direction 115 of the longitudinal axis 113. Referring to FIGS. 10-11, the axial wires 1071 each comprise an inwardly facing surface 1073 abutting the outwardly facing surface 1063 of the corresponding outer layer channel 1061. Furthermore, the inwardly facing surface 1073 of the axial wire 1071 can be flat to properly align with the outer layer channel 1061 by abutting the flat inwardly facing surface 1073 of the axial wire 1071 with the flat outwardly facing surface 1063 of the outer layer channel 1061 when disposing the axial wires within the outer layer channels. Furthermore, as illustrated in FIGS. 10-11, the side edges of the rectangular shape of the axial wire 1071 can be parallel to one another to define the width of the axial wire that is slightly less than theATTORNEY DOCKET NO. A0011446WO01 width between the opposite flat parallel sides of the outer layer channel 1061 to limit lateral movement of the axial wire within the outer layer channel 1061. In further embodiments, the width of the outer layer channel 1061 can match the width of the axial wire 1071 to prevent lateral movement between the axial wire and the outer layer channel.

[0058] In another embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 2, and 8-9, the outer layer channel 861 of the outer layer 105 can comprise an axial wire 871 extending through the interior of the outer layer channel 861 in the direction 115 of the longitudinal axis 113. As shown, the axial wire 871 can comprise an outer cross-sectional perimeter comprising a rectangular shape taken along a cross-section that is perpendicular to the direction 115 of the longitudinal axis 113. Referring to FIGS. 8-9, the axial wire 871 comprises an inwardly facing surface 873 abutting the outwardly facing surface 863 of the corresponding outer layer channel 861. Furthermore, the inwardly facing surface 873 of the axial wire 871 can be flat to properly align with the outer layer channel 861 by abutting the flat inwardly facing surface 873 of the axial wire 871 with the flat outwardly facing surface 863 of the outer layer channel 861 when disposing the axial wires within the outer layer channels. Furthermore, as illustrated in FIGS. 8-9, the side edges of the rectangular shape of the axial wire 871 can be parallel to one another to define the width of the axial wire that matches the corresponding width of the outer layer channel 861 that also has flat parallel sides. As such, the flat sides of the axial wire 871 mate with the corresponding flat sides of the outer layer channel 861 once inserted to laterally arrest the location of the axial wire with respect to the circumferential wall 851. Alternatively, although not shown, the width between the side edges of the rectangular shape of the axial wire 871 can be slightly less than the distance between the parallel flat sides of the outer layer channel 861 to allow slight lateral clearance between the axial wire and the channel.

[0059] In another example, with reference to FIG. 14, each of the three outer layer channels 1461 of the outer layer 1405 can comprise an axial wire 1471 extending through the interior of the outer layer channel 1461 in the direction 115 of the longitudinal axis 113. In some examples, as shown, the three axial wires 1471 can comprise identical wires that are equally circumferentially spaced about the periphery from each adjacent axial wire in a circumferential array about an axis of symmetry of the outer layer 1405 and spaced an equal radial distance from an axis of symmetry ofATTORNEY DOCKET NO. A0011446WO01 the outer layer 1405. As shown, the wires 1471, in some embodiments, can comprise a circular cross-section along a section taken perpendicular to the direction 115 of the longitudinal axis 113. An inwardly facing surface 1473 of each axial wire 1471 can comprise a cylindrical surface portion that matches the outwardly facing cylindrical surface 1463 of the outer layer channel 1461 so that the axial wire 1471 is seated in a secure manner within the outer layer channel 1461 once positioned to extend within the outer layer channel 1461.

[0060] With reference to FIG. 12, each of the two outer layer channels 1261 of the outer layer 1205 can comprise an axial wire 1271 extending through the interior of the outer layer channel 1261 in the direction 115 of the longitudinal axis 113. In some examples, as shown, the two axial wires 1271 can comprise identical wires that are diametrically opposed to one another. In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 13, the outer layer channel 1361 of the outer layer 1305 can comprise an axial wire 1371 extending through the interior of the outer layer channel 1361 in the direction 115 of the longitudinal axis 113. As shown, each axial wire 1271, 1371 can comprise an outer cross-sectional perimeter comprising an inwardly facing concave surface 1273, 1373 and an outwardly facing convex surface 1275, 1375. Providing the inwardly concave and outwardly convex surfaces allows the wire to more closely conform to a radial thickness of the circumferential wall 1251, 1351. Furthermore, with reference to FIG. 13, the inwardly facing concave surface 1373 abuts and matches the outwardly facing convex surface 1363 of the outer layer channel 1361 while the side edges of the axial wire 1371 snuggly abut the side surfaces of the inner layer channel 1361 to firmly seat the axial wire 1371 within the inner layer channel 1361.

