Deflectable medical devices

[0001] This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119 to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/780,876, filed Mar. 13, 2013, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present disclosure pertains to medical devices, and methods for manufacturing medical devices. More particularly, the present disclosure pertains to deflectable medical devices and methods for manufacturing and using such devices.

[0003] A wide variety of intracorporeal medical devices have been developed for medical use, for example, intravascular use. Some of these devices include guidewires, catheters, and the like. These devices are manufactured by any one of a variety of different manufacturing methods and may be used according to any one of a variety of methods. Of the known medical devices and methods, each has certain advantages and disadvantages. There is an ongoing need to provide alternative medical devices as well as alternative methods for manufacturing and using medical devices.

[0004] The present disclosure provides a deflective medical device for performing nerve ablation of a blood vessel within a patient's body. The distal portion of the device is easily deflective, and maintains a substantial area of contact with the inner surface of the blood vessel when ablation is performed.

[0005] According to a first aspect, a deflective medical device includes a catheter shaft having a distal end. An ablation electrode is disposed at the distal end of the catheter shaft. The device also includes a deflection body having a spine that extends longitudinally along the deflection body. Multiple slots are formed in the deflection body, and those slots define a group of ribs. A flex member is disposed distal to the deflection body, and an intermediate region is defined between the flex member and the deflection body. A deflection member is coupled to the intermediate region, and includes a retaining member, a collar and a pull wire coupled to the collar. The retaining member is disposed to slide within the collar, and it secures the pull wire to the intermediate region. Further, the retaining member also limits axial movement of the pull wire relative to the catheter shaft.

[0006] According to another aspect, the present disclosure provides a deflective medical device including a catheter shaft having a distal end. An ablation electrode is disposed at the distal end of the catheter shaft. The medical device further includes a deflection body having a longitudinally extending spine. Multiple slots are formed in the deflection body to define a group of ribs. A flex member is disposed distal to the deflection body. An intermediate region is defined between the deflection body and the flex member. The intermediate region has an opening extending from an outer surface to an inner surface thereof. A deflection mechanism is coupled to the intermediate region of the catheter shaft. The deflection mechanism includes a retaining portion and a pull wire portion. The retaining portion includes a collar extending at least partially around the outer surface of the intermediate region. The pull wire portion passes through the opening within the intermediate region, and extends proximally along a lumen of the deflection body.

[0007] The above summary of the exemplary embodiments does not describe all the features of those embodiments, or every implementation of the present disclosure.

[0022] While the invention is amenable to various modifications and alternative forms, specifics thereof depict example in the drawings described in detail. However, the intention is not to limit aspects of the invention to the particular embodiments described herein. On the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0023] For the following defined terms, these definitions shall be applied, unless a different definition can be construed through the claims, or is explicitly provided elsewhere in this specification.

[0024] All numeric values are herein assumed to be modified by the term “about,” whether or not explicitly indicated. The term “about” generally refers to a range of numbers that one of skill in the art would consider equivalent to the recited value (i.e., having the same function or result). In many instances, the term “about” may be indicative of numbers that are rounded to the nearest significant figure.

[0025] The recitation of numerical ranges by endpoints includes all numbers within that range, including the extreme points of the range.

[0026] Although some suitable dimensions, ranges and/or values pertaining to various components, features and/or specifications are disclosed, one of skill in the art, incited by the present disclosure, would understand desired dimensions, ranges and/or values may deviate from those expressly disclosed.

[0027] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. As used in this specification and the appended claims, the term “or” is generally employed in its sense including “and/or” unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

[0028] For purposes of this disclosure, “proximal” refers to the direction closer to the operator of the device, and“distal” refers to the direction opposite to “proximal, i.e., farther from the operator of the device.

[0029] The following detailed description should be read with reference to the drawings. Wherever possible, elements/components having the same structure and/or functionality have been represented by same numerals. The detailed description and the drawings, which are not necessarily to scale, depict illustrative embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. The illustrative embodiments depicted are intended only as exemplary. Selected features of any illustrative embodiment may be incorporated into an additional embodiment unless clearly stated to the contrary.

[0030] It is noted that references in the specification to “an embodiment”, “some embodiments”, “other embodiments”, etc., indicate that the embodiment described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with one embodiment, it should be understood that such feature, structure, or characteristic may also be used in connection with other embodiments whether or not explicitly described unless cleared stated to the contrary.

