Abstract: Multilumen catheters are provided. The subject multilumen catheters include a proximal end and a distal end separated by a non-coaxial multilumen tube. The subject catheters are further characterized in that they include a multiport manifold at their proximal ends, where at least two of the ports of the multiport manifold may comprise luer valves. Also provided are systems for use in flushing a vascular site with fluid, usually at least two different fluids, where the subject systems are made up of two multilumen catheters according to the subject invention, where one of the catheters is inserted inside of the other. In addition, kits comprising various components of the subject systems, e.g., at least two different multilumen catheters, are provided.

Abstract: A microdialysis probe and catheter arrangement includes a catheter carrying in a distal end thereof a probe to be inserted in the body of a living being. The catheter has an elongate catheter body including a first channel for supplying a first fluid and a second channel for returning said first fluid. The first and second channels extend internally along the catheter body from a proximal end thereof to the probe. The probe includes a microdialysis membrane defining a dialysis chamber communicating with the first and second channels. A third channel extends internally along the catheter body and communicates with the second channel to supply a second fluid to thereto, thereby to increase the flow rate therein.

Abstract: An improved multi-lumen catheter with tip configurations for the simultaneous injection and withdrawal of fluids. The multi-lumen catheter includes an outer catheter and an inner catheter. The inner catheter is contained within the outer catheter, extends throughout its length and is bisected by a septum to create two parallel lumens. The inner catheter is secured to the outer catheter and may extend beyond the distal end thereof to promote separation between fluids. The multi-lumen catheter can be supplied with a protective sheath to maintain a sterile environment.

Abstract: A split tip dialysis catheter having an outer tube and an inner tube, the two tubes which can be arranged over at least a portion of their length in a coaxial configuration. The inner tube may be connected to the outer tube at a proximal bifurcation, secured at a distal end of the outer tube or both, but generally the inner tube will remain free to move relative to the outer tube to optimize functionality. In addition, the inner tube can be arranged to be removable from the catheter for replacement thereof.

Abstract: Cross stream thrombectomy catheter and system for fragmentation and removal of thrombus or other material from blood vessels or other body cavities. High velocity saline jets emitted from a toroidal loop jet emanator or other jet emanator in a catheter distal end entrain fluid through inflow orifices, and with flow resistances create a back-pressure which drives cross stream streams through outflow orifices in a radial direction and thence radially and circumferentially to apply normal and drag forces on thrombotic deposits or lesions in the blood vessel or other body cavity, thereby breaking apart and transporting thrombus particles to be entrained through the inflow orifices, whereupon the high velocity jets macerate the thrombus particles which then transit an exhaust lumen or recirculate again via the outflow orifices.

Abstract: A catheter system is provided for use in sclerotherapy of varicose veins. The catheter system comprises a multi-lumen tube, a tip device and a fluid porting device. The multi-lumen tube comprises a coaxial center lumen and three equally spaced outer lumens in the annulus between the central lumen and the outer wall of the multi-lumen tube. The multi-lumen tube is used for carrying sclerosing agent and irrigation fluid and for providing suction at the affected site in the vein. The catheter device is introduced inside the vein and the tip device is positioned at the affected site. Pressure is applied over the affected vein using a pressure applying device. The catheter device is slowly withdrawn while continuously releasing the sclerosing agent from the tip device. This helps in achieving uniform sclerosis of the affected vein.

Abstract: A catheter is provided that includes an elongated tubular body extending to a distal end. The tubular body has a first and a second lumen with a septum disposed therebetween. The tubular body includes a first wall that defines the first lumen and a second wall that defines the second lumen. A portion of the septum extends distally beyond the first lumen and the second lumen. The first wall includes a first wall extension that extends distally beyond the first lumen and is spaced apart from the portion of the septum. The first wall extension defines a concave surface facing the portion of the septum. Alternatively, the septum has a septum extension that extends distally beyond the first lumen and the second lumen. In alternate embodiment, the septum extension defines a first planar surface and an opposing second planar surface.

Abstract: Methods and devices for treating vulnerable plaque deposits within a blood vessel, having an inner surface and one or more plaque deposits containing a core material are disclosed. A device in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes an elongate shaft having a proximal end and a distal end, a balloon disposed about the elongate shaft for engaging one or more plaque deposits and extracting the core material therefrom, a first venturi section disposed proximally of the balloon, and a second venturi section disposed distally of the balloon.

