초록 ▼

The centricular catheter 10 of the present invention comprises a multiplicity of inlet microtubules 12. Each microtubule has both a large opening 16 at its inlet end and a multiplicity of microscopic openings 18 along its lateral surfaces. The microtubules are perforated by a new and novel ion beam

The centricular catheter 10 of the present invention comprises a multiplicity of inlet microtubules 12. Each microtubule has both a large opening 16 at its inlet end and a multiplicity of microscopic openings 18 along its lateral surfaces. The microtubules are perforated by a new and novel ion beam sputter etch technique. The holes are etched in each microtubule by directing an ion beam 20 through an electro formed metal mesh mask 28 producing perforations having diameters ranging from about 14 microns to about 150 microns. This combination of a multiplicity of fluoropolymer microtubes, the numerous small holes provided in the lateral surfaces of the tubes, and the hydra-like distribution of the tubes provide a new and novel catheter. This structure assures a reliable means for shunting cerebrospinal fluid from the cerebral ventricles to selected areas of the body.

대표청구항 ▼

In a method of making a ventricular catheter for controlling the condition of hydrocephalus by relieving the excessive cerebrospinal fluid pressure comprising the steps of covering at least one end portion of each of a plurality of microtubular members with a mask having a plurality of microscopic o

In a method of making a ventricular catheter for controlling the condition of hydrocephalus by relieving the excessive cerebrospinal fluid pressure comprising the steps of covering at least one end portion of each of a plurality of microtubular members with a mask having a plurality of microscopic openings therein, placing said covered microtubular members in a vacuum environment, and exposing said mask to a beam of ions whereby perforations are produced in said end portions of said microtubular members.