Intravascular device for matching impedances of portions of an
intravascular circuit and limiting RF signal-induced heating of
intravascular conductors. An intravascular device includes alternating
conductive and dielectric layers and an electrically conductive coil in a
configuration that effects an impedance-matching circuit. Another
embodiment of an intravascular device has cylindrical inner and outer
walls formed of an expandable, electrically conductive material, the
inner and outer walls being separated by a compressible dielectric
material. Varying the pressure in the lumen defined by the inner wall
changes the spacing between the inner and outer walls, thereby changing
the capacitance between the inner and outer wall. Another embodiment of
an intravascular device includes one or more coaxial chokes for limiting
heating caused by currents induced by RF signals. A conductive shield of
the choke is formed of a conductive polymer to further reduce heating
effects. Other embodiments include different transmission lines and
antenna structures.