WO2025093966A1 - Capture tool - Google Patents

Abstract

An example capture tool (180) may include an elongated body including a first end and a second end opposite the first end. A capture tool may include a proximal hub (188) encompassing the first end and extending proximally from the first end of the elongated body. A capture tool may include a tip (192) encompassing the second end and extending distally from the second end of the elongated body, the tip including: a thickened portion at a proximal end of the tip, a tapered portion extending distally from the thickened portion, and an intermediate portion extending distally from the tapered portion to a tip end, the tip end includes a rounded edge, wherein the elongated body, a portion of the proximal hub, and a portion of the tip together define a tool lumen configured to slidably receive a catheter (102, 120) of a medical device.

Description

CAPTURE TOOL

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63/595,047, filed November 1, 2023, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD

[0002] Aspects and examples set forth herein relate to medical tools, and more particularly, medical tools used with catheters.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Multi-electrode catheters (e.g., pulsed field ablation systems) are used to map, pace, and ablate the pulmonary veins. The catheters perform cardiac tissue ablation through the mechanism of irreversible electroporation. Typically, the catheters (e.g., shaped catheter arrays) require a tool to straighten and push the catheter into a sheath valve. The sheath valve is connected to a patient for a medical procedure. Straightening tools allow a user to push the tool through the sheath valve.

SUMMARY

[0004] Conventional straightening tools which allow a user to push the tool through the sheath valve may create an opening for air ingress into the patient which can increase the likelihood of complications during a procedure. Therefore, there is a need in the art for a tool that straightens the catheter when inserted into the sheath valve to allow the catheter to perform properly during a medical procedure. To address these problems, embodiments and aspects presented herein provide a capture tool configured to be used with a catheter. The capture tool properly prepares the catheter for insertion into the sheath valve during a medical procedure. Specifically, the capture tool is prevented from being pushed into a sheath valve. The capture tool presented herein, straightens the catheter and pushes the electrodes of the catheter through the sheath valve without crimping or buckling. The capture tool allows for the proper usage of the catheter during a medical procedure. Further, the capture tool prevents the electrodes from catching on the edges of the capture tool to prevent electrode dislodgement or wire continuity failures.

[0005] Disclosed herein are, among other things, various aspects, features, and embodiments of methods and apparatus for a capture tool.

[0006] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a capture tool including: an elongated body including a first end and a second end opposite the first end; a proximal hub encompassing the first end and extending proximally from the first end of the elongated body; and a tip encompassing the second end and extending distally from the second end of the elongated body, the tip including: a thickened portion at a proximal end of the tip, a tapered portion extending distally from the thickened portion, and an intermediate portion extending distally from the tapered portion to a tip end, the tip end includes a rounded edge, wherein the elongated body, a portion of the proximal hub, and a portion of the tip together define a tool lumen configured to slidably receive a catheter of a medical device.

[0007] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a medical apparatus including: a handle; a catheter attached to the handle; and a capture tool received by the handle, the capture tool including: an elongated body including a first end and a second end opposite the first end; a tapered proximal hub encompassing the first end and extending proximally from the first end of the elongated body; and a tip encompassing the second end and extending distally from the second end of the elongated body, the tip including: a thickened portion at a proximal end of the tip, a tapered portion extending distally from the thickened portion, and an intermediate portion extending distally from the tapered portion to a tip end, the tip end includes a rounded edge, wherein the elongated body, a portion of the tapered proximal hub, and a portion of the tip together define a tool lumen configured to slidably receive the catheter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] The accompanying figures, where like reference numerals refer to identical or functionally similar elements throughout the separate views, together with the detailed description below, are incorporated in and form part of the specification, and serve to further illustrate embodiments, examples, aspects, and features of concepts that include the claimed subject matter and explain various principles and advantages of those embodiments, examples, aspects, and features.

[0009] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a medical system according to various examples.

[0010] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a portion of the medical system of FIG. 1.

[0011] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a capture tool attached to a medical device.

[0012] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a capture tool attached to a catheter.

[0013] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a capture tool according to some examples.

[0014] FIG. 6 is a front view of the capture tool of FIG. 5.

[0015] FIG. 7 is a cross sectional view of the capture tool of FIG. 5 through line 7-7 of FIG. 6.

[0016] FIG. 8 is a detailed cross sectional view of a tip of the capture tool of FIG. 5.