[0031] Certain treatments may require the temporary or permanent interruption or modification of select nerve function. One example treatment is renal nerve ablation which is sometimes used to treat conditions related to hypertension and/or congestive heart failure. The kidneys produce a sympathetic response to congestive heart failure, which, among other effects, increases the undesired retention of water and/or sodium. Ablating some of the nerves running to the kidneys may reduce or eliminate this sympathetic function, which may provide a corresponding reduction in the associated undesired symptoms.

[0032] Many nerves (and nervous tissue such as brain tissue), including renal nerves, run along the walls of or in close proximity to blood vessels and thus can be accessed intravascularly through the walls of the blood vessels. In some instances, it may be desirable to ablate perivascular nerves using a radio frequency (RF) electrode. In other instances, the perivascular nerves may be ablated by other means including application of thermal, ultrasonic, laser, microwave, and other related energy sources to the vessel wall.

[0033] Because the nerves are hard to visualize, treatment methods employing such energy sources have tended to apply the energy as a generally circumferential ring to ensure that the nerves are modulated. However, such a treatment may result in thermal injury to the vessel wall near the electrode and other undesirable side effects such as, but not limited to, blood damage, clotting, weakened vessel wall, and/or protein fouling of the electrode.

[0034] While the devices and methods described herein are discussed relative to renal nerve modulation through a blood vessel wall, it is contemplated that the devices and methods may be used in other applications where nerve modulation and/or ablation are desired. The term modulation refers to ablation and other techniques that may alter the function of affected nerves.

[0035] FIG. 1 is a schematic view of an example renal nerve modulation system 10 in situ. System 10 may include a renal ablation catheter 12 and one or more conductive element(s) 14 for providing power to catheter 12. A proximal end of conductive element(s) 14 may be connected to a control and power element 16, which supplies necessary electrical energy to activate one or more electrodes (e.g., electrode 24 as shown in FIG. 3) disposed at or near a distal end of catheter 12. When suitably activated, the electrodes are capable of ablating adjacent tissue. The terms electrode and electrodes may be considered to be equivalent to elements capable of ablating adjacent tissue in the disclosure which follows. In some instances, return electrode patches 18 may be supplied on the legs or at another conventional location on the patient's body to complete the circuit.

[0036] Control and power element 16 may include monitoring elements to monitor parameters such as power, temperature, voltage, amperage, impedance, pulse size and/or shape and other suitable parameters, with sensors mounted along catheter, as well as suitable controls for performing the desired procedure. In some embodiments, power element 16 may control a radio frequency (RF) electrode. The electrode may be configured to operate at a frequency of approximately 460 kHz. It is contemplated that any desired frequency in the RF range may be used, for example, from 400-500 kHz. It is further contemplated that additionally and/or other ablation devices may be used as desired, for example, but not limited to resistance heating, ultrasound, microwave, and laser devices and these devices may require that power be supplied by the power element 16 in a different form.

[0037] FIG. 2 is a partially cut away side view of catheter 12. Here, some of the structural features of catheter 12 can be seen. For example, catheter 12 may include a catheter shaft 20. Catheter shaft 20 may take the form of a metallic and/or polymer shaft and may include visualization (e.g., marker bands) and/or reinforcing structures (e.g., braids, coils, etc.) commonly used for catheter shafts. In at least some embodiments, catheter shaft 20 may form or define an outer surface of catheter 12. An ablation member or electrode 24 may be attached to catheter shaft 20. Ablation member 24 may be formed at or otherwise form a distal tip of catheter shaft 20. In general, ablation member 24 may be configured to ablate target tissue at or near a body lumen. For example, ablation member 24 may be used to ablate a renal nerve adjacent to a renal artery. Ablation member 24 may vary and may include a number of structures such as a plurality of wires (e.g., two wires) that connect with electrode wire 14 and, ultimately, control and power element 16. Electrode wire 14 may be soldered to a side slot (not explicitly shown) on the ablation member 24, for example.

[0038] Ablation member 24 may also include other structures and/or features associated typically associated with ablation (e.g., thermal ablation) such as a temperature monitoring member (not explicitly shown), which may take the form of a thermocouple or thermistor. In at least some embodiments, a thermistor including two thermistor wires may be disposed adjacent to ablation member 24. In some embodiments, the wires are not physically connected to ablation member 24. The thermistor wires may terminate in the center bore of the ablation member 24 and may be potted with a thermally conducting epoxy in a plastic tube which is then glued to the bore of the ablation member 24.

