Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

A catheter having a plurality of longitudinal lumens for removing biological, natural and/or man-made materials from cavities, ducts, vessels, or other locations in a patient's body. The multi-lumen catheter comprises a longitudinally-extending suction lumen with suction holes through which materials pass into the lumen in response to suction forces generated by a source of negative pressure coupled to a proximal end of the lumen. A longitudinally-extending vent lumen coupled to a source of at least neutral vent pressure through, for example, an opening to ambient air at the proximal end of the lumen, and preferably, through vent holes disposed along a length of the catheter. A dividing septum between the adjacent lumens has one or more ports fluidically coupling the lumens. The ratio of the area of the suction holes and ports is such that the suction force at unobstructed suction holes is maintained below a desired maximum force for a given negative pressure when none or more of the suctions holes are obstructed. When a suction hole obstruction occurs, fluid is drawn into the suction lumen through the communication port(s). This compensating fluid flow prevents the suction forces from exceeding a predetermined maximum value during use even when one or more suction holes become obstructed. This maximum force may be set, for example, to avoid hematoma, to permit repositioning of the catheter during use, etc. thereby allowing for continuous suction.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim