US20020035347A1 - Aspiration catheter - Google Patents

Aspiration catheter Download PDF

Info

Publication number
US20020035347A1
US20020035347A1 US09/909,419 US90941901A US2002035347A1 US 20020035347 A1 US20020035347 A1 US 20020035347A1 US 90941901 A US90941901 A US 90941901A US 2002035347 A1 US2002035347 A1 US 2002035347A1
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
catheter
tubular body
lumen
aspiration
distal end
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Abandoned
Application number
US09/909,419
Inventor
Celso Bagaoisan
Hung Ha
Mukund Patel
Sivette Lam
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Medtronic Vascular Inc
Original Assignee
Bagaoisan Celso J.
Ha Hung V.
Patel Mukund R.
Sivette Lam
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Bagaoisan Celso J., Ha Hung V., Patel Mukund R., Sivette Lam filed Critical Bagaoisan Celso J.
Priority to US09/909,419 priority Critical patent/US20020035347A1/en
Publication of US20020035347A1 publication Critical patent/US20020035347A1/en
Assigned to MEDTRONIC AVE, INC. reassignment MEDTRONIC AVE, INC. MERGER (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: MEDTRONIC PERCUSURGE INC.
Abandoned legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61MDEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M25/00Catheters; Hollow probes
    • A61M25/10Balloon catheters
    • A61M25/1011Multiple balloon catheters
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61MDEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M25/00Catheters; Hollow probes
    • A61M25/10Balloon catheters
    • A61M25/1011Multiple balloon catheters
    • A61M2025/1015Multiple balloon catheters having two or more independently movable balloons where the distance between the balloons can be adjusted, e.g. two balloon catheters concentric to each other forming an adjustable multiple balloon catheter system
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61MDEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M25/00Catheters; Hollow probes
    • A61M25/10Balloon catheters
    • A61M2025/1043Balloon catheters with special features or adapted for special applications
    • A61M2025/1052Balloon catheters with special features or adapted for special applications for temporarily occluding a vessel for isolating a sector
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61MDEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M25/00Catheters; Hollow probes
    • A61M25/10Balloon catheters
    • A61M2025/1043Balloon catheters with special features or adapted for special applications
    • A61M2025/109Balloon catheters with special features or adapted for special applications having balloons for removing solid matters, e.g. by grasping or scraping plaque, thrombus or other matters that obstruct the flow
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61MDEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M25/00Catheters; Hollow probes
    • A61M25/10Balloon catheters
    • A61M2025/1043Balloon catheters with special features or adapted for special applications
    • A61M2025/1093Balloon catheters with special features or adapted for special applications having particular tip characteristics

