Michelle Provost-Tine

Title: Michelle Provost-Tine: Innovator in Medical Catheter Technology

Introduction

Michelle Provost-Tine is a prominent inventor based in North Andover, MA (US). She has made significant contributions to the field of medical technology, particularly in the development of advanced catheter systems. With a total of 2 patents to her name, her work focuses on improving the efficiency and effectiveness of medical procedures.

Latest Patents

Among her latest patents is a catheter featuring an oval aspiration lumen and a method of making it. This innovative catheter is designed for the aspiration of thrombotic, atherosclerotic, or other particulate embolic debris from blood vessels. The elongate flexible aspiration tube has a reinforced tube wall that defines the aspiration lumen. A guidewire tube is secured alongside the aspiration tube, allowing for either over-the-wire or single operator catheter configurations. The oval transverse cross-section of the aspiration tube enhances the catheter's efficient use of cross-sectional space, making the overall catheter dimensions nearly equal in orthogonal measurements. Additionally, she has developed methods for creating aspiration catheters, including the permanent deformation of the aspiration tube into an oval shape.

Another notable patent is the aspiration catheter with a tracking portion. This catheter includes one or more radially expanded portions that comprise a guidewire lumen. The guidewire lumen and the main lumen of the catheter share the same fluid space, maintaining a large, circular lumen for aspiration or delivery. The manufacturing process involves lacing a guidewire lumen mandrel through openings in the catheter shaft and then forcing the shaft to expand radially to create the guidewire lumen.

Career Highlights

Michelle Provost-Tine is currently employed at Medtronic Vascular, Inc., where she continues to innovate in the field of vascular technology. Her work has been instrumental in advancing catheter designs that enhance patient outcomes and procedural efficiency.

Collaborations

Throughout her career, Michelle has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Michael Papa and Michael Riopel. These partnerships have contributed to the development of cutting-edge medical devices that address critical healthcare needs.

Conclusion

Michelle Provost-Tine is a trailblazer in the field of medical catheter technology, with her innovative patents paving the way for improved medical procedures. Her contributions to the industry reflect her commitment to enhancing patient care through advanced medical solutions.