| abstract |
A dilatation catheter having an outer tubular balloon portion with length-wise circumferential crimps having at either end transition portions with longitudinal crimps across the axis and an inner catheter is provided. The distal transition portion is fastened to the distal end of the inner catheter tube which extends beyond the distal end of the outer tube and the balloon portion while the proximal transition portion is connected tot he distal end of the outer catheter tube. The balloon portion expands readily to a predetermined diameter while undergoing little change in length with an extension of the transition portions so that relative movement of the inner and outer catheter tubing is not required. Accordingly, minimum shear forces occur at the interface of the expanded balloon surface and the interior vessel wall. |