Abstract: A balloon catheter that comprises an inner shaft, a balloon and a sleeve that defines a lumen. A portion of the inner shaft is positioned within the lumen and the balloon is engaged to the sleeve at least two engagement points.

Abstract: The disclosed invention provides a system and method for accurately and in a controllable manner removing layers of tissue, deposits and/or plaque off surfaces of body is cavity for example a blood vessel. According to an aspect of the current invention, a catheter (10) endarterectomy having a proximal end (12) and a distal end (14) is provided, the catheter comprising: a pair of inflatable balloons (16) disposed at said distal end, wherein a predefined distance separate between the centers of said balloons; said scraper (18) having at least one blade (40) disposed between said balloons, wherein said scraper is reciprocally movable between two positions one of which, which is the first position, is distally disposed to the other position, which is the second position, and at least one vacuum aperture (39) disposed adjacent to said at least one blade.

Abstract: A catheter assembly includes a main catheter branch and a side catheter branch. The main catheter branch includes first and second balloons. The side catheter branch is coupled to the second balloon. The side catheter branch can be coupled to the second balloon portion by passing through a pathway or receiver structure defined in the second balloon. The side catheter branch can also be coupled to the second balloon portion using a connector that connects the side catheter branch to a portion of the main catheter branch that carries the second balloon portion.

Abstract: Methods are provided for partial aortic obstruction for cerebral perfusion augmentation in patients suffering from global or focal cerebral ischemia. Alternatively, the methods can be used to partially obstruct aortic blood flow to condition the spinal cord to secrete neuroprotective agents prior to abdominal aortic aneurysm repair. Partial obstruction of a vessel can be accomplished by a device comprising an elongate catheter and a distally mounted expandable member. The expandable member may comprise one or two balloons. Other medical devices, such as an angioplasty, stent, or atherectomy catheter, can be inserted distal the expandable member to provide therapeutic intervention.

Abstract: A medical device comprising a compartment capable of receiving and holding a substance in a liquid form is disclosed. The compartment is inflatable from a deflated state to an inflated state, such that when the compartment is in the deflated state, the outer wall of the membrane is substantially impermeable to the substance, and when the compartment is in the inflated state, the substance is allowed to permeate through the outer wall.

Abstract: A medical instrument for suction and irrigation comprises an elongate shaft with a first channel serving as suction channel and with a second channel serving as irrigation channel, the shaft having a first tube which is closed in cross section and in which one of the channels is present. The shaft has a second tube which is open in cross section along its length and is placed with its open lengthwise side on an outside face of the first tube and secured sealingly thereon, the other channel being formed in the space between the outside face of the first tube and an inside face of the second tube. A method for production of the instrument is also described.

Abstract: A catheter is adapted to exchange heat with a body fluid, such as blood, flowing in a body conduit, such as a blood vessel. The catheter includes a shaft with a heat exchange region disposed at its distal end. This region may include hollow fibers which are adapted to receive a remotely cooled heat exchange fluid preferably flowing in a direction counter to that of the body fluid. The hollow fibers enhance the surface area of contact, as well as the mixing of both the heat exchange fluid and the body fluid. The catheter can be positioned to produce hypothermia in a selective area of the body or alternatively positioned to systemically cool the entire body system.

Abstract: A flexible gripping device including a plurality of pneumatic actuator rings. A grasper element is disposed within the plurality of pneumatic actuator rings and adapted to move back and forth within the actuator rings.

Abstract: The invention generally relates to internal (e.g., implantable, insertable, etc.) drug delivery devices which contain the following: (a) one or more sources of one or more therapeutic agents; (b) one or more first electrodes, (c) one or more second electrodes and (d) one or more power sources for applying voltages across the first and second electrodes. The power sources may be adapted, for example, to promote electrically assisted therapeutic agent delivery within a subject, including electroporation and/or iontophoresis. In one aspect of the invention, the first and second electrodes are adapted to have tissue of a subject positioned between them upon deployment of the medical device within the subject, such that an electric field may be generated, which is directed into the tissue. Furthermore, the therapeutic agent sources are adapted to introduce the therapeutic agents into the electric field.

Abstract: A bifurcated catheter assembly has an undeployed state and a deployed state. The assembly comprises a bifurcated inflation shaft defining a shaft inner lumen, a first balloon defining a first balloon lumen, and a second balloon defining a second balloon lumen. The inflation shaft has a first inflation shaft defining a first lumen and a second inflation shaft defining a second lumen. The first balloon defines a first balloon lumen which is in fluid communication with the first lumen. The second balloon defines a second balloon lumen which is in fluid communication with the second lumen. The second balloon has a conical shape.

Abstract: A medical device for insertion into a body having a surface covered by a detachable cover. The cover may be detached from the surface and removed from the body while the device is inserted in the body. The device may be, for example, a catheter, cannula, drain, stent, pacemaker, or electrode.

Abstract: A method for removing an object from a body lumen includes dispensing fluid into the body lumen, and causing the dispensed fluid to propel the object along the body lumen. A device for removing an object from a body lumen includes a fluid dispenser for dispensing fluid into the body lumen, and a pump in fluid communication with the dispenser.

Abstract: A method for preventing contrast associated nephropathy includes the steps of providing a multi-lumen dual balloon catheter and inserting the catheter into a patient's coronary sinus. The method also includes the steps of inflating the two balloons to block blood flow from the coronary sinus into the right atrium and draining blood containing contrast solution from between the two balloons through the catheter while the blood flow is blocked. A hemo filtration unit is used to remove contrast solution from the drained blood and the filtered blood returned to the right atrium. A multi-lumen dual balloon catheter is also disclosed.

Abstract: Layers of materials are laminated together preserving potential spaces that can transmit pressure generated by the use of gases or fluids. Alternatively, pre-manufactured pressure conduits of suitable dimensions and geometries are integrated between the layers. Transmission of pressure to such conduits results in expansion of a compacted device to a predetermined shape. Maintenance and/or variation of said pressure results in preservation of said shape, fine static control of surface geometries and even remote control of precise movements. Osmotic Pressure is not required to achieve Turgor type control.

Abstract: A feeding tube device for delivering a substance into a stomach of a patient is disclosed, comprising a feeding tube, an overlapping segment integrally formed with and extending from the distal end of the feeding tube, and an inflation lumen defined within the feeding tube. The overlapping segment may be configured to surround at least a portion of the distal end of the feeding tube to form a balloon structure in communication with the inflation lumen. The overlapping segment may also be sealed against at least a portion of the distal end of the feeding tube device. A second overlapping segment may also be integrally formed with and extend from the proximate end of the feeding tube, with the second overlapping segment configured to surround at least a portion of the proximate end of the feeding tube to form a second balloon structure. A corresponding method of manufacturing is also disclosed.

Abstract: A catheter assembly may comprise a guide catheter, a balloon catheter with a steering balloon and a stabilizing balloon and a guide wire. The stabilizing balloon secures the balloon catheter to the guide catheter while the steering balloon secures the catheter assembly to the vessel wall. In another embodiment, the balloon catheter has three balloons engaged to the exterior surface, a steering balloon, a stabilizing balloon and an anchoring balloon.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for temporarily excluding an aneurysm or an arterio-venous fistula from a flow path by transluminally disposing a hollow balloon catheter structure within the aneurysm so that its proximal and distal ends extend past the aneurysm while maintaining continuity of the flow path, and then injecting a synthetic molding material or a biological hardening agent into the aneurysm cavity to cause solidification of the volume within the cavity. Once the material within the excluded aneurysm has solidified, the balloon catheter structure is deflated and removed, so that the hardened mass forms a new lining for the organ or vessel, and relieves the weakened tissue of the aneurysm or fistula from further flow-induced stress.

Abstract: Devices and methods for their use in percutaneously increasing the aortic valve flow of a stenotic aortic valve are provided. The subject devices include an aortic valve isolation element, a shunt element and an aortic valve flushing element. Also provided are systems and kits that include the subject devices and can be employed in practicing the subject methods. The subject devices, methods, systems and kits find use in treating conditions associated with the presence of stenotic aortic valves.

Abstract: Devices and systems for providing retroperfusion and autoretroperfusion therapies to a brain. In certain embodiments, the devices and systems disclosed herein comprise a flow unit configured to adjust the flow rate and pressure of the arterial blood used for perfusion of the venous system. Methods for delivering a bridge retroperfusion therapy are also disclosed such that, after the onset of a stroke or other adverse cerebral event, the brain cells' window of viability may be extended and other treatments, including pharmaceutical and neuroprotective therapies, may be more effectively utilized.

