Importance

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Abstract

An intravascular balloon catheter comprises a catheter body having a proximal end a distal end, and a balloon carried adjacent the distal end. The catheter body defines an inflation tube which extends along essentially the length of the body proximal to the balloon and which communicates with the interior of the balloon. The catheter body also defines a lumen having an open, distal end and extending at least most of the length of the body. A first tube, aligned with the lumen, extends through the balloon and is open at both ends. A portion of the catheter which defines the lumen is longitudinally slidable relative to the balloon and the first tube between an advanced position and a retracted position. In the advanced position the lumen and first tube are together to allow advancement of a guidewire through both the lumen and the first tube. In the retracted position, the lumen is spaced from the first tube, so that the first tube is open to receive blood flow therethrough.

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First Claim