Abstract: A method and apparatus pertaining to a transcutaneous fluid kit for controllably evacuating fluid from a fluid site to a fluid collector, while preventing an outrush of fluid from the fluid site.

Abstract: An improved bolus tip design for use in a multi-lumen catheter for the simultaneous injection and withdrawal of fluids to and from a patient. The improved bolus tip has a rounded elongate body consisting of an interfacing section and a nose section. A first channel opens to a first bolus cavity, which is formed into the bolus tip, and a second channel either extends through the nose section of the bolus tip, forming an outlet therefrom, or terminates at a second bolus cavity similar to the first bolus cavity. In the latter configuration, the second bolus cavity is located longitudinally between the fist bolus cavity and a tip of the nose section on a side directly opposite the first bolus cavity. The second bolus cavity is in fluid communication with the second channel.

Abstract: A device for delivering oxygenated blood and occluding the ascending aorta is provided. The device has a blood flow lumen with a movable portion. The movable portion is movable from a position contained within a body of the device to a position which extends outwardly from the device. The movable portion is made of a tube of flexible material and everts when moving to the extended position.

Abstract: A multi-lumen catheter defined by at least two separate tip sections distal to a dividing point includes strategic placement of openings in the tip sections to facilitate fluid flow and minimize typical problems associated with catheters. In a multi-lumen catheter having tip sections with a releasably joined or splittable region, the bond strength between the tip sections is varied along their length such that an increasing separation force is required to separate the tip sections from one another distal to the dividing point. Delivery of a multi-lumen catheter is improved with respect to both sheathed and non-sheathed delivery methods, in which a friction reducing structure is provided on either the catheter, delivery sheath or both to provide a buffer for a sheathed delivery and in which a unique guidewire aperture or additional lumen is provided in at least one of the tip sections for a non-sheathed delivery.

Abstract: The invention is of an improved peritoneal dialysis catheter the structure of which permits simultaneous inflow and outflow therapy. The design eliminates angular deviations of conduits to prevent occlusion through biological debris, insures optimal seating and sealing in the abdominal wall, and, to previously proposed designs for similar devices, is possible to manufacture using existing technology and manufacturing techniques.

Abstract: Cross stream thrombectomy catheter and system for fragmentation and removal of thrombus or other material from blood vessels or other body cavities. High velocity saline jets emitted from a toroidal loop jet emanator or other jet emanator in a catheter distal end entrain fluid through inflow orifices, and with flow resistances create a back-pressure which drives cross stream streams through outflow orifices in a radial direction and thence radially and circumferentially to apply normal and drag forces on thrombotic deposits or lesions in the blood vessel or other body cavity, thereby breaking apart and transporting thrombus particles to be entrained through the inflow orifices, whereupon the high velocity jets macerate the thrombus particles which then transit an exhaust lumen or recirculate again via the outflow orifices.

Abstract: A multilumen catheter that maximizes the blood flow into and out of the patient's vasculature while also providing for passive and/or active perfusion of tissue downstream of where the catheter resides in the vasculature. The inventive catheter comprises a proximal end, a first distal and a second distal end. Lumens extending from the proximal end to each of these distal ends provide for blood circulation within one or between two blood vessels. At least one aperture in one of the lumens positioned near the proximal end provides for active perfusion of blood to the patient's vasculature downstream of where the aperture resides in the vasculature when the catheter is inserted into the patient for treatment. The inventive catheter may comprise a third lumen positioned entirely within the patient's vasculature, providing passive perfusion of blood to the patient's vasculature downstream of where the third lumen resides in the vasculature when the catheter is inserted into the patient for treatment.

Abstract: A split tip dialysis catheter having an outer tube and an inner tube, the two tubes which can be arranged over at least a portion of their length in a coaxial configuration. The inner tube may be connected to the outer tube at a proximal bifurcation, secured at a distal end of the outer tube or both, but generally the inner tube will remain free to move relative to the outer tube to optimize functionality. In addition, the inner tube can be arranged to be removable from the catheter for replacement thereof.