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to aspiration catheters for aspirating emboli, thrombi, and other types of particles from the vasculature of a patient, the apparatus being particularly well suited for aspiration within saphenous vein grafts, coronary arteries, and similar vessels.
  • Coronary heart disease is an extremely common disorder in developed countries, and is the leading cause of death in the U.S. Damage to or malfunction of the heart is caused by narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries (atherosclerosis) that supply blood to the heart.
  • the coronary arteries are first narrowed and may eventually be completely blocked by plaque, and may further be complicated by the formation of thrombi (blood clots) on the roughened surfaces of the plaques.
  • thrombi blood clots
  • Myocardial infarction can result from atherosclerosis, especially from an occlusive or near occlusive thrombi overlying or adjacent to the atherosclerotic plaque, leading to death of portions of the heart muscle.
  • Thrombi and emboli also often result from myocardial infarction, and these clots can block the coronary arteries, or can migrate further downstream, causing additional complications.
  • Various types of intervention techniques have been developed which facilitate the reduction or removal of the blockage in the blood vessel, allowing increased blood flow through the vessel.
  • One technique for treating stenosis or occlusion of a blood vessel is balloon angioplasty. A balloon catheter is inserted into the narrowed or blocked area, and the balloon is inflated to expand the constricted area. In many cases, near normal blood flow is restored. It can be difficult, however, to treat plaque deposits and thrombi in the coronary arteries, because the coronary arteries are small, which makes accessing them with commonly used catheters difficult.
  • a section of a vein is used to form a connection between the aorta and the coronary artery distal to the obstruction.
  • the saphenous vein graft may itself become diseased, stenosed, or occluded, similar to the bypassed vessel.
  • Atherosclerotic plaque in saphenous vein grafts tends to be more friable and less fibrocalcific than its counterpart in native coronary arteries.
  • the present invention provides novel aspiration catheters for removing plaque, thrombi, emboli, and other types of obstructions from blood vessels.
  • the present invention advantageously satisfies the need in the prior art by providing a catheter adapted to be compactly utilized in even the smaller size blood vessels. It can also be easily adapted to provide efficient and speedy evacuation in larger size vessels. This system is compatible with more common therapy devices in widespread use today, and is designed for rapid evacuation and ease of use.
  • the catheters of the present invention are provided in either over-the-wire or in single operator form.
  • the catheters are sized so as to be used in very small blood vessels.
  • Radiopaque markers are preferably incorporated into the distal ends of the catheters to facilitate their positioning within the body.
  • the catheters are provided with varying flexibility along the length of the shaft, such that they are soft and flexible enough to be navigated through the vasculature of a patient without causing damage, but are stiff enough to sustain the axial push required to position the catheter properly and to sustain the aspiration pressures.
  • the catheters are preferably sized so as to allow the slidable insertion of a therapy catheter through the main aspiration lumen of the aspiration catheter.
  • the therapy catheter can be built over the aspiration catheter. In either case, the aspiration and therapy catheters can be delivered simultaneously, saving valuable time during the procedure.
  • One embodiment of the aspiration catheter of the present invention therefore comprises an elongate flexible tubular body having a proximal end and a distal end.
  • the catheter body or shaft incorporates a reinforcement such as a metallic braid or coil or a polymer coil to provide strength and flexibility to the device.
  • a main lumen extends the length of the tubular body, and an aspiration port at the proximal end of the catheter body is in fluid communication with the main lumen, such that aspiration pressure can be provided through the port and main lumen.
  • the distal tip on the catheter is formed of a more flexible material than that used to form the rest of the catheter shaft.
  • the reinforcement can be formed from a variety of materials, including polymers, stainless steel, silver or gold plated stainless steel, ELGILOY, platinum, nitinol, or a combination thereof.
  • the distal end of the catheter body is preferably more flexible than the proximal end, and this can be achieved by providing a braid or coil density at the distal end which is greater than the braid or coil density at the proximal end.
  • the catheter's main lumen is preferably sized to receive at least one separate catheter, such as a therapy catheter, which is slidably disposed therein.
  • the inner diameter of the main lumen is preferably about 0.045′′.
  • the aspiration catheter of the present invention can include a second lumen adjacent the main lumen which is adapted to receive a guidewire therethrough.
  • the second lumen can extend substantially the entire length of the tubular body, or can extend less than 40 cm or less than 20 cm in a proximal direction from the distal end of the body.
  • the second lumen can contain a slit through a side wall to allow insertion and removal of the guidewire therethrough.
  • the second lumen has an inner diameter of approximately 0.020′′ to receive a 0.014′′ diameter guidewire.
  • the distal tip of the catheter can have at least one side port to facilitate aspiration.
  • the distal tip can be tapered, blunt, or angled to create an oblique opening.
  • the catheter preferably also comprises a valve in fluid communication with the main lumen, to control the application of aspiration pressure at the distal end of the device.
  • the aspiration catheter of the present invention can also incorporate various coatings, such as hydrophilic or hydrophobic coatings, antithrombogenic coatings, or a combination thereof.
  • the aspiration catheter comprises an elongate flexible tubular body having a proximal end and a distal end, a main lumen extending through the tubular body sized to receive at least one separate catheter which is slidably disposed therein, an aspiration port at the proximal end of the tubular body, the aspiration port being in fluid communication with the main lumen, and a tip on the distal end of the tubular body, the tip being formed of a more flexible material than that used to form the tubular body.
  • the catheter can have a second lumen adjacent the first adapted to receive a guidewire therethrough, a specially shaped distal tip, and an optional valve in fluid communication with the main lumen.
  • the aspiration catheter comprises an elongate flexible tubular body having a proximal end and a distal end, a main aspiration lumen through the tubular body, an aspiration port on the proximal end of the tubular body in fluid communication with the main lumen, a therapeutic device attached to the distal end of the tubular body, and a tip on the distal end of the tubular body formed of a more flexible material than that used to form the tubular body itself.
  • the therapeutic device can be an inflatable balloon and the catheter can include a separate inflation lumen for the balloon adjacent the main lumen.
  • the catheters of the present invention provide for very fast and efficient aspiration of the working area surrounding the occlusion in a blood vessel.
  • the catheters can be utilized in a wide range of vessel diameters, including extremely small ones, are easy to use and can quickly and efficiently evacuate occlusions and debris, allowing the physician to restore normal blood flow in these vessels in a very short period of time.
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a human heart showing a saphenous vein graft used to bypass a portion of the coronary arteries.
  • FIG. 2 is a side view of an over-the-wire aspiration catheter in accordance with the present invention.
  • FIG. 3 is a cross section of the aspiration catheter of FIG. 2, taken along line 3 - 3 in FIG. 2.
  • FIG. 4 is a cross section of the aspiration catheter of FIG. 2 showing a guide wire over which the aspiration catheter rides.
  • FIG. 5 is a side view of a single operator type aspiration catheter in accordance with the present invention.
  • FIG. 6 is a cross section of the proximal end of the aspiration catheter of FIG. 5, taken along line 6 - 6 of FIG. 5.
  • FIG. 7A is a cross section of one embodiment of the distal end of the aspiration catheter of FIG. 5, taken along line 7 - 7 of FIG. 5.
  • FIG. 7B is a cross section of another embodiment of the distal end of the aspiration catheter of FIG. 5, also taken along line 7 - 7 of FIG. 5, showing a slit in the outer wall of the guidewire lumen through which the guidewire can be inserted and removed.
  • FIGS. 8 A-C are side views of the various embodiments of the distal end of the aspiration catheter of the present invention.
  • FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an over-the-wire aspiration catheter and guidewire inserted into a saphenous vein graft in accordance with the present invention, with the vein graft shown partially cut away.
  • FIG. 10 is a schematic view of an occlusion catheter apparatus for use in the method of the present invention.
  • FIG. 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a distal portion of the catheter apparatus shown in FIG. 10.
  • FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a valve which can be positioned at the proximal end of the catheter of the present invention to control aspiration.
  • the present invention provides novel aspiration catheters for aspirating emboli, plaque, thrombi or other occlusions from a blood vessel and methods of using same.
  • the present invention is adapted for use in the treatment and removal of an occlusion in a blood vessel in which the occlusion has a length and a width or thickness which at least partially occludes the vessel's lumen.
  • the catheters of the present invention are effective in treating both partial and complete occlusions of the blood vessels.
  • “occlusion” includes both partial and complete occlusions, stenosis, emboli, thrombi, plaque and any other substance which at least partially occludes the vessel's lumen.
  • the method of the present invention can be used to provide aspiration with or without the need for a separate irrigation catheter and irrigation fluid.
  • an isolated “chamber” surrounding the occlusion be created prior to attempting treatment, and that separate irrigation fluid be provided through an irrigation catheter to the chamber. It has been discovered that isolation of the occlusion is not required in some cases, and that the occlusion can be successfully removed through therapy and/or aspirating of the resulting debris without the need for delivery of a separate irrigation catheter and irrigation fluid in those vessels where certain pressure and fluid flow conditions exist, such as saphenous vein grafts, coronary arteries, carotid arteries and similar vessels.
  • proximal refers to the portion of the apparatus closest to the end which remains outside the patient's body
  • distal refers to the portion closest to the end inserted into the patient's body.
  • the method and apparatus of the present invention can be used in any vessel of the body where the pressure is at least 0.2 psi, and preferably, is about 1.2 psi, with a flow rate of at least 10 cc per minute.
  • the method and apparatus are particularly suited for use in removal of occlusions from saphenous vein grafts, coronary and carotid arteries, and in other non-branching vessels having similar pressures and flow where a suitable working area can be created.
  • a saphenous vein graft is depicted in FIG. 1.
  • the graft 2 is used to bypass one of the occluded coronary arteries 4 , and connects the aorta 6 to the coronary artery at a location distal the occlusion 8 .
  • the present invention will be described in connection with a saphenous vein graft, it should be understood that this application is merely exemplary, and the method can be used in other blood vessels as well.
  • a guide catheter having a single lumen is first introduced into the patient's vasculature through an incision made in the femoral artery in the groin and used to guide the insertion of other catheters and devices to the desired site.
  • a second catheter is inserted through the guide catheter and past the site of the occlusion.
  • the catheter has an occlusive device, such as an inflatable balloon, filter or other mechanical occlusive device, attached at its distal end.
  • the occlusive device should be capable of preventing the migration of particles and debris from the working area, either through total or partial occlusion of the vessel. Note that the occlusion of the vessel need not be complete.
  • Substantial occlusion of the vessel can be sufficient for purposes of the present invention.
  • the catheter should be sized so as to be slidable with respect to the therapy and aspiration catheters inserted over the catheter.
  • the catheter is preferably made of metal such as stainless steel or nitinol, plastics, or composites.
  • a guidewire having an occlusive device on its distal end is also suitable for use in the present method.
  • the method of the present invention can be effectively carried out using a number of guidewires or catheters that perform the function of occluding the vessel and allowing for the slidable insertion of various other catheters and devices.
  • the term “catheter” as used herein is therefore intended to include both guidewires and catheters with these desired characteristics.
  • the catheter apparatus 110 is generally comprised of four communicating members including an elongated tubular member 114 , an inflatable balloon member 116 , a core-wire member 120 and a coil member 122 .
  • the catheter apparatus 110 is preferably provided with an outer coating of a lubricous material, such as Teflon.
  • the body member 114 of the catheter apparatus 110 is in the form of hypotubing and is provided with proximal and distal ends 114 A and 114 B as well as an inner lumen 115 extending along the tubular member 114 .
  • the balloon member 116 is coaxially mounted on the distal end 114 B of the tubular member 114 by suitable adhesives 119 at a proximal end 116 A and a distal end 116 B of the balloon member 116 as in the manner shown in FIG. 11.
  • the core-wire member 120 of the catheter 110 may be comprised of a flexible wire 120 .
  • the flexible wire 120 is joined by soldering, crimping or brazing at a proximal end 120 A of the flexible wire 120 to the distal end 114 B of the tubular member 114 as in the manner show in FIG. 11.
  • the proximal end 120 A of the flexible wire 120 can have a transverse cross sectional area substantially less than the smallest transverse cross-sectional area of the inner lumen 115 of the tubular member 114 .
  • the flexible wire 120 can also taper in the distal end 120 B to smaller diameters to provide greater flexibility to the flexible wire 120 .
  • the flexible wire may be in the form of a solid rod, ribbon or a helical coil or wire or combinations thereof.
  • the distal end 120 B of the flexible wire 120 is secured to a rounded plug 118 of solder or braze at the distal end 122 B of the coil member 122 .
  • the coil member 122 of the catheter 110 may be comprised of a helical coil 122 .
  • the coil member 122 is coaxially disposed about the flexible wire 120 , and is secured to the flexible wire 120 by soldering or brazing at about the proximal end 120 A of the flexible wire 120 as in the manner shown in FIG. 11.
  • the balloon member 116 is preferably a compliant balloon formed of a suitable elastic material such as a latex or the like.
  • the flexible coil 122 is preferably formed of a wire of platinum or gold based alloys.
  • the flexible core-wire 120 and the tubular member 114 are preferably formed of a superelastic nickel-titanium alloy.
  • the catheters of the present invention are preferably provided with a coating on the outer surface, or on both the inner and outer surfaces.
  • Suitable coatings include hydrophilic, hydrophobic and antithrombogenic coatings. Examples include heparin and TEFLON. These coatings can be applied using methods well known in the art.
  • the occlusive device at the distal end of the catheter is actuated to occlude the vessel distal to the existing occlusion to create a working area.
  • a therapy catheter then is delivered to the site of the occlusion.
  • therapy catheter is meant to include any of a number of known devices used to treat an occluded vessel.
  • a catheter carrying an inflatable balloon for use in balloon angioplasty can be delivered to dilate the occlusion.
  • Thermal balloon angioplasty includes the use of heat to “mold” the vessel to the size and shape of the angioplasty balloon.
  • an intravascular stent can be delivered via a balloon catheter and deployed at the site of the occlusion to keep the vessel open.
  • Cutting, shaving, scraping or pulverizing devices can be delivered to excise the occlusion in a procedure known as atherectomy.
  • a laser or ultrasound device can also be delivered and used to ablate plaque in the vessel.
  • Various thrombolytic or other types of drugs can be delivered locally in high concentrations to the site of the occlusion. It is also possible to deliver various chemical substances or enzymes via a catheter to the site of the stenosis to dissolve the obstruction.
  • the term “therapy catheter” encompasses these and similar devices.
  • the working area is aspirated to remove fluid and debris.
  • Aspiration pressure can be provided through the guide catheter if desired.
  • a source of negative pressure is attached at the proximal end of the guide catheter to create reverse flow, and fluid and debris are aspirated through the guide catheter's main lumen.
  • an aspiration catheter or similar debris removing device is delivered to the working area to remove particles and any other debris.
  • the term “aspiration catheter” includes any device which creates an area of fluid turbulence and uses negative pressure and reverse flow to aspirate fluid and debris, and includes those devices which create a venturi effect within the vessel. It should be noted that any particles which break free during therapy and aspiration procedures will be kept at the site of the procedure within the working area by the occlusive device occluding the distal portion of the vessel in combination with the blood pressure coming from the proximal portion of the vessel. The debris is prevented from migrating elsewhere, and remains localized for removal by aspiration.
  • FIG. 2 An aspiration catheter particularly suited for use in the treatment and removal of occlusions in blood vessels is illustrated in FIG. 2.
  • the catheter 10 includes an adaptor 14 , preferably a female luer adaptor, and a seal 16 at its proximal end.
  • the catheter 10 further includes an aspiration port 18 to which a source of negative pressure is attached.
  • the aspiration catheter further comprises a long tubular body 20 having a distal end 22 .
  • the distal tip 22 can include a radiopaque marker to aid in locating the tip 22 during insertion into the patient, and is preferably soft to prevent damage to the patient's vasculature.
  • the aspiration catheter is preferably about 145 cm in length, although this length can be varied as desired.
  • the aspiration catheter illustrated in FIG. 2 is an over-the-wire catheter.
  • the catheter body 20 is hollow, with an internal diameter ranging from about 0.030′′ to about 0.070′′. Preferably, the inner diameter is about 0.045′′.
  • the proximal end of a guidewire 26 is inserted into the distal end of the aspiration catheter 22 , and the aspiration a catheter 10 is slidably advanced over the guidewire 26 , which is positioned inside the hollow lumen 24 of the aspiration catheter 10 .
  • the position of the guidewire 26 relative to the body 20 of the aspiration catheter 10 is illustrated in FIG. 4, but of course can vary.
  • a very long guidewire 26 generally around 300 cm in length, is used to facilitate the insertion of the aspiration catheter 10 over the guidewire 26 .
  • the aspiration catheter 30 can be of a single operator design, as illustrated in FIGS. 5 - 7 .
  • the catheter 30 has an adaptor 32 and an aspiration port 34 at its proximal end.
  • the single operator aspiration catheter 30 further comprises a long tubular body 36 having a distal end 38 .
  • the distal tip 38 can include a radiopaque marker to aid in locating the tip 38 during insertion into the patient, and is preferably soft to prevent damage to the patient's vasculature.
  • a guidewire lumen 40 is attached at the distal end of the shaft 38 .
  • This lumen 40 provides a separate lumen, apart from the main aspiration lumen 42 of the catheter 30 , for the insertion of the guidewire 26 .
  • the inner diameter of the guidewire lumen ranges from about 0.016′′ to about 0.020′′ for use with a 0.014′′ guidewire system. In a preferred embodiment, the inner diameter of the lumen is about 0.019′′.
  • This guidewire lumen can be less than 10 cm in length, but can extend 30 cm or longer in a proximal direction. As illustrated in FIG. 7, during delivery of the aspiration catheter 30 , the proximal end of the guidewire 26 is inserted into the distal end of the guidewire lumen 40 , and the guidewire lumen 40 is slidably advanced over the guidewire 26 .
  • the guidewire lumen 40 is shown in FIG. 5 as being located only on the distal end 38 of the shaft of the aspiration catheter 36 , the lumen 40 can also be made to extend the entire length of the shaft 36 if desired. In both embodiments, the aspiration lumen 42 is advantageously left completely unobstructed to provide more efficient aspiration.
  • the guidewire lumen 40 can also include a slit 41 along the entire length in the outside wall of the lumen as shown in FIG. 7B to facilitate faster and easier insertion and removal of the guidewire 26 through the side wall of the lumen.
  • the elongate catheter shaft must have sufficient structural integrity, or “stiffness,” to permit the catheter to be pushed through the vasculature to distal arterial locations without buckling or undesirable bending of the body. It is also desirable, however, for the body to be fairly flexible near its distal end, so that the tubular body may be navigated through tortuous blood vessel networks.
  • the tubular body of the aspiration catheter is formed from a polymer such as polyethylene or PEBAX (Atochem, France) made to have variable stiffness along its length, with the proximal portion of the tubular body being less flexible than the distal portion of the body.
  • a tubular body of this construction enables a user to more easily insert the tubular body into vascular networks difficult to access using conventional catheters of uniform stiffness. This is because the stiffer proximal portion provides the requisite structural integrity needed to advance the catheter without buckling, while the more flexible distal region is more easily advanced into and through tortuous blood vessel passageways.
  • variable stiffness along the length of the catheter shaft is achieved by forming a polymeric tubular body which incorporates a reinforcement along its length.
  • the tubular body may be provided with a reinforcing braid or coil incorporated into its wall structure.
  • the reinforcement can be formed of metal or of various polymers.
  • the proximal region of the catheter is provided with a braid or coil having a higher braid or coil density than that present in the braid or coil of the distal region. The lower braid density in the proximal region makes it less flexible, or “stiffer”, than the distal region of the catheter.
  • the precise density of the braiding or coiling provided to the proximal, distal and transition regions can be varied considerably at the time of manufacture, such that catheters having a variety of different flexibility profiles may be created.
  • the braid or coil density may be varied within the catheter regions as well, by providing a braid or coil which has a braid or coil density gradient along its length.
  • the most proximal part of the proximal region may be provided with a metallic braid having a braid density of about 10 picks per inch, with the braid density decreasing at a rate of about 2-10 picks per inch as the braid extends in the distal direction.
  • This reinforced construction of the catheter provides adequate proximal stiffness for axial push, while preventing collapse of the distal tip during aspiration.
  • a variety of different materials known to be ductile and shapeable into fine wires, may be used to form the reinforcement.
  • various polymers stainless steel, silver or gold plated stainless steel, platinum, nitinol, or a combination thereof are suitable.
  • the braid is formed of stainless steel, and has a braid density which varies from 10 picks per inch at the most proximal part of the proximal region of the catheter, to 100 picks per inch at the most distal part of the distal region of the catheter.
  • Reinforcing braids or coils may be introduced into the structure of the catheter body through conventional catheter forming techniques.
  • the tubular body may be formed by inserting a 72D PEBAX tube into a variable braid density stainless steel sleeve, and then inserting the sleeved tube into a 72D PEBAX outer tube of the same length, so that the braided sleeve is sandwiched between the two tubes.
  • a shaping mandrel may be inserted within the inner PEBAX tube, and shaping container over the outer PEBAX tube, and the entire apparatus may then be placed in a hot box kept at a temperature slightly greater than the melting temperature of the PEBAX tubes.
  • the PEBAX tubes will melt and fuse together, and once cooled, will form a tubular body incorporating the braid. This same technique can be used to form a tubular body incorporating a coil.
  • variable stiffness of the tubular body may be achieved by forming the proximal and distal regions of the tubular body out of polymeric materials having differing degrees of stiffness. For example, one half of an inner tube of 72D PEBAX may be inserted into an outer tube of 40D PEBAX, and the other half of the inner tube may be inserted into a 72D PEBAX outer tube. The combination may then be heat fused, as described above.
  • the 40D/72D PEBAX combination forms a more flexible tubular body than the region of the 72D/72D PEBAX combination. More or less flexible materials may be used as desired to alter the flexibility of the resulting tubular body.
  • the flexibility of the various regions of a tubular body formed in this manner may be varied further by incorporating a braid or coil having either a uniform braid density or coil pitch, or a varying density or coil, into the tubular body, as described above.
  • the body may be formed out of polymers such as polyethylene, PEBAX, polyimide, polyether etherketone, and the like. Different materials might also be combined to select for desirable flexibility properties.
  • catheter body has been described in the context of having two regions of differing flexibility, it will be readily appreciated by those of skill in the art that three or more regions of differing flexibility may easily be provided, by adapting the teachings contained herein.
  • the distal tip of the aspiration catheter is preferably formed from 25D to 40D PEBAX with a radiopaque filler such as BaSO4.
  • the distal end of the catheter can also be provided with a soft distal tip which is not pre-formed with the tubular body, but is instead attached to the body as a post manufacturing step.
  • the distal tip is preferably soft enough and flexible enough so as to minimize trauma to body vessels as the catheter is advanced and to facilitate navigation of the catheter in tortuous vessels, but must also be strong enough to avoid collapse during aspiration.
  • the distal tip is formed as a 0.5 cm sleeve of 25-35D PEBAX and is bonded to the tubular body by use of an adhesive.
  • the distal tip may be attached to the tubular body by heat bonding, as is known to those of skill in the art.
  • the entire distal end of the aspiration catheter can also be attached as a separate post manufacturing step.
  • a tubing made of polyethylene (PE), PEBAX, or polyimide can be fused to the distal end of the main body section of the catheter. This tubing can be from about 5 to about 60 cm in length, but is preferably around 30 cm.
  • the distal end of the aspiration catheter can also be provided with a radiopaque material.
  • radiopaque material serves as a marker to help the user position the catheter inside the patient's body.
  • Various well-known radiopaque materials may be used in the distal end to form the marker, such as platinum or gold.
  • BaSO4 can be incorporated into the polymer resin itself.
  • FIGS. 8A, 8B, and 8 C illustrate various embodiments of the distal end of the aspiration catheter of the present invention.
  • FIG. 8A shows the preferred tip 44 , wherein the end has been angled and is oblique to provide effective retrieval of particles. The angle can be from about 5 degrees to about 90 degrees; an angle of about 25 degrees is preferred. This angled tip 44 is also shown in FIG. 5. This angled tip 44 maximizes the area of aspiration.
  • the distal tip of the aspiration catheter can also be blunt 45 , as shown in FIG. 8B, or can be tapered 46 . Side ports 47 can be drilled along the distal tip of the catheter to enhance the aspiration rate, as illustrated in FIGS. 8C and 2.
  • the aspiration catheter can be configured such that the therapy catheter can be inserted through the lumen of the aspiration catheter.
  • the lumen is made large enough to accommodate the desired therapy catheter. This allows the aspiration catheter and the therapy catheter to be delivered into the patient at the same time. When therapy is complete, the therapy catheter is removed while the aspiration catheter remains in place. This eliminates the need to separately deliver the aspiration catheter after removal of the therapy catheter, saving valuable time.
  • the size of the guide catheter used during this type of procedure be sized from at least 8 to about 10 French to accommodate the size of the “over-the-therapy-catheter” aspiration catheter,
  • the therapy catheter can be built over the aspiration catheter.
  • a dual or triple lumen catheter having a dilatation balloon at its distal end can be used.
  • One lumen is used to inflate the dilatation balloon to be used for angioplasty, while the second lumen is used for aspiration.
  • the third lumen is used as a guidewire lumen.
  • the aspiration catheter can be designed to deploy a stent within the occluded artery, or could include an atherectomy device on its distal end. These designs allows a single combined aspiration catheter and therapy catheter to be delivered into the patient. When therapy is complete, aspiration is carried out without the need to first remove the therapy catheter or separately deliver an aspiration catheter.
  • the proximal end of the aspiration catheter can be fitted with a valve, as illustrated in FIG. 12.
  • the valve allows the user to regulate the aspiration pressure.
  • a syringe can be connected to the valve and aspiration port at the proximal end of the catheter. With the valve closed, the syringe piston can be retracted completely to provide a vacuum. The valve is then opened to provide aspiration at the distal end of the aspiration catheter. Aspiration pressure can be provided in short bursts or continuously as the user desires by opening and closing the valve at the proximal end of the catheter. This valve therefore provides control over the aspiration within the vessel.
  • the aspiration catheters of the present invention can also include a coating on the outer surface. Suitable coatings include hydrophilic, hydrophobic, and antithrombogenic coatings, or a combination thereof. Examples of suitable coatings include heparin and TEFLON.
  • a guide catheter (not shown) is introduced into the patient's vasculature through an incision in the femoral artery in the groin of the patient.
  • the guide catheter has a single large lumen, and is used to guide the insertion of other catheters and devices.
  • the guide catheter is advanced until it reaches the aorta and the ostium of the vein graft, where it will remain in place throughout the procedure.
  • Fluoroscopy is typically used to guide the guide catheter and other devices to the desired location within the patient.
  • the devices are frequently marked with radiopaque markers to facilitate visualization of the insertion and positioning of the devices within the patient's vasculature.
  • a catheter or guidewire 50 having an occlusive device at its distal end is delivered through the guide catheter into the saphenous vein graft 5 and past the site of the occlusion 56 .
  • the occlusive device is an inflatable balloon 52 .
  • the balloon 52 is inflated to occlude the vein graft 5 at a site distal to the occlusion 56 .
  • the blood coming from the aorta enters the saphenous vein graft 5 and keeps any particles 58 dislodged during the procedure from flowing proximally.
  • the blood pressure and flow coming from the aorta provides the irrigation necessary for aspiration.
  • the blood pressure in the vessel is preferably at least about 0.2 psi, and the proximal flow rate is at least about 10 cc per minute.
  • a therapy catheter (not shown) is delivered, if desired.
  • the therapy catheter can be any of a number of devices, including a balloon catheter used to perform angioplasty, a catheter which delivers a stent, a catheter for delivering enzymes, chemicals, or drugs to dissolve and treat the occlusion, an atherectomy device, a rheolitic device, or a laser or ultrasound device used to ablate the occlusion.
  • the therapy catheter can be eliminated and use of the guide catheter or a separate aspiration catheter alone can be used to aspirate the occlusion. This method is especially useful to remove emboli from the coronary arteries following acute myocardial infarction, because the aspiration catheter can be made small enough to enter the coronary arteries.
  • the therapy catheter is withdrawn from the patient's body and an aspiration catheter 60 is delivered over the guidewire 50 and through the guiding catheter.
  • the aspiration catheter 60 rides over the guidewire 50 with the guidewire 50 inserted through the aspiration lumen 62 of the catheter 60 .
  • a single operator type aspiration catheter can be used, in which only a portion of the aspiration catheter rides over the guidewire, which is inserted into a separate guidewire lumen.
  • FIG. 9 illustrates the treatment site after the over-the-wire aspiration catheter 60 is inserted into the saphenous vein graft 5 .
  • the distal tip of the aspiration catheter 64 is initially positioned close to the occlusive balloon 52 .
  • the operator slides the aspiration catheter in a proximal direction, increasing the distance between the distal tip 64 and the balloon 52 .
  • Aspiration can therefore occur anywhere between about 0 to 20 cm proximal to the occlusive device.
  • the distal tip of the aspiration catheter 64 can be slidably advanced in the distal direction more than once to ensure complete aspiration of all debris.
  • the blood pressure supplied by the aorta will move any particles 58 from a position proximal to the distal tip of the aspiration catheter 64 , thus allowing them to be aspirated, as illustrated by the arrows in FIG. 9.
  • a preferred source of negative pressure is any container containing a fixed vacuum, such as a syringe, attached to the proximal end of the aspiration catheter at the aspiration port 34 (see FIG. 5).
  • a mechanical pump or bulb or any other appropriate source of negative pressure can also be used.
  • Other aspiration methods including those which utilize a venturi effect, can also be used.
  • the difference between the existing pressure within the vessel and the aspiration pressure within the vessel should not exceed 60 psi, and more preferably, should not exceed about 30 psi. If too much aspiration pressure is applied, the change in pressure in the vessel will be too great and damage may occur to the vessel itself.
  • the aspiration catheter 60 is removed.
  • the balloon 52 is deflated and the guidewire 50 and guiding catheter are removed.
  • the aspiration catheter can be sized such that it can receive the therapy catheter within its lumen, or the therapy catheter can be built over the aspiration catheter.
  • an angioplasty balloon can be attached to the distal end of the aspiration catheter.
  • the aspiration catheter can be designed to deploy a stent within the occluded artery, or could include an atherectomy device on its distal end.
  • the aspiration catheter and the therapy catheter are delivered over the guidewire and into the vein graft together.
  • the therapy catheter is removed while the aspiration catheter remains in place.
  • the aspiration catheter, guidewire and guiding catheter are removed from the patient's body. Delivering the aspiration catheter and therapy catheter together saves time, which is critical during these types of procedures.
  • the guide catheter can be used to provide aspiration through its main lumen.