[0017] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the capture tool of FIG. 5 and a housing including a sheath valve according to some examples.

[0018] FIG. 10 is a cross sectional view of the capture tool and the housing including the sheath valve of FIG. 9.

[0019] In some instances, the apparatus and method components have been represented where appropriate by conventional symbols in the drawings, showing only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the of various embodiments, examples, aspects, and features so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] For ease of description, some or all of the example systems presented herein are illustrated with a single exemplar of each of its component parts. Some examples may not describe or illustrate all components of the systems. Other example embodiments may include more or fewer of each of the illustrated components, may combine some components, or may include additional or alternative components.

[0021] It should be understood that although certain figures presented herein illustrate hardware and software located within particular devices, these depictions are for illustrative purposes only. In some embodiments, the illustrated components may be combined or divided into separate software, firmware, and/or hardware. For example, instead of being located within and performed by a single electronic processor, logic and processing may be distributed among multiple electronic processors. Regardless of how they are combined or divided, hardware and software components may be located on the same computing device or may be distributed among different computing devices connected by one or more networks or other suitable communication links.

[0022] FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate a schematic diagram of a medical system 100 according to various examples. The medical system 100 may also be referred to as a medical apparatus. More specifically, FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an overall view of the medical system 100 and FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an electronic controller used in the medical system 100.

[0023] In a representative example, the medical system 100 includes a medical device 112 and an electronic controller 114 in communication with the medical device 112. In operation, the medical device 112 is used to deliver energy (for example, PFA or electroporation energy) for treating or ablating an area of target tissue. In various examples, the medical device 112 is also used to deliver one or more test pulses or waveforms to evaluate a potential for an adverse reaction caused by the delivery of such energy.

[0024] In the example shown, the medical device 112 includes a catheter 102, a magnified view of a portion 101 of which is shown in FIG. 1. The catheter 102 includes electrodes 118 for therapeutic interaction with the selected treatment site in or on the patient’s body. In operation, the electrodes 118 deliver energy, for example, PFA energy, electroporation energy, test pulses and waveforms, and/or other transferred energy, to the treatment site. The catheter 102 includes a body 120 passable through the patient’s vasculature to enable placement of the electrodes 118 in proximity to the treatment site of a patient for diagnosis and/or treatment. The body 120 includes a proximal portion 122 and a distal portion 124. The body 120 also includes one or more lumens that provide mechanical, electrical, and/or fluid communication between the proximal portion 122 and the distal portion 124. In some examples, the body 120 has a central or guidewire lumen 130 hosting a shaft 132 and a carrier arm 128. The shaft 132 is longitudinally movable within and with respect to the guidewire lumen 130. In operation, longitudinal movement of the shaft 132 is used to cause the carrier arm 128 to transition between the first (e.g., substantially linear) configuration and a second (e.g., looped) configuration. FIG. 1 shows the carrier arm 128 in the looped configuration. The carrier arm 128 and the electrodes 118 may be referred to herein as a treatment element.

[0025] With continued reference to FIG. 1, the medical device 112 also includes a handle 140 connected to the proximal portion 122 of the body 120. In various examples, the handle 140 includes circuitry and structures for properly operating and manipulating the catheter 102. Additionally, the handle 140 typically includes one or more connectors 104 for electrically connecting the circuitry to the electronic controller 114, e.g., to establish electrical paths between various pertinent parts of the medical device 112 and pertinent components or parts of the electronic controller 114. The handle 140 also typically has one or more actuation, or control features that enable the corresponding practitioner to control, deflect, steer, or otherwise manipulate the distal portion 124 via the proximal portion 122.

[0026] In some examples, the medical system 100 also includes a navigation system 142 used for guiding a medical treatment procedure. In the example shown, the medical device 112 is coupled to the electronic controller 114 through the navigation system 142. In some other examples, both the medical device 112 and the navigation system 142 are directly coupled to the electronic controller 114. The navigation system 142 is designed to help visualize the real-time position and orientation of the catheter 102 within the patient’s body to increase the accuracy of targeted ablation and reacquisition of pacing sites for re-ablation. In a typical example, the navigation system 142 calculates the position and orientation of a catheter tip 108 using three magnetic sources 152, 154, 156 as references. The navigation system 142 typically relies on static magnetic fields that are calibrated and can be computer controlled. Due to the nature of magnetic fields, the orientation of the carrier arm 128 can be calculated even when the catheter tip 108 is stationary. By calculating the strength and orientation of the magnetic fields at a given location, the Cartesian coordinates (x, y, z) of the catheter tip 108 are typically calculated together with the roll, pitch, and yaw angles of the carrier arm 128.