Abstract: Flexible treatment catheters are configured to be inserted into a body lumen or cavity to deliver heated fluid through at least one fluid lumen therein to thermally treat or ablate a targeted site in a biological subject. The flexible treatment catheters can include improved thermally insulated regions comprising a mixture formed of liquid elastomeric (such as a polyurethane) mixture (which transitions to a solid state) and miniaturized hollow plastic bodies positioned between the outer wall of the treatment catheter and the fluid lumen. The thermally insulated region is configured such that, measured ex vivo, the treatment catheter can present a maximum temperature of below about 45° C. on the external surface of the outer wall of the treatment catheter when the treatment catheter circulates fluid having an inlet temperature of above or between about 60°-62° C.

Abstract: An apparatus delivers an agent to a treatment region, the apparatus having an outer cannula or lumen that has an internal surface and an external surface, the external surface being substantially smooth to penetrate tissue whereas the distal end is tapered; an inner cannula, or lumen coaxial to the outer cannula, providing a common fluid path (that is the same fluid passes through both the inner cannula and outer cannula) at the distal end with the inner surface of the outer cannula; a source of fluid to be passed through the common fluid path, the source of fluid comprising at least a reservoir of nutrients and/or gases for maintaining cells contained in a lumen coaxial and internal to the inner cannula; a semipermeable membrane comprises the surface of the lumen, thus allowing controlled material transport across the lumen surface; a source of cells or other biologically active material mass flow connected to the proximal lumen so that the cells or other biologically active material can exit the distal port

Abstract: A single operator exchange fluid jet thrombectomy device having an outer catheter assembly and separable and exchangeable components in the form of an inner catheter assembly allowing functioning as a rheolytic thrombectomy catheter or as a crossflow thrombectomy catheter. Embodiments include an outer catheter assembly common to any mode of usage having a guide catheter having a lumen through which a guidewire and the greater portion of a hypo-tube carrying a flow director are passed and advanced. For use as a rheolytic thrombectomy catheter, thrombus is dislodged, entrained, and broken into pieces by jets and evacuated through the lumen of the guide catheter. For use as a crossflow thrombectomy catheter, a flow director having outflow and inflow orifices is provided.

Abstract: A multi-lumen catheter assembly with a two-piece hub is disclosed. The catheter includes a distal portion having a plurality of catheter lumens, wherein each of the plurality of catheter lumens includes a distal tip and a proximal lumen portion. The distal portion further includes a distal hub portion slidably disposed over the proximal lumen portion, wherein the distal hub portion includes a pivoting locking member. The catheter assembly further includes a proximal portion having a plurality of catheter extensions, wherein each of the plurality of catheter extensions fluidly communicates with at least one of the plurality of catheter lumens. The proximal portion also includes a proximal hub portion having a locking receiver, wherein the pivoting locking member is releasably engaged with the locking receiver.

Abstract: A multiple catheter assembly is provided. The assembly includes a first catheter having a first proximal end region, a first distal end region terminating in a first distal tip, and an outer surface defining at least a first lumen extending longitudinally therethrough between a first distal and a first proximal opening. The assembly also includes a second catheter having a second proximal end region, a second distal end region terminating in a second distal tip, and a second outer surface defining at least a second lumen extending longitudinally therethrough between a second distal and a second proximal opening. The first lumen and the second lumens are independent from each other for facilitating simultaneous flow in opposite directions. The outer surfaces of the first and second catheters are releasably joined for allowing the first and second distal tips and first and second proximal end regions to be at least partially longitudinally split from each other.

Abstract: A multiple lumen catheter having at least two lumens separate and independent from each other along at least a portion of their lengths, and that can be selectively joined together to change the separation distances between the lumens by way of a connecting means.

Abstract: Catheter devices and methods for their use in enhancing fluid flow through a vascular site occupied by a vascular occlusion are provided. The subject catheter devices include at least a first, second and third lumen, where: (a) the first lumen is used for delivery of an acidic dissolution solution to the vascular site; (b) the second lumen is used for delivery of a buffer solution to the vascular site; and (c) the third lumen is used for removal of fluid from the vascular site. In many preferred embodiments, the first, second and third lumens are coaxial. In practicing the subject methods, the vascular site is flushed simultaneously with an acidic dissolution fluid and a buffer solution, where flushing is carried out in a manner such that only a surface of the vascular occlusion is contacted with the acidic dissolution fluid and the remainder of the vascular site is not contacted with fluid having a pH that is lower than about 4.