Abstract: A catheter includes a first expandable membrane having a first pressurization limit and a second expandable membrane, having a second pressurization limit, wherein the second pressurization limit is greater than the first pressurization limit, the first expandable membrane defines a cooling chamber, the second expandable membrane being disposed around the first expandable membrane to define an junction therebetween. The catheter includes a coolant injection lumen in fluid communication with the at least one fluid inlet port and the cooling chamber, and a primary coolant return lumen in fluid communication with the at least one fluid outlet port and the cooling chamber. The coolant injection tube, the cooling chamber, and the primary coolant return lumen define a first fluid pathway. The catheter further includes a secondary coolant return lumen in fluid communication with the at least one fluid outlet port and the junction. The junction and the secondary coolant return lumen define a second fluid pathway.

Abstract: Devices and methods for securing a catheter within a heart. In at least one embodiment of an apparatus for securing a catheter within a heart, the apparatus comprises a catheter having a proximal end and a distal end and at least one lumen defined therethrough, the catheter defining at least one aperture positioned therethrough at or near the distal end of the catheter, at least one balloon coupled to the catheter and positioned externally to the catheter, and a conduit having a proximal end and a distal end, the distal end of the conduit coupled to the at least one balloon, wherein when the catheter is positioned within an aperture in an atrial wall and when the at least one balloon is positioned at or near the aperture in the atrial wall, inflation of the at least one balloon causes the catheter to be held in place at the atrial wall.

Abstract: A catheter is provided having anchoring and stabilizing devices adapted to respectively sit in and outside an opening of a tubular region. A sheath covering the catheter body forms the anchoring and stabilizing devices, which sheath comprises slits cut into the sheath creating spines. The spines are radially expanded by distal movement of the sheath relative to the catheter body. Radial expansion of the anchoring device generally anchors the distal end of the catheter inside the tubular region. Radial expansion of the stabilizing assembly generally stabilizes the distal end of the catheter against the ostium of the tubular region. The pressure exerted on the tubular region by the anchoring and stabilizing devices minimizes translational and rotational movement of the distal end of the catheter. Alternatively, the catheter may include a telescoping portion extending from the distal end of the catheter in which the anchoring and stabilizing devices are deployed by movement of a puller wire.

Abstract: A balloon catheter is provided that may be used to maneuver around tortuous body lumens. The balloon catheter comprises one or more balloons disposed about a tip of the shaft. Each balloon includes a dedicated lumen to allow inflation of each balloon independent of the others. Inflation of a balloon causes the shaft tip to deflect in a direction that is oriented opposite of the inflated balloon. The bent orientation of the shaft tip allows the catheter and a guide wire to be maneuvered through tortuous body lumens.

Abstract: Sinusitis, enlarged nasal turbinates, tumors, infections, hearing disorders, allergic conditions, facial fractures and other disorders of the ear, nose and throat are diagnosed and/or treated using minimally invasive approaches and, in many cases, flexible catheters as opposed to instruments having rigid shafts. Various diagnostic procedures and devices are used to perform imaging studies, mucus flow studies, air/gas flow studies, anatomic dimension studies, endoscopic studies and transillumination studies. Access and occluder devices may be used to establish fluid tight seals in the anterior or posterior nasal cavities/nasopharynx and to facilitate insertion of working devices (e.g., scopes, guidewires, catheters, tissue cutting or remodeling devices, electrosurgical devices, energy emitting devices, devices for injecting diagnostic or therapeutic agents, devices for implanting devices such as stents, substance eluting devices, substance delivery implants, etc.

Abstract: A catheter includes a first expandable membrane having a first pressurization limit and a second expandable membrane, having a second pressurization limit, wherein the second pressurization limit is greater than the first pressurization limit, the first expandable membrane defines a cooling chamber, the second expandable membrane being disposed around the first expandable membrane to define an junction therebetween. The catheter includes a coolant injection lumen in fluid communication with the at least one fluid inlet port and the cooling chamber, and a primary coolant return lumen in fluid communication with the at least one fluid outlet port and the cooling chamber. The coolant injection tube, the cooling chamber, and the primary coolant return lumen define a first fluid pathway. The catheter further includes a secondary coolant return lumen in fluid communication with the at least one fluid outlet port and the junction. The junction and the secondary coolant return lumen define a second fluid pathway.

Abstract: A novel approach to diagnostic and therapeutic interventions in the peritoneal cavity is described. More specifically, a technique for accessing the peritoneal cavity via the wall of the digestive tract is provided so that examination of and/or a surgical procedure in the peritoneal cavity can be conducted via the wall of the digestive tract with the use of a flexible endoscope. As presently proposed, the technique is particularly adapted to transgastric peritoneoscopy. However, access in addition or in the alternative through the intestinal wall is contemplated and described as well. Transgastric and/or transintestinal peritoneoscopy will have an excellent cosmetic result as there are no incisions in the abdominal wall and no potential for visible post-surgical scars or hernias.

Abstract: A medical device for insertion and expansion within a bifurcated lumen is described. An expansion region of the device has regions thereon which, in some cases, enable the device to fold into a predetermined configuration upon deflation. The regions may be defined by differing modulus of the device material.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a multi-function catheter assembly for treating arterial plaques. The multifunction catheter comprises a flexible tubular catheter body, an inflatable balloon assembly capable of multi-stage inflation at a distal end of the catheter body, at least one fluid delivery conduit formed on the catheter body, and at least one balloon control conduit formed within the catheter body. The balloon, when inflated to a first stage inside a vessel at the treatment site, defines a chamber between the balloon and the vessel wall. The at least one fluid delivery conduit is adapted to permit the delivery of an agent into the chamber to dissolve a plaque. After the removal of the plaque, the balloon is further inflated to a second stage to install a stent in the space that is vacated by the plaque. The stent can be a pre-manufactured stent or a customized stent formed by filing the space between the balloon and the treated vessel wall with a fluent composition that is solidified in situ.

Abstract: A valvuloplasty system comprises a balloon adapted to be placed adjacent leaflets of a valve. The balloon is inflatable with a liquid. The system further includes a shock wave generator within the balloon that produces shock waves. The shock waves propagate through the liquid and impinge upon the valve to decalcify and open the valve.

Abstract: Balloon systems for treating bifurcated lumens include desirable burst and folding characteristics. In some cases, the balloon systems can be formed by varying the wall thickness of a balloon parison.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device and method for approximating two vessels. The device includes a first catheter and a second catheter. The second catheter is slidably disposed in the first catheter. A first expansible member is disposed on the first catheter, and a second expansible member is disposed on the second catheter. The medical device also includes a locking mechanism for interlocking the first catheter and second catheter to prevent relative movement between the first and second catheters.

Abstract: An embodiment of the invention includes inserting into a gastrointestinal lumen, a catheter having a first balloon and a second balloon spaced from the first balloon. The first balloon and the second balloon are inflated to sealingly engage the lumen. A liquid is introduced into a volume bounded by the first balloon, the second balloon and the lumen so that the liquid contacts at least a portion of the lumen.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for accessing the wall of a body lumen while simultaneously providing zone isolation and fluid bypass capability, the apparatus comprising: an erectable proximal isolation barrier capable of making a sealing engagement with the wall of the body lumen; an erectable distal isolation barrier capable of making a sealing engagement with the wall of the body lumen; a bypass channel secured to, and extending between, the proximal isolation barrier and the distal isolation barrier, the bypass channel comprising a lumen communicating with the region proximal to the proximal isolation barrier and with the region distal to the distal isolation barrier; and a working catheter passing through the proximal isolation barrier and terminating short of the distal isolation barrier, the working catheter providing a central lumen for providing access to the wall of the body lumen between the proximal isolation barrier and the distal isolation barrier.

Abstract: A dual balloon catheter assembly and method of use thereof are provided. The dual balloon catheter assembly may be used in a cryoplasty treatment that is provided in combination with eluting an antiproliferative to reduce and/or eliminate vessel fractures, thereby inhibiting proliferative response after angioplasty.

Abstract: A system is provided for use in brachytherapy where a central tube permits passage of a radioactive source therethrough to deliver a prescribed dosage of radiation. One or more balloons are coaxially positioned around the central tube. At least one balloon includes one or more peripheral tubes extending along at least a portion of the balloon. The peripheral tube is also attached to the high dose rate brachytherapy unit in order to permit passage of a radioactive source therethrough.

Abstract: A first balloon is fitted to an insertion portion of an endoscope and a second balloon is fitted to an insertion aid member. An end connector of a tube is connected to a balloon control device that supplies and sucks air into and from the first balloon and the second balloon. A duct that communicates with the first balloon, a duct that communicates with the second balloon, and a duct that communicates with a clearance between the insertion portion and the insertion aid member are formed in the end connector.

Abstract: A catheter assembly includes a main catheter branch having a catheter shaft and a distal end portion. A main balloon and a side balloon are positioned at the distal end portion of the catheter shaft. The main balloon includes a distal waste portion at a distal end thereof and a proximal waste portion at a proximal end thereof. The side balloon includes an inflatable portion, a proximal waste portion, and a distal waste portion, wherein the proximal and distal waste portions define a side inflation lumen. The proximal waste portion of the side balloon and the proximal waste portion of the main balloon are secured to the distal end portion of the catheter shaft at a single bond or connection point to create a proximal balloon joint, wherein the main inflation lumen is in fluid communication with the main balloon and the side inflation lumen.

Abstract: A catheter assembly includes a main catheter branch and a side catheter branch. The main catheter branch includes a main balloon, a side balloon and a side inflation member. The side inflation member intersects the side balloon at a location on the side balloon that is offset laterally from a central line passing from a distal most point on the side balloon to a proximal most point on the side balloon. The side balloon is configured to extend radially outward relative to the main balloon when the side balloon is inflated. The side catheter branch can be centrally aligned with the side balloon central line and be positioned laterally adjacent to the side inflation lumen.

Abstract: The present invention involves a surgical device and method of use, particularly an assembly and method incorporating dual expandable members along the distal region of an ablation device to facilitate ablation of a circumferential region of tissue engaged by the expandable member. The ablation device assembly includes an elongate body with a proximal end portion, a distal end portion, and a longitudinal axis. A first expansion element is located along the distal end portion of the elongate body, and is fluidly coupled to a first source of inflation fluid. A second expansion element having a circumferential wall is located along the distal end portion proximal the first expansion element, and is fluidly coupled to a second source of inflation fluid.

Abstract: An evacuation sheath assembly and method of treating occluded vessels which reduces the risk of distal embolization during vascular interventions is provided. The evacuation sheath assembly includes an elongated tube defining an evacuation lumen having proximal and distal ends. A proximal sealing surface is provided on a proximal portion of the tube and is configured to form a seal with a lumen of a guided catheter. A distal sealing surface is provided on a distal portion of the tube and is configured to form a seal with a blood vessel. A method of treatment of a blood vessel using the evacuation sheath assembly includes advancing the evacuation sheath assembly into the blood vessel through a guide catheter. Prior to advancing a device across a stenosis to be treated, normal antegrade blood flow in the blood vessel proximate to the stenosis is stopped. While blood flow is stopped, the stenosis is treated.

Abstract: A catheter has a lumen for a thrombectomy device and at least two balloons of different compliancies. In one embodiment, the catheter is adapted to clear dialysis grafts. One balloon is adapted to expand a stenosis at a venous junction of a dialysis graft and another balloon is adapted to pull a stenosis at an arterial junction of a dialysis graft. A single catheter may be used to perform a dialysis thrombectomy procedure.

Abstract: A catheter assembly and related methods having a main balloon, a branch balloon arrangement and a stent. The catheter assembly includes a main catheter branch, a side catheter branch arrangement, and a stent. The main catheter branch includes at least a main balloon and a side balloon. The side catheter branch arrangement includes a branch guidewire housing and a sleeve member. At least a portion of the side catheter branch arrangement extends through a proximal open end of the stent and out through a side branch aperture of the stent. The branch guidewire housing defines a side branch lumen configured to advance over a branch vessel guidewire. The sleeve member is sized to receive the branch guidewire housing, wherein the branch guidewire housing is axially movable within the sleeve member. The sleeve member is typically fixed axially relative to the main catheter branch.

Abstract: A hemostatic guiding catheter is biased to curve toward the artery wall and the distal opening is shaped so its edge is congruent with the artery wall. One or more annular balloons are inflated to produce a barrier between the guiding/catheter and the artery wall stopping the flow of blood and thus hemostasis. The annular balloons may be biased to inflate more on the side away from the distal opening thus imparting a force vector toward the distal opening and/or biased to overhang their line of attachment like a foreskin over a penis to allow the hemostatic guiding catheter to move a short distance while the biased balloons maintain hemostasis.