[0027] With reference to FIG. 2, the electronic controller 114 includes components and circuits for the delivery of one or more energy modalities to the electrodes 118. In the illustrated example, the electronic controller 114 includes an ablation waveform generator 144, control circuitry 146, and input/output (I/O) devices 160. The control circuitry 146 includes a processing circuit (e.g., a general-purpose processor) 148 and a memory 150. The TO devices 160 of the electronic controller 114 typically provide multiple TO channels, e.g., including one or more channels 162 for communicating with the external monitoring devices, and at least one I/O channel 164 for operatively connecting the ablation waveform generator 144 to the medical device 112. The electronic controller 114 is operable in a plurality of operating modes, which can be selected for specific medical procedures as needed or appropriate.

[0028] In various examples, the memory 150 has buffers to temporarily store received data and nonvolatile data-storage devices to more permanently store data and program code. In operation, the memory 150 provides pertinent data and program code to the processing circuit 148. The program code, when executed by the processing circuit 148 enables the electronic controller 114 to perform signal processing and generate various control and communication signals. In some examples, the processing circuit 148 performs rendering processing of input signals received from the external monitoring devices and outputs, through the I/O devices 160, the corresponding viewable images, charts, and/or graphs for being viewed on an external display.

[0029] In various examples, the medical monitoring devices include one or more devices from the following group of devices: a diaphragmatic or thoracic excursion assessment device; an accelerometer; an electromyography (EMG) machine; an ECG recorder; a vital signs monitor; an airway pressure monitor; and an expiratory carbon-dioxide monitor. In other examples, other suitable patient monitoring devices are similarly used and linked to the electronic controller 114 through the TO devices 160. In some examples, the TO devices 160 include at least one I/O interface device for supporting a wireless data link. [0030] In some examples, the electronic controller 114 is also connected, via the I/O devices 160, to an operator interface device 170. In various examples, the operator interface device 170 includes: a touch screen; buttons, knobs, and/or keys; light indicators (e.g., colored light emitting diodes, LEDs); a speaker; a switch; a joystick; and other control accessories connected and configured to enable the operator to properly operate the electronic controller 114 and the medical device 112. The operator interface device 170 also typically enables the operator to see thereon at least some indicators generated by the electronic controller 114 in response to the signals received via the TO devices 160 from the medical monitoring devices.

[0031] FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate a capture tool 180 received on the medical device 112. The capture tool 180 is configured to straighten and properly prepare the catheter 102 for a medical procedure. The capture tool 180 includes an elongated body 184, a proximal hub 188, and a tip 192. The elongated body 184, the proximal hub 188, and the tip 192 together define a tool lumen 196. In other words, the elongated body 184, a portion of the proximal hub 188, and a portion of the tip 192 define the tool lumen 196 that is configured to slide along the catheter 102 of the medical device 112 to slidably receive the catheter 102. A centerline extends through the tool lumen 196 (FIG. 7). As depicted, the capture tool 180 may be received by the handle 140 (e.g., where an interior surface of the capture tool 180 abuts an exterior surface of the handle 140) of the medical device 112 such that the catheter 102 extends through the tool lumen 196 of the capture tool 180. The capture tool 180 may slide along the catheter 102 that extends from the handle 140 and sit against the distal face of the handle 140.

[0032] With reference to FIGS. 5 and 7, the elongated body 184 may be a hollow cylindrical body. FIG. 6 is a front view of the capture tool of FIG. 5. As depicted in FIGS. 5-7, the elongated body 184 may be a hollow shaft or tube. The elongated body 184 includes a first end 204 and a second end 208 opposite the first end 204. A portion of the elongated body 184 includes a variable internal diameter extending distally from the first end 204. A portion of the elongated body 184 includes a constant internal diameter extending proximally from the second end 208. The first end 204 of the elongated body 184 defines a first diameter, and the second end 208 of the elongated body 184 defines a second diameter. The first diameter is greater than the second diameter. In some examples, the larger first diameter of the elongated body 184 allows the elongated body 184 to be seated in the proximal hub 188 to act as a body strain relief for the catheter 102. The elongated body 184 includes a first material with a first hardness. The first material may include a polymer, elastomeric, or thermoplastic polyester elastomer material. In one example, the first material may be Hytrel. In some examples, the first hardness ranges from Shore D 60 to 90. In other examples, the first hardness may be Shore D 60, 65, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 85, or 90. In one example, the first hardness is Shore D 72.

