Thrombectomy and tissue removal method and device

Abstract

Abstract A method and apparatus for removing a thrombus or other tissue deposit from the cardiovascular system. A catheter (16) is inserted percutaneously into the patient at a convenient location either directly or over a previously positioned guide wire or inside a guide catheter. The distal end of the catheter is advanced under fluoroscopy to the site of the thrombus or tissue deposit. A flexible metal or high-pressure plastic tube (110) conveys an extremely high-pressure stream (124) of sterile saline or other physiologic solution to at least one jet (118, 120) at the distal end of the catheter. At least one jet (120, 118) is directed at the opening of a large exhaust lumen (112) or other target. The jet(s) is responsible for providing a localized negative pressure which entrains tissue into the jet from breakup of the debris. This jet(s) can also provide stagnation pressure in the exhaust lumen which drives the tissue or thrombotic debris out of the exhaust lumen.

Inventors

• 👤 William J. Drasler
• 👤 Robert G. Dutcher
• 👤 Mark L. Jenson
• 👤 Joseph M. Thielen
• 👤 Emmanuil I. Protonotarios

Bibliographic Details