[0061] As shown, the embodiments of the outer layers 105, 1005, 1205, 1305, 1405 of the disclosure can comprise an outer layer circumferential covering 881 circumscribing an outer circumferential surface of the outer layer 105, 1005, 1205, 1305, 1405. In some embodiments, the outer layer circumferential covering 881 comprises a braided layer which can comprise but is not limited to Stainless Steel. In other embodiments, the outer layer circumferential covering 881 may include one or more of the following in combination: a braided layer, an outer jacket, and a flush tube. The outer jacket of the outer layer 105, 1005, 1205, 1305, 1405 can be comprised of but is not limited to a combination of Grilamid (L25), Orevac 18300, Pebax7033, and AV100. Further, the flush tube may be comprised of but is not limited to 304 StainlessATTORNEY DOCKET NO. A0011446WO01Steel. In further embodiments, the outer layer 105, 1005, 1205, 1305, 1405 may include an Orevac Liner circumferentially embedded within the braided layer. The liner can be comprised of but is not limited to 90% Pebax7033 and 10% Orevac 18300. In some embodiments, the outer layer circumferential covering 881 may be identical to the inner layer circumferential covering 341.

[0062] Vestamid ML24 (75D), Pebax 72D, and Pebax 63D. In other embodiments the outer layer 105 may further include a shaft liner circumferentially embedded within the braided layer. The liner can be comprised of but is not limited to 90% Pebax7033 and 10% Orevac 18300.

[0063] The features of the outer layer embodiments can provide optimal torsional response and maximum performance when the outer layer circumferential covering 881, circumferential wall 851, 1051, 1251, 1351, 1451 and axial wires 871, 1071, 1271, 1371 remain balanced. The outer layer 1005, 1205 illustrated in FIGS. 10- 11, and 12 shows that the second lumen 205 comprises an axis of symmetry that is coincident with an axis of symmetry of the outer layer circumferential covering 881. The outer layer 1005, 1205 is therefore balanced with an example of bilateral symmetry incorporating two axial wires 1071, 1271. The outer layer 1405 illustrated in FIG. 14 also shows that the second lumen 205 comprises an axis of symmetry that is coincident with an axis of symmetry of the outer layer circumferential covering 881. The outer layer 1405 is therefore balanced with an example of trilateral symmetry incorporating three axial wires 1471.

[0064] It is also possible to design the outer layer with a single axial wire while still approximating symmetry. Therefore, an undesired level of stiffness can be achieved with a single wire while still achieving sufficient symmetry. For example, with reference to the outer layer 105 of FIG. 8 (also shown in FIG. 9), a radius OR1 of the outer layer circumferential covering 881 originating at an axis of symmetry OA1 of the outer layer circumferential covering 881. FIG 8 further illustrates a radius OR2 of the second lumen 205 originating at an axis of symmetry OA2 of the second lumen 205. As shown, the axis of symmetry OA1 of the outer layer circumferential covering 881 is radially spaced a distance from the axis of symmetry OA2 of the second lumen 205. Furthermore, As shown in FIG. 8, the axis of symmetry OA1 of the outer layer circumferential covering 881 is positioned a first radial distance GDI from the single outer layer channel 861, the axis of symmetry OA2 of the second lumen 205 is spacedATTORNEY DOCKET NO. A0011446WO01 a second radial distance OD2 from the single outer layer channel 861, and the second radial distance OD2 is greater than the first radial distance OD 1.

[0065] Features of the disclosure therefore provide for optimum placement of axial wires within channels, and securement of axial wires within channels, Features of the disclosure further provide the inner layers and / or outer layers with optimal torsional response and maximum performance either alone or in combination.

[0066] Example aspects of the disclosure will now be described with the understanding that further features of the disclosure are apparent in the disclosure.

[0067] Aspect 1. A shaft apparatus comprises an inner layer enclosing a first lumen extending in a direction of a longitudinal axis of the shaft apparatus, wherein the inner layer includes an inner circumferential surface defining a first lumen, an outer circumferential surface, and at least one inner layer channel extending in the direction of the longitudinal axis. The at least one inner layer channel comprises an interior comprising an opening at the outer circumferential surface, wherein the opening extends in the direction of the longitudinal axis. Each inner layer channel comprises a wire extending through the interior of the inner layer channel in the direction of the longitudinal axis, wherein a shape of an inwardly facing surface of each wire matches a shape of an outwardly facing surface of a base of the inner layer channel that the wire extends through. The shaft apparatus further comprises an inner layer circumferential covering that circumscribes the outer circumferential surface of the inner layer, and the inner layer circumferential cover further extends over the opening of the at least one inner layer channel to trap the wire within the interior of the at least one inner layer channel.

[0068] Aspect 2. The shaft apparatus of aspect 1, wherein the inner layer circumferential covering comprises a braided layer.

[0069] Aspect 3. The shaft apparatus of any one of aspects 1-2, wherein the inwardly facing surface of the wire is configured to abut the outwardly facing surface of the base of the inner layer channel that the wire extends through.

[0070] Aspect 4. The shaft apparatus of any one of aspects 1-3, wherein the wire extending through the interior of each inner layer channel comprises a circular cross-section, wherein the inwardly facing surface of each wire comprises a cylindrical portion.ATTORNEY DOCKET NO. A0011446WO01

[0071] Aspect 5. The shaft apparatus of any one of aspects 1-3, wherein the wire extending through the interior of each inner layer channel comprises a rectangular cross-section, wherein the inwardly facing surface of each wire comprises a flat surface.

[0072] Aspect 6. The shaft apparatus of any one of aspects 1-3, wherein the inwardly facing surface of the wire extending through the interior of each inner layer channel comprises a concave surface.

[0073] Aspect 7. The shaft apparatus of aspect 6, wherein an outwardly facing surface of the wire extending through the interior of each inner layer channel comprises a convex surface.