Abstract: A suction cannula, dilator, stapler and staple are provided herein. The suction cannula is concentrically aligned with a puncture site (e.g., puncture in an artery or vein) and provides vacuum about the periphery of the puncture site so that the puncture hole is always located during a medical procedure, and to thereby permit a surgeon to quickly and efficiently close the puncture using, for example, a stapling device. In the preferred embodiment the suction cannula has a tube-in-tube construction having an inner tube and an outer tube where a vacuum can be applied between the tubes. The dilator (and suction cannula) centers around a guide wire (that is already in place within the venous structure) and follows the path of the guide wire to the puncture site. Preferably, the dilator has a tapered tip on the distal end that enters a hole made in the vein or artery. A blood indicator is provided on the proximal end to provide visual feedback when the surgeon is in the artery (i.e.

Abstract: An insertion device and method of using and manufacturing an insertion device is shown, wherein the insertion device is capable of distributing a media over a large distribution volume inside a patient while reducing the amount of tissue disturbed by the procedure. Also shown is a computer-readable medium with instructions stored thereon, the instructions when executed operable to cause generation of a set of data for use with an insertion device. An insertion device and methods are shown that allows a series of iterations to be performed within a single insertion procedure that distributes media, such as cells for cell therapy, over a large volume.

Abstract: A catheter is adapted to exchange heat with a body fluid, such as blood, flowing in a body conduit, such as a blood vessel. The catheter includes a shaft with a heat exchange region disposed at its distal end. This region may include hollow fibers which are adapted to receive a remotely cooled heat exchange fluid preferably flowing in a direction counter to that of the body fluid. The hollow fibers enhance the surface area of contact, as well as the mixing of both the heat exchange fluid and the body fluid. The catheter can be positioned to produce hypothermia in a selective area of the body or alternatively positioned to systemically cool the entire body system.

Abstract: An intraocular surgical apparatus including an introduction tube for introducing perfusate into a closed intraocular affected part, a discharge tube for discharging the affected part and the perfusate, a perfusate feed passage connected to the introduction tube and incorporating a perfusate reservoir for feeding the perfusate with a predetermined rest liquid head pressure, a valve for controlling the amount of perfusate fed from the reservoir to the introduction tube, and a discharge passage connected to the discharge tube and incorporating a suction pump. The perfusate feed passage further incorporates, at a passage portion thereof from the control valve to an outlet opening of the introduction tube, a pressure-reduction compensating means for feeding supplementary perfusate into the closed intraocular affected part through a supplementing passage having a smaller passage resistance than the perfusate feed passage in the event of and in association with abnormal pressure reduction inside the affected part.

Abstract: A multilumen catheter assembly and methods for making and inserting the same are provided. The catheter assembly includes a unitary catheter and at least two distal end tubes which extend distally from the unitary catheter. The at least two lumens in the unitary catheter are in fluid communication with passageways through the distal end tubes. The catheter assembly may be made by extruding a unitary catheter tube having internal longitudinally extending lumens, then splitting the tube on its distal end portion to form distal end tubes. The tubes are then ground and polished to form a smooth surface on the exterior of the tubes. The catheter assembly may also be made by forming an outer layer on at least two longitudinally extending catheters while leaving two distally extending portions of the tubes outside the outer layer to form the distal end tubes.

Abstract: Cross stream thrombectomy catheter and system for fragmentation and removal of thrombus or other material from blood vessels or other body cavities. High velocity saline jets emitted from a toroidal loop jet emanator or other jet emanator in a catheter distal end entrain fluid through inflow orifices, and with flow resistances create a back-pressure which drives cross stream streams through outflow orifices in a radial direction and thence radially and circumferentially to apply normal and drag forces on thrombotic deposits or lesions in the blood vessel or other body cavity, thereby breaking apart and transporting thrombus particles to be entrained through the inflow orifices, whereupon the high velocity jets macerate the thrombus particles which then transit an exhaust lumen or recirculate again via the outflow orifices.