[0039] When conducting a medical procedure that involves ablation, it may be desirable to place the ablation member (e.g., ablation member 24) near the target tissue so as to ablate the target while minimizing damage to non-targeted tissue. In order to more specifically place or steer catheter 12 to a position adjacent to the intended target, catheter 12 may be configured to be deflectable. Accordingly, catheter 12 may include a tubular member 26 that includes a flex body 28 that can be selectively bent. This allows a user to orient, for example, ablation member 24 in a desirable position within a body lumen. To effect deflection, one or more pull wires or actuation members may be coupled to flex body 28. This allows a user to actuate (e.g., “pull”) one or both of wires to deflect flex body 28 and, thus, catheter 12 (e.g., ablation member 24). In addition, wires may be stiff enough so that they can also be used to provide a pushing force on flex body 28 to, for example, straighten flex body 28. In some instances, the actuation member may take the form of a continuous wire that is looped through or otherwise coupled to a distal end of flex body 28 so as to define a pair of wire section). In other instances, the actuation member may include one or more individual wires that are attached, for example, to the distal end of flex body 28.

[0040] To further aid in properly orienting catheter 12 within a body lumen, a flex tube 32 may be coupled to flex body 28 (e.g., at a distal end of flex body 28). Flex tube 32 may have a plurality of slots 34 formed therein. In general, flex tube 32 is configured to be flexible so that the distal portion of catheter 12 (e.g., adjacent to ablation member 24) can bend upon encountering the wall of a body lumen. Accordingly, flex tube 32 can bend when/if ablation member 24 engages the wall of the body lumen during deflection of flex body 28 so that ablation member 24 may atraumatically follow along the wall of the body lumen.

[0041] In at least some embodiments, flex body 28 and flex tube 32 are two distinct structures that are attached to one another. In other embodiments, flex body 28 and flex tube 32 are formed in tubular member 26 by selectively cutting the desired pattern into tubular member 26. For example, tubular member 26 may be cut in a first pattern that defines flex body 28 and tubular member 26 may be cut in a second pattern that defines flex tube 32. The cut patterns may be substantially continuous (e.g., where relatively little or no appreciable spacing is defined between the patterns) or the patterns may be longitudinally spaced so that a gap is defined therebetween. Analogously, flex body 28 and flex tube 32 may be substantially continuous with one another or longitudinally spaced from one another so that an intermediate region 22 is defined therebetween. In some embodiments flex body 28 and flex tube 32 may be formed from a nickel-titanium alloy, such as, but not limited to, nitinol, although this is not required. It is contemplated that flex body 28 and flex tube 32 may be formed from any material desired.

[0042] Catheter 12 may also include a number of additional features commonly associated with medical devices. For example, catheter 12 may include radiopaque markers or bands, additional or alternative catheter shaft constructions (e.g., having lumens, reinforcements, balloons, or other catheter structures), a proximal hub and strain relief, and the like.

[0043] FIG. 3 illustrates catheter 12 disposed in a blood vessel 40. Here it can be seen how flex body 28 (and flex tube 32) can aid in the orientation of catheter 12 within blood vessel 40. In this example, a pull wire may be actuated to cause flex body 28 to bend. This bends ablation member 24 toward the wall of blood vessel 40. Flex tube 32 allows catheter 12 to further bend so that ablation member 24 can trace along and lay flat against the wall of blood vessel 40. However, other embodiments are also contemplated that allow the tip of the electrode 24 to touch the wall of blood vessel 40 rather than lay flat against the wall. For example, FIG. 3A illustrates catheter 12 that may be similar in form and function to other catheters disclosed herein. Catheter 12 may lack flex tube 32. This allows the tip of electrode 22 to contact the wall of blood vessel 40. In some embodiments, the tip of electrode 22 may be insulated but thermally conductive and energy may be emitted from a point proximal of the tip. This may allow the ablation point of the electrode to be spaced from or otherwise positioned away from the vessel wall and may also improve heat dissipation at the point of electrode 22 contact, which may reduce potential thermal damage to the interior vessel wall.