[0074] Aspect 8. The shaft apparatus of any one of aspects 1-7, wherein the at least one inner layer channel comprises a single inner layer channel.

[0075] Aspect 9. The shaft apparatus of aspect 8, wherein an axis of symmetry of the inner layer circumferential covering is radially spaced a distance from an axis of symmetry of the first lumen.

[0076] Aspect 10. The shaft apparatus of aspect 9, wherein the axis of symmetry of the inner layer circumferential covering is positioned a first radial distance from the single inner layer channel, the axis of symmetry of the first lumen is spaced a second radial distance from the single inner layer channel, and the second radial distance is greater than the first radial distance.

[0077] Aspect 11. The shaft apparatus of any one of aspects 1-7, wherein the at least one inner layer channel comprises a first inner layer channel and a second inner layer channel.

[0078] Aspect 12. The shaft apparatus of aspect 11, wherein the at least one inner layer channel comprises no more than two inner layer channels.

[0079] Aspect 13. The shaft apparatus of any one of aspects 11-12, wherein the second inner layer channel is diametrically opposed to the first inner layer channel

[0080] Aspect 14. The shaft apparatus of aspect 13, wherein the first lumen comprises an axis of symmetry that is coincident with an axis of symmetry of the inner layer.

[0081] Aspect 15. The shaft apparatus of any one of aspects 1-7, wherein the at least one inner layer channel comprises three inner layer channels.

[0082] Aspect 16. The shaft apparatus of aspect 15, wherein each inner layer channel of the three inner layer channels is equally circumferentially spaced from eachATTORNEY DOCKET NO. A0011446WO01 adjacent inner layer channel of the three inner layer channels in a circumferential array about an axis of symmetry of the first lumen.

[0083] Aspect 17. The shaft apparatus of any one of aspects 1-16, wherein at least a portion of the wire extending through the at least one inner layer channel contacts the inner layer circumferential covering.

[0084] Aspect 18. The shaft apparatus of any one of aspects 1-17, wherein an inner shaft at least partially extends through the first lumen.

[0085] Aspect 19. The shaft apparatus of any one of aspects 1-18, further comprising an outer layer enclosing a second lumen extending in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the shaft apparatus. The outer layer includes an inner circumferential surface defining the second lumen, an outer circumferential surface, and at least one outer layer channel extending in the direction of the longitudinal axis. The at least one outer layer channel comprises an interior comprising an opening at the outer circumferential surface of the outer layer, wherein the opening of the interior of the at least one outer layer channel extends in the direction of the longitudinal axis. Each outer layer channel comprises a wire extending through the interior of the outer layer channel in the direction of the longitudinal axis, wherein a shape of an inwardly facing surface of each wire extending through the outer layer channel matches a shape of an outwardly facing surface of a base of the outer layer channel that the wire extends through. The shaft apparatus further comprises an outer layer circumferential coverthat circumscribes the outer circumferential surface of the outer layer, and the outer layer circumferential covering further extends over the opening of the at least one outer layer channel to trap the wire within the interior of the at least one outer layer channel.

[0086] Aspect 20. The shaft apparatus of aspect 19, wherein the outer layer circumferential covering comprises a braided layer.

[0087] Aspect 21. The shaft apparatus of any one of aspects 19-20, wherein the inwardly facing surface of the wire is configured to abut the outwardly facing surface of the base of the outer layer channel that the wire extends through.

[0088] Aspect 22. The shaft apparatus of any one of aspects 19-21, wherein the wire extending through the interior of each outer layer channel comprises a circular cross-section, wherein the inwardly facing surface of each wire comprises a cylindrical surface portion.ATTORNEY DOCKET NO. A0011446WO01

[0089] Aspect 23. The shaft apparatus of any one of aspects 19-21, wherein the wire extending through the interior of each outer layer channel comprises a rectangular cross-section, wherein the inwardly facing surface of each wire comprises a flat surface.

[0090] Aspect 24. The shaft apparatus of any one of aspects 19-21, wherein the inwardly facing surface of the wire extending through the interior of each outer layer channel comprises a concave surface.

[0091] Aspect 25. The shaft apparatus of aspect 24, wherein an outwardly facing surface of the wire extending through the interior of each outer layer channel comprises a convex surface.

[0092] Aspect 26. The shaft apparatus of any one of aspects 19-25, wherein the at least one outer layer channel comprises a single outer layer channel.

[0093] Aspect 27. The shaft apparatus of aspect 26, wherein an axis of symmetry of the outer layer circumferential covering is radially spaced a distance from an axis of symmetry of the second lumen.

[0094] Aspect 28. The shaft apparatus of aspect 27, wherein the axis of symmetry of the outer layer circumferential covering is positioned a third radial distance from the single outer layer channel, the axis of symmetry of the second lumen is spaced a fourth radial distance from the single outer layer channel, and the fourth radial distance is greater than the third radial distance.

[0095] Aspect 29. The shaft apparatus of any one of aspects 19-25, wherein the at least one outer layer channel comprises a first outer layer channel and a second outer layer channel.

[0096] Aspect 30. The shaft apparatus of aspect 29, wherein the at least one outer layer channel comprises no more than two outer layer channels.

[0097] Aspect 31. The shaft apparatus of any one of aspects 29-30, wherein the second outer layer channel of the outer layer is diametrically opposed to the first outer layer channel.