Abstract

Aspiration catheters suitable for use in the treatment of an occlusion in a blood vessel are disclosed. These catheters are especially useful in the removal of occlusions from saphenous vein grafts, the coronary and carotid arteries, arteries above the aortic arch and even smaller vessels. The catheters of the present invention are provided in either over-the-wire or in single operator form. Radiopaque markers are preferably incorporated into distal ends of the catheters to facilitate their positioning within the body. The catheters are provided with varying flexibility along the length of the shaft, such that they are soft and flexible enough to be navigated through the vasculature of a patient without causing damage, but are stiff enough to sustain the axial push required to position the catheter properly and to sustain the aspiration pressures.

Description

    BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
  • 1. Field of the Invention [0001]
  • The present invention relates to aspiration catheters for aspirating emboli, thrombi, and other types of particles from the vasculature of a patient, the apparatus being particularly well suited for aspiration within saphenous vein grafts, coronary arteries, and similar vessels. [0002]
  • 2. Description of the Related Art [0003]
  • Human blood vessels often become occluded or completely blocked by plaque, thrombi, other deposits, emboli or other substances, which reduce the blood carrying capacity of the vessel. Should the blockage occur at a critical place in the circulatory system, serious and permanent injury, or even death, can occur. To prevent this, some form of medical intervention is usually performed when significant occlusion is detected. [0004]
  • Coronary heart disease is an extremely common disorder in developed countries, and is the leading cause of death in the U.S. Damage to or malfunction of the heart is caused by narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries (atherosclerosis) that supply blood to the heart. The coronary arteries are first narrowed and may eventually be completely blocked by plaque, and may further be complicated by the formation of thrombi (blood clots) on the roughened surfaces of the plaques. Myocardial infarction can result from atherosclerosis, especially from an occlusive or near occlusive thrombi overlying or adjacent to the atherosclerotic plaque, leading to death of portions of the heart muscle. Thrombi and emboli also often result from myocardial infarction, and these clots can block the coronary arteries, or can migrate further downstream, causing additional complications. [0005]
  • Various types of intervention techniques have been developed which facilitate the reduction or removal of the blockage in the blood vessel, allowing increased blood flow through the vessel. One technique for treating stenosis or occlusion of a blood vessel is balloon angioplasty. A balloon catheter is inserted into the narrowed or blocked area, and the balloon is inflated to expand the constricted area. In many cases, near normal blood flow is restored. It can be difficult, however, to treat plaque deposits and thrombi in the coronary arteries, because the coronary arteries are small, which makes accessing them with commonly used catheters difficult. [0006]
  • Other types of intervention include atherectomy, deployment of stents, introduction of specific medication by infusion, and bypass surgery. Each of these methods are not without the risk of embolism caused by the dislodgement of the blocking material which then moves downstream. In addition, the size of the blocked vessel may limit percutaneous access to the vessel. [0007]
  • In coronary bypass surgery, a more costly and invasive form of intervention, a section of a vein, usually the saphenous vein taken from the leg, is used to form a connection between the aorta and the coronary artery distal to the obstruction. Over time, however, the saphenous vein graft may itself become diseased, stenosed, or occluded, similar to the bypassed vessel. Atherosclerotic plaque in saphenous vein grafts tends to be more friable and less fibrocalcific than its counterpart in native coronary arteries. [0008]
  • Diffusely diseased old saphenous vein grafts with friable atherosclerotic lesions and thrombi have therefore been associated with iatrogenic distal embolic debris. Balloon dilatation of saphenous vein grafts is more likely to produce symptomatic embolization than dilatation of the coronary arteries, not only because of the difference in the plaque but also because vein grafts and their atheromatous plaques are generally larger than the coronary arteries to which they are anastomosed. Once the plaque and thrombi are dislodged from the vein, they can move downstream, completely blocking another portion of the coronary artery and causing myocardial infarction. In fact, coronary embolization as a complication of balloon angioplasty of saphenous vein grafts is higher than that in balloon angioplasty of native coronary arteries. Therefore, balloon angioplasty of vein grafts is performed with the realization that involvement by friable atherosclerosis is likely and that atheroembolization represents a significant risk. [0009]
  • Because of these complications and high recurrence rates, old diffusely diseased saphenous vein grafts have been considered contraindications for angioplasty and atherectomy, severely limiting the options for minimally invasive treatment. However, some diffusely diseased or occluded saphenous vein grafts may be associated with acute ischemic syndromes, necessitating some form of intervention. [0010]
  • There is therefore a need for improved methods of treatment for occluded vessels such as saphenous vein grafts and the smaller coronary arteries which decrease the risks to the patient. [0011]
  • SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
  • The present invention provides novel aspiration catheters for removing plaque, thrombi, emboli, and other types of obstructions from blood vessels. The present invention advantageously satisfies the need in the prior art by providing a catheter adapted to be compactly utilized in even the smaller size blood vessels. It can also be easily adapted to provide efficient and speedy evacuation in larger size vessels. This system is compatible with more common therapy devices in widespread use today, and is designed for rapid evacuation and ease of use. [0012]
  • The catheters of the present invention are provided in either over-the-wire or in single operator form. The catheters are sized so as to be used in very small blood vessels. Radiopaque markers are preferably incorporated into the distal ends of the catheters to facilitate their positioning within the body. The catheters are provided with varying flexibility along the length of the shaft, such that they are soft and flexible enough to be navigated through the vasculature of a patient without causing damage, but are stiff enough to sustain the axial push required to position the catheter properly and to sustain the aspiration pressures. [0013]
  • The catheters are preferably sized so as to allow the slidable insertion of a therapy catheter through the main aspiration lumen of the aspiration catheter. Alternatively, the therapy catheter can be built over the aspiration catheter. In either case, the aspiration and therapy catheters can be delivered simultaneously, saving valuable time during the procedure. [0014]
  • One embodiment of the aspiration catheter of the present invention therefore comprises an elongate flexible tubular body having a proximal end and a distal end. The catheter body or shaft incorporates a reinforcement such as a metallic braid or coil or a polymer coil to provide strength and flexibility to the device. A main lumen extends the length of the tubular body, and an aspiration port at the proximal end of the catheter body is in fluid communication with the main lumen, such that aspiration pressure can be provided through the port and main lumen. The distal tip on the catheter is formed of a more flexible material than that used to form the rest of the catheter shaft. [0015]
  • The reinforcement can be formed from a variety of materials, including polymers, stainless steel, silver or gold plated stainless steel, ELGILOY, platinum, nitinol, or a combination thereof. The distal end of the catheter body is preferably more flexible than the proximal end, and this can be achieved by providing a braid or coil density at the distal end which is greater than the braid or coil density at the proximal end. [0016]
  • The catheter's main lumen is preferably sized to receive at least one separate catheter, such as a therapy catheter, which is slidably disposed therein. The inner diameter of the main lumen is preferably about 0.045″. [0017]
  • The aspiration catheter of the present invention can include a second lumen adjacent the main lumen which is adapted to receive a guidewire therethrough. The second lumen can extend substantially the entire length of the tubular body, or can extend less than 40 cm or less than 20 cm in a proximal direction from the distal end of the body. The second lumen can contain a slit through a side wall to allow insertion and removal of the guidewire therethrough. In a preferred embodiment, the second lumen has an inner diameter of approximately 0.020″ to receive a 0.014″ diameter guidewire. [0018]
  • The distal tip of the catheter can have at least one side port to facilitate aspiration. The distal tip can be tapered, blunt, or angled to create an oblique opening. The catheter preferably also comprises a valve in fluid communication with the main lumen, to control the application of aspiration pressure at the distal end of the device. The aspiration catheter of the present invention can also incorporate various coatings, such as hydrophilic or hydrophobic coatings, antithrombogenic coatings, or a combination thereof. [0019]
  • In another embodiment of the present invention, the aspiration catheter comprises an elongate flexible tubular body having a proximal end and a distal end, a main lumen extending through the tubular body sized to receive at least one separate catheter which is slidably disposed therein, an aspiration port at the proximal end of the tubular body, the aspiration port being in fluid communication with the main lumen, and a tip on the distal end of the tubular body, the tip being formed of a more flexible material than that used to form the tubular body. Again, the catheter can have a second lumen adjacent the first adapted to receive a guidewire therethrough, a specially shaped distal tip, and an optional valve in fluid communication with the main lumen. [0020]
  • In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the aspiration catheter comprises an elongate flexible tubular body having a proximal end and a distal end, a main aspiration lumen through the tubular body, an aspiration port on the proximal end of the tubular body in fluid communication with the main lumen, a therapeutic device attached to the distal end of the tubular body, and a tip on the distal end of the tubular body formed of a more flexible material than that used to form the tubular body itself. The therapeutic device can be an inflatable balloon and the catheter can include a separate inflation lumen for the balloon adjacent the main lumen. [0021]
  • Accordingly, the catheters of the present invention provide for very fast and efficient aspiration of the working area surrounding the occlusion in a blood vessel. The catheters can be utilized in a wide range of vessel diameters, including extremely small ones, are easy to use and can quickly and efficiently evacuate occlusions and debris, allowing the physician to restore normal blood flow in these vessels in a very short period of time.[0022]
  • BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a human heart showing a saphenous vein graft used to bypass a portion of the coronary arteries. [0023]
  • FIG. 2 is a side view of an over-the-wire aspiration catheter in accordance with the present invention. [0024]
  • FIG. 3 is a cross section of the aspiration catheter of FIG. 2, taken along line [0025] 3-3 in FIG. 2.
  • FIG. 4 is a cross section of the aspiration catheter of FIG. 2 showing a guide wire over which the aspiration catheter rides. [0026]
  • FIG. 5 is a side view of a single operator type aspiration catheter in accordance with the present invention. [0027]
  • FIG. 6 is a cross section of the proximal end of the aspiration catheter of FIG. 5, taken along line [0028] 6-6 of FIG. 5.
  • FIG. 7A is a cross section of one embodiment of the distal end of the aspiration catheter of FIG. 5, taken along line [0029] 7-7 of FIG. 5.
  • FIG. 7B is a cross section of another embodiment of the distal end of the aspiration catheter of FIG. 5, also taken along line [0030] 7-7 of FIG. 5, showing a slit in the outer wall of the guidewire lumen through which the guidewire can be inserted and removed.
  • FIGS. [0031] 8A-C are side views of the various embodiments of the distal end of the aspiration catheter of the present invention.
  • FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an over-the-wire aspiration catheter and guidewire inserted into a saphenous vein graft in accordance with the present invention, with the vein graft shown partially cut away. [0032]
  • FIG. 10 is a schematic view of an occlusion catheter apparatus for use in the method of the present invention; [0033]
  • FIG. 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a distal portion of the catheter apparatus shown in FIG. 10. [0034]
  • FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a valve which can be positioned at the proximal end of the catheter of the present invention to control aspiration.[0035]
  • DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
  • The present invention provides novel aspiration catheters for aspirating emboli, plaque, thrombi or other occlusions from a blood vessel and methods of using same. The present invention is adapted for use in the treatment and removal of an occlusion in a blood vessel in which the occlusion has a length and a width or thickness which at least partially occludes the vessel's lumen. Thus, the catheters of the present invention are effective in treating both partial and complete occlusions of the blood vessels. As used herein, “occlusion” includes both partial and complete occlusions, stenosis, emboli, thrombi, plaque and any other substance which at least partially occludes the vessel's lumen. [0036]
  • The method of the present invention can be used to provide aspiration with or without the need for a separate irrigation catheter and irrigation fluid. In the context of removing plaque, thrombi or other blockages from blood vessels, it has heretofore been proposed that an isolated “chamber” surrounding the occlusion be created prior to attempting treatment, and that separate irrigation fluid be provided through an irrigation catheter to the chamber. It has been discovered that isolation of the occlusion is not required in some cases, and that the occlusion can be successfully removed through therapy and/or aspirating of the resulting debris without the need for delivery of a separate irrigation catheter and irrigation fluid in those vessels where certain pressure and fluid flow conditions exist, such as saphenous vein grafts, coronary arteries, carotid arteries and similar vessels. [0037]
  • In non-bifurcated areas of the blood vessels, it has been discovered that fluid from the proximal portion of the same vessel acts as an infusion source. One can therefore occlude only the distal portion of the vessel to create a working area surrounding the occlusion and allow blood to flow from the proximal portion of the vessel into the working area. The working area surrounding the occlusion is aspirated through the guiding catheter or aspiration catheter. It should be noted that, as used herein, “proximal” refers to the portion of the apparatus closest to the end which remains outside the patient's body, and “distal” refers to the portion closest to the end inserted into the patient's body. [0038]
  • The method and apparatus of the present invention can be used in any vessel of the body where the pressure is at least 0.2 psi, and preferably, is about 1.2 psi, with a flow rate of at least 10 cc per minute. The method and apparatus are particularly suited for use in removal of occlusions from saphenous vein grafts, coronary and carotid arteries, and in other non-branching vessels having similar pressures and flow where a suitable working area can be created. A saphenous vein graft is depicted in FIG. 1. The [0039] graft 2 is used to bypass one of the occluded coronary arteries 4, and connects the aorta 6 to the coronary artery at a location distal the occlusion 8. Although the present invention will be described in connection with a saphenous vein graft, it should be understood that this application is merely exemplary, and the method can be used in other blood vessels as well.
  • Apparatus Used With the Present Invention [0040]
  • 1. Guide Catheter and Occlusion Catheter [0041]
  • To perform the method of the present invention, a guide catheter having a single lumen is first introduced into the patient's vasculature through an incision made in the femoral artery in the groin and used to guide the insertion of other catheters and devices to the desired site. Following insertion of the guide catheter, a second catheter is inserted through the guide catheter and past the site of the occlusion. The catheter has an occlusive device, such as an inflatable balloon, filter or other mechanical occlusive device, attached at its distal end. The occlusive device should be capable of preventing the migration of particles and debris from the working area, either through total or partial occlusion of the vessel. Note that the occlusion of the vessel need not be complete. Substantial occlusion of the vessel can be sufficient for purposes of the present invention. The catheter should be sized so as to be slidable with respect to the therapy and aspiration catheters inserted over the catheter. The catheter is preferably made of metal such as stainless steel or nitinol, plastics, or composites. A guidewire having an occlusive device on its distal end is also suitable for use in the present method. The method of the present invention can be effectively carried out using a number of guidewires or catheters that perform the function of occluding the vessel and allowing for the slidable insertion of various other catheters and devices. The term “catheter” as used herein is therefore intended to include both guidewires and catheters with these desired characteristics. [0042]
  • A catheter suitable for use in the present invention is illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 11. The catheter apparatus [0043] 110 is generally comprised of four communicating members including an elongated tubular member 114, an inflatable balloon member 116, a core-wire member 120 and a coil member 122. The catheter apparatus 110 is preferably provided with an outer coating of a lubricous material, such as Teflon.
  • The [0044] body member 114 of the catheter apparatus 110 is in the form of hypotubing and is provided with proximal and distal ends 114A and 114B as well as an inner lumen 115 extending along the tubular member 114. The balloon member 116 is coaxially mounted on the distal end 114B of the tubular member 114 by suitable adhesives 119 at a proximal end 116A and a distal end 116B of the balloon member 116 as in the manner shown in FIG. 11. The core-wire member 120 of the catheter 110 may be comprised of a flexible wire 120. The flexible wire 120 is joined by soldering, crimping or brazing at a proximal end 120A of the flexible wire 120 to the distal end 114B of the tubular member 114 as in the manner show in FIG. 11.
  • The [0045] proximal end 120A of the flexible wire 120 can have a transverse cross sectional area substantially less than the smallest transverse cross-sectional area of the inner lumen 115 of the tubular member 114. The flexible wire 120 can also taper in the distal end 120B to smaller diameters to provide greater flexibility to the flexible wire 120. However, the flexible wire may be in the form of a solid rod, ribbon or a helical coil or wire or combinations thereof.
  • As shown in FIG. 11, the [0046] distal end 120B of the flexible wire 120 is secured to a rounded plug 118 of solder or braze at the distal end 122B of the coil member 122. The coil member 122 of the catheter 110 may be comprised of a helical coil 122. The coil member 122 is coaxially disposed about the flexible wire 120, and is secured to the flexible wire 120 by soldering or brazing at about the proximal end 120A of the flexible wire 120 as in the manner shown in FIG. 11.
  • The [0047] balloon member 116 is preferably a compliant balloon formed of a suitable elastic material such as a latex or the like. The flexible coil 122 is preferably formed of a wire of platinum or gold based alloys. The flexible core-wire 120 and the tubular member 114 are preferably formed of a superelastic nickel-titanium alloy.
  • The catheters of the present invention are preferably provided with a coating on the outer surface, or on both the inner and outer surfaces. Suitable coatings include hydrophilic, hydrophobic and antithrombogenic coatings. Examples include heparin and TEFLON. These coatings can be applied using methods well known in the art. [0048]
  • Additional details relative to the catheters described above are found in copending applications Serial Nos. ______, ______, and , ______ filed on the same date as the present application, entitled “Catheter for Emboli Containment” (Attorney Docket No. PERCUS.009A), “Pre-Stretched Catheter Balloon” (Attorney Docket No. PERCUS.010A) and “Hollow Medical Wires and Methods of Constructing Same” (Attorney Docket No. PERCUS.002A), all of which are hereby incorporated by reference. [0049]
  • 2. Therapy Catheter [0050]
  • Once the guiding catheter and second catheter have been properly positioned inside the vessel, the occlusive device at the distal end of the catheter is actuated to occlude the vessel distal to the existing occlusion to create a working area. A therapy catheter then is delivered to the site of the occlusion. The term “therapy catheter” is meant to include any of a number of known devices used to treat an occluded vessel. For example, a catheter carrying an inflatable balloon for use in balloon angioplasty can be delivered to dilate the occlusion. Thermal balloon angioplasty includes the use of heat to “mold” the vessel to the size and shape of the angioplasty balloon. Similarly, an intravascular stent can be delivered via a balloon catheter and deployed at the site of the occlusion to keep the vessel open. Cutting, shaving, scraping or pulverizing devices can be delivered to excise the occlusion in a procedure known as atherectomy. A laser or ultrasound device can also be delivered and used to ablate plaque in the vessel. Various thrombolytic or other types of drugs can be delivered locally in high concentrations to the site of the occlusion. It is also possible to deliver various chemical substances or enzymes via a catheter to the site of the stenosis to dissolve the obstruction. The term “therapy catheter” encompasses these and similar devices. [0051]