[0044] In some instances, it may be desirable to use a stainless steel pull wire to affect deflection of the distal end region of catheter 12. However, it may be challenging to attach a stainless steel pull wire to a nitinol tubular member 26. The force necessary to deflect a nitinol tube may require an attachment means that will securely connect a pull wire to the tube 26. However, typical techniques, such as, but not limited to, welding, soldering, or adhesive bonding may not be suitable for use with nitinol.

[0045] FIG. 4 illustrates a cross-section of a section of tubular member 26 having a pull wire 36 affixed thereto. For simplicity, catheter shaft 12 is not shown, although it should be understood tubular member 26 may be used in conjunction with catheter shaft 12. In some embodiments, pull wire 36 may be formed from stainless steel, although this is not required. It is contemplated that pull wire 36 may be formed from any material desired. In some instances, pull wire 36 may be welded or otherwise attached to a tubular member or collar 38. While collar 38 is described as tubular, collar 38 may take any shape desired. Collar 38 may define a lumen 40 for receiving a retaining member 42 therethrough. In some embodiments, collar 38 may have an inner diameter that is substantially the same size as an outer diameter of retaining member 42 or slightly larger than the outer diameter of retaining member 42. Collar 38 may either partially or completely surround retaining member 42. Together, collar 38, pull wire 36, and retaining member 42 may from a deflection mechanism.

[0046] Retaining member 42 may be a retaining pin having a generally circular cross-section and tapered end portions, to facilitate insertion of pin 42 through apertures or holes 44a, 44b provided within intermediate region 22. In some embodiments, these holes 44a, 44b may be provided diametrically opposite one another, although this is not required. The diameter, or cross-section, of holes 44a, 44b may be sized to receive retaining member 42. Retaining member 42 may be a retaining pin having a circular cross-section and tapered end portions, to facilitate ease of insertion of the pin through either of the holes 44a, 44b. It is contemplated that retaining member 42 may be sized such that retaining member 42 is press fit or friction fit within apertures 44a, 44b. In some embodiments, retaining member 42 may have a length greater than an inner diameter of tubular member 26 such that retaining member 42 is secured within both apertures 44a, 44b.

[0047] Pull wire 36 may have a first portion 46 extending generally parallel to a longitudinal axis of tubular member 26 and a second portion 48 extending generally orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of tubular member 26, providing an L-shaped structure to a distal end region of pull wire 36. As shown, the outer surface of the second portion 48 may be attached to the outer portion of collar 38. Pull wire 36 may be welded or otherwise fixedly secure to collar 38. Further, pull wire 36 may be attached to collar 38 such that the first portion 46 of pull wire 36 is positioned at an offset from the center of tubular member 26. This may allow for an effective transfer of any deflective force applied to the pull wire 36, towards the distal portion of the catheter shaft 12.

[0048] To assemble pull wire 36 with tubular member 26, the collar 38 may first be attached to the pull wire 36 external to tubular member 26. Pull wire 36 and collar 38 may then be inserted into a lumen of the tubular member 26. On insertion, lumen 40 of collar 38 may be vertically aligned with the holes 44a, 44b. Thereafter, retaining pin 42 may be first inserted through either of holes 44a, 44b, then through lumen 40 and finally through the opposite hole 44a, 44b. Positioned in this manner, retaining pin 42 orients itself substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis tubular member 26. The proximal end of pull wire 36 may extend proximally to an appropriate control mechanism (not shown), which may be a handle configured to operate the pull wire 36.

[0049] When pull wire 36 is operated through the control mechanism (when so provided), the distal portion of the catheter shaft 12 can be easily deflected in an intended manner. For example, pull wire 36 can be positioned in a particular configuration (e.g. along the longitudinal axis or offset from the longitudinal axis) to achieve a desired deflection of the distal portion of the catheter shaft 12. Also, since the end portions of the retaining pin 42 are secured within holes 44a, 44b, the pin 42 may be substantially restricted from axial movement and/or shifting/moving along the longitudinal axis of tubular member 26.

