Abstract: Acute care method and apparatus for treating a patient experiencing thrombotic vascular occlusion includes introducing a selected dose of an active agent proximate a vascular occlusion in the patient in order to lyse the vascular occlusion and radiating the vascular occlusion and active agent.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are provided for utilizing a combination of ultrasonic energy and an echo contrast agent containing microbubbles, for substantially dissolving blood clots or other fistula obstructions. One embodiment of the present invention alternatively utilizes a selected dose of thrombolytic agent in combination with an echo contrast agent, for enhancing the thrombolytic action of a thrombolytic agent and removing a thrombosis from a fistula.

Abstract: A multiple transducer assembly and method for coupling ultrasonic energy to a body for thrombolysis of vascular thrombi is provided. The assembly includes a catalytic transducer apparatus including a plurality of transducers for transmitting ultrasound into a medical target transcutaneously. Each transducer includes a front mass having structure which optimizes the transmission of ultrasound into the body. The transducers may share a common front mass. A reservoir for containing a cooling conductive medium between the front mass and the body surface is provided, and is contained within the housing. In addition, the catalytic transducer includes an irrigation manifold, disposed through a center of the front mass, for directing the medium into the reservoir generally along a perimeter thereof. The front mass includes an apex for accumulating expelled gasses. A sloped surface of the front mass functions to direct expelled gasses toward the apex and through an outlet provided by the irrigation manifold.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are provided for utilizing a combination of ultrasonic energy and an echo contrast agent containing microbubbles, for substantially dissolving blood clots or other fistula obstructions. One embodiment of the present invention alternatively utilizes a selected dose of thrombolytic agent in combination with an echo contrast agent, for enhancing the thrombolytic action of a thrombolytic agent and removing a thrombosis from a fistula.