The Spectranetics Corporation

The Spectrametics Corporation

David Atwell

Wade A Bowe

Kevin D Taylor

Kenneth D Harlan

Brian E Kagarise

Thomas E Plasket

Christopher Reiser

Andrew Archuleta

Patrick Hunkins

In some embodiments, without limitation, the invention comprises an apparatus for cutting an endocardial lead within a patient. The apparatus comprises a generally flexible tubular member having a proximal end and distal end. At least one blade or cutting surface is affixed to the distal end of the tubular member. The apparatus optionally includes an adjustment mechanism adapted to adjust the blade or cutting surface between an extended position and a retracted position. The blade or cutting surface engages the endocardial lead to cut the lead. Various embodiments include a v-shaped groove defining the cutting surfaces. Other embodiments may comprise a rotatable blade of an inner shaft rotating within the tubular member and cutting the lead received within the v-shaped groove, and blades or cutting surfaces functioning like guillotines or scissors retracting into a distal end of the tubular member.

Endocardial lead cutting apparatus

The invention provides an apparatus having a tubular member for receiving an endocardial lead implanted within a patient's body. Disposed generally at a distal end of the tubular member is at least one blade or cutting surface. An adjustment mechanism moves the blade between retracted and extended positions to engage the cutting surface with the endocardial lead to cut the lead. Once severed, the cut portion of the lead remains within an inner channel of the tubular member and the apparatus and cut portion of the lead are removed from within the patient. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the cut portion of the lead is disposed externally to the tubular member, and the cut portion and the apparatus are removed from the patient, either separately or together. Various embodiments include the blade pivotally connected to the distal end of the tubular member and activated by a wire adjustment mechanism. Others include a metallic wire for slicing through the lead. Still others include a pneumatically actuated adjustment mechanism that inflates to move the blade and engage the cutting surface with the lead. Some others include a cutting edges disposed on an internal, movable cutting blade and on an opening in the side wall of the apparatus which cut the lead when the cutting blade is operated.

Endocardial lead removing apparatus

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Colorado Springs, CO, United States of America

David Atwell