| abstract |
A steerable stylet (10) includes an elongate tubular member (12) having a proximal end and a distal end and defining a passage (14) with a bend enhancing region (18) being arranged intermediate the proximal end and the distal end. The bend enhancing region (18) is constituted by an array of longitudinally spaced slots (20). Each of at least some of the slots (20) is substantially L-shaped and comprises a first portion (22) arranged transversely to a longitudinal axis of the tubular member (12) and a second portion (24) arranged at an angle to the first portion (22). An actuator (16) cooperates with the tubular member (12) to effect bending of the tubular member (12) about the bend-enhancing region (18) of the tubular member (12). |