[0098] Aspect 32. The shaft apparatus of aspect 31, wherein the second lumen comprises an axis of symmetry that is coincident with an axis of symmetry of the outer layer circumferential covering.

[0099] Aspect 33. The shaft apparatus of any one of aspects 19-25, wherein the at least one outer layer channel comprises three channels.ATTORNEY DOCKET NO. A0011446WO01

[0100] Aspect 34. The shaft apparatus of aspect 33, wherein each outer layer channel of the three outer layer channels is equally circumferentially spaced from each adjacent outer layer channel of the three outer layer channels in a circumferential array about an axis of symmetry of the second lumen.

[0101] Aspect 35. The shaft apparatus of any one of aspects 19-34, wherein at least a portion of the at least one wire extending through the at least one outer layer channel contacts the outer layer circumferential covering.

[0102] Aspect 36. The shaft apparatus of any one of aspects 19-35, wherein an inner shaft at least partially extends through the second lumen.

[0103] Aspect 37. The shaft apparatus of any one of aspects 1-18, further comprising an outer layer enclosing a second lumen extending in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the shaft apparatus, wherein the outer layer includes an inner circumferential surface defining the second lumen, an outer circumferential surface, and a single outer layer channel extending in the direction of the longitudinal axis. The single outer layer channel comprises an interior comprising an opening at the outer circumferential surface of the outer layer, wherein the opening of the interior of the single outer layer channel extends in the direction of the longitudinal axis. The single outer layer channel comprises a wire extending through the interior of the single outer layer channel in the direction of the longitudinal axis. The shaft apparatus further comprises outer layer circumferential covering that circumscribes the outer circumferential surface of the outer layer, and the outer layer covering further extends over the opening of the single outer layer channel to trap the wire within the interior of the single outer layer channel. An axis of symmetry of the outer layer circumferential covering is radially spaced a distance from an axis of symmetry of the second lumen. The axis of symmetry of the outer layer circumferential covering is circumferentially positioned a third radial distance from the single outer layer channel, the axis of symmetry of the second lumen is spaced a fourth radial distance from the single outer layer channel, and the fourth radial distance is greater than the third radial distance.

[0104] Aspect 38. The shaft apparatus of aspect 37, wherein the outer layer circumferential covering comprises a braided layer.

[0105] Aspect 39. The shaft apparatus of any one of aspects 37-38, wherein an inwardly facing surface of the wire is configured to abut an outwardly facing surface of a base of the single outer layer channel that the wire extends through.ATTORNEY DOCKET NO. A0011446WO01

[0106] Aspect 40. The shaft apparatus of aspect 39, wherein the wire extending through the interior of single outer layer channel comprises a circular cross-section, wherein the inwardly facing surface of the wire comprises a cylindrical surface portion.

[0107] Aspect 41. The shaft apparatus of aspect 39, wherein the wire extending through the interior of the single outer layer channel comprises a rectangular crosssection, wherein the inwardly facing surface of the wire comprises a flat surface.

[0108] Aspect 42. The shaft apparatus of aspect 39, wherein the inwardly facing surface of the wire extending through the interior of each outer layer channel comprises a concave surface.

[0109] Aspect 43. The shaft apparatus of aspect 42, wherein an outwardly facing surface of the wire extending through the interior of each outer layer channel comprises a convex surface.

[0110] Aspect 44. The shaft apparatus of any one of aspects 37-43, wherein at least a portion of the wire extending through the single outer layer channel contacts the outer layer circumferential covering.

[0111] Aspect 45. A shaft apparatus comprises an inner layer enclosing a first lumen extending in a direction of a longitudinal axis of the shaft apparatus, wherein the inner layer includes an inner circumferential surface defining the first lumen, an outer circumferential surface, and a single inner layer channel extending in the direction of the longitudinal axis. The single inner layer channel comprises an interior comprising an opening at the outer circumferential surface, wherein the opening extends in the direction of the longitudinal axis. The single inner layer channel comprises a wire extending through the interior of the single inner layer channel in the direction of the longitudinal axis. The shaft apparatus further comprises an inner layer circumferential covering that circumscribes the outer circumferential surface of the inner layer, and the inner layer circumferential covering further extends over the opening of the single inner layer channel to trap the wire within the interior of the single inner layer channel. An axis of symmetry of the inner layer circumferential covering is radially spaced a distance from an axis of symmetry of the first lumen, wherein the axis of symmetry of the inner layer circumferential covering is positioned a first radial distance from the single inner layer channel, the axis of symmetry of the first lumen is spaced a second radial distance from the single inner layer channel, and the second radial distance is greater than the first radial distance.ATTORNEY DOCKET NO. A0011446WO01

[0112] Aspect 46. The shaft apparatus of aspect 45, wherein the inner layer circumferential covering comprises a braided layer.

[0113] Aspect 47. The shaft apparatus of any one of aspects 45-46, wherein an inwardly facing surface of the wire is configured to abut an outwardly facing surface of a base of the single inner layer channel that the wire extends through.

[0114] Aspect 48. The shaft apparatus of aspect 47, wherein the wire extending through the interior of single inner layer channel comprises a circular cross-section, wherein the inwardly facing surface of the wire comprises a cylindrical surface portion.