[0033] With continued reference to FIGS. 5 and 7, the proximal hub 188 extends proximally from the elongated body 184. More specifically, the proximal hub 188 encompasses the first end 204 and extends both proximal and distally of the first end 204 of the elongated body 184. As depicted, the proximal hub 188 may be tapered such that the proximal hub 188 defines an outer diameter that is only nominally bigger than an outer diameter of the elongated body 184 at a distal-most tip of the proximal hub 188 and defines an outer diameter than is 2X, 3X, 4X, etc. the outer diameter of the elongated body 184 at a proximal-most tip of the proximal hub 188 (e.g., where the outer diameter of the elongated body 184 was approximately 0.17 inches, and the proximal hub 188 tapers out to a maximum diameter of approximately 0.6 inches). The proximal hub 188 includes a proximal hub end 212 separate from the first end 204 of the elongated body 184. The proximal hub 188 includes a second material with a second hardness. The second material may include a polymer, elastomeric, or thermoplastic polyester elastomer material. In one example, the second material may be Hytrel. In some examples, the second hardness ranges from Shore D 25 to 45. In other examples, the second hardness may be Shore D 25, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, or 45. In one example, the second hardness is Shore D 35. The second material is different than the first material. The second hardness is less than the first hardness. In other words, the second material is softer than the first material.

[0034] As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the tip 192 extends distally from the elongated body 184. More specifically, the tip 192 encompasses the second end 208 of the elongated body 184 and extends both proximally and distally of the second end 208. In some embodiments, the tip 192 is generally centered on the second end 208, such that an approximately equal length of the tip 192 extends distally and proximally of the second end 208. As depicted, the tip 192 may be a flared tip. The tip 192 includes a constant inner diameter. The tip 192 includes a thickened portion 216, a tapered portion 220, an intermediate portion 224, and a tip end 228, listed from proximal end to distal end of the tip 192. The tip 192 includes an outer surface 232 along the thickened portion 216, the tapered portion 220, the intermediate portion 224, and the tip end 228. The tip 192 includes a variable outer diameter along a length of the tip 192. The tip 192 includes a third material with a third hardness. The third material may include a polymer or elastomeric material. In some examples, the third hardness ranges from Shore D 25 to 45. In other examples, the third hardness may be Shore D 25, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, or 45. In one example, the third hardness is Shore D 35. The third material is different than the first material. In some examples, the third material is the same as second material. The third hardness is less than the first hardness. In other words, the third material is softer than the first material.

[0035] FIGS. 7 and 8 illustrate the thickened portion 216 of the tip 192. The thickened portion 216 of the tip 192 defines a greater outer radius compared to other portions of the tip 192 and compared to a proximal portion of the elongated body 184 as measured from the centerline 200 to the outer surface 232 of the tip 192. As depicted, the thickened portion 216 may include a constant thickness (e.g., between the outer surface 232 and the inner lumen).

[0036] With continued reference to FIGS. 7 and 8, the tapered portion 220 extends from the thickened portion 216 to the intermediate portion 224. The tapered portion 220 includes a decreasing thickness as the tapered portion 220 extends distally from the thickened portion 216 to the intermediate portion 224. In other words, the tip 192 decreases in outer diameter as the tapered portion 220 extends distally from the thickened portion 216 to the intermediate portion 224.

[0037] As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the intermediate portion 224 extends distally from the tapered portion 220 to the tip end 228. The intermediate portion 224 includes a constant thickness. The thickness of the intermediate portion 224 may be less than the thickness of the thickened portion 216. The intermediate portion 224 includes an intermediate portion diameter measured from the centerline 200 to the outer surface 232 of the tip 192. The intermediate portion diameter is less than the thickened portion diameter.

[0038] With continued reference to FIGS. 7 and 8, the tip end 228 includes a rounded edge with a radius of curvature. In some examples, the tip end 228 may be rounded to match a thickness of the intermediate portion 224 of the tip 192. In some examples, the rounded edge of the tip end 228 as formed from a soft material allows the catheter 102, to which the electrodes 118 are attached, to move relative to the tip 192 without catching on the capture tool 180 during a medical procedure.