Abstract: Disclosed is an expandable transluminal sheath, for introduction into the body while in a first, small cross-sectional area configuration, and subsequent expansion of at least a part of the distal end of the sheath to a second, enlarged cross-sectional configuration. The sheath is configured for use in the vascular system and has utility in the introduction and removal of implant delivery catheters. The access route is through the femoral arteries and the iliac arteries into the aorta. The distal end of the sheath is maintained in the first, low cross-sectional configuration during advancement to the arteries into the aorta. The distal end of the sheath is subsequently expanded using a radial dilatation device, which is removed prior to the introduction of implant delivery catheters. In an exemplary application, the sheath includes a supported proximal end, a supported distal end, and a collapsible center section.

Abstract: An example multi-lumen member forming dual inflation portions of a catheter assembly for treating bifurcated vessels includes a main tube defining a main lumen and a main inflation portion. The member includes a side tube defining a side lumen and a side inflation portion, the side tube extending along at least a first length of the main tube. The member also includes a portion extending along the first length of the main tube and coupling the main tube to the side tube to form a dual lumen configuration.

Abstract: A urological medical system for performing a controlled hydrodistention of the urinary bladder for treating a bladder dysfunction problem comprised of a programmed CPU with associated computer equipment for facilitating an automatic control of a treatment procedure to be performed on a patient, a saline solution warmer, a saline solution pump, a four-way catheter wherein a channel is provided for monitoring the pressure within the bladder during the procedure, a syringe for infusing a medicine through the catheter and a strapping device to secure the syringe and to slidingly engage the catheter to a leg of the patient. Desired parameters are monitored during the procedure and a desired pressure is maintained in the bladder for a predetermined time to perform the controlled hydrodistention of the urinary bladder.

Abstract: An evacuation sheath assembly and method of treating occluded vessels which reduces the risk of distal embolization during vascular interventions is provided. The evacuation sheath assembly includes an elongated tube defining an evacuation lumen having proximal and distal ends. A proximal sealing surface is provided on a proximal portion of the tube and is configured to form a seal with a lumen of a guided catheter. A distal sealing surface is provided on a distal portion of the tube and is configured to form a seal with a blood vessel. Obturator assemblies and infusion catheter assemblies are provided to be used with the evacuation sheath assembly. A method of treatment of a blood vessel using the evacuation sheath assembly includes advancing the evacuation sheath assembly into the blood vessel through a guide catheter. Normal antegrade blood flow in the blood vessel proximate to the stenosis is stopped and the stenosis is treated.

Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods towards improved diagnosis and therapy in connection with central venous catheters (including PICC lines). Included among the many improvements broadly contemplated herein are: arrangements via which a venous catheter can move passively into position in central venous circulation; arrangements via which a catheter can be actively guided without the use of a needle or guide wire; arrangements via which a catheter can be packaged to facilitate easy, rapid, and positionally accurate deployment by medical personnel while maintaining device sterility; and arrangements via which a catheter tip can be imaged during and after insertion.

Abstract: An feeding tube and a kit for installation of a feeding tube includes a balloon anchored gastric tube. A protective sleeve on a dilator protects the toroidal balloon from damage during surgical insertion of the feeding tube. In one example, a jejunal tube is integrated with the kit and the gastric tube serves as a gastric sleeve forming an annular region or channels for fluid flow to and/or from the stomach and to/from the jejunum. An integrated gastro jejunal feeding tube unit may include a jejunal tube outlet port at one end, a jejunal balloon port, a gastric sleeve outlet port, one or more gastric balloon ports, one or more gastric balloons, gastric drainage holes, a jejunal balloon positioned at end of the jejunal tube and sleeve. A black silk loop may affix an end of the jejunal tube at a position in the jejunum, and insertion of the jejunal tube may be monitored continuously using an endoscope. Drainage holes may be provided in the jejunal tube and/or the gastric sleeve.

Abstract: An agent delivery catheter having two or more axially spaced balloons and an inflation bridge providing fluid communication between the two balloons. The catheter generally has a proximal balloon, a distal balloon, and a tube defining an inflation bridge lumen which is located in part within the inflatable interiors of the balloons, and which extends therebetween, and which has a proximal port within the proximal balloon interior and a distal port within the distal balloon interior to thereby provide for inflation of the distal balloon by placing the distal balloon interior in fluid communication with the proximal balloon interior of the shaft.