[0115] Aspect 49. The shaft apparatus of aspect 47, wherein the wire extending through the interior of the single inner layer channel comprises a rectangular crosssection, wherein the inwardly facing surface of the wire comprises a flat surface.

[0116] Aspect 50. The shaft apparatus of aspect 47, wherein the inwardly facing surface of the wire extending through the interior of each inner layer channel comprises a concave surface.

[0117] Aspect 51. The shaft apparatus of aspect 50, wherein an outwardly facing surface of the wire extending through the interior of each inner layer channel comprises a convex surface.

[0118] Aspect 52. The shaft apparatus of any one of aspects 45-51, wherein at least a portion of the wire extending through the single inner layer channel contacts the inner layer circumferential covering.

[0119] Aspect 53. The shaft apparatus of any one of aspects 45-52, wherein an inner shaft at least partially extends through the first lumen.

[0120] Aspect 54. The shaft apparatus of any one of aspects 45-53, further comprising an outer layer enclosing a second lumen extending in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the shaft apparatus, wherein the outer layer includes an inner circumferential surface defining the second lumen, an outer circumferential surface, and at least one outer layer channel extending in the direction of the longitudinal axis. The at least one outer layer channel comprises an interior comprising an opening at the outer circumferential surface of the outer layer, wherein the opening of the interior of the at least one outer layer channel extends in the direction of the longitudinal axis. Each outer layer channel comprises a wire extending through the interior of the outer layer channel in the direction of the longitudinal axis, wherein a shape of an inwardly facing surface of each wire extends through the outer layer channel matches a shape ofATTORNEY DOCKET NO. A0011446WO01 an outwardly facing surface of a base of the outer layer channel that the wire extends through. The shaft apparatus further comprises an outer layer circumferential covering that circumscribes the outer circumferential surface of the outer layer, and the outer layer circumferential covering further extends over the opening of the at least one outer layer channel to trap the wire within the interior of the at least one outer layer channel.

[0121] Aspect 55. The shaft apparatus of aspect 54, wherein the outer layer circumferential covering comprises a braided layer.

[0122] Aspect 56. The shaft apparatus of any one of aspects 54-55, wherein the inwardly facing surface of the wire is configured to abut the outwardly facing surface of the base of the outer layer channel that the wire extends through.

[0123] Aspect 57. The shaft apparatus of any one of aspects 54-56, wherein the wire extending through the interior of each outer layer channel comprises a circular cross-section, wherein the inwardly facing surface of each wire comprises a cylindrical surface portion.

[0124] Aspect 58. The shaft apparatus of any one of aspects 54-56, wherein the wire extending through the interior of each outer layer channel comprises a rectangular cross-section, wherein the inwardly facing surface of each wire comprises a flat surface.

[0125] Aspect 59. The shaft apparatus of any one of aspects 54-56, wherein the inwardly facing surface of the wire extending through the interior of each outer layer channel comprises a concave surface.

[0126] Aspect 60. The shaft apparatus of aspect 59, wherein an outwardly facing surface of the wire extending through the interior of each outer layer channel comprises a convex surface.

[0127] Aspect 61. The shaft apparatus of any one of aspects 54-60, wherein the at least one outer layer channel comprises a single outer layer channel.

[0128] Aspect 62. The shaft apparatus of aspect 61, wherein an axis of symmetry of the outer layer circumferential covering is radially spaced a distance from an axis of symmetry of the second lumen.

[0129] Aspect 63. The shaft apparatus of aspect 62, wherein the axis of symmetry of the outer layer circumferential covering is positioned a third radial distance from the single outer layer channel, the axis of symmetry of the second lumen is spaced a fourth radial distance from the single outer layer channel, and the fourth radial distance is greater than the third radial distance.ATTORNEY DOCKET NO. A0011446WO01

[0130] Aspect 64. The shaft apparatus of any one of aspects 54-60, wherein the at least one outer layer channel comprises a first outer layer channel and a second outer layer channel.

[0131] Aspect 65. The shaft apparatus of aspect 64, wherein the at least one outer layer channel comprises no more than two outer layer channels.

[0132] Aspect 66. The shaft apparatus of any one of aspects 64-65, wherein second outer layer channel is diametrically opposed to the first outer layer channel.

[0133] Aspect 67. The shaft apparatus of aspect 66, wherein the second lumen comprises an axis of symmetry that is coincident with an axis of symmetry of the outer layer circumferential covering.

[0134] Aspect 68. The shaft apparatus of any one of aspects 54-60, wherein the at least one outer layer channel comprises three outer layer channels.

[0135] Aspect 69. The shaft apparatus of aspect 68, wherein each outer layer channel of the three outer layer channels is equally circumferentially spaced from each adjacent outer layer channel of the three outer layer channels in a circumferential array about an axis of symmetry of the second lumen.

[0136] Aspect 70. The shaft apparatus of any one of aspects 54-69, wherein at least a portion of the at least one wire extending through the at least one outer layer channel contacts the outer layer circumferential covering.