[0050] FIG. 5 illustrates a cross-section of a section of another illustrative tubular member 126 having a pull wire 136 affixed thereto. Tubular member 126 may be similar in form and function to tubular member 26 discussed above. In some instances, tubular member 126 may include a flex body 128, flex tube 132, and intermediate region 122 that may be similar in form and function to flex body 28, flex tube 32, and intermediate region 22 discussed above, While not explicitly shown, tubular member 126 may be used in conjunction with a catheter, such as catheter 12. In some embodiments, pull wire 136 may be formed from stainless steel, although this is not required. It is contemplated that pull wire 136 may be formed from any material desired. In some instances, pull wire 136 may be secured within a lumen 138 extending through retaining member or pin 142. It is contemplated that in some instances, pull wire 136 may be welded directly to retaining member 142. In other instances, a ball weld may be placed onto the end of pull wire 136 or a mechanical crimp can be added to the distal end of pull wire 136 to prevent the pull wire 136 from exiting lumen 138. However, any suitable means for attaching pull wire 136 to retaining member 142 may be used. While pull wire 136 is illustrated as extending completely through retaining member 142, it is contemplated that pull wire 136 may extend only partially through lumen 138. Together, pull wire 136 and retaining member 142 may from a deflection mechanism.

[0051] Retaining member 142 may be a retaining pin having a generally circular cross-section and tapered end portions, to facilitate insertion of pin 142 through apertures or holes 144a, 144b provided within intermediate region 122. In some embodiments, these holes 144a, 144b may be provided diametrically opposite one another, although this is not required. The diameter, or cross-section, of holes 144a, 144b may be sized to receive retaining member 142. Retaining member 142 may be a retaining pin having a circular cross-section and tapered end portions, to facilitate ease of insertion of the pin through either of the holes 144a, 144b. In some embodiments, retaining member 142 may have a larger diameter main body 148 and small end regions 150a, 150b. The tapered shape of retaining member 142 may allow retaining member 142 to be self-centering. It is contemplated that end regions 150a, 150b may be sized such that retaining member 142 is press fit or friction fit within apertures 144a, 144b. In some embodiments, retaining member 142 may have a length greater than an inner diameter of tubular member 126 such that retaining member 142 is secured within both apertures 144a, 144b. Further, while lumen 138 is illustrated as offset from a center longitudinal axis of tubular member 126, this is not required. Lumen 138 may be formed in any portion of retaining member 142 desired to achieve the desired deflection.

[0052] To assemble pull wire 136 and retaining member 142 with tubular member 126, the shape memory characteristics of nitinol may be utilized. The nitinol tubular member 126 may be chilled to an appropriate temperature (for example, below the transformation temperature) and then placed in a fixture that orients tubular member 126 into an oval or elliptical shape. Orienting tubular member 126 into an oval shape at reduced temperature allows the nitinol material to be deformed without damage, yet allow it to return to its normal (generally circular) shape when returned to room temperature. While in the elliptical shape, the major axis may be sufficiently large to allow the pull wire 136/retaining member 142 assembly to pass through the inner diameter of tube 126. Once the ends 150a, 150b of retaining member 142 are aligned with holes 144a, 144b, tubular member 126 may be removed from the ovalizing fixture and/or allowed to warm to room temperature. As tubular member 126 resumes its normal, generally circular, shape, the end regions 150a, 150b of retaining member 142 engage holes 144a, 144b. The pull wire 136/retaining member 142 assembly may then be fixedly secured to tubular member 126 and pull wire 136 can be actuated to achieve deflection of tubular member 126.

[0053] When pull wire 136 is operated through the control mechanism (when so provided), the distal portion of the catheter shaft can be easily deflected in an intended manner. For example, pull wire 136 can be positioned in a particular configuration (e.g. along the longitudinal axis or offset from the longitudinal axis) to achieve a desired deflection of the distal portion of the catheter shaft. Also, since the end portions of the retaining pin 142 are secured within holes 144a, 144b, the pin 142 may be substantially restricted from axial movement and/or shifting/moving along the longitudinal axis of tubular member 126.