[0039] The capture tool 180 may be integrally molded. More specifically, the elongated body 184, the proximal hub 188, and the tip 192 may be integrally molded or joined together to form a single body. A material used to form the elongated body 184 may be different than materials used to form the proximal hub 188 and the tip 192. In other examples, the elongated body 184, the proximal hub 188, and the tip 192 may be formed separately and assembled with the use of epoxies or mechanical fasteners.

[0040] With reference to FIG. 7, the capture tool 180 includes a length 236. The length 236 of the capture tool 180 is measured from the proximal hub end 212 to the tip end 228. The length 236 of the capture tool 180 may be measured parallel to the centerline 200. The length 236 of the capture tool 180 may range from 4.5 inches to 6 inches. In some examples, the length 236 of the capture tool 180 may be 4.5, 5.0, 5.2, 5.24, 5.5, or 6 inches. In one example, the length 236 of the capture tool 180 may be 5.24 inches. The capture tool 180 may include a longer length compared to conventional straightening tools. The length 236 of the capture tool 180 improves the performance of the catheter 102 by preventing buckling of the catheter 102, and more specifically, the carrier arm 128 during a medical operation.

[0041] With reference back to FIGS. 3 and 4, the capture tool 180 is received by the handle 140 of the medical device 112. The handle 140 of the capture tool 180 abuts or is in contact with the handle 140 of the medical device 112. The catheter 102 extends through the capture tool 180 and in particular, extends through the tool lumen 196. The catheter 102 moves relative to the capture tool 180. The capture tool 180 is configured to straighten the catheter 102 to prevent the catheter 102 from buckling during a medical operation. The tip end 228 including the rounded end prevents the electrodes 118 of the catheter 102 from catching on the capture tool 180 during a medical operation.

[0042] FIG. 9 and FIG. 10 illustrate the capture tool 180 inserted into a housing 244 including a sheath valve 248 according to some examples. The catheter 102 is inserted into the capture tool 180 and extends into the housing 244. The catheter 102, to which the electrodes 118 are attached, extends into the housing 244 to perform a medical operation during a medical procedure. The tip 192 of the capture tool 180 is in contact with the housing 244. More specifically, the tapered portion 220 and thickened portion 216 of the tip 192 contact the housing 244. In some examples, the housing 244 includes a tapered edge 252. The tip 192 of the capture tool 180 may mirror or conform to the tapered edge 252 of the housing 244 to increase the stability of the catheter 102 during insertion into the housing 244.

[0043] With continued reference to FIGS. 9 and 10, the tip 192 of the capture tool 180 is in close proximity to the sheath valve 248 when inserted into the housing 244. The tip 192 of the capture tool 180 prevents the capture tool 180 from entering the sheath valve 248 during the medical procedure. The tip 192 of the capture tool 180 prevents the formation of an opening for air ingress into the patient which can increase the likelihood of complications during a medical procedure. The capture tool 180 allows the catheter 102 to be properly used during a medical procedure while providing improvements over prior straightening tools.

[0044] Accordingly, it is to be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. Many embodiments and applications other than the examples provided would be apparent upon reading the above description. The scope should be determined, not with reference to the above description, but should instead be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. It is anticipated and intended that future developments will occur in the technologies discussed herein, and that the disclosed systems and methods will be incorporated into such future embodiments. In sum, it should be understood that the application is capable of modification and variation.

[0045] All terms used in the claims are intended to be given their broadest reasonable constructions and their ordinary meanings as understood by those knowledgeable in the technologies described herein unless an explicit indication to the contrary in made herein. In particular, use of the singular articles such as “a,” “the,” “said,” et cetera, should be read to recite one or more of the indicated elements unless a claim recites an explicit limitation to the contrary.

[0046] Unless explicitly stated otherwise, each numerical value and range should be interpreted as being approximate as if the word “about” or “approximately” preceded the value or range. The terms “substantially,” “essentially,” “approximately,” “about,” or any other version thereof, are defined as being close to as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art, and in one non-limiting example the term is defined to be within 10%, in another example within 5%, in another example within 1% and in another example within 0.5%. A device or structure that is “configured” in a certain way is configured in at least that way but may also be configured in ways that are not listed.