Abstract: A method of inserting a multi-lumen catheter assembly. First, an incision is made near the area to be catheterized. The proximal portion of the multi-lumen catheter tube is then inserted into the area to be catheterized. A subcutaneous tunnel is created, and the first end of the tunnel is near the incision. The catheter tube is then routed through the subcutaneous tunnel and pulled tube through a second end of the subcutaneous tunnel. The hub body is then securely attached to the catheter tube by connecting the connection cover to the hub body by threaded engagement. In a preferred embodiment the hub body is attached to the catheter tube by backfitting the connection cover over the catheter tube. A compression sleeve is also backfit over the catheter tube. The cannulae of the hub body are inserted into the lumens of the catheter tube to create fluid communication therebetween.

Abstract: A catheter is adapted to exchange heat with a body fluid, such as blood, flowing in a body conduit, such as a blood vessel. The catheter includes a shaft with a heat exchange region disposed at its distal end. This region may include hollow fibers which are adapted to receive a remotely cooled heat exchange fluid preferably flowing in a direction counter to that of the body fluid. The hollow fibers enhance the surface area of contact, as well as the mixing of both the heat exchange fluid and the body fluid. The catheter can be positioned to produce hypothermia in a selective area of the body or alternatively positioned to systemically cool the entire body system.

Abstract: A multilumen catheter having tubings extending into lumens within the catheter. The lumens may be used for blood, drugs or other medicants. The lumens may also be used for sensors. The junction element, external to the patient, connects the tubings to the lumens. The tubings, also external to the patient, connect to infusion members, to which one or more infusion systems may be connected to deliver blood, drugs and other medicants to the patient. A sensor having a sensing element may extend through the sensor lumen and be positioned internal to the patient for physiological parameter sensing. An external portion of the sensor may be connected to associated electronics to provide automatic monitoring of the physiological parameters and automatic delivery and control of the infusants.

Abstract: A multilumen catheter assembly is provided, which includes a unitary portion and at least two distal end tubes extending distally from the unitary portion. The unitary portion includes an exterior having a generally round or oval shape in cross section and includes at least two distal end tubes of generally circular (or other) cross sectional shape extending longitudinally therethrough. The catheter assembly may be made by extruding a unitary tube having internal longitudinally extending lumens (of circular or other shape), then splitting the tube on its distal end portion to form distal end tubes. The tubes are then ground and polished, the finished tubes retaining in combination the generally oval cross sectional shape of the unitary extrusion, or the finished tubes can each be finished to a circular, or other, cross sectional shape; or the finished tubes could include a combination of cross sectional shapes over its longitudinal length.

Abstract: It is an object of the present invention to provide a balloon catheter in which the inner tube is prevented from slackening after balloon inflation, improving the rewrapping of the balloon, discontinuity in the rigidity of the joined portions of the outer tube and the balloon is lessened, which prevents breakage, and the catheter advances through blood vessels better and passes more easily through narrow segments, preventing the catheter from “accordioning” and enhancing insertion force transmission. The balloon catheter pertaining to the present invention has a catheter shaft (1) with a double-tube structure comprising an outer tube (4) and an inner tube (5), and a balloon (3) disposed at the distal end portion of this catheter shaft (1).

Abstract: A device for removing a thrombus or other tissue deposit from the cardiovascular system, or from a natural or synthetic tubule or other cavity found in the human body of a patient without the need to surgically access the location of the thrombus or other tissue deposit via a cut-down or other surgical procedure. A flexible metal or high pressure plastic tube conveys an extremely high pressure stream of sterile saline or other physiologic solution to at least one orifice at the distal end of the catheter. At least one jet is directed at the opening of a large exhaust lumen or other target. The jet is responsible for providing a localized negative pressure which entrains tissue into the jet from break-up of the debris. This jet can also provide stagnation pressure in the exhaust lumen which drives the tissue or thrombotic debris out of the exhaust lumen.

