| abstract |
A flexible weight loss catheter with imaging and methods of use and manufacture thereof. A catheter and method for removing (or “reducing”) material from a body lumen while imaging an area of material is provided. The catheter can be used in body lumens, including but not limited to vascular lumens such as coronary and peripheral arteries. The catheter includes a housing or other structure to install or protect the imaging transducer. In general, a weight loss catheter is an imaging transformation with a proximal portion, a distal portion having an opening, a cutting element that can be exposed through the opening to contact a substance in the body lumen, and associated circuitry and a display. Including When the catheter is moved while the cutting element is in contact with the substance in the lumen, the body lumen is depleted and the area of substance is imaged before, after, or during catheter movement. The [Selection figure] None |