  • 3. Aspiration Catheter [0052]
  • After the therapy has been performed and the stenosis has been removed or reduced using any of the methods and apparatus described above, the working area is aspirated to remove fluid and debris. Aspiration pressure can be provided through the guide catheter if desired. A source of negative pressure is attached at the proximal end of the guide catheter to create reverse flow, and fluid and debris are aspirated through the guide catheter's main lumen. [0053]
  • Alternatively, an aspiration catheter or similar debris removing device is delivered to the working area to remove particles and any other debris. The term “aspiration catheter” includes any device which creates an area of fluid turbulence and uses negative pressure and reverse flow to aspirate fluid and debris, and includes those devices which create a venturi effect within the vessel. It should be noted that any particles which break free during therapy and aspiration procedures will be kept at the site of the procedure within the working area by the occlusive device occluding the distal portion of the vessel in combination with the blood pressure coming from the proximal portion of the vessel. The debris is prevented from migrating elsewhere, and remains localized for removal by aspiration. [0054]
  • An aspiration catheter particularly suited for use in the treatment and removal of occlusions in blood vessels is illustrated in FIG. 2. The [0055] catheter 10 includes an adaptor 14, preferably a female luer adaptor, and a seal 16 at its proximal end. The catheter 10 further includes an aspiration port 18 to which a source of negative pressure is attached. The aspiration catheter further comprises a long tubular body 20 having a distal end 22. The distal tip 22 can include a radiopaque marker to aid in locating the tip 22 during insertion into the patient, and is preferably soft to prevent damage to the patient's vasculature. The aspiration catheter is preferably about 145 cm in length, although this length can be varied as desired.
  • The aspiration catheter illustrated in FIG. 2 is an over-the-wire catheter. As seen in FIG. 3, the [0056] catheter body 20 is hollow, with an internal diameter ranging from about 0.030″ to about 0.070″. Preferably, the inner diameter is about 0.045″. During insertion of the aspiration catheter 10, the proximal end of a guidewire 26 is inserted into the distal end of the aspiration catheter 22, and the aspiration a catheter 10 is slidably advanced over the guidewire 26, which is positioned inside the hollow lumen 24 of the aspiration catheter 10. The position of the guidewire 26 relative to the body 20 of the aspiration catheter 10 is illustrated in FIG. 4, but of course can vary. For this type of aspiration catheter 10, a very long guidewire 26, generally around 300 cm in length, is used to facilitate the insertion of the aspiration catheter 10 over the guidewire 26.
  • Alternatively, the aspiration catheter [0057] 30 can be of a single operator design, as illustrated in FIGS. 5-7. The catheter 30 has an adaptor 32 and an aspiration port 34 at its proximal end. Like the over-the-wire aspiration catheter 10, the single operator aspiration catheter 30 further comprises a long tubular body 36 having a distal end 38. The distal tip 38 can include a radiopaque marker to aid in locating the tip 38 during insertion into the patient, and is preferably soft to prevent damage to the patient's vasculature. At the distal end of the shaft 38, a guidewire lumen 40 is attached. This lumen 40 provides a separate lumen, apart from the main aspiration lumen 42 of the catheter 30, for the insertion of the guidewire 26. The inner diameter of the guidewire lumen ranges from about 0.016″ to about 0.020″ for use with a 0.014″ guidewire system. In a preferred embodiment, the inner diameter of the lumen is about 0.019″. This guidewire lumen can be less than 10 cm in length, but can extend 30 cm or longer in a proximal direction. As illustrated in FIG. 7, during delivery of the aspiration catheter 30, the proximal end of the guidewire 26 is inserted into the distal end of the guidewire lumen 40, and the guidewire lumen 40 is slidably advanced over the guidewire 26. Unlike the over-the-wire catheter 10 described above, only a short segment of the single operator aspiration catheter 30 rides over the guidewire 26, and the guidewire 26 remains in the guidewire lumen 40 and does not enter the aspiration lumen 42 of the aspiration catheter 30. With the single operator system 30, the long guidewire 26 used with the over-the-wire catheter 10, and the extra operator needed to handle it, are not required.
  • Although the [0058] guidewire lumen 40 is shown in FIG. 5 as being located only on the distal end 38 of the shaft of the aspiration catheter 36, the lumen 40 can also be made to extend the entire length of the shaft 36 if desired. In both embodiments, the aspiration lumen 42 is advantageously left completely unobstructed to provide more efficient aspiration. The guidewire lumen 40 can also include a slit 41 along the entire length in the outside wall of the lumen as shown in FIG. 7B to facilitate faster and easier insertion and removal of the guidewire 26 through the side wall of the lumen. By inserting and removing the guidewire through the side wall of the aspiration catheter, the need to remove adapters and attachments from the proximal end prior to slidably advancing or removing the aspiration catheter over the guidewire is eliminated.
  • In both the over-the-wire and single operator type aspiration catheters, the elongate catheter shaft must have sufficient structural integrity, or “stiffness,” to permit the catheter to be pushed through the vasculature to distal arterial locations without buckling or undesirable bending of the body. It is also desirable, however, for the body to be fairly flexible near its distal end, so that the tubular body may be navigated through tortuous blood vessel networks. Thus, in one preferred embodiment, the tubular body of the aspiration catheter is formed from a polymer such as polyethylene or PEBAX (Atochem, France) made to have variable stiffness along its length, with the proximal portion of the tubular body being less flexible than the distal portion of the body. Advantageously, a tubular body of this construction enables a user to more easily insert the tubular body into vascular networks difficult to access using conventional catheters of uniform stiffness. This is because the stiffer proximal portion provides the requisite structural integrity needed to advance the catheter without buckling, while the more flexible distal region is more easily advanced into and through tortuous blood vessel passageways. [0059]
  • In one preferred embodiment, variable stiffness along the length of the catheter shaft is achieved by forming a polymeric tubular body which incorporates a reinforcement along its length. For example, the tubular body may be provided with a reinforcing braid or coil incorporated into its wall structure. The reinforcement can be formed of metal or of various polymers. To achieve variable stiffness, the proximal region of the catheter is provided with a braid or coil having a higher braid or coil density than that present in the braid or coil of the distal region. The lower braid density in the proximal region makes it less flexible, or “stiffer”, than the distal region of the catheter. [0060]
  • The precise density of the braiding or coiling provided to the proximal, distal and transition regions can be varied considerably at the time of manufacture, such that catheters having a variety of different flexibility profiles may be created. Moreover, the braid or coil density may be varied within the catheter regions as well, by providing a braid or coil which has a braid or coil density gradient along its length. For example, the most proximal part of the proximal region may be provided with a metallic braid having a braid density of about [0061] 10 picks per inch, with the braid density decreasing at a rate of about 2-10 picks per inch as the braid extends in the distal direction. This reinforced construction of the catheter provides adequate proximal stiffness for axial push, while preventing collapse of the distal tip during aspiration.
  • A variety of different materials, known to be ductile and shapeable into fine wires, may be used to form the reinforcement. For example, various polymers, stainless steel, silver or gold plated stainless steel, platinum, nitinol, or a combination thereof are suitable. In one preferred embodiment, the braid is formed of stainless steel, and has a braid density which varies from 10 picks per inch at the most proximal part of the proximal region of the catheter, to 100 picks per inch at the most distal part of the distal region of the catheter. [0062]
  • Reinforcing braids or coils may be introduced into the structure of the catheter body through conventional catheter forming techniques. For example, the tubular body may be formed by inserting a 72D PEBAX tube into a variable braid density stainless steel sleeve, and then inserting the sleeved tube into a 72D PEBAX outer tube of the same length, so that the braided sleeve is sandwiched between the two tubes. A shaping mandrel may be inserted within the inner PEBAX tube, and shaping container over the outer PEBAX tube, and the entire apparatus may then be placed in a hot box kept at a temperature slightly greater than the melting temperature of the PEBAX tubes. The PEBAX tubes will melt and fuse together, and once cooled, will form a tubular body incorporating the braid. This same technique can be used to form a tubular body incorporating a coil. [0063]
  • In another embodiment, variable stiffness of the tubular body may be achieved by forming the proximal and distal regions of the tubular body out of polymeric materials having differing degrees of stiffness. For example, one half of an inner tube of 72D PEBAX may be inserted into an outer tube of 40D PEBAX, and the other half of the inner tube may be inserted into a 72D PEBAX outer tube. The combination may then be heat fused, as described above. The 40D/72D PEBAX combination forms a more flexible tubular body than the region of the 72D/72D PEBAX combination. More or less flexible materials may be used as desired to alter the flexibility of the resulting tubular body. Furthermore, the flexibility of the various regions of a tubular body formed in this manner may be varied further by incorporating a braid or coil having either a uniform braid density or coil pitch, or a varying density or coil, into the tubular body, as described above. [0064]
  • Moreover, any of a variety of different polymeric materials known by those of skill in the art to be suitable for catheter body manufacture may be used to form the catheter body. For example, the body may be formed out of polymers such as polyethylene, PEBAX, polyimide, polyether etherketone, and the like. Different materials might also be combined to select for desirable flexibility properties. [0065]
  • Also, although the catheter body has been described in the context of having two regions of differing flexibility, it will be readily appreciated by those of skill in the art that three or more regions of differing flexibility may easily be provided, by adapting the teachings contained herein. [0066]
  • The distal tip of the aspiration catheter is preferably formed from 25D to 40D PEBAX with a radiopaque filler such as BaSO4. Alternatively, the distal end of the catheter can also be provided with a soft distal tip which is not pre-formed with the tubular body, but is instead attached to the body as a post manufacturing step. The distal tip is preferably soft enough and flexible enough so as to minimize trauma to body vessels as the catheter is advanced and to facilitate navigation of the catheter in tortuous vessels, but must also be strong enough to avoid collapse during aspiration. In one preferred embodiment, the distal tip is formed as a 0.5 cm sleeve of 25-35D PEBAX and is bonded to the tubular body by use of an adhesive. Alternately, the distal tip may be attached to the tubular body by heat bonding, as is known to those of skill in the art. [0067]
  • The entire distal end of the aspiration catheter can also be attached as a separate post manufacturing step. A tubing made of polyethylene (PE), PEBAX, or polyimide can be fused to the distal end of the main body section of the catheter. This tubing can be from about 5 to about 60 cm in length, but is preferably around 30 cm. The distal end of the aspiration catheter can also be provided with a radiopaque material. Advantageously, radiopaque material serves as a marker to help the user position the catheter inside the patient's body. Various well-known radiopaque materials may be used in the distal end to form the marker, such as platinum or gold. Alternatively, BaSO4 can be incorporated into the polymer resin itself. [0068]
  • FIGS. 8A, 8B, and [0069] 8C illustrate various embodiments of the distal end of the aspiration catheter of the present invention. FIG. 8A shows the preferred tip 44, wherein the end has been angled and is oblique to provide effective retrieval of particles. The angle can be from about 5 degrees to about 90 degrees; an angle of about 25 degrees is preferred. This angled tip 44 is also shown in FIG. 5. This angled tip 44 maximizes the area of aspiration. The distal tip of the aspiration catheter can also be blunt 45, as shown in FIG. 8B, or can be tapered 46. Side ports 47 can be drilled along the distal tip of the catheter to enhance the aspiration rate, as illustrated in FIGS. 8C and 2.
  • In another embodiment not shown, the aspiration catheter can be configured such that the therapy catheter can be inserted through the lumen of the aspiration catheter. The lumen is made large enough to accommodate the desired therapy catheter. This allows the aspiration catheter and the therapy catheter to be delivered into the patient at the same time. When therapy is complete, the therapy catheter is removed while the aspiration catheter remains in place. This eliminates the need to separately deliver the aspiration catheter after removal of the therapy catheter, saving valuable time. It is preferable that the size of the guide catheter used during this type of procedure be sized from at least [0070] 8 to about 10 French to accommodate the size of the “over-the-therapy-catheter” aspiration catheter, In yet another embodiment, also not shown, the therapy catheter can be built over the aspiration catheter. For example, a dual or triple lumen catheter having a dilatation balloon at its distal end can be used. One lumen is used to inflate the dilatation balloon to be used for angioplasty, while the second lumen is used for aspiration. The third lumen is used as a guidewire lumen. Alternatively, the aspiration catheter can be designed to deploy a stent within the occluded artery, or could include an atherectomy device on its distal end. These designs allows a single combined aspiration catheter and therapy catheter to be delivered into the patient. When therapy is complete, aspiration is carried out without the need to first remove the therapy catheter or separately deliver an aspiration catheter.
  • The proximal end of the aspiration catheter can be fitted with a valve, as illustrated in FIG. 12. The valve allows the user to regulate the aspiration pressure. For example, a syringe can be connected to the valve and aspiration port at the proximal end of the catheter. With the valve closed, the syringe piston can be retracted completely to provide a vacuum. The valve is then opened to provide aspiration at the distal end of the aspiration catheter. Aspiration pressure can be provided in short bursts or continuously as the user desires by opening and closing the valve at the proximal end of the catheter. This valve therefore provides control over the aspiration within the vessel. The aspiration catheters of the present invention can also include a coating on the outer surface. Suitable coatings include hydrophilic, hydrophobic, and antithrombogenic coatings, or a combination thereof. Examples of suitable coatings include heparin and TEFLON. [0071]
  • Use of the devices just described will now be explained in connection with the method of the present invention. [0072]
  • Method of the Present Invention [0073]
  • The method of the present invention as used to remove plaque and any associated thrombi from a saphenous vein graft is described below in connection with FIG. 9. Again, it should be noted that this application is merely exemplary, and that the method of the present invention can be used in other blood vessels and to remove other types of occlusions as well. [0074]
  • A guide catheter (not shown) is introduced into the patient's vasculature through an incision in the femoral artery in the groin of the patient. The guide catheter has a single large lumen, and is used to guide the insertion of other catheters and devices. The guide catheter is advanced until it reaches the aorta and the ostium of the vein graft, where it will remain in place throughout the procedure. Fluoroscopy is typically used to guide the guide catheter and other devices to the desired location within the patient. The devices are frequently marked with radiopaque markers to facilitate visualization of the insertion and positioning of the devices within the patient's vasculature. [0075]
  • Next, a catheter or [0076] guidewire 50 having an occlusive device at its distal end is delivered through the guide catheter into the saphenous vein graft 5 and past the site of the occlusion 56. In this example, the occlusive device is an inflatable balloon 52. The balloon 52 is inflated to occlude the vein graft 5 at a site distal to the occlusion 56. The blood coming from the aorta enters the saphenous vein graft 5 and keeps any particles 58 dislodged during the procedure from flowing proximally. In addition, the blood pressure and flow coming from the aorta provides the irrigation necessary for aspiration. As noted above, the blood pressure in the vessel is preferably at least about 0.2 psi, and the proximal flow rate is at least about 10 cc per minute.
  • Once the [0077] vein 5 is occluded, a therapy catheter (not shown) is delivered, if desired. The therapy catheter can be any of a number of devices, including a balloon catheter used to perform angioplasty, a catheter which delivers a stent, a catheter for delivering enzymes, chemicals, or drugs to dissolve and treat the occlusion, an atherectomy device, a rheolitic device, or a laser or ultrasound device used to ablate the occlusion. Alternatively, the therapy catheter can be eliminated and use of the guide catheter or a separate aspiration catheter alone can be used to aspirate the occlusion. This method is especially useful to remove emboli from the coronary arteries following acute myocardial infarction, because the aspiration catheter can be made small enough to enter the coronary arteries.
  • Once the desired therapy is performed, the therapy catheter is withdrawn from the patient's body and an [0078] aspiration catheter 60 is delivered over the guidewire 50 and through the guiding catheter. The aspiration catheter 60 rides over the guidewire 50 with the guidewire 50 inserted through the aspiration lumen 62 of the catheter 60. Alternatively, a single operator type aspiration catheter can be used, in which only a portion of the aspiration catheter rides over the guidewire, which is inserted into a separate guidewire lumen. FIG. 9 illustrates the treatment site after the over-the-wire aspiration catheter 60 is inserted into the saphenous vein graft 5.
  • The distal tip of the [0079] aspiration catheter 64 is initially positioned close to the occlusive balloon 52. The operator then slides the aspiration catheter in a proximal direction, increasing the distance between the distal tip 64 and the balloon 52. Aspiration can therefore occur anywhere between about 0 to 20 cm proximal to the occlusive device. If desired, the distal tip of the aspiration catheter 64 can be slidably advanced in the distal direction more than once to ensure complete aspiration of all debris. The blood pressure supplied by the aorta will move any particles 58 from a position proximal to the distal tip of the aspiration catheter 64, thus allowing them to be aspirated, as illustrated by the arrows in FIG. 9. If a particle, however, is too far distal to the tip of the aspiration catheter 64, the blood pressure will keep it there and not allow it to aspirated from the vessel 5. Once aspiration has begun, additional blood will flow into the area, creating turbulence and allowing for successful removal of debris.
  • A preferred source of negative pressure is any container containing a fixed vacuum, such as a syringe, attached to the proximal end of the aspiration catheter at the aspiration port [0080] 34 (see FIG. 5). A mechanical pump or bulb or any other appropriate source of negative pressure can also be used. Other aspiration methods, including those which utilize a venturi effect, can also be used. The difference between the existing pressure within the vessel and the aspiration pressure within the vessel should not exceed 60 psi, and more preferably, should not exceed about 30 psi. If too much aspiration pressure is applied, the change in pressure in the vessel will be too great and damage may occur to the vessel itself.
  • After the area inside the [0081] graft 5 just proximal to the occlusive balloon 52 is aspirated to remove any particles 58 or other debris, the aspiration catheter 60 is removed. The balloon 52 is deflated and the guidewire 50 and guiding catheter are removed.
  • As described above, the aspiration catheter can be sized such that it can receive the therapy catheter within its lumen, or the therapy catheter can be built over the aspiration catheter. For example, an angioplasty balloon can be attached to the distal end of the aspiration catheter. Alternatively, the aspiration catheter can be designed to deploy a stent within the occluded artery, or could include an atherectomy device on its distal end. The aspiration catheter and the therapy catheter are delivered over the guidewire and into the vein graft together. When therapy is complete, the therapy catheter is removed while the aspiration catheter remains in place. When aspiration is complete, the aspiration catheter, guidewire and guiding catheter are removed from the patient's body. Delivering the aspiration catheter and therapy catheter together saves time, which is critical during these types of procedures. Alternatively, the guide catheter can be used to provide aspiration through its main lumen. [0082]
  • While the foregoing detailed description has described several embodiments of the apparatus and methods of the present invention, it is to be understood that the above description is illustrative only and not limiting of the disclosed invention. It will be appreciated that the specific dimensions of the various catheters and guidewires can differ from those described above, and that the methods described can be used within any biological conduit within the body and remain within the scope of the present invention. Thus, the invention is to be limited only by the claims which follow. [0083]

