Importance

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Abstract

A catheter having an elongate body has a first lumen extending therethrough. A concave wall is formed in the body proximate the distal end thereof such that the concave wall is a wall of the first lumen. A first slit is formed in the concave wall. The first slit opens in response to decreased fluid pressure within the lumen so as to facilitate aspiration via the first lumen. Optionally, a first convex wall is formed in the body such that the first convex wall is a wall of the first lumen. A second slit is formed in the first convex wall. The second slit opens in response to increased fluid pressure within the first lumen so as to facilitate infusion via the first lumen. Optionally, a second lumen extends through a substantial portion of the body. A second convex wall is formed in the body proximate the distal end thereof such that the second convex wall is a wall of the second lumen. A third slit is formed in the second convex wall. The third slit opens in response to increased fluid pressure within the second lumen so as to facilitate infusion via the second lumen. The first lumen is comprised substantially of a comparatively more rigid material to prevent collapse thereof during aspiration and the second lumen is comprised of a comparatively less rigid material so as to maintain a desired overall flexibility of the catheter.

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First Claim