[0137] Aspect 71. The shaft apparatus of any one of aspects 45-53, further comprising an outer layer enclosing a second lumen extending in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the shaft apparatus, wherein the outer layer includes an inner circumferential surface defining the second lumen, an outer circumferential surface, and a single outer layer channel extending in the direction of the longitudinal axis. The single outer layer channel comprises an interior comprising an opening at the outer circumferential surface of the outer layer, wherein the opening of the interior of the single outer layer channel extends in the direction of the longitudinal axis. The single outer layer channel comprises a wire extending through the interior of the single outer layer channel in the direction of the longitudinal axis. The shaft apparatus further comprises an outer layer circumferential covering that circumscribes the outer circumferential surface of the outer layer, and the outer layer circumferential covering further extends over the opening of the single outer layer channel to trap the wire within the interior of the single outer layer channel. An axis of symmetry of the outer layerATTORNEY DOCKET NO. A0011446WO01 circumferential covering is radially spaced a distance from an axis of symmetry of the second lumen, wherein the axis of symmetry of the outer layer circumferential covering is positioned a third radial distance from the single outer layer channel, the axis of symmetry of the second lumen is spaced a fourth radial distance from the single outer layer channel, and the fourth radial distance is greater than the third radial distance.

[0138] Aspect 72. The shaft apparatus of aspect 71, wherein the outer layer circumferential covering comprises a braided layer.

[0139] Aspect 73. The shaft apparatus of any one of aspects 71-72, wherein an inwardly facing surface of the wire is configured to abut an outwardly facing surface of a base of the single outer layer channel that the wire extends through.

[0140] Aspect 74. The shaft apparatus of aspect 73, wherein the wire extending through the interior of single outer layer channel comprises a circular cross-section, wherein the inwardly facing surface of the wire comprises a cylindrical surface portion.

[0141] Aspect 75. The shaft apparatus of aspect 73, wherein the wire extending through the interior of the single outer layer channel comprises a rectangular crosssection, wherein the inwardly facing surface of the wire comprises a flat surface.

[0142] Aspect 76. The shaft apparatus of aspect 73, wherein the inwardly facing surface of the wire extending through the interior of each outer layer channel comprises a concave surface.

[0143] Aspect 77. The shaft apparatus of aspect 76, wherein an outwardly facing surface of the wire extending through the interior of each outer layer channel comprises a convex surface.

[0144] Aspect 78. The shaft apparatus of any one of aspects 71-77, wherein at least a portion of the wire extending through the single outer layer channel contacts the outer layer circumferential covering.

[0145] It should be understood that while various aspects have been described in detail relative to certain illustrative and specific examples thereof, the present disclosure should not be considered limited to such, as numerous modifications and combinations of the disclosed features are possible without departing from the scope of the following claims.

Claims

ATTORNEY DOCKET NO. A0011446WO01What is claimed is:

1. A shaft apparatus (101) comprising : an inner layer (103, 603, 703, 1203, 1303) enclosing a first lumen (201) extending in a direction (115) of a longitudinal axis (113) of the shaft apparatus (101), wherein the inner layer (103, 603, 703, 1203, 1303) includes an inner circumferential surface (202) defining the first lumen (201), an outer circumferential surface (333, 633, 733, 1233, 1333), and at least one inner layer channel (311, 611, 711, 1211, 1311) extending in the direction (115) of the longitudinal axis (113), the at least one inner layer channel (311, 611, 711, 1211, 1311) comprising an interior comprising an opening at the outer circumferential surface (333, 633, 733, 1233, 1333), wherein the opening extends in the direction (115) of the longitudinal axis (113); each inner layer channel (311, 611, 711, 1211, 1311) comprising a wire (321, 621, 721, 1221, 1321) extending through the interior of the inner layer channel (311, 611, 711, 1211, 1311) in the direction (115) of the longitudinal axis (113), wherein a shape of an inwardly facing surface (423, 623, 723, 1223, 1323) of each wire (321, 621, 721, 1221, 1321) matches a shape of an outwardly facing surface (313, 613, 713, 1313) of a base of the inner layer channel (311, 611, 711, 1211, 1311) that the wire (321, 621, 721, 1221, 1321) extends through; and an inner layer circumferential covering (341) circumscribing the outer circumferential surface (333, 633, 733, 1233, 1333) of the inner layer (103, 603, 703, 1203, 1303), and the inner layer circumferential covering (341) further extending over the opening of the at least one inner layer channel (311, 611, 711, 1211, 1311) to trap the wire (321, 621, 721, 1221, 1321) within the interior of the at least one inner layer channel (311, 611, 711, 1211, 1311).

2. The shaft apparatus (101) of claim 1, wherein the at least one inner layer channel (311, 611, 711, 1211, 1311) comprises a single inner layer channel (611, 1311).

3. The shaft apparatus (101) of claim 2, wherein an axis of symmetry (IA1) of the inner layer circumferential covering (341) is radially spaced a distance from an axis of symmetry (IA2) of the first lumen (201).ATTORNEY DOCKET NO. A0011446WO014. The shaft apparatus (101) of claim 3, wherein the axis of symmetry (IA1) of the inner layer circumferential covering (341) is positioned a first radial distance (ID1) from the single inner layer channel (611, 1311), the axis of symmetry (IA2) of the first lumen (201) is spaced a second radial distance (ID2) from the single inner layer channel (611, 1311), and the second radial distance (ID 2) is greater than the first radial distance (ID1).

5. The shaft apparatus (101) of any one of claims 1 - 4, further comprising an outer layer (105, 1005, 1205, 1305, 1405) enclosing a second lumen (205) extending in the direction (115) of the longitudinal axis (113) of the shaft apparatus (101), wherein the outer layer (105, 1005, 1205, 1305, 1405) includes an inner circumferential surface (206) defining the second lumen (205), an outer circumferential surface (853, 1053, 1253, 1353, 1453), and at least one outer layer channel (861, 1061, 1261, 1361, 1461) extending in the direction (115) of the longitudinal axis (113), the at least one outer layer channel (861, 1061, 1261, 1361, 1461) comprising an interior comprising an opening at the outer circumferential surface (853, 1053, 1253, 1353, 1453) of the outer layer (105, 1005, 1205, 1305, 1405), wherein the opening of the interior of the at least one outer layer channel (861, 1061, 1261, 1361, 1461) extends in the direction (115) of the longitudinal axis (113); each outer layer channel (861, 1061, 1261, 1361, 1461) comprising a wire (871, 1071, 1271, 1371, 1471) extending through the interior of the outer layer channel (861, 1061, 1261, 1361, 1461) in the direction (115) of the longitudinal axis (113), wherein a shape of an inwardly facing surface (873, 1073, 1273, 1373, 1473) of each wire (871, 1071, 1271, 1371, 1471) extending through the outer layer channel (861, 1061, 1261, 1361, 1461) matches a shape of an outwardly facing surface (863, 1063, 1363, 1463) of a base of the outer layer channel (861, 1061, 1261, 1361, 1461) that the wire (871, 1071, 1271, 1371, 1471) extends through; and an outer layer circumferential covering (881) circumscribing the outer circumferential surface (853, 1053, 1253, 1353, 1453) of the outer layer (105, 1005, 1205, 1305, 1405), and the outer layer circumferential covering (881) further extending over the opening of the at least one outer layer channel (861, 1061, 1261, 1361, 1461) to trap the wire (871, 1071, 1271, 1371, 1471) within the interior of the at least one outer layer channel (861, 1061, 1261, 1361, 1461).ATTORNEY DOCKET NO. A0011446WO016. The shaft apparatus (101) of claim 5, wherein the at least one outer layer channel (861, 1061, 1261, 1361, 1461) comprises a single outer layer channel (861, 1361).

7. The shaft apparatus (101) of claim 6, wherein an axis of symmetry (OA1) of the outer layer circumferential covering (881) is radially spaced a distance from an axis of symmetry (OA2) of the second lumen (205).

8. The shaft apparatus (101) of claim 7, wherein the axis of symmetry (OA1) of the outer layer circumferential covering (881) is positioned a third radial distance (OD1) from the single outer layer channel (861, 1361), the axis of symmetry (OA2) of the second lumen (205) is spaced a fourth radial distance (OD2) from the single outer layer channel (861, 1361), and the fourth radial distance (OD2) is greater than the third radial distance (OD1).

9. The shaft apparatus (101) of any one of claims 1 - 4, further comprising an outer layer (105, 1305) enclosing a second lumen (205) extending in the direction (115) of the longitudinal axis (113) of the shaft apparatus (101), wherein the outer layer (105, 1305) includes an inner circumferential surface (206) defining the second lumen (205), an outer circumferential surface (853, 1353), and a single outer layer channel (861, 1361) extending in the direction (115) of the longitudinal axis (113), the single outer layer channel (861, 1361) comprising an interior comprising an opening at the outer circumferential surface (853, 1053) of the outer layer (105, 1305), wherein the opening of the interior of the single outer layer channel (861, 1361) extends in the direction (115) of the longitudinal axis (113); the single outer layer channel (861, 1361) comprising a wire (871, 1371) extending through the interior of the single outer layer channel (861, 1361) in the direction (115) of the longitudinal axis (113); and an outer layer circumferential covering (881) circumscribing the outer circumferential surface (853, 1353) of the outer layer (105, 1305), and the outer layer circumferential covering (881) further extending over the opening of the single outer layer channel (861, 1361) to trap the wire (871, 1371) within the interior of the singleATTORNEY DOCKET NO. A0011446WO01 outer layer channel (861, 1361), and an axis of symmetry (0A1) of the outer layer circumferential covering (881) is radially spaced a distance from an axis of symmetry (OA2) of the second lumen (205), wherein the axis of symmetry (OA1) of the outer layer circumferential covering (881) is circumferentially positioned a third radial distance (OD1) from the single outer layer channel (861, 1361), the axis of symmetry (OA2) of the second lumen (205) is spaced a fourth radial distance (OD2) from the single outer layer channel (861, 1361), and the fourth radial distance (OD2) is greater than the third radial distance (OD1).

10. A shaft apparatus (101) comprising : an inner layer (603, 1303) enclosing a first lumen (201) extending in a direction (115) of a longitudinal axis (113) of the shaft apparatus (101), wherein the inner layer (603, 1303) includes an inner circumferential surface (202) defining the first lumen (201), an outer circumferential surface (633, 1333), and a single inner layer channel (611, 1311) extending in the direction (115) of the longitudinal axis (113), the single inner layer channel (611, 1311) comprising an interior comprising an opening at the outer circumferential surface (633, 1333), wherein the opening extends in the direction (115) of the longitudinal axis (113); the single inner layer channel (611, 1311) comprising a wire (621, 1321) extending through the interior of the single inner layer channel (611, 1311) in the direction (115) of the longitudinal axis (113); and an inner layer circumferential covering (341) circumscribing the outer circumferential surface (633, 1333) of the inner layer (603, 1303), and the inner layer circumferential covering (341) further extending over the opening of the single inner layer channel (611, 1311) to trap the wire (621, 1321) within the interior of the single inner layer channel (611, 1311), and an axis of symmetry (IA1) of the inner layer circumferential covering (341) is radially spaced a distance from an axis of symmetry (IA2) of the first lumen (201), wherein the axis of symmetry (IA1) of the inner layer circumferential covering (341) is positioned a first radial distance (ID1) from the single inner layer channel (611, 1311), the axis of symmetry (IA2) of the first lumen (201) is spaced a secondATTORNEY DOCKET NO. A0011446WO01 radial distance (ID2) from the single inner layer channel (611, 1311), and the second radial distance (ID2) is greater than the first radial distance (ID 1).

