Importance

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Abstract

A dual-lumen catheter is disclosed that allows access to the vascular system of humans or animals for the high volume fluid flow related to hemodialysis or therapeutic apheresis. One lumen is circular with a wall thickness and material such that the lumen remains open during the fluid exchange. The second lumen is relatively thin walled designed to collapse against the first lumen under the pressure associated with the vascular system. This collapsing provide a minimum cross section of the catheter as it enters the body and the vascular system. However, the second lumen opens under pressure as a high volume fluid flow is introduced into the vascular system through the second lumen. This high volume fluid flow into the body is most often a return of fluid removed from the body via the thicker walled lumen.

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First Claim