Claims (38)

What is claimed is:
1. An aspiration catheter, comprising
an elongate flexible tubular body having a proximal end and a distal end;
a main lumen extending through the tubular body;
an aspiration port at the proximal end of the tubular body, the aspiration port being in fluid communication with the main lumen; and
a tip on the distal end of the tubular body, the tip being formed of a more flexible material than that used to form the tubular body.
2. The catheter of claim 1, further comprising a reinforcement incorporated into at least a portion of said tubular body.
3. The catheter of claim 2, wherein said reinforcement is selected from the group consisting of a metallic braid, a polymer coil, and a metallic coil.
4. The catheter of claim 2, wherein the reinforcement is formed of a material selected from the group consisting of a polymer, stainless steel, ELGILOY, silver plated stainless steel, gold plated stainless steel, platinum, nitinol, or a combination thereof.
5. The catheter of claim 1, wherein the distal end of the tubular body is more flexible than the proximal end of the tubular body.
6. The catheter of claim 5, wherein the tubular body has a braid density or coil pitch at the distal end equal to or greater than the density or pitch at the proximal end.
7. The catheter of claim 1, wherein the main lumen is sized to receive at least one separate catheter which is slidably disposed therein.
8. The catheter of claim 1, wherein the main lumen has an inner diameter of approximately 0.045″.
9. The catheter of claim 1, further comprising a second lumen adjacent said first lumen adapted to receive a guidewire therethrough.
10. The catheter of claim 9, wherein said second lumen extends substantially the entire length of the tubular body.
11. The catheter of claim 9, wherein said second lumen extends less than about 40 cm in a proximal direction from the distal end of the tubular body.
12. The catheter of claim 9, wherein said second lumen has a slit through a side wall of the lumen to allow insertion and removal of the guidewire therethrough.
13. The catheter of claim 9, wherein said second lumen has an inner diameter of approximately 0.020″.
14. The catheter of claim 1, wherein said distal tip of said catheter comprises at least one side port.
15. The catheter of claim 1, wherein said distal tip of said catheter is tapered.
16. The catheter of claim 1, wherein said distal tip of said catheter is blunt.
17. The catheter of claim 1, wherein said distal tip of said catheter has an oblique opening.
18. The catheter of claim 1, further comprising a valve in fluid communication with the main lumen to control aspiration at the distal end of said catheter.
19. The catheter of claim 1, further comprising a coating on an outer surface of said catheter.
20. The catheter of claim 19, wherein said coating is selected from the group consisting of hydrophilic, hydrophobic, antithrombogenic, and a combination thereof.
21. The catheter of claim 1, further comprising a therapeutic device on said distal end.
22. The catheter of claim 21, wherein said therapeutic device is selected from the group consisting of an angioplasty balloon, a stent deploying device, and an atherectomy device.
23. An aspiration catheter, comprising
an elongate flexible tubular body having a proximal end and a distal end;
a main lumen extending through the tubular body, said main lumen being sized to receive at least one separate catheter which is slidably disposed therein;
an aspiration port at the proximal end of the tubular body, the aspiration port being in fluid communication with the main lumen; and
a tip on the distal end of the tubular body, the tip being formed of a more flexible material than that used to form the tubular body.
24. The catheter of claim 23, further comprising a second lumen adjacent said first lumen adapted to receive a guidewire therethrough.
25. The catheter of claim 24, wherein said second lumen extends substantially the entire length of the tubular body.
26. The catheter of claim 24, wherein said second lumen extends less than 40 cm in a proximal direction from the distal end of the tubular body.
27. The catheter of claim 24, wherein said second lumen has a slit through a side wall of the lumen to allow insertion and removal of the guidewire therethrough.
28. The catheter of claim 23, wherein said distal tip of said catheter comprises at least one side port.
29. The catheter of claim 23, wherein said distal tip of said catheter is angled to increase the area of an opening at said distal tip.
30. The catheter of claim 23, further comprising a valve in fluid communication with the main lumen.
31. The catheter of claim 23, further comprising a reinforcement incorporated into at least a portion of said tubular body.
32. An aspiration catheter, comprising:
an elongate flexible tubular body having a proximal end and a distal end;
a main aspiration lumen through said tubular body;
an aspiration port on the proximal end of the tubular body, the aspiration port being in fluid communication with the main lumen;
a therapeutic device attached to the distal end of the tubular body; and
a tip on the distal end of the tubular body, the tip being formed of a more flexible material than that used to form the tubular body.
33. The catheter of claim 32, wherein said therapeutic device comprises an inflatable balloon and said catheter further comprises a separate inflation lumen adjacent said main lumen.
34. The catheter of claim 32, wherein said therapeutic device is an atherectomy device.
35. The catheter of claim 32, further comprising a valve in fluid communication with said main aspiration lumen.
36. The catheter of claim 32, further comprising a reinforcement incorporated into at least a portion of said tubular body.
37. The catheter of claim 32, wherein said distal tip of said catheter is tapered.
38. The catheter of claim 32, wherein said distal tip of said catheter has an oblique opening.
US09/909,419 1997-03-06 2001-07-18 Aspiration catheter Abandoned US20020035347A1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US09/909,419 US20020035347A1 (en) 1997-03-06 2001-07-18 Aspiration catheter