Abstract: A catheter including a catheter tube and a bolus tip, the bolus having a radially extending main side port. In one embodiment the catheter also has second and third side ports axially spaced from said main side port. The second and third side ports are each axially elongated, with an edge which is semi-circular in cross-section. The second side port is displaced 180° from the main side port. The third side port is axially aligned with the main port. The catheter is thickened in a dimple opposite each of the second and third side ports. Another catheter embodiment specifically for hemodialysis includes a dual lumen tube with a bolus at its distal end. A main venous port is formed in one side of the bolus adjacent the bullet nose of the bolus. Variations of this embodiment utilize a bolus with a 13.5 French tube connector section and a 10 French nose section, with the venous port formed in the nose section.

Abstract: A multilumen catheter assembly is provided, which includes a unitary portion and at least two distal end tubes extending distally from the unitary portion. The unitary portion includes an exterior having a generally round or oval shape in cross section and includes at least two distal end tubes of generally circular (or other) cross sectional shape extending longitudinally therethrough. The catheter assembly may be made by extruding a unitary tube having internal longitudinally extending lumens (of circular or other shape), then splitting the tube on its distal end portion to form distal end tubes. The tubes are then ground and polished, the finished tubes retaining in combination the generally oval cross sectional shape of the unitary extrusion, or the finished tubes can each be finished to a circular, or other, cross sectional shape, or the finished tubes could include a combination of cross sectional shapes over its longitudinal length.

Abstract: A medicine delivery mechanism or fibrin injection mechanism for use in combination with an anastomosing and stapling attachment for an electromechanical device driver comprises a dispensing chamber with an elongated cylindrical cross section (although other shapes can be used) which is formed in the staple housing of the attachment in lieu of a staple port or staple ports, and which has a mouth forming a channel lined at its innermost edge perimeter with inward facing prongs or teeth. The dispensing chamber contains a sac filled with fibrin. A delivery or plunger driver travels within the dispensing chamber to press a sac of fibrin against the inward facing prongs, tearing the sac and releasing the fibrin to push the fibrin through the channel to the treatment site.

Abstract: A catheter is provided which has been optimized so as to become mistake-proof, user-friendly, and manually connectable to a transfer device by which the patient may hook up the catheter to a source of dialysis fluid. The catheter of the invention preferably has an outer segment which is softer than the harder internal segment and affords greater comfort to the patient. In addition, the catheter has an enlarged outer portion to lower interference and allow the catheter to be manually connected to a suitable connection device, and contains overmolded segments that can have different diameters and cross-sections so that the catheter may be optimized to meet differing requirements in any specific peritoneal dialysis operation while maintaining the integrity and structure of a non-segmented catheter. The catheter can also be made with at least two lumens wherein the lumens have a unique geometric shape so as to fit in lock-and-key fashion to suitable connection devices.

Abstract: An integrated infusion and aspiration system includes of a flow control system and a catheter assembly. The catheter assembly includes an infusion catheter and an aspiration catheter, each having ports located at the distal end of thereof. The distal ends of the catheters are separated so that the aspiration catheter ports can be positioned on an opposing side of a surgical wound site from the infusion catheter ports. Methods of operation of the integrated infusion and aspiration system provides for uninterrupted aspiration with concurrent controlled delivery of an infusion solution such that the infusion solution is substantially evenly dispersed of over the wound site.

Abstract: Injection devices are provided, which reduce potential outflow of therapeutic agents from an injection site. Devices are provided having at least a first lumen containing one or more therapeutic agents and a second lumen containing a second material for injection into tissue. Other devices are provided having an inner lumen with an injection needle to inject a therapeutic agent and an outer lumen that provides a vacuum seal between the injection needle and the needle track. Further provided are methods of delivering a therapeutic agent to tissue.

Abstract: The instant invention provides for apparatus and methods for the efficient administration of pharmaceuticals to target cells, tissues and/or organs, for a variety of functional uses.

Abstract: Apparatus with a pneumatic or hydraulic or mechanical therapeutic catheter. The therapy energy required to treat internal vessels of the patient is transferred by the same fluid or the same elements from the proximal end section to the distal end section of the catheter that transfer information from the distal end section to the proximal end section of the catheter. The information provides understanding of the estate of the vessel and how the therapy fluid of the therapy element of the catheter acts on the vessel.

