Abstract: Apparatus and methods for flushing medical devices are provided. In one embodiment, a flushing apparatus includes a container of carbon dioxide, a filter, a heat exchanger and an actuator for controlling delivery of carbon dioxide from the apparatus. In another embodiment, the flushing apparatus may be a syringe and a reservoir. During use, a medical device may be connected to the flushing apparatus, and carbon dioxide may be delivered from the apparatus into one or more lumens of the medical device to flush the device with carbon dioxide, e.g., to remove trapped air within the medical device. The medical device is then removed from the apparatus and delivered into a patient's body.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are provided for locating an interventional device relative to the ostium of a branch vessel wherein an ostial locator wire is attached to the interventional device so that a selectively deployable expandable section of the ostial locator wire encircles the interventional device. A diameter of the expandable section of the distal region is larger than the diameter of the ostium of the branch vessel, so that the expandable section flattens out as it is urged into contact with tissue surrounding the ostium of the branch vessel.