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US81380897A 1997-03-06 1997-03-06
US09/454,522 US6849068B1 (en) 1997-03-06 1999-12-06 Aspiration catheter
US09/909,419 US20020035347A1 (en) 1997-03-06 2001-07-18 Aspiration catheter

Related Parent Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US09/454,522 Continuation US6849068B1 (en) 1997-03-06 1999-12-06 Aspiration catheter

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
US20020035347A1 true US20020035347A1 (en) 2002-03-21

Family

ID=34080932

Family Applications (2)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US09/454,522 Expired - Fee Related US6849068B1 (en) 1997-03-06 1999-12-06 Aspiration catheter
US09/909,419 Abandoned US20020035347A1 (en) 1997-03-06 2001-07-18 Aspiration catheter

Family Applications Before (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US09/454,522 Expired - Fee Related US6849068B1 (en) 1997-03-06 1999-12-06 Aspiration catheter

Country Status (1)

Country Link
US (2) US6849068B1 (en)

Cited By (45)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20020165574A1 (en) * 2001-05-01 2002-11-07 Velocimed. Emboli protection devices and related methods of use
US20030050600A1 (en) * 2001-05-01 2003-03-13 Velocimed, L.L.C. Emboli protection devices and related methods of use
EP1543779A1 (en) * 2002-08-01 2005-06-22 Kaneka Corporation Suction catheter
US6929652B1 (en) * 2001-06-01 2005-08-16 Advanced Cardiovascular Systems, Inc. Delivery and recovery systems having steerability and rapid exchange operating modes for embolic protection systems
US20050192614A1 (en) * 2004-02-26 2005-09-01 Binmoeller Kenneth F. Method and apparatus for reducing obesity
US20050209631A1 (en) * 2004-03-06 2005-09-22 Galdonik Jason A Steerable device having a corewire within a tube and combination with a functional medical component
US20050277976A1 (en) * 2004-05-27 2005-12-15 Galdonik Jason A Emboli filter export system
US20060006649A1 (en) * 2004-06-25 2006-01-12 Galdonik Jason A Medical device having mechanically interlocked segments
US20060030817A1 (en) * 2004-08-05 2006-02-09 Kraus Mark C Valved introducer assembly and method therefor
US20060047301A1 (en) * 2004-09-02 2006-03-02 Ogle Matthew F Emboli removal system with oxygenated flow
US20060116659A1 (en) * 2001-05-01 2006-06-01 Wahr Dennis W Emboli protection device and related methods of use
US20070010787A1 (en) * 2005-07-07 2007-01-11 Hackett Steven S Embolic protection device and methods of use
US20070038226A1 (en) * 2005-07-29 2007-02-15 Galdonik Jason A Embolectomy procedures with a device comprising a polymer and devices with polymer matrices and supports
US20070060944A1 (en) * 2005-08-18 2007-03-15 Boldenow Gregory A Tracking aspiration catheter
US20070060911A1 (en) * 2005-08-18 2007-03-15 Lumen Biomedical, Inc. Rapid exchange catheter
US20080039796A1 (en) * 2006-08-11 2008-02-14 Hiroaki Nakajima Indwelling catheter, hollow needle, and indwelling needle assembly
US20090187206A1 (en) * 2006-05-26 2009-07-23 Binmoeller Kenneth F Conformationally-Stabilized Intraluminal Device for Medical Applications
US20090192448A1 (en) * 2009-01-28 2009-07-30 Talamonti Anthony R Oral gastric lavage apparatus
US20110137227A1 (en) * 2007-07-16 2011-06-09 Mckinley James T Methods and devices for delivering or delaying lipids within a duodenum
US20110230859A1 (en) * 2008-07-14 2011-09-22 Lumen Biomedical, Inc. Aspiration catheters for thrombus removal
US8092483B2 (en) 2004-03-06 2012-01-10 Medtronic, Inc. Steerable device having a corewire within a tube and combination with a functional medical component
US8147561B2 (en) 2004-02-26 2012-04-03 Endosphere, Inc. Methods and devices to curb appetite and/or reduce food intake
US20120277729A1 (en) * 2011-04-29 2012-11-01 Melsheimer Jeffry S Catheter having a selectively variable degree of flexibility
US20130245552A1 (en) * 2009-10-19 2013-09-19 Vatrix Medical Inc. Vascular medical devices with sealing elements and procedures for the treatment of isolated vessel sections
US8585771B2 (en) 2004-02-26 2013-11-19 Endosphere, Inc. Methods and devices to curb appetite and/or to reduce food intake
US20140214048A1 (en) * 2011-08-31 2014-07-31 Manfred Gülcher Aspiration catheter
US8814892B2 (en) 2010-04-13 2014-08-26 Mivi Neuroscience Llc Embolectomy devices and methods for treatment of acute ischemic stroke condition
CN107080568A (en) * 2016-02-12 2017-08-22 柯惠有限合伙公司 The label of vascular arrangement is attached
US9757536B2 (en) 2012-07-17 2017-09-12 Novartis Ag Soft tip cannula
US9820761B2 (en) 2014-03-21 2017-11-21 Route 92 Medical, Inc. Rapid aspiration thrombectomy system and method
US10213582B2 (en) 2013-12-23 2019-02-26 Route 92 Medical, Inc. Methods and systems for treatment of acute ischemic stroke
US10456555B2 (en) 2015-02-04 2019-10-29 Route 92 Medical, Inc. Rapid aspiration thrombectomy system and method
US10463386B2 (en) 2015-09-01 2019-11-05 Mivi Neuroscience, Inc. Thrombectomy devices and treatment of acute ischemic stroke with thrombus engagement
US10478535B2 (en) 2017-05-24 2019-11-19 Mivi Neuroscience, Inc. Suction catheter systems for applying effective aspiration in remote vessels, especially cerebral arteries
US10716915B2 (en) 2015-11-23 2020-07-21 Mivi Neuroscience, Inc. Catheter systems for applying effective suction in remote vessels and thrombectomy procedures facilitated by catheter systems
CN112121242A (en) * 2020-08-24 2020-12-25 复旦大学附属华山医院 Miniature negative pressure thoracic drainage bottle and miniature negative pressure thoracic drainage device
US11020133B2 (en) 2017-01-10 2021-06-01 Route 92 Medical, Inc. Aspiration catheter systems and methods of use
US11065019B1 (en) 2015-02-04 2021-07-20 Route 92 Medical, Inc. Aspiration catheter systems and methods of use
US20210361305A1 (en) * 2017-05-23 2021-11-25 Asahi Intecc Co., Ltd. Assistive jet aspiration thrombectomy catheter and method of using same
US11224449B2 (en) 2015-07-24 2022-01-18 Route 92 Medical, Inc. Anchoring delivery system and methods
US11229445B2 (en) 2016-10-06 2022-01-25 Mivi Neuroscience, Inc. Hydraulic displacement and removal of thrombus clots, and catheters for performing hydraulic displacement
US11229770B2 (en) 2018-05-17 2022-01-25 Route 92 Medical, Inc. Aspiration catheter systems and methods of use
US11234723B2 (en) 2017-12-20 2022-02-01 Mivi Neuroscience, Inc. Suction catheter systems for applying effective aspiration in remote vessels, especially cerebral arteries
US11617865B2 (en) 2020-01-24 2023-04-04 Mivi Neuroscience, Inc. Suction catheter systems with designs allowing rapid clearing of clots
US11871944B2 (en) 2011-08-05 2024-01-16 Route 92 Medical, Inc. Methods and systems for treatment of acute ischemic stroke

Families Citing this family (68)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0934092A4 (en) 1997-03-06 2008-03-26 Boston Scient Scimed Inc Distal protection device and method
US6666874B2 (en) 1998-04-10 2003-12-23 Endicor Medical, Inc. Rotational atherectomy system with serrated cutting tip
US6482217B1 (en) 1998-04-10 2002-11-19 Endicor Medical, Inc. Neuro thrombectomy catheter
US7713279B2 (en) 2000-12-20 2010-05-11 Fox Hollow Technologies, Inc. Method and devices for cutting tissue
US7708749B2 (en) 2000-12-20 2010-05-04 Fox Hollow Technologies, Inc. Debulking catheters and methods
US8328829B2 (en) * 1999-08-19 2012-12-11 Covidien Lp High capacity debulking catheter with razor edge cutting window
US6299622B1 (en) 1999-08-19 2001-10-09 Fox Hollow Technologies, Inc. Atherectomy catheter with aligned imager
US7022100B1 (en) 1999-09-03 2006-04-04 A-Med Systems, Inc. Guidable intravascular blood pump and related methods
DE60034146T2 (en) 1999-12-22 2007-12-13 Boston Scientific Ltd., St. Michael ENDOLUMINAL OCCLUSION SPÜLKATHETER
US8435225B2 (en) * 2000-06-02 2013-05-07 Fox Hollow Technologies, Inc. Embolization protection system for vascular procedures
AU2002231074A1 (en) 2000-12-20 2002-07-01 Fox Hollow Technologies, Inc. Debulking catheter
AU2002322520A1 (en) * 2001-07-17 2003-03-03 Kerberos Proximal Solutions Fluid exchange system for controlled and localized irrigation and aspiration
US20030023263A1 (en) * 2001-07-24 2003-01-30 Incept Llc Apparatus and methods for aspirating emboli
US7179269B2 (en) * 2002-05-20 2007-02-20 Scimed Life Systems, Inc. Apparatus and system for removing an obstruction from a lumen
US8246640B2 (en) 2003-04-22 2012-08-21 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Methods and devices for cutting tissue at a vascular location
US9301829B2 (en) * 2003-07-30 2016-04-05 Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc. Embolic protection aspirator
US7470254B2 (en) * 2003-08-18 2008-12-30 Medical Components, Inc. Needle with sealing valve
JP2006087643A (en) * 2004-09-24 2006-04-06 Terumo Corp Apparatus for sucking foreign substance from blood vessel
US7727187B2 (en) * 2005-04-04 2010-06-01 Cook Incorporated Scored catheter device
US20060253104A1 (en) * 2005-04-20 2006-11-09 Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc. Access and drainage devices and methods of use thereof
US20070060888A1 (en) * 2005-09-06 2007-03-15 Kerberos Proximal Solutions, Inc. Methods and apparatus for assisted aspiration
US8298210B2 (en) * 2005-10-26 2012-10-30 Medtronic Vascular, Inc. Catheter having oval aspiration lumen and method of making
US20070106245A1 (en) * 2005-11-08 2007-05-10 Kerberos Proximal Solutions, Inc. Infusion guidewire
US7608063B2 (en) * 2006-02-23 2009-10-27 Medrad, Inc. Dual lumen aspiration catheter system
US20070276419A1 (en) 2006-05-26 2007-11-29 Fox Hollow Technologies, Inc. Methods and devices for rotating an active element and an energy emitter on a catheter
US20080058764A1 (en) * 2006-08-29 2008-03-06 Majercak David C Catheter Tip Configuration for Improved Crossability and Trackability
US20080154186A1 (en) * 2006-11-07 2008-06-26 Angiodynamics, Inc. Multiple lumen catheter with proximal port
US8317773B2 (en) * 2006-11-07 2012-11-27 Angio Dynamics, Inc. Catheter with open faced sloped end portion
JP5290290B2 (en) * 2007-07-18 2013-09-18 シルク・ロード・メディカル・インコーポレイテッド Method and system for establishing regurgitation of carotid blood flow
US8858490B2 (en) 2007-07-18 2014-10-14 Silk Road Medical, Inc. Systems and methods for treating a carotid artery
ES2821762T3 (en) 2008-02-05 2021-04-27 Silk Road Medical Inc Interventional catheter system
US8784440B2 (en) * 2008-02-25 2014-07-22 Covidien Lp Methods and devices for cutting tissue
US20100023034A1 (en) * 2008-06-19 2010-01-28 Coherex Medical, Inc. Clot retrieval method and device
WO2010022108A2 (en) * 2008-08-18 2010-02-25 Envisionier Medical Technologies, Inc. Fluid delivery catheter apparatus
US9149387B2 (en) 2008-09-04 2015-10-06 Novartis Ag Varying material properties of a single fluidic line in ophthalmology tubing
CA2739665C (en) 2008-10-13 2018-01-02 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Devices and methods for manipulating a catheter shaft
US10226563B2 (en) 2008-12-23 2019-03-12 Silk Road Medical, Inc. Methods and systems for treatment of acute ischemic stroke
WO2010083167A2 (en) * 2009-01-13 2010-07-22 Silk Road Medical, Inc. Methods and systems for performing neurointerventional procedures
WO2010093836A2 (en) * 2009-02-11 2010-08-19 Mark Mallaby Neurovascular microcatheter device, system and methods for use thereof
RU2509537C2 (en) 2009-04-29 2014-03-20 ТАЙКО ХЕЛСКЕА ГРУП эЛПи Methods and devices for tissue cutting and cleansing
US8192452B2 (en) 2009-05-14 2012-06-05 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Easily cleaned atherectomy catheters and methods of use
EP2913013B1 (en) 2009-12-02 2016-11-09 Covidien LP Methods and devices for cutting tissue
EP2509519B1 (en) 2009-12-11 2019-08-07 Covidien LP Material removal device having improved material capture efficiency
CA2800920C (en) 2010-06-14 2015-04-14 Covidien Lp Material removal device
AU2011319797B2 (en) 2010-10-28 2015-04-09 Covidien Lp Material removal device and method of use
CA2817213C (en) 2010-11-11 2016-06-14 Covidien Lp Flexible debulking catheters with imaging and methods of use and manufacture
US10779855B2 (en) 2011-08-05 2020-09-22 Route 92 Medical, Inc. Methods and systems for treatment of acute ischemic stroke
EP2750862B1 (en) 2011-09-01 2016-07-06 Covidien LP Catheter with helical drive shaft and methods of manufacture
US9332999B2 (en) 2012-08-13 2016-05-10 Covidien Lp Apparatus and methods for clot disruption and evacuation
US9332998B2 (en) 2012-08-13 2016-05-10 Covidien Lp Apparatus and methods for clot disruption and evacuation
US9579157B2 (en) 2012-09-13 2017-02-28 Covidien Lp Cleaning device for medical instrument and method of use
JP6073493B2 (en) 2012-11-08 2017-02-01 コヴィディエン リミテッド パートナーシップ Tissue removal catheter including motion control mechanism
US9943329B2 (en) 2012-11-08 2018-04-17 Covidien Lp Tissue-removing catheter with rotatable cutter
CN104436417B (en) * 2013-09-13 2018-01-09 郭军 One kind is used for perfusion thrombolysis catheter in human vas
US9526519B2 (en) 2014-02-03 2016-12-27 Covidien Lp Tissue-removing catheter with improved angular tissue-removing positioning within body lumen
US9456843B2 (en) 2014-02-03 2016-10-04 Covidien Lp Tissue-removing catheter including angular displacement sensor
US9241699B1 (en) 2014-09-04 2016-01-26 Silk Road Medical, Inc. Methods and devices for transcarotid access
WO2015200702A1 (en) 2014-06-27 2015-12-30 Covidien Lp Cleaning device for catheter and catheter including the same
US10828050B2 (en) * 2014-07-28 2020-11-10 Shaw P. Wan Suction evacuation device
US10828051B2 (en) * 2014-07-28 2020-11-10 Shaw P. Wan Suction evacuation device
US11027104B2 (en) 2014-09-04 2021-06-08 Silk Road Medical, Inc. Methods and devices for transcarotid access
US10314667B2 (en) 2015-03-25 2019-06-11 Covidien Lp Cleaning device for cleaning medical instrument
US10292721B2 (en) 2015-07-20 2019-05-21 Covidien Lp Tissue-removing catheter including movable distal tip
US10314664B2 (en) 2015-10-07 2019-06-11 Covidien Lp Tissue-removing catheter and tissue-removing element with depth stop
US20210015509A1 (en) * 2017-01-12 2021-01-21 Shaw P. Wan Suction evacuation device
US11452841B2 (en) 2019-04-11 2022-09-27 Covidien Lp Aspiration catheter system
US20200397472A1 (en) * 2019-06-21 2020-12-24 Silk Road Medical, Inc. Transcarotid vascular access sheath
WO2023278495A2 (en) 2021-06-28 2023-01-05 Inquis Medical, Inc. Apparatuses and methods for controlling removal of obstructive material

Family Cites Families (102)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3144868A (en) 1960-10-21 1964-08-18 Mario E Jascalevich Drainage and feeding cannulae
US4511354A (en) 1980-05-07 1985-04-16 Medical Research Associates, Ltd. Hydrocarbon block copolymer with dispersed polysiloxane
DE3235974A1 (en) 1981-11-24 1983-06-01 Volkmar Dipl.-Ing. Merkel (FH), 8520 Erlangen DEVICE FOR REMOVAL OR FOR THE EXPANSION OF CONSTRAINTS IN BODY LIQUID LEADING VESSELS
US4468216A (en) 1982-05-20 1984-08-28 Rudolph Muto Irrigation suction catheter
US4589412A (en) 1984-01-03 1986-05-20 Intravascular Surgical Instruments, Inc. Method and apparatus for surgically removing remote deposits
CA1237482A (en) 1984-03-09 1988-05-31 Frank B. Stiles Catheter for effecting removal of obstructions from a biological duct
US5135531A (en) 1984-05-14 1992-08-04 Surgical Systems & Instruments, Inc. Guided atherectomy system
US4754755A (en) 1984-05-14 1988-07-05 Husted Royce Hill Catheter with a rotary blade
US4662871A (en) 1984-09-18 1987-05-05 Stephen Rafelson Disposable suction catheter and system for providing multiple suctioning capabilities during medical procedures or the like
US4790813A (en) 1984-12-17 1988-12-13 Intravascular Surgical Instruments, Inc. Method and apparatus for surgically removing remote deposits
US4696668A (en) 1985-07-17 1987-09-29 Wilcox Gilbert M Double balloon nasobiliary occlusion catheter for treating gallstones and method of using the same
US5449343A (en) 1985-07-30 1995-09-12 Advanced Cardiovascular Systems, Inc. Steerable dilatation catheter
US4790812A (en) 1985-11-15 1988-12-13 Hawkins Jr Irvin F Apparatus and method for removing a target object from a body passsageway
US5350395A (en) * 1986-04-15 1994-09-27 Yock Paul G Angioplasty apparatus facilitating rapid exchanges
US4713060A (en) 1986-06-20 1987-12-15 Becton, Dickinson And Company Syringe assembly
US4748982A (en) 1987-01-06 1988-06-07 Advanced Cardiovascular Systems, Inc. Reinforced balloon dilatation catheter with slitted exchange sleeve and method
US4782834A (en) 1987-01-06 1988-11-08 Advanced Cardiovascular Systems, Inc. Dual lumen dilatation catheter and method of manufacturing the same
US4784636A (en) 1987-04-30 1988-11-15 Schneider-Shiley (U.S.A.) Inc. Balloon atheroectomy catheter
US4867156A (en) 1987-06-25 1989-09-19 Stack Richard S Percutaneous axial atheroectomy catheter assembly and method of using the same
US4964409A (en) 1989-05-11 1990-10-23 Advanced Cardiovascular Systems, Inc. Flexible hollow guiding member with means for fluid communication therethrough
US4850957A (en) 1988-01-11 1989-07-25 American Biomed, Inc. Atherectomy catheter
US4950238A (en) 1988-07-07 1990-08-21 Clarence E. Sikes Hydro-rotary vascular catheter
JPH0255064A (en) 1988-08-03 1990-02-23 Toa O Skin removal for throm bus in blood vessel using catheter and throm bus removing system in blood vessel using catheter
CH676426A5 (en) 1988-09-27 1991-01-31 Schneider Shiley Ag
US5053023A (en) 1988-10-25 1991-10-01 Vas-Cath Incorporated Catheter for prolonged access
DE68915150T2 (en) * 1989-01-30 1994-10-13 Bard Inc C R Quickly replaceable coronary catheter.
US4994067A (en) 1989-02-17 1991-02-19 American Biomed, Inc. Distal atherectomy catheter
US5431673A (en) 1989-02-17 1995-07-11 American Biomed, Inc. Distal atherectomy catheter
US5087265A (en) 1989-02-17 1992-02-11 American Biomed, Inc. Distal atherectomy catheter
DE8910856U1 (en) 1989-09-12 1989-11-30 Schneider (Europe) Ag, Zuerich, Ch
US5078688A (en) 1989-09-22 1992-01-07 Baxter International Inc. Paracentesis catheter system
US5026384A (en) 1989-11-07 1991-06-25 Interventional Technologies, Inc. Atherectomy systems and methods
US5195955A (en) 1989-11-14 1993-03-23 Don Michael T Anthony Device for removal of embolic debris
US5002528A (en) 1989-12-15 1991-03-26 Aubrey Palestrant Percutaneous irrigation and drainage system
US5569182A (en) 1990-01-08 1996-10-29 The Curators Of The University Of Missouri Clot resistant multiple lumen catheter and method
US5460610A (en) 1990-01-12 1995-10-24 Don Michael; T. Anthony Treatment of obstructions in body passages
US5163905A (en) 1990-01-12 1992-11-17 Don Michael T Anthony Regional perfusion dissolution catheter
US5135484A (en) 1990-05-09 1992-08-04 Pioneering Technologies, Inc. Method of removing plaque from vessels
US5395311A (en) 1990-05-14 1995-03-07 Andrews; Winston A. Atherectomy catheter
US5279546A (en) 1990-06-27 1994-01-18 Lake Region Manufacturing Company, Inc. Thrombolysis catheter system
CA2048120A1 (en) 1990-08-06 1992-02-07 William J. Drasler Thrombectomy method and device
US5273527A (en) * 1992-05-12 1993-12-28 Ovamed Corporation Delivery catheter
US5167623A (en) * 1990-12-27 1992-12-01 The Kendall Company Multilumen catheter
US5184627A (en) 1991-01-18 1993-02-09 Boston Scientific Corporation Infusion guidewire including proximal stiffening sheath
US5219335A (en) * 1991-05-23 1993-06-15 Scimed Life Systems, Inc. Intravascular device such as introducer sheath or balloon catheter or the like and methods for use thereof
US5167239A (en) 1991-05-30 1992-12-01 Endomedix Corporation Anchorable guidewire
US5221270A (en) 1991-06-28 1993-06-22 Cook Incorporated Soft tip guiding catheter
US5376084A (en) 1991-10-17 1994-12-27 Imagyn Medical, Inc. Catheter with internal mandrel and method
CA2126096C (en) 1992-01-13 1998-04-28 Rick L. Shockey Surgical cutting tool
US5192291A (en) 1992-01-13 1993-03-09 Interventional Technologies, Inc. Rotationally expandable atherectomy cutter assembly
US5221256A (en) 1992-02-10 1993-06-22 Mahurkar Sakharam D Multiple-lumen catheter
US5267958A (en) 1992-03-30 1993-12-07 Medtronic, Inc. Exchange catheter having exterior guide wire loops
US5290230A (en) 1992-05-11 1994-03-01 Advanced Cardiovascular Systems, Inc. Intraluminal catheter with a composite shaft
US5492763A (en) 1992-06-08 1996-02-20 Spire Corporation Infection resistant medical devices and process
US5250060A (en) 1992-06-26 1993-10-05 Carbo Paul L Angioplasty apparatus
DE69317965T2 (en) * 1992-07-07 1998-08-27 Cook William A Australia Medical coupling devices
US5500180A (en) 1992-09-30 1996-03-19 C. R. Bard, Inc. Method of making a distensible dilatation balloon using a block copolymer
US5328480A (en) * 1992-10-09 1994-07-12 Cook Incorporated Vascular wire guiode introducer and method of use
US5286253A (en) 1992-10-09 1994-02-15 Linvatec Corporation Angled rotating surgical instrument
US5349950A (en) 1992-10-28 1994-09-27 Smiths Industries Medical Systems, Inc. Suction catheter assemblies
AU5672194A (en) 1992-11-18 1994-06-22 Spectrascience, Inc. Apparatus for diagnostic imaging
US5318576A (en) 1992-12-16 1994-06-07 Plassche Jr Walter M Endovascular surgery systems
US5766211A (en) 1993-02-08 1998-06-16 Wood; Jan Medical device for allowing insertion and drainage into a body cavity
US5336205A (en) 1993-02-25 1994-08-09 Target Therapeutics, Inc. Flow directed catheter
US5322508A (en) 1993-04-08 1994-06-21 Cordis Corporation Guidewire fluid delivery system and method of use
US5342306A (en) 1993-05-26 1994-08-30 Don Michael T Anthony Adjustable catheter device
US5405341A (en) * 1993-06-03 1995-04-11 Med-Pro Design, Inc. Catheter with multiple lumens
JPH0751379A (en) * 1993-06-24 1995-02-28 Cardiovascular Dynamics Inc Injection catheter, intravascular site treating method, and production of catheter
ATE170383T1 (en) 1993-06-24 1998-09-15 Schneider Europ Gmbh ASPIRATION CATHETER ASSEMBLY
US5419774A (en) 1993-07-13 1995-05-30 Scimed Life Systems, Inc. Thrombus extraction device
US5348536A (en) 1993-08-02 1994-09-20 Quinton Instrument Company Coextruded catheter and method of forming
US5405322A (en) 1993-08-12 1995-04-11 Boston Scientific Corporation Method for treating aneurysms with a thermal source
US5427115A (en) 1993-09-13 1995-06-27 Boston Scientific Corporation Apparatus for stricture diagnosis and treatment
US5462529A (en) 1993-09-29 1995-10-31 Technology Development Center Adjustable treatment chamber catheter
US5634897A (en) 1993-10-08 1997-06-03 Lake Region Manufacturing, Inc. Rheolytic occlusion removal catheter system and method
US5476450A (en) 1993-11-04 1995-12-19 Ruggio; Joseph M. Apparatus and method for aspirating intravascular, pulmonary and cardiac obstructions
US5376071A (en) 1993-11-19 1994-12-27 Henderson; David D. Intravenous catheter assembly and method of insertion
JP2791222B2 (en) 1993-12-10 1998-08-27 シュナイダー・(ユーエスエイ)・インコーポレーテッド Guide catheter
US5792118A (en) * 1994-03-07 1998-08-11 Kurth; Paul A. Permanent catheter with an exterior balloon valve and method of using the same
US5415636A (en) 1994-04-13 1995-05-16 Schneider (Usa) Inc Dilation-drug delivery catheter
US5478309A (en) 1994-05-27 1995-12-26 William P. Sweezer, Jr. Catheter system and method for providing cardiopulmonary bypass pump support during heart surgery
NL9401184A (en) 1994-07-19 1996-03-01 Cordis Europ Suction catheter.
WO1996010366A1 (en) * 1994-10-03 1996-04-11 Heart Technology, Inc. Transluminal thrombectomy apparatus
ES2181802T3 (en) 1994-11-23 2003-03-01 Micro Interventional Systems I BALLOON CATHETER WITH STRONG TORSION.
US5827229A (en) * 1995-05-24 1998-10-27 Boston Scientific Corporation Northwest Technology Center, Inc. Percutaneous aspiration thrombectomy catheter system
US5938645A (en) 1995-05-24 1999-08-17 Boston Scientific Corporation Northwest Technology Center Inc. Percutaneous aspiration catheter system
US5743883A (en) 1995-06-07 1998-04-28 Visconti; Peter L. Thoracentesis catheter instruments having self-sealing valves
ES2320580T3 (en) * 1995-09-21 2009-05-25 Covidien Ag CLOSED AND REINFORCED CATHETER.
US5700252A (en) 1995-11-01 1997-12-23 Klingenstein; Ralph James Lumen-seeking nasogastric tube and method
US5695519A (en) 1995-11-30 1997-12-09 American Biomed, Inc. Percutaneous filter for carotid angioplasty
US5833644A (en) * 1996-05-20 1998-11-10 Percusurge, Inc. Method for emboli containment
US6152909A (en) * 1996-05-20 2000-11-28 Percusurge, Inc. Aspiration system and method
US6270477B1 (en) 1996-05-20 2001-08-07 Percusurge, Inc. Catheter for emboli containment
US5662671A (en) 1996-07-17 1997-09-02 Embol-X, Inc. Atherectomy device having trapping and excising means for removal of plaque from the aorta and other arteries
US5921971A (en) * 1996-09-13 1999-07-13 Boston Scientific Corporation Single operator exchange biliary catheter
US5807311A (en) * 1996-11-29 1998-09-15 Palestrant; Aubrey M. Dialysis catheter having rigid and collapsible lumens and related method
US5849016A (en) 1996-12-03 1998-12-15 Suhr; William S. Catheter exchange method and apparatus
US5772642A (en) 1997-02-19 1998-06-30 Medtronic, Inc. Closed end catheter
US6019350A (en) 1997-03-05 2000-02-01 Gelbfish; Gary A. Hand held control device and associated method
US5814064A (en) 1997-03-06 1998-09-29 Scimed Life Systems, Inc. Distal protection device
US6159195A (en) * 1998-02-19 2000-12-12 Percusurge, Inc. Exchange catheter and method of use
US6095990A (en) * 1998-08-31 2000-08-01 Parodi; Juan Carlos Guiding device and method for inserting and advancing catheters and guidewires into a vessel of a patient in endovascular treatments

