Intravascular microcatheters steered by conducting polymer actuators

Conducting polymer/solid polyelectrolyte actuating structures designed for realising steerable microcatheters are presented. They exploit the electromechanochemical phenomena of /spl pi/-electron conjugated conducting polymer occurring when ionic species are exchanged with the surrounding solid polyelectrolyte. Experimental determination of the governing material constants, modelling of the composite material and finite element computer simulations of the mechanical properties of cylindrical structures provide favourable indication about the feasibility of effective steerable, miniaturised catheters. Simulations about 2-3 Fr endoscope tips show that a degree of bending of about 30 and a developed distal force of about 4 gr can be obtained, The device would possess high potentialities for intravascular explorations and robotic-like diagnostic or surgical minimally invasive operations.