Michael N Voss

US Patent:

7179269, Feb 20, 2007

Filed:

May 20, 2002

Appl. No.:

10/152129

Inventors:

Eric Welch - Miramar FL, US
Erice N. Hubbart - Mattapan MA, US
Michael J. Voss - Weston FL, US
Robert B. DeVries - Marlborough MA, US
Paul DiCarlo - Middleboro MA, US

Assignee:

Scimed Life Systems, Inc. - Maple Grove MN

International Classification:

A61B 17/22

US Classification:

606159, 604 43

Abstract:

An apparatus and system for removing an obstruction from a body lumen simultaneously mechanically dislodges the obstruction, macerates the obstruction, and aspirates the effluent caused thereby. The maceration is effected by directing pressurized fluid to the obstruction, while the obstruction is dislodged by a tip portion formed on the end of a guidewire. The apparatus includes a flexible catheter having at least two channels individually accommodating fluid flow paths towards and away from the obstruction. The guidewire may be disposed in either of the channels or a third channel formed in the flexible catheter. The apparatus also includes a drive unit for rotating the guidewire. The drive unit may be an external drive unit, such as an electrical motor, or may include drive elements formed on the guidewire within a drive chamber, across which the fluid flows and imparts energy against the drive elements to cause rotation of the guidewire.