A cutter with rotational-speed dependent diameter for interventional catheter systems

A new type of cutter for the use in catheters for minimal invasive therapy is presented. The cutter is designed for removing sclerotic plaque inside partially occluded vessels by means of rotational ablation. It has a length of 5 mm and a variable diameter from 2 mm to 5 mm. The variation of the cutting diameter is obtained by the use of centrifugal forces at 30.000 to 100.090 rpm. Cutting tests in chalk have been successfully performed. The removal of other materials is currently under investigation.