Active Catheter Using Shape Memory Alloy for Treatment of Intestinal Obstruction

Abstract

Soft and long silicone rubber tubes (catheters) are commonly used for conservative treatment in intestinal obstruction (ileus). It is difficult to pass the passage at the lower end of the stomach (pylorus). Doctors must be skillful and experienced enough to insert the tube into the intestine. Although there are some instruments which make the procedure easier, for example an endoscope, a guide wire, a long over tube and attaching weight at the tip of the tube, easier and more certain method has been required to pass the pylorus. Active bending tube using shape memory alloy coil micro actuator has been developed. Doctors can control bending motion of the tip of the ileus tube easily by applying electrical current to the SMA actuator from outside the body.