| abstract |
The present invention provides a compliant balloon for use with a catheter having an inner compliant inner layer defining a cylindrical lumen encased by a fiber layer including non-braided inelastic fibers imparting integrity to the balloon wall. The balloon further includes radiopaque material which may be disposed over substantially the entire length of the balloon as a coating or by incorporation within the fiber layer or an outer coating layer. The balloon is expandable from a folded deflated state to an inflated state by increasing pressure within the balloon and can be used with saline as the sole inflation medium to allow rapid deflation as compared to use of a balloon with a contrast medium. |