Importance

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Abstract

A multiple-lumen catheter includes a first generally-cylindrical flexible lumen extending between a first distal end and a second proximal end; the first lumen is sufficiently rigid to maintain its generally-cylindrical shape when negative pressure is applied thereto for aspirating fluid from the blood vessel. A second flexible lumen also extends between a first distal end and a second proximal end alongside the first lumen. The first distal end of the second lumen is sufficiently pliable to collapse and flatten in the absence of any positive fluid pressure applied to the second lumen; upon the application of a positive fluid pressure to the second lumen, the collapsible first, distal end of the second lumen expands and assumes a generally-cylindrical shape for introducing fluid into the blood vessel. The first collapsible end of the second lumen can extend beyond the-first non-collapsible end of the first lumen for introducing fluid into the blood vessel through the second lumen at a point spaced apart from the first end of the first lumen. In hemodialysis applications, the first lumen is used to aspirate blood, and the second lumen is used to return cleansed blood.

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First Claim