[0054] FIG. 6 illustrates a cross-section of a section of another illustrative tubular member 226 having a pull wire 236 affixed thereto. Tubular member 226 may be similar in form and function to tubular member 26 discussed above. In some instances, tubular member 226 may include a flex body 228, flex tube 232, and intermediate region 222 that may be similar in form and function to flex body 28, flex tube 32, and intermediate region 22 discussed above, While not explicitly shown, tubular member 226 may be used in conjunction with a catheter, such as catheter 12. In some embodiments, pull wire 236 may be formed from stainless steel, although this is not required. It is contemplated that pull wire 236 may be formed from any material desired. In some instances, pull wire 236 may be attached to a housing 248. In some embodiments, housing 248 may be formed from stainless steel, although this is not required. Housing 248 may have a generally trapezoidal shape. However, it is contemplated that housing 248 may take any shape desired. Housing 248 may include a first through hole 250 extending generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of tubular member 226 and a second through hole 240 extending generally orthogonal to the first through hole 250. It is contemplated that first through hole 250 may not extend completely through housing 248. Pull wire 236 may be welded or otherwise fixedly secured within first through hole 250. The first through hole 250 may be positioned at an offset from the central longitudinal axis of tubular member 226, although this is not required. This may allow for an effective transfer of any deflective force applied to the pull wire 236, towards the distal portion of the catheter shaft. In some embodiments, second through hole 240 may have an inner diameter that is substantially the same size as an outer diameter of retaining member 242 or slightly larger than the outer diameter of retaining member 242. Together, housing 248, pull wire 236, and retaining member 242 may from a deflection mechanism.

[0055] Retaining member 242 may be a retaining pin having a generally circular cross-section and tapered end portions, to facilitate insertion of pin 242 through apertures or holes 244a, 244b provided within intermediate region 222. In some embodiments, these holes 244a, 244b may be provided diametrically opposite one another, although this is not required. The diameter, or cross-section, of holes 244a, 244b may be sized to receive retaining member 242. Retaining member 242 may be a retaining pin having a circular cross-section and tapered end portions, to facilitate ease of insertion of the pin through either of the holes 244a, 244b. It is contemplated that retaining member 242 may be sized such that retaining member 242 is press fit or friction fit within apertures 44a, 44b. In some embodiments, retaining member 242 may have a length greater than an inner diameter of tubular member 226 such that retaining member 242 is secured within both apertures 244a, 244b.

[0056] To assemble pull wire 236 with tubular member 226, the housing 248 and pull wire 236 may first be attached external to tubular member 226. Pull wire 236 and housing 248 may then be inserted into a lumen of the tubular member 226. On insertion, through hole 240 of housing 248 may be vertically aligned with the holes 244a, 244b. Thereafter, retaining pin 242 may be first inserted through either of holes 244a, 244b, then through hole 240 and finally through the opposite hole 244a, 244b. Positioned in this manner, retaining pin 242 orients itself substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis tubular member 226. The proximal end of pull wire 236 may extend proximally to an appropriate control mechanism (not shown), which may be a handle configured to operate the pull wire 236.

[0057] When pull wire 236 is operated through the control mechanism (when so provided), the distal portion of the catheter shaft can be easily deflected in an intended manner. For example, pull wire 236 can be positioned in a particular configuration (e.g. along the longitudinal axis or offset from the longitudinal axis) to achieve a desired deflection of the distal portion of the catheter shaft. Also, since the end portions of the retaining pin 242 are secured within holes 244a, 244b, the pin 242 may be substantially restricted from axial movement and/or shifting/moving along the longitudinal axis of tubular member 226.

[0058] FIG. 7 illustrates a cross-section of a section of another illustrative tubular member 326 having a pull wire 336 affixed thereto. Tubular member 326 may be similar in form and function to tubular member 26 discussed above. In some instances, tubular member 326 may include a flex body 328, flex tube 332, and intermediate region 322 that may be similar in form and function to flex body 28, flex tube 32, and intermediate region 22 discussed above, While not explicitly shown, tubular member 326 may be used in conjunction with a catheter, such as catheter 12. In some embodiments, pull wire 336 may be formed from stainless steel, although this is not required. It is contemplated that pull wire 336 may be formed from any material desired. In some instances, pull wire 336 may be secured directly to a retaining member or pin 342. It is contemplated that in some instances, pull wire 336 may be welded or otherwise attached to retaining member 342. Together, pull wire 336 and retaining member 342 may from a deflection mechanism.

[0059] Pull wire 336 may have a first portion 346 extending generally parallel to a longitudinal axis of tubular member 326 and a second portion 348 extending generally orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of tubular member 326, providing an L-shaped structure to a distal end region of pull wire 336. As shown, the outer surface of the second portion 348 may be attached to the retaining member 342. Pull wire 336 may be attached to retaining member 342 such that the first portion 346 of pull wire 336 is positioned at an offset from the center of tubular member 326. This may allow for an effective transfer of any deflective force applied to the pull wire 336, towards the distal portion of the catheter shaft.