Cited By (106)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20020165574A1 (en) * 2001-05-01 2002-11-07 Velocimed. Emboli protection devices and related methods of use
US20030050600A1 (en) * 2001-05-01 2003-03-13 Velocimed, L.L.C. Emboli protection devices and related methods of use
US8034023B2 (en) 2001-05-01 2011-10-11 St. Jude Medical, Cardiology Division, Inc. Emboli protection devices and related methods of use
US7867216B2 (en) 2001-05-01 2011-01-11 St. Jude Medical, Cardiology Division, Inc. Emboli protection device and related methods of use
US20100234855A1 (en) * 2001-05-01 2010-09-16 Wahr Dennis W Emboli protection devices and related methods of use
US20100130999A1 (en) * 2001-05-01 2010-05-27 Wahr Dennis W Emboli protection devices and related methods of use
US7654978B2 (en) 2001-05-01 2010-02-02 St. Jude Medical, Cardiology Division, Inc. Emboli protection devices and related methods of use
US20060116659A1 (en) * 2001-05-01 2006-06-01 Wahr Dennis W Emboli protection device and related methods of use
US8430845B2 (en) 2001-05-01 2013-04-30 St. Jude Medical, Cardiology Division, Inc. Emboli protection devices and related methods of use
US6929652B1 (en) * 2001-06-01 2005-08-16 Advanced Cardiovascular Systems, Inc. Delivery and recovery systems having steerability and rapid exchange operating modes for embolic protection systems
EP1543779A1 (en) * 2002-08-01 2005-06-22 Kaneka Corporation Suction catheter
EP1543779A4 (en) * 2002-08-01 2010-07-07 Kaneka Corp Suction catheter
US8585771B2 (en) 2004-02-26 2013-11-19 Endosphere, Inc. Methods and devices to curb appetite and/or to reduce food intake
US8623095B2 (en) 2004-02-26 2014-01-07 Endosphere, Inc. Method and apparatus for reducing obesity
US8603186B2 (en) 2004-02-26 2013-12-10 Endosphere, Inc. Methods and devices to curb appetite and/or reduce food intake
US20110190684A1 (en) * 2004-02-26 2011-08-04 Binmoeller Kenneth F Method and apparatus for reducing obesity
US9352126B2 (en) 2004-02-26 2016-05-31 Endosphere, Inc. Methods and devices to curb appetite and/or reduce food intake
US20050192614A1 (en) * 2004-02-26 2005-09-01 Binmoeller Kenneth F. Method and apparatus for reducing obesity
US8147561B2 (en) 2004-02-26 2012-04-03 Endosphere, Inc. Methods and devices to curb appetite and/or reduce food intake
US7931693B2 (en) 2004-02-26 2011-04-26 Endosphere, Inc. Method and apparatus for reducing obesity
US20050209631A1 (en) * 2004-03-06 2005-09-22 Galdonik Jason A Steerable device having a corewire within a tube and combination with a functional medical component
US7988705B2 (en) 2004-03-06 2011-08-02 Lumen Biomedical, Inc. Steerable device having a corewire within a tube and combination with a functional medical component
US8092483B2 (en) 2004-03-06 2012-01-10 Medtronic, Inc. Steerable device having a corewire within a tube and combination with a functional medical component
US20060189921A1 (en) * 2004-05-27 2006-08-24 Lumen Biomedical, Inc. Rapid exchange aspiration catheters and their use
US20050277976A1 (en) * 2004-05-27 2005-12-15 Galdonik Jason A Emboli filter export system
US8409237B2 (en) 2004-05-27 2013-04-02 Medtronic, Inc. Emboli filter export system
US20060006649A1 (en) * 2004-06-25 2006-01-12 Galdonik Jason A Medical device having mechanically interlocked segments
US7976516B2 (en) 2004-06-25 2011-07-12 Lumen Biomedical, Inc. Medical device having mechanically interlocked segments
US20060030817A1 (en) * 2004-08-05 2006-02-09 Kraus Mark C Valved introducer assembly and method therefor
US8357122B2 (en) 2004-08-05 2013-01-22 Greatbatch Ltd. Valved introducer assembly and method therefor
US7972307B2 (en) * 2004-08-05 2011-07-05 Greatbatch Ltd. Valved introducer assembly and method therefor
US20060047301A1 (en) * 2004-09-02 2006-03-02 Ogle Matthew F Emboli removal system with oxygenated flow
US9072861B2 (en) 2004-11-30 2015-07-07 Endosphere, Inc. Methods and devices for delivering or delaying lipids within a duodenum
US20070010787A1 (en) * 2005-07-07 2007-01-11 Hackett Steven S Embolic protection device and methods of use
US8221348B2 (en) 2005-07-07 2012-07-17 St. Jude Medical, Cardiology Division, Inc. Embolic protection device and methods of use
US20070038226A1 (en) * 2005-07-29 2007-02-15 Galdonik Jason A Embolectomy procedures with a device comprising a polymer and devices with polymer matrices and supports
US20080172066A9 (en) * 2005-07-29 2008-07-17 Galdonik Jason A Embolectomy procedures with a device comprising a polymer and devices with polymer matrices and supports
US20070060908A1 (en) * 2005-08-18 2007-03-15 Webster Mark W L Thrombectomy catheter
US8021351B2 (en) 2005-08-18 2011-09-20 Medtronic Vascular, Inc. Tracking aspiration catheter
US7938820B2 (en) 2005-08-18 2011-05-10 Lumen Biomedical, Inc. Thrombectomy catheter
US8758325B2 (en) 2005-08-18 2014-06-24 Medtronic, Inc. Rapid exchange catheter
US20070060944A1 (en) * 2005-08-18 2007-03-15 Boldenow Gregory A Tracking aspiration catheter
US20070060911A1 (en) * 2005-08-18 2007-03-15 Lumen Biomedical, Inc. Rapid exchange catheter
US9060835B2 (en) * 2006-05-26 2015-06-23 Endosphere, Inc. Conformationally-stabilized intraluminal device for medical applications
US20090187206A1 (en) * 2006-05-26 2009-07-23 Binmoeller Kenneth F Conformationally-Stabilized Intraluminal Device for Medical Applications
US20080039796A1 (en) * 2006-08-11 2008-02-14 Hiroaki Nakajima Indwelling catheter, hollow needle, and indwelling needle assembly
US20110137227A1 (en) * 2007-07-16 2011-06-09 Mckinley James T Methods and devices for delivering or delaying lipids within a duodenum
US9532792B2 (en) 2008-07-14 2017-01-03 Medtronic, Inc. Aspiration catheters for thrombus removal
US10952757B2 (en) 2008-07-14 2021-03-23 Medtronic, Inc. Aspiration catheters for thrombus removal
US10058339B2 (en) 2008-07-14 2018-08-28 Medtronic, Inc. Aspiration catheters for thrombus removal
US20110230859A1 (en) * 2008-07-14 2011-09-22 Lumen Biomedical, Inc. Aspiration catheters for thrombus removal
US9662129B2 (en) 2008-07-14 2017-05-30 Medtronic Inc. Aspiration catheters for thrombus removal
US8070694B2 (en) 2008-07-14 2011-12-06 Medtronic Vascular, Inc. Fiber based medical devices and aspiration catheters
US20090192448A1 (en) * 2009-01-28 2009-07-30 Talamonti Anthony R Oral gastric lavage apparatus
US20130245552A1 (en) * 2009-10-19 2013-09-19 Vatrix Medical Inc. Vascular medical devices with sealing elements and procedures for the treatment of isolated vessel sections
US9889279B2 (en) * 2009-10-19 2018-02-13 Nectero Medical, Inc. Vascular medical devices with sealing elements and procedures for the treatment of isolated vessel sections
US9597101B2 (en) 2010-04-13 2017-03-21 Mivi Neuroscience, Inc. Embolectomy devices and methods for treatment of acute ischemic stroke condition
US8814892B2 (en) 2010-04-13 2014-08-26 Mivi Neuroscience Llc Embolectomy devices and methods for treatment of acute ischemic stroke condition
US10485565B2 (en) 2010-04-13 2019-11-26 Mivi Neuroscience, Inc. Embolectomy devices and methods for treatment of acute ischemic stroke condition
US11576693B2 (en) 2010-04-13 2023-02-14 Mivi Neuroscience, Inc. Embolectomy devices and methods for treatment of acute ischemic stroke condition
US9623206B2 (en) * 2011-04-29 2017-04-18 Cook Medical Technologies Llc Catheter having a selectively variable degree of flexibility
US20120277729A1 (en) * 2011-04-29 2012-11-01 Melsheimer Jeffry S Catheter having a selectively variable degree of flexibility
US11871944B2 (en) 2011-08-05 2024-01-16 Route 92 Medical, Inc. Methods and systems for treatment of acute ischemic stroke
US9878076B2 (en) * 2011-08-31 2018-01-30 Qualimed Innovative Medizinprodukte Gmbh Aspiration catheter
US20140214048A1 (en) * 2011-08-31 2014-07-31 Manfred Gülcher Aspiration catheter
US9757536B2 (en) 2012-07-17 2017-09-12 Novartis Ag Soft tip cannula
US10213582B2 (en) 2013-12-23 2019-02-26 Route 92 Medical, Inc. Methods and systems for treatment of acute ischemic stroke
US11534575B2 (en) 2013-12-23 2022-12-27 Route 92 Medical, Inc. Methods and systems for treatment of acute ischemic stroke
US10471233B2 (en) 2013-12-23 2019-11-12 Route 92 Medical, Inc. Methods and systems for treatment of acute ischemic stroke
US11318282B2 (en) 2013-12-23 2022-05-03 Route 92 Medical, Inc. Methods and systems for treatment of acute ischemic stroke
US10569049B2 (en) 2013-12-23 2020-02-25 Route 92 Medical, Inc. Methods and systems for treatment of acute ischemic stroke
US10864351B2 (en) 2013-12-23 2020-12-15 Route 92 Medical, Inc. Methods and systems for treatment of acute ischemic stroke
US9820761B2 (en) 2014-03-21 2017-11-21 Route 92 Medical, Inc. Rapid aspiration thrombectomy system and method
US10485952B2 (en) 2015-02-04 2019-11-26 Route 92 Medical, Inc. Rapid aspiration thrombectomy system and method
US11224450B2 (en) 2015-02-04 2022-01-18 Route 92 Medical, Inc. Aspiration catheter systems and methods of use
US11806032B2 (en) 2015-02-04 2023-11-07 Route 92 Medical, Inc. Aspiration catheter systems and methods of use
US11793529B2 (en) 2015-02-04 2023-10-24 Route 92 Medical, Inc. Aspiration catheter systems and methods of use
US11065019B1 (en) 2015-02-04 2021-07-20 Route 92 Medical, Inc. Aspiration catheter systems and methods of use
US11793972B2 (en) 2015-02-04 2023-10-24 Route 92 Medical, Inc. Rapid aspiration thrombectomy system and method
US11185664B2 (en) 2015-02-04 2021-11-30 Route 92 Medical, Inc. Rapid aspiration thrombectomy system and method
US11395903B2 (en) 2015-02-04 2022-07-26 Route 92 Medical, Inc. Rapid aspiration thrombectomy system and method
US11383064B2 (en) 2015-02-04 2022-07-12 Route 92 Medical, Inc. Rapid aspiration thrombectomy system and method
US11224721B2 (en) 2015-02-04 2022-01-18 Route 92 Medical, Inc. Rapid aspiration thrombectomy system and method
US11633570B2 (en) 2015-02-04 2023-04-25 Route 92 Medical, Inc. Rapid aspiration thrombectomy system and method
US11633571B2 (en) 2015-02-04 2023-04-25 Route 92 Medical, Inc. Rapid aspiration thrombectomy system and method
US11576691B2 (en) 2015-02-04 2023-02-14 Route 92 Medical, Inc. Aspiration catheter systems and methods of use
US11305094B2 (en) 2015-02-04 2022-04-19 Route 92 Medical, Inc. Rapid aspiration thrombectomy system and method
US10456555B2 (en) 2015-02-04 2019-10-29 Route 92 Medical, Inc. Rapid aspiration thrombectomy system and method
US11224449B2 (en) 2015-07-24 2022-01-18 Route 92 Medical, Inc. Anchoring delivery system and methods
US11642150B2 (en) 2015-09-01 2023-05-09 Inpria Corporation Thrombectomy devices and treatment of acute ischemic stroke with thrombus engagement
US10463386B2 (en) 2015-09-01 2019-11-05 Mivi Neuroscience, Inc. Thrombectomy devices and treatment of acute ischemic stroke with thrombus engagement
US10716915B2 (en) 2015-11-23 2020-07-21 Mivi Neuroscience, Inc. Catheter systems for applying effective suction in remote vessels and thrombectomy procedures facilitated by catheter systems
US11786699B2 (en) 2015-11-23 2023-10-17 Mivi Neuroscience, Inc. Catheter systems for applying effective suction in remote vessels and thrombectomy procedures facilitated by catheter systems
CN107080568A (en) * 2016-02-12 2017-08-22 柯惠有限合伙公司 The label of vascular arrangement is attached
US11229445B2 (en) 2016-10-06 2022-01-25 Mivi Neuroscience, Inc. Hydraulic displacement and removal of thrombus clots, and catheters for performing hydraulic displacement
US11399852B2 (en) 2017-01-10 2022-08-02 Route 92 Medical, Inc. Aspiration catheter systems and methods of use
US11020133B2 (en) 2017-01-10 2021-06-01 Route 92 Medical, Inc. Aspiration catheter systems and methods of use
US20210361305A1 (en) * 2017-05-23 2021-11-25 Asahi Intecc Co., Ltd. Assistive jet aspiration thrombectomy catheter and method of using same
US10478535B2 (en) 2017-05-24 2019-11-19 Mivi Neuroscience, Inc. Suction catheter systems for applying effective aspiration in remote vessels, especially cerebral arteries
US11771867B2 (en) 2017-05-24 2023-10-03 Mivi Neuroscience, Inc. Suction catheter systems for applying effective aspiration in remote vessels, especially cerebral arteries
US11234723B2 (en) 2017-12-20 2022-02-01 Mivi Neuroscience, Inc. Suction catheter systems for applying effective aspiration in remote vessels, especially cerebral arteries
US11607523B2 (en) 2018-05-17 2023-03-21 Route 92 Medical, Inc. Aspiration catheter systems and methods of use
US11229770B2 (en) 2018-05-17 2022-01-25 Route 92 Medical, Inc. Aspiration catheter systems and methods of use
US11925770B2 (en) 2018-05-17 2024-03-12 Route 92 Medical, Inc. Aspiration catheter systems and methods of use
US11617865B2 (en) 2020-01-24 2023-04-04 Mivi Neuroscience, Inc. Suction catheter systems with designs allowing rapid clearing of clots
CN112121242A (en) * 2020-08-24 2020-12-25 复旦大学附属华山医院 Miniature negative pressure thoracic drainage bottle and miniature negative pressure thoracic drainage device

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US6849068B1 (en) 2005-02-01

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US6849068B1 (en) Aspiration catheter
US6152909A (en) Aspiration system and method
US11395903B2 (en) Rapid aspiration thrombectomy system and method
US6805692B2 (en) Aspiration method
US20020177800A1 (en) Aspiration catheters and method of use
US6569148B2 (en) Methods for emboli containment
US6159195A (en) Exchange catheter and method of use
US20160367272A1 (en) Rapid aspiration thrombectomy system and method
US20060200191A1 (en) Method and apparatuses for treating an intravascular occlusion
US20020026145A1 (en) Method and apparatus for emboli containment

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
AS Assignment

Owner name: MEDTRONIC AVE, INC., CALIFORNIA

Free format text: MERGER;ASSIGNOR:MEDTRONIC PERCUSURGE INC.;REEL/FRAME:014178/0901

Effective date: 20021007

STCB Information on status: application discontinuation

Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION