Importance

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Abstract

A balloon guide is disclosed which includes a single lumen useful alternately for fluid communication through the distal tip or for inflation of a balloon when the distal end is closed. The guide includes a body formed from coiled wire having a proximal portion in which the coils are held together and a distal portion in which the coils are separable. The balloon is located about the separable coils. A restriction adjacent the distal tip of the guide body is closable by a plug mandril extending through the central lumen of the guide. With the distal tip open, fluid communication is available through the central lumen for pressure measurements, fluid infusion or the like. In an alternate condition, a plug is positioned to close off the distal opening of the guide and also to stretch the coiled wire to separate the coils in the region underlying the balloon, preventing fluid communication through the distal tip, but permitting inflation or deflation of the balloon through the separated wire coils.

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First Claim