[0060] Retaining member 342 may be a retaining pin having a generally circular cross-section and tapered end portions, to facilitate insertion of pin 342 through apertures or through holes 344a, 344b provided within intermediate region 322. In some embodiments, these holes 344a, 344b may be provided diametrically opposite one another, although this is not required. The diameter, or cross-section, of holes 344a, 344b may be sized to receive retaining member 342. Retaining member 342 may be a retaining pin having a circular cross-section and tapered end portions, to facilitate ease of insertion of the pin through either of the holes 344a, 344b. It is contemplated that retaining member 342 may be sized such that retaining member 342 is press fit or friction fit within apertures 344a, 344b. In some embodiments, retaining member 342 may have a length greater than an inner diameter of tubular member 326 such that retaining member 342 is secured within both apertures 344a, 344b.

[0061] To assemble pull wire 336 and retaining member 342 with tubular member 326, the shape memory characteristics of nitinol may be utilized. The nitinol tubular member 326 may be chilled to an appropriate temperature and then placed in a fixture that orients tubular member 326 into an oval or elliptical shape. Orienting tubular member 326 into an oval shape at reduced temperature allows the nitinol material to be deformed without damage, yet allow it to return to its normal (generally circular) shape when returned to room temperature. While in the elliptical shape, the major axis may be sufficiently large to allow the pull wire 336/retaining member 342 assembly to pass through the inner diameter of tube 326. Once the retaining member 342 is aligned with holes 344a, 344b, tubular member 326 may be removed from the ovalizing fixture and/or allowed to warm to room temperature. As tubular member 326 resumes its normal, generally circular, shape, retaining member 342 engages holes 344a, 344b. The pull wire 336/retaining member 342 assembly may then be fixedly secured to tubular member 326 and pull wire 336 can be actuated to achieve deflection of tubular member 326.

[0062] When pull wire 336 is operated through the control mechanism (when so provided), the distal portion of the catheter shaft can be easily deflected in an intended manner. For example, pull wire 336 can be positioned in a particular configuration (e.g. along the longitudinal axis or offset from the longitudinal axis) to achieve a desired deflection of the distal portion of the catheter shaft. Also, since the end portions of the retaining pin 342 are secured within holes 344a, 344b, the pin 342 may be substantially restricted from axial movement and/or shifting/moving along the longitudinal axis of tubular member 326.

[0063] FIG. 8A illustrates a side view of another illustrative tubular member 426 and deflection mechanism 436. Tubular member 426 may be similar in form and function to tubular member 26 discussed above. In some instances, tubular member 426 may include a flex body 428, flex tube 432, and intermediate region 422 that may be similar in form and function to flex body 28, flex tube 32, and intermediate region 22 discussed above, While not explicitly shown, tubular member 426 may be used in conjunction with a catheter, such as catheter 12.

[0064] The deflection mechanism 436, for facilitating deflection of the tubular member 426 and/or catheter, may include a retaining portion 440 and a pull wire portion 438. The retaining portion 440 may be a generally ring shape collar, which is configured to be disposed over an outer surface of tubular member 426. The inner diameter of the retaining portion 440 may be substantially the same size as or slightly larger than the outer diameter of the intermediate region 422. In some embodiments, retaining portion 440 may extend all the way around the outer perimeter of tubular member 426 while in other embodiments, retaining portion 440 may extend only partially around the outer perimeter of tubular member 426.

[0065] In some instances, retaining portion 440 and pull wire portion 438 may be formed as a unitary structure, as shown in FIG. 8A. In other instances, retaining portion 440 and pull wire portion 438′ may be formed as separate structures and subsequently secured to one another, as shown in FIG. 9. When provided as separate structures, retaining portion 440 may include a proximally extending portion 444. A distal end region 450 of pull wire portion 438′ may be welded or otherwise suitably attached to proximally extending portion 444.

[0066] To assemble deflection mechanism 436 with tubular member 426, a proximal end (not explicitly shown) of pull wire portion 438 may be advanced through a slot or aperture 446 in tubular member 426. Pull wire portion 438 may pass from outside of tubular member 426 into a lumen within tubular member 426, as shown in FIG. 8B. Pull wire portion 438 may extend proximally within the lumen to a point where it can be manipulated by a user. Deflection mechanism 436 may be advanced proximally until a proximal edge 442 of retaining portion abuts or engages a proximal edge 448 of slot 446. Proximal edge 442 may engage proximal edge 448 such that further proximal movement or actuation of pull wire portion 438 transfers enough force to cause deflection of tubular member 426. In some instances, retaining portion 440 may be secured to the outer surface of tubular member 426 after assembly.

