| abstract |
The present invention provides devices, systems, methods and kits for percutaneously removing unwanted tissue or obstacles from body cavities or human body lumens, particularly from vasculature. Blood vessels containing the coronary arteries, surrounding and neurovascular circulation (stenotic or blocked by atheroma or plaque) are often treated with traditional endarterectomy. The present invention has enabled the benefits of such a procedure through an intravascular approach, especially a percutaneous approach. In general, the invention provides a set of catheters or tools that can be introduced percutaneously into a block or occlusion. The tool dissects or dissects the lining tissue of the lumen, leading to the underlying tissue layer. The intimal tissue layer then strips the occluding material attached thereto from the underlying tissue layer. The removed tissue layer and occlusive material are then removed from the lumen (including further cuts, shredding, and removal by mechanical suction). In each case, the obstruction is eventually removed from the lumen. |