| abstract |
The device of the present invention includes a catheter having a combined infusion / aspiration lumen, three lumen proximal portions and two lumen distal portions. An infusion / suction valve located at the distal end of the catheter facilitates performing infusion and aspiration through the same lumen, thereby reducing the number of lumens and making the combined infