Medtronic, Inc.

Richard L Molacek

Paul V Trescony

Allan H Jevne

Michael F Wolf

Kenneth E Cobian

Elaine P Lindell

James R Keogh

Michael Jay Ebert

Peter J Pohndorf

Paul C Slaikeu

Joseph F Lessar

James E Upton

Brett R Vegoe

A vascular graft having a pleated circumference accommodates blood pressure changes with minimal change in internal surface area. A highly compliant graft may be made from a wide variety of polymers including non-elastomeric materials.

Prosthetic vascular graft with a pleated structure

The present invention provides resistance to degradation from environmental stress cracking (ESC) and metal ion induced oxidation (MIO) for implantable, flexible pacing lead insulators having a body of polyether polyurethane elastomer material. A thin layer of a second polyurethane elastomer is applied as an overcoat to the lead insulator body. The second polyurethane is more resistant to ESC and MIO than the elastomer comprising the body of the insulator. Because ESC and MIO are surface phenomina, only a thin layer of the second material is required and the mechanical properties of the base material will determine the overall mechanical properties of the lead insulator.

Pacing lead insulator

An implantable lead having a plastic stylet guide therein. A substantially cylindrical channel is provided in a flexible lead body made of silicone rubber, polyurethane, or the like. The cylindrical channel defines a lumen containing a stylet guide into which a stylet can be inserted during an implantation procedure. Texture on the inner wall of the stylet guide minimizes friction between the stylet and the stylet guide, facilitating easy insertion and removal of the stylet. One or more electrical conductors may also be provided.

Electrical medical lead with textured stylet guide

An implantable multi-lumen, multi-conductor lead for use with an implantable medical device. The completed lead is an assembly of a polymeric lead body with several coiled conductors inserted into the lead body. The lead body includes several lumens having a generally rounded-corner triangular or 'pie-shaped' cross-section. The conductors do not fill the lumens, and only contact the inner walls of the lumens at discrete points, rather than for extended sections of or all of the circumference of the conductors. Preferably the coils are sized so that they fit loosely within the lumens.

Medical electrical lead

Prosthetic vascular grafts with a pleated structure

An improved placement catheter of the type having a longitudinal line of weakness whereby the catheter may be split longitudinally. The improved catheter is made with radiation cross-linked tubing to provide better splittability.

Splittable catheter and method

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Maple Grove, MN, United States of America

Richard L Molacek