| abstract |
A steerable stylet includes an elongate tubular member having a proximal end and a distal end and defining a passage with a bend-enhancing region being arranged intermediate the proximal end and the distal end. The bend-enhancing region is constituted by an array of longitudinally spaced slots. Each of at least some of the slots is substantially L-shaped and comprises a first portion arranged transversely to a longitudinal axis of the tubular member and a second portion arranged at an angle to the first portion. An actuator cooperates with the tubular member to effect bending of the tubular member about the bend-enhancing region of the tubular member. |