Abstract: The present invention provides improved methods for establishing vascular access to a patient's body lumen or other target location, particularly blood vessels, for performing extracorporeal treatments, such as hemodialysis, hemofiltration, hemodiafiltration, plasmapheresis, apheresis, and the like, on circulating blood. In particular, the present invention provides improved methods which may enhance extracorporeal blood flow rates, reduce instances of fibrin sheath or thrombosis formation, and minimize recirculation effects. Methods for recirculating blood to a patient include placing a draw catheter so that a distal tip thereof is positioned in a right atrium of the patient's heart. A return catheter is placed so that a distal tip thereof is positioned in a superior vena cava. Extracorporeal blood flow from the draw catheter to the return catheter may then be established.

Abstract: A fibrin injection mechanism for use in combination with an anastomosing and stapling attachment for an electromechanical device driver comprises a cylindrical dispensing chamber adjacent the cylindrical blade of the attachment and containing a sac filled with fibrin, a plurality of channels extending within the blade communicating between the dispensing chamber and the cutting edge of the blade, such that when the turning drive shaft is activated, the staple driver of the attachment moves forward to push a plurality of staples through corresponding staple ports and against the anvil of the attachment to pass through and staple together the target tissue, while the blade driver of the attachment moves forward to cut the unwanted residual tissue (post stapling), while a plunger (delivery) driver moves forward through the dispensing chamber to compress the sac to its break point, releasing the fluid medication into the dispensing chamber, and eventually pushing the medication though the channels to deliver the

Abstract: Cross stream thrombectomy catheter and system for fragmentation and removal of thrombus or other material from blood vessels or other body cavities. High velocity saline jets emitted from a toroidal loop jet emanator or other jet emanator in a catheter distal end entrain fluid through inflow orifices, and with flow resistances create a back-pressure which drives cross stream streams through outflow orifices in a radial direction and thence radially and circumferentially to apply normal and drag forces on thrombotic deposits or lesions in the blood vessel or other body cavity, thereby breaking apart and transporting thrombus particles to be entrained through the inflow orifices, whereupon the high velocity jets macerate the thrombus particles which then transit an exhaust lumen or recirculate again via the outflow orifices.

Abstract: A single operator exchange fluid jet thrombectomy method employing a single operator exchange fluid jet thrombectomy device having an outer catheter assembly and separable and exchangeable components in the form of an inner catheter assembly allowing functioning as a rheolytic thrombectomy catheter or as a crossflow thrombectomy catheter. The outer catheter assembly is common to any mode of usage and includes a guide catheter having a lumen through which a guidewire and the greater portion of a hypo-tube carrying a jet emanator and a flow director are passed and advanced. In the method, thrombus is dislodged, entrained, and broken into pieces by fluid jets and evacuated through the lumen of the guide catheter.

Abstract: A vascular access catheter having a curved tip. Preferably, the curved tip is formed into a substantially pig-tail shape. Where the catheter is of the double lumen variety, the terminus of the draw lumen is at the end of the curved tip, and thus is shielded from direct contact with a side wall of the blood vessel into which the catheter is inserted. This configuration lessens risks associated with prior art vascular access catheters, including occlusion of the catheter and damage to the vein wall.

Abstract: An apparatus for tacking a multi-lumen tubular assembly together comprises a laser, an optical member and a placement tray for retaining the tubular assembly. A portion of the optical member defines a window that is substantially transparent to laser energy emitted from the laser. The window has a substantially concave shaped surface. The placement tray and the window surface define a processing area for positioning at least a portion of the tubular assembly. The processing area receives the laser energy that is emitted from the laser and passed through the window of the optical member. The tubular assembly is defined by an outer tubular member disposed about at least a portion of at least one inner tubular member. The laser energy transmitted into the processing area is transmitted substantially through the outer tubular member and is substantially absorbed by at least one region of the least one inner tubular member.

Abstract: Described is a closed chest intravascular catheter system for a simultaneous biventricular approach to (1) intravascular cardiopulmonary surgery; (2) acute or prolonged mechanical circulatory support. The catheter system includes a left heart catheter and a right heart catheter with flow control members that segment the circulatory system into subcirculations of cardiopulmonary support. The left heart catheter has an elongated shaft with a first flow control member positioned at the entry site into a peripheral artery, a second flow control member positioned in the proximal descending aorta, a third flow control member positioned in the ascending aorta, and a fourth flow control member positioned within the left ventricle.