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Abstract

A device for removing a thrombus or other tissue deposit from the cardiovascular system, or from a natural or synthetic tubule or cavity found in the human body of a patient without the need to surgically access the location of the thrombus or other tissue deposit via a cut-down or other surgical procedure. A flexible metal or high pressure plastic tube conveys an extremely high pressure stream of sterile saline or other physiologic solution to at least one orifice at the distal end of the catheter. At least one jet is directed at the opening of a large exhaust lumen or other target. The jet is responsible for providing a localized negative pressure which entrains tissue into the jet from break-up of the debris. This jet can also provide stagnation pressure in the exhaust lumen which drives the tissue or thrombotic debris out of the exhaust lumen. Operation of the device with tip pressure greater than 500 psi provides this device with the entrainment and exhaust characteristics which contribute to its effectiveness. The rate of exhaust of tissue debris is metered to ensure minimal local impact on the vasculature at the site of the thrombus deposit. A fluid metering means, such as a roller pump, controls the rate of exhaust such that it is in balance with the saline input or can be adjusted to be greater or less than the input. A positive displacement pump operating at steady or pulsatile flow provides the high pressure saline to the distal end of the catheter.

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First Claim