Abstract: In one embodiment, an aspiration thrombectomy system includes an aspiration catheter having a proximal end, a distal end, and a lumen to accommodate fluid, a first valve capable of removing fluids from the system to alter a level of pressure in the system in a first manner, a second valve capable of providing fluids into the system to alter the level of pressure in the system in a second manner, and a cutting instrument at the distal end of the aspiration catheter having a spiral body connected to a rounded element having a scooped-out portion for engaging a target occlusive material, the cutting instrument being capable of axial and rotational motion, and the system being capable of cutting and removing the occlusive material based on the motions of the cutting instrument and one or more of the first manner and the second manner of altering the level of pressure.

Abstract: A catheter for use in a subject's vasculature includes a rotating and axially movable instrument. The instrument includes a rounded element at its distal end connected to a body having a spiral shape. The instrument is at least partially disposed in a lumen of the catheter and is configured for axial and rotational motion within the lumen between a proximal-most position and a distal-most position, where the body includes at least one edge configured to promote removal of a target substance from the body passageway upon contact with the target substance.

Abstract: A catheter for use in a subject's vasculature includes a rotating and axially movable instrument. The instrument includes a rounded element at its distal end connected to a body having a spiral shape. The instrument is at least partially disposed in a lumen of the catheter and is configured for axial and rotational motion within the lumen between a proximal-most position and a distal-most position, where the body includes at least one edge configured to promote removal of a target substance from the body passageway upon contact with the target substance.