[0047] Reference herein to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment can be included in at least one embodiment of the disclosure. The appearances of the phrase “in one embodiment” in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, nor are separate or alternative embodiments necessarily mutually exclusive of other embodiments. The same applies to the term “implementation.”

[0048] Unless otherwise specified herein, the use of the ordinal adjectives “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., to refer to an object of a plurality of like objects merely indicates that different instances of such like objects are being referred to, and is not intended to imply that the like objects so referred-to have to be in a corresponding order or sequence, either temporally, spatially, in ranking, or in any other manner.

[0049] Unless otherwise specified herein, in addition to its plain meaning, the conjunction “if’ may also or alternatively be construed to mean “when” or “upon” or “in response to determining” or “in response to detecting,” which construal may depend on the corresponding specific context. For example, the phrase “if it is determined” or “if [a stated condition] is detected” may be construed to mean “upon determining” or “in response to determining” or “upon detecting [the stated condition or event]” or “in response to detecting [the stated condition or event].”

[0050] Also, for purposes of this description, the terms “couple,” “coupling,” “coupled,” “connect,” “connecting,” or “connected” refer to any manner known in the art or later developed in which energy is allowed to be transferred between two or more elements, and the interposition of one or more additional elements is contemplated, although not required. Conversely, the terms “directly coupled,” “directly connected,” et cetera, imply the absence of such additional elements. The same type of distinction applies to the use of terms “attached” and “directly attached,” as applied to a description of a physical structure. For example, a relatively thin layer of adhesive or other suitable binder can be used to implement such “direct attachment” of the two corresponding components in such physical structure.

[0051] The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects as only illustrative and not restrictive. In particular, the scope of the disclosure is indicated by the appended claims rather than by the description and figures herein. All changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.

[0052] The functions of the various elements shown in the figures, including any functional blocks labeled as “processors” and/or “controllers,” may be provided through the use of dedicated hardware as well as hardware capable of executing software in association with appropriate software. When provided by a processor, the functions may be provided by a single dedicated processor, by a single shared processor, or by a plurality of individual processors, some of which may be shared. Moreover, explicit use of the term “processor” or “controller” should not be construed to refer exclusively to hardware capable of executing software, and may implicitly include, without limitation, digital signal processor (DSP) hardware, network processor, application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field programmable gate array (FPGA), read only memory (ROM) for storing software, random access memory (RAM), and nonvolatile storage. Other hardware, conventional and/or custom, may also be included. Similarly, any switches shown in the figures are conceptual only. Their function may be carried out through the operation of program logic, through dedicated logic, through the interaction of program control and dedicated logic, or even manually, the particular technique being selectable by the implementer as more specifically understood from the context.

[0053] As used in this application, the term “circuitry” may refer to one or more or all of the following: (a) hardware-only circuit implementations (such as implementations in only analog and/or digital circuitry); (b) combinations of hardware circuits and software, such as (as applicable): (i) a combination of analog and/or digital hardware circuit(s) with software/firmware and (ii) any portions of hardware processor(s) with software (including digital signal processor(s)), software, and memory(ies) that work together to cause an apparatus, such as a mobile phone or server, to perform various functions); and (c) hardware circuit(s) and or processor(s), such as a microprocessor(s) or a portion of a microprocessor(s), that requires software (e.g., firmware) for operation, but the software may not be present when it is not needed for operation.” This definition of circuitry applies to all uses of this term in this application, including in any claims. As a further example, as used in this application, the term circuitry also covers an implementation of merely a hardware circuit or processor (or multiple processors) or portion of a hardware circuit or processor and its (or their) accompanying software and/or firmware. The term circuitry also covers, for example and if applicable to the particular claim element, a baseband integrated circuit or processor integrated circuit for a mobile device or a similar integrated circuit in server, a cellular network device, or other computing or network device.

[0054] It should be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that any block diagrams herein represent conceptual views of illustrative circuitry embodying the principles of the disclosure. Similarly, it will be appreciated that any flow charts, flow diagrams, state transition diagrams, pseudo code, and the like represent various processes which may be substantially represented in computer readable medium and so executed by a computer or processor, whether or not such computer or processor is explicitly shown.

[0055] The following paragraphs provide various clauses reciting examples and alternatives disclosed herein.

