Importance

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Abstract

A multi-lumen catheter having a balloon-like expander located at the distal end thereof, the interior of the balloon communicating with one of the plural lumens whereby a fluid introduced at the proximal end of the catheter can be made to inflate the balloon. A series of surface electrodes are axially spaced over a zone located near the distal end of the catheter body. Electrical conductors connected to each of the surface electrodes pass through another lumen to an electrical connector at the proximal end of the catheter. A pair of stiffener members, one being co-extensive with the zone of the catheter bearing the axially spaced surface electrodes and the other being spaced a short predetermined distance proximally of the first stiffener member are in another lumen. The gap between the two stiffener members allows the catheter to bend without kinking the lumens so that, when used, the most proximal ring electrode will be disposed near the apex of the right ventricle with the portion distal of the bend extending upward through the outflow tract of the right ventricle. Further lumens and ports communicating therewith may be added to permit the catheter to be used to take thermal dilution measurements of cardiac outputs.

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First Claim