11. The shaft apparatus (101) of claim 10, further comprising an outer layer (105, 1005, 1205, 1305, 1405) enclosing a second lumen (205) extending in the direction (115) of the longitudinal axis (113) of the shaft apparatus (101), wherein the outer layer (105, 1005, 1205, 1305, 1405) includes an inner circumferential surface (206) defining the second lumen (205), an outer circumferential surface (853, 1053, 1253, 1353, 1453), and at least one outer layer channel (861, 1061, 1261, 1361, 1461) extending in the direction (115) of the longitudinal axis (113), the at least one outer layer channel (861, 1061, 1261, 1361, 1461) comprising an interior comprising an opening at the outer circumferential surface (853, 1053, 1253, 1353, 1453) of the outer layer (105, 1005, 1205, 1305, 1405), wherein the opening of the interior of the at least one outer layer channel (861, 1061, 1261, 1361, 1461) extends in the direction (115) of the longitudinal axis (113); each outer layer channel (861, 1061, 1261, 1361, 1461) comprising a wire (871, 1071, 1271, 1371, 1471) extending through the interior of the outer layer channel (861, 1061, 1261, 1361, 1461) in the direction (115) of the longitudinal axis (113), wherein a shape of an inwardly facing surface (873, 1073, 1273, 1373, 1473) of each wire (871, 1071, 1271, 1371, 1471) extending through the outer layer channel (861, 1061, 1261, 1361, 1461) matches a shape of an outwardly facing surface (863, 1063, 1363, 1463) of a base of the outer layer channel (861, 1061, 1261, 1361, 1461) that the wire extends through; and an outer layer circumferential covering (881) circumscribing the outer circumferential surface (853, 1053, 1253, 1353, 1453) of the outer layer (105, 1005, 1205, 1305, 1405), and the outer layer circumferential covering (881) further extending over the opening of the at least one outer layer channel (861, 1061, 1261, 1361, 1461) to trap the wire within the interior of the at least one outer layer channel (861, 1061, 1261, 1361, 1461).

12. The shaft apparatus (101) of claim 11, wherein the at least one outer layer channel (861, 1061, 1261, 1361, 1461) comprises a single outer layer channel (861, 1361).ATTORNEY DOCKET NO. A0011446WO0113. The shaft apparatus (101) of claim 12, wherein an axis of symmetry (OA1) of the outer layer circumferential covering (881) is radially spaced a distance from an axis of symmetry (OA2) of the second lumen (205).

14. The shaft apparatus (101) of claim 13, wherein the axis of symmetry of the outer layer circumferential covering (881) is positioned a third radial distance from the single outer layer channel (1361), the axis of symmetry of the second lumen (205) is spaced a fourth radial distance from the single outer layer channel (1361), and the fourth radial distance is greater than the third radial distance.

15. The shaft apparatus (101) of claim 10, further comprising an outer layer (105, 1305) enclosing a second lumen (205) extending in the direction (115) of the longitudinal axis (113) of the shaft apparatus (101), wherein the outer layer (105, 1305) includes an inner circumferential surface (206) defining the second lumen (205), an outer circumferential surface (853, 1353), and a single outer layer channel (861, 1361) extending in the direction (115) of the longitudinal axis (113), the single outer layer channel (861, 1361) comprising an interior comprising an opening at the outer circumferential surface (853, 1353) of the outer layer (105, 1305), wherein the opening of the interior of the single outer layer channel (861, 1361) extends in the direction (115) of the longitudinal axis (113); the single outer layer channel (861, 1361) comprising a wire (871, 1371) extending through the interior of the single outer layer channel (1361) in the direction (115) of the longitudinal axis (113); and an outer layer circumferential covering (881) circumscribing the outer circumferential surface (853, 1353) of the outer layer (105, 1305), and the outer layer circumferential covering (881) further extending over the opening of the single outer layer channel (861, 1361) to trap the wire (871, 1371) within the interior of the single outer layer channel (861, 1361), and an axis of symmetry (OA1) of the outer layer circumferential covering (881) is radially spaced a distance from an axis of symmetry (OA2) of the second lumen (205), wherein the axis of symmetry (OA1) of the outer layer circumferential covering (881) is positioned a third radial distance (OD1) from the single outer layerATTORNEY DOCKET NO. A0011446WO01 channel (861, 1361), the axis of symmetry (0A2) of the second lumen (205) is spaced a fourth radial distance (OD2) from the single outer layer channel (861, 1361), and the fourth radial distance (OD2) is greater than the third radial distance (OD1).

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