Abstract: A method of making a high flexibility distal zone on a neurovascular catheter is provided. The method includes the steps of dip coating a removable mandrel to form a tubular inner layer on the mandrel, coating the tubular inner layer with a soft tie layer, applying a helical coil to the outside of the tie layer, positioning a plurality of tubular segments on the helical coil, heating the tubular segments to form the high flexibility distal zone on the neurovascular catheter; and removing the mandrel. The plurality of segments have durometers that decrease in a distal direction. The flexural load profile of the catheter as a function of catheter length is configured to provide enhanced distal flexibility while maintaining high backup support.

Abstract: An enhanced flexibility neurovascular catheter is provided, such as for distal neurovascular access or aspiration. The catheter includes an elongate flexible body, having a proximal end, a distal end and a side wall defining a central lumen. A distal zone of the side wall includes an outer jacket surrounding a helical coil, and the outer jacket is formed from a plurality of tubular segments positioned coaxially about the coil. A proximal one of the tubular segments has a durometer of at least about 60D, and a distal one of the tubular segments has a durometer of no more than about 35D. An axially extending filament within the side wall extends at least about the most distal 10 cm of the length of the catheter. The axially extending filament serves as a tension support and resists elongation of the catheter wall under tension, such as when the catheter is being proximally retracted through tortuous vasculature.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods, systems and devices for performing cardipulmonary bypass (CPB), cardioplegic arrest, suction of fluid from the aorta to remove embolic or other fluid from the general circulation and the selective segmentation of the arterial system to perform differential perfusion eliminating hypoperfusion. An aortic catheter having an arch lumen which extends at least in part along the length of the catheter shaft has a proximal opening coupled to a CPB machine and a distal arch opening. A corporeal lumen extends at least in part along the length of the catheter shaft and has a proximal opening coupled to a CPB machine and a distal corporeal opening. A suction lumen extends at least in part along the length of the catheter shaft and has a proximal suction opening coupled to a suction source and a distal suction opening residing in the aortic lumen of a patient.