| abstract |
A valvulotome device having retractable cutting blades and guide fins which permits continual centralizing, self-alignment of the cutting blades within the lumen of the vein is disclosed. The valvulotome device comprises a bifurcated assembly having a cutter head and guide head joined by a conduit member permitting communication of a catheter wire running longitudinally through the device. The cutter head and guide head each define a chamber adapted to receive the catheter wire therein. First and second wedge members are operatively engaged to the catheter wire and disposed inside a respective chamber of the cutter head and guide head which permit the surgeon to remotely manipulate the degree to which the cutting blades and guide fins emerge from the cutter head and guide head, respectively, as well as allow rotation of the device about its axis thereby increasing the maneuverability of the device as it is pulled through the vein. |