[0056] Clause 1. A capture tool comprising: an elongated body including a first end and a second end opposite the first end; a proximal hub encompassing the first end and extending proximally from the first end of the elongated body; and a tip encompassing the second end and extending distally from the second end of the elongated body, the tip including: a thickened portion at a proximal end of the tip, a tapered portion extending distally from the thickened portion, and an intermediate portion extending distally from the tapered portion to a tip end, the tip end includes a rounded edge, wherein the elongated body, a portion of the proximal hub, and a portion of the tip together define a tool lumen configured to slidably receive a catheter of a medical device.

[0057] Clause 2. The capture tool of clause 1 , wherein the proximal hub is configured to be received by a handle of the medical device. [0058] Clause 3. The capture tool of any of clauses 1 and 2, wherein the elongated body and the proximal hub are integrally molded.

[0059] Clause 4. The capture tool of clause 3, wherein the elongated body includes a first material having a first hardness, wherein the proximal hub includes a second material having a second hardness, and wherein the first hardness is greater than the second hardness.

[0060] Clause 5. The capture tool of any of clauses 1-4, wherein the elongated body and the tip are integrally molded.

[0061] Clause 6. The capture tool of clause 5, wherein the elongated body includes a first material having a first hardness, wherein the tip includes a second material having a second hardness, and wherein the first hardness is greater than the second hardness.

[0062] Clause 7. The capture tool of any of clauses 1-6, wherein the proximal hub includes a proximal hub end, wherein the capture tool includes a length measured between the tip end and the proximal hub end, and wherein the length is between 4.5 inches to 6 inches.

[0063] Clause 8. The capture tool of any of clauses 1-7, wherein the thickened portion includes a first diameter, wherein the intermediate portion includes a second diameter, and wherein the first diameter is greater than the second diameter.

[0064] Clause 9. A medical apparatus comprising: a handle; a catheter attached to the handle; and a capture tool received by the handle, the capture tool including: an elongated body including a first end and a second end opposite the first end; a tapered proximal hub encompassing the first end and extending proximally from the first end of the elongated body; and a tip encompassing the second end and extending distally from the second end of the elongated body, the tip including: a thickened portion at a proximal end of the tip, a tapered portion extending distally from the thickened portion, and an intermediate portion extending distally from the tapered portion to a tip end, the tip end includes a rounded edge, wherein the elongated body, a portion of the tapered proximal hub, and a portion of the tip together define a tool lumen configured to slidably receive the catheter. [0065] Clause 10. The medical apparatus of clause 9, wherein the elongated body, a portion of the tapered proximal hub, and a portion of the tip define a tool lumen, wherein the catheter is configured to extend through the tool lumen such that the catheter moves relative to the capture tool.

[0066] Clause 11. The medical apparatus of any of clauses 9 and 10, wherein the catheter includes a central lumen having a shaft and a carrier arm, and wherein the shaft and the carrier arm move relative to the central lumen.

[0067] Clause 12. The medical apparatus of clause 11, wherein the carrier arm is movable between a first configuration and a second configuration, wherein the first configuration is a linear configuration, and wherein the second configuration is a looped configuration.

[0068] Clause 13. The medical apparatus of clause 12, wherein the carrier arm includes an electrode.

[0069] Clause 14. The medical apparatus of clause 13, further comprising an electronic controller, wherein the electronic controller is in communication with the catheter, and wherein the electronic controller provides one or more energy modalities to the electrode.

[0070] Clause 15. The medical apparatus of any of clauses 9-14, wherein the elongated body and the tapered proximal hub are integrally molded.

[0071] Clause 16. The medical apparatus of clause 15, wherein the elongated body includes a first material having a first hardness, wherein the tapered proximal hub includes a second material having a second hardness, and wherein the first hardness is greater than the second hardness.

[0072] Clause 17. The medical apparatus of any of clauses 9-16, wherein the elongated body and the tip are integrally molded.

[0073] Clause 18. The medical apparatus of clause 17, wherein the elongated body includes a first material having a first hardness, wherein the tip includes a third material having a third hardness, and wherein the first hardness is greater than the third hardness. [0074] Clause 19. The medical apparatus of any of clauses 9-18, wherein the tapered proximal hub includes a proximal hub end, wherein the capture tool includes a length measured between the tip end and the proximal hub end, and wherein the length is between 4.5 inches to 6 inches.

[0075] Clause 20. The medical apparatus of any of clauses 9-19, wherein the thickened portion includes a first diameter, wherein the intermediate portion includes a second diameter, and wherein the first diameter is greater than the second diameter.

[0076] Various features and advantages of the examples presented herein are set forth in the following claims.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. A capture tool ( 180) comprising: an elongated body (120) (184) including a first end (204) and a second end (208) opposite the first end (204); a proximal hub (188) encompassing the first end (204) and extending proximally from the first end (204) of the elongated body (120) (184); and a tip (192) encompassing the second end (208) and extending distally from the second end (208) of the elongated body (120) (184), the tip (192) including: a thickened portion (101) (216) at a proximal end of the tip (192), a tapered portion (101) (220) extending distally from the thickened portion (101) (216), and an intermediate portion (101) (224) extending distally from the tapered portion (101) (220) to a tip (192) end (228), the tip (192) end (228) includes a rounded edge, wherein the elongated body (120) (184), a portion (101) of the proximal hub (188), and a portion (101) of the tip (192) together define a tool lumen (196) configured to slidably receive a catheter (102) of a medical device (112).

2. The capture tool (180) of claim 1, wherein the proximal hub (188) is configured to be received by a handle (140) of the medical device (112).

3. The capture tool (180) of any of claims 1 and 2, wherein the elongated body (120) (184) and the proximal hub (188) are integrally molded.

4. The capture tool (180) of claim 3, wherein the elongated body (120) (184) includes a first material having a first hardness, wherein the proximal hub (188) includes a second material having a second hardness, and wherein the first hardness is greater than the second hardness.

5. The capture tool (180) of any of claims 1-4, wherein the elongated body (120) (184) and the tip (192) are integrally molded.

6. The capture tool (180) of claim 5, wherein the elongated body (120) (184) includes a first material having a first hardness, wherein the tip (192) includes a second material having a second hardness, and wherein the first hardness is greater than the second hardness.

7. The capture tool (180) of any of claims 1-6, wherein the proximal hub (188) includes a proximal hub (188) end (212), wherein the capture tool (180) includes a length (236) measured between the tip (192) end (228) and the proximal hub (188) end (212), and wherein the length (236) is between 4.5 inches to 6 inches.

8. The capture tool (180) of any of claims 1-7, wherein the thickened portion (101) (216) includes a first diameter, wherein the intermediate portion (101) (224) includes a second diameter, and wherein the first diameter is greater than the second diameter.

9. A medical apparatus comprising: a handle (140); a catheter (102) attached to the handle (140); and a capture tool (180) received by the handle (140), the capture tool (180) including: an elongated body (120) (184) including a first end (204) and a second end (208) opposite the first end (204); a tapered proximal hub (188) encompassing the first end (204) and extending proximally from the first end (204) of the elongated body (120) (184); and a tip (192) encompassing the second end (208) and extending distally from the second end (208) of the elongated body (120) (184), the tip (192) including: a thickened portion (101) (216) at a proximal end of the tip (192), a tapered portion (101) (220) extending distally from the thickened portion (101) (216), and an intermediate portion (101) (224) extending distally from the tapered portion (101) (220) to a tip (192) end (228), the tip (192) end (228) includes a rounded edge, wherein the elongated body (120) (184), a portion (101) of the tapered proximal hub (188), and a portion (101) of the tip (192) together define a tool lumen (196) configured to slidably receive the catheter (102).

10. The medical apparatus of claim 9, wherein the elongated body (120) (184), a portion (101) of the tapered proximal hub (188), and a portion (101) of the tip (192) define a tool lumen (196), wherein the catheter (102) is configured to extend through the tool lumen (196) such that the catheter (102) moves relative to the capture tool (180).

11. The medical apparatus of any of claims 9 and 10, wherein the catheter (102) includes a central lumen having a shaft (132) and a carrier arm (128), and wherein the shaft (132) and the carrier arm (128) move relative to the central lumen.

12. The medical apparatus of claim 11, wherein the carrier arm (128) is movable between a first configuration and a second configuration, wherein the first configuration is a linear configuration, and wherein the second configuration is a looped configuration.

13. The medical apparatus of claim 12, wherein the carrier arm (128) includes an electrode.

14. The medical apparatus of claim 13, further comprising an electronic controller (114), wherein the electronic controller (114) is in communication with the catheter (102), and wherein the electronic controller (114) provides one or more energy modalities to the electrode.

15. The medical apparatus of any of claims 9-14, wherein the elongated body (120) (184) and the tapered proximal hub (188) are integrally molded.