Importance

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Abstract

A fully exchangeable low-profile dual-lumen perfusion balloon catheter for dilatation angioplasty procedures includes a flexible small diameter guide wire in a perfusion lumen of the catheter and is provided with an internal guide wire sheath member traversing the dilatation balloon and allowing full perfusion blood flow via this lumen when the guide wire and sheath member are retracted. When the guide wire and sheath together are advanced from their retracted positions, the sheath member positively prevents escape of the guide wire distal end from the catheter lumen via the perfusion ports thereof. Another embodiment of the invention includes a guide wire sheath member with a smaller size pilot dilatation balloon and a valving structure responsive to axial relative movement of the guide wire to allow inflation of this pilot balloon in response to communication of pressurized fluid to the guide wire sheath member at a proximal end thereof. Still another alternative embodiment of the inventive catheter includes a guide wire and guide wire sheath member which are in one operative relationship axially relatively movable and telescopically received one within the other. In another operative relationship of the guide wire and guide wire sheath member, the two are axially aligned and coupled at adjacent ends to provide an extended guide structure allowing removal of the balloon catheter and retracing of the vascular path to the area of treatment. Another alternative embodiment of the inventive catheter is configured with a mono-rail distal guide portion.

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First Claim