Abstract: The present invention relates to a surgical catheter, and more particularly, a balloon catheter having an auxiliary lumen configured to permit the advancement of a functional measurement wire to a treatment site. The auxiliary lumen communicates with a working lumen that is configured to permit the advancement of a guidewire and the functional measurement wire, so that the guidewire and functional measurement wire may selectively be advanced to the treatment site during a surgical procedure.

Abstract: Apparatus for enhancing pushability and minimizing kinking of a balloon catheter is provided, wherein a catheter comprises inner and outer tubes, and a balloon that is proximally affixed to the outer tube and distally affixed to the inner tube. The outer tube extends distal to the proximal affixation point and at least partially into the balloon segment to provide additional stiffness and pushability. The outer tube may taper and connect to the inner tube or to radiopaque markers disposed thereon. The outer tube further may be selectively reinforced, as by using multipart construction or using different tube textures, to selectively provide added stiffness in areas susceptible to kinking.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a surgical catheter, and more particularly, a balloon catheter having an auxiliary lumen configured to permit the advancement of a functional measurement wire to a treatment site. The auxiliary lumen communicates with a working lumen that is configured to permit the advancement of a guidewire and the functional measurement wire, so that the guidewire and functional measurement wire may selectively be advanced to the treatment site during a surgical procedure.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for providing distal protection during a medical procedure comprising a vascular filter having a self-expanding, porous foam body that conformably seals against a vessel wall and captures emboli within one or more recesses. The filter is coupled to a distal region of an elongated member, such as a guide wire. Delivery systems for use with filters of the present invention and methods of using the apparatus of the present invention also are provided.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for providing distal protection during a medical procedure comprising a vascular filter having a self-expanding, porous foam body that conformably seals against a vessel wall and captures emboli within one or more recesses. The filter is coupled to a distal region of an elongated member, such as a guide wire. Delivery systems for use with filters of the present invention and methods of using the apparatus of the present invention also are provided.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for providing distal protection during a medical procedure comprising a vascular filter having a self-expanding, porous foam body that conformably seals against a vessel wall and captures emboli within one or more recesses. The filter is coupled to a distal region of an elongated member, such as a guide wire. Delivery systems for use with filters of the present invention and methods of using the apparatus of the present invention also are provided.