[0067] FIG. 10A illustrates a side view of another illustrative tubular member 526 and deflection mechanism 536. Tubular member 526 may be similar in form and function to tubular member 26 discussed above. In some instances, tubular member 526 may include a flex body 528, flex tube 532, and intermediate region 522 that may be similar in form and function to flex body 28, flex tube 32, and intermediate region 22 discussed above, While not explicitly shown, tubular member 526 may be used in conjunction with a catheter, such as catheter 12.

[0068] The deflection mechanism 536, for facilitating deflection of the tubular member 526 and/or catheter, may include a retaining portion 540 and a pull wire portion 538. Retaining portion 540 may have tabs 542 forming a “T” shape, which is configured to be disposed within a slot 546 in tubular member 526. In some instances, retaining portion 540 and pull wire portion 538 may be formed as a unitary structure, as shown in FIG. 10A. In other instances, retaining portion 440 and pull wire portion 538 may be formed as separate structures and subsequently secured to one another.

[0069] To assemble deflection mechanism 536 with tubular member 526, tabs 542 may be compressed or deformed, as shown in FIG. 10B, such that retaining portion 540 may be disposed within an inner lumen of tubular member 526 through slot 546. Once tabs 542 are passed through slot 546, the tabs 542 may expand and assume their original orientation, as shown in FIG. 10C. Pull wire portion 538 may extend along an outer surface of tubular member 526. Deflection mechanism 536 may be advanced proximally until a proximal edge of retaining portion 540 abuts or engages a proximal edge 548 of slot 546. The proximal edge of retaining portion 540 may engage proximal edge 548 such that further proximal movement or actuation of pull wire portion 538 transfers enough force to cause deflection of tubular member 526.

[0070] FIG. 11A illustrates a side view of another illustrative tubular member 626 and deflection mechanism 636. Tubular member 626 may be similar in form and function to tubular member 26 discussed above. In some instances, tubular member 626 may include a flex body 628, flex tube 632, and intermediate region 622 that may be similar in form and function to flex body 28, flex tube 32, and intermediate region 22 discussed above, While not explicitly shown, tubular member 626 may be used in conjunction with a catheter, such as catheter 12.

[0071] The deflection mechanism 636, for facilitating deflection of the tubular member 626 and/or catheter, may include a retaining portion 640 and a pull wire portion 638. Retaining portion 640 may have an arrow shape including proximal recesses 642. Retaining portion 640 may be configured to be disposed within a slot 646 in tubular member 626. In some instances, retaining portion 640 and pull wire portion 638 may be formed as a unitary structure, as shown in FIG. 11A. In other instances, retaining portion 640 and pull wire portion 638 may be formed as separate structures and subsequently secured to one another, as shown in FIG. 12. When provided as separate structures, retaining portion 640 may include a proximally extending portion 644. A distal end region 650 of pull wire portion 638 may be welded or otherwise suitably attached to proximally extending portion 644.

[0072] To assemble deflection mechanism 636 with tubular member 626, distal tip 652 of retaining portion 540 may be advanced distally within slot 646, as shown in FIG. 11B. Once further distal movement of retaining portion 642 is prohibited by the widening structure of the arrow shape, distal tabs 652 may be compressed or deformed, such that retaining portion 640 may be completely disposed within an inner lumen of tubular member 626 through slot 646. Once tabs 652 are passed through slot 646, the tabs 652 may expand and assume their original orientation, as shown in FIG. 11C. Pull wire portion 638 may extend along an outer surface of tubular member 626. Deflection mechanism 636 may be advanced proximally until proximal recesses 642 of retaining portion 640 abut or engage a proximal edge 648 of slot 646. The proximal recesses 642 of retaining portion 640 may engage proximal edge 648 such that further proximal movement or actuation of pull wire portion 638 transfers enough force to cause deflection of tubular member 626.

[0073] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the present invention may be manifested in a variety of forms other than the specific embodiments described and contemplated herein. Accordingly, departure in form and detail may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the present disclosure as described in the appended claims.