Abstract: Provided is a multi-lumen intrathecal catheter capable of use for circulating a fluid through a portion of the spinal cord of a patient and having an insertable portion adapted for insertion into the spinal cord, comprising: a first lumen having a distal and a proximal end, the proximal end being adapted to being connected to a reservoir containing a fluid; a first fluid exchange section connected to the distal end of the first lumen having at least one inlet; a second lumen having a distal and a proximal end; and a second fluid exchange section connected to the distal and of the second lumen having at least one outlet, wherein at least one inlet and at least one outlet are offset from each other.

Abstract: Neural tissue edema is treated by circulating a hyperoncotic artificial cerebrospinal fluid in the cerebrospinal fluid pathway in the vicinity of edematous tissue to cause the edematous tissue to be dehydrated due to an oncotic gradient between the hypertonic artificial cerebrospinal fluid and intracellular fluid and withdrawing the fluid from the pathway after it has been so circulated.