Importance

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Abstract

A double-lumen catheter is made of two generally coaxial tubes. The tubes are joined, at their distal ends, by a sleeve inserted between the tubes, the sleeve being bonded to both tubes. The inner and outer tubes are connected, respectively, at their proximal ends, to first and second hubs. The hubs are bonded together. The distal ends of the tubes may be formed into a tapered tip, preferably having a rounded edge. The proximal ends of the tubes can be connected to external fluid devices. The invention also includes a method of making the catheter. According to this method, inner and outer tubes are separately formed, and the proximal end of each tube is connected to a hub. Then, the inner tube is threaded into the outer tube, until the distal ends of the tubes are near each other. A sleeve is inserted between the tubes, at the distal end, and the sleeve is then bonded to both tubes. The hubs are also bonded together. Thus, the tubes are firmly joined to each other, but only at their distal and proximal ends. The outer tube has a plurality of holes, located around its circumference, at the distal end, to provide access to the outer lumen. The distal tip provides an exit port for the inner lumen. The catheter can also be provided with a dilator/stylet which is initially inserted within the inner lumen, and which is withdrawn after the catheter has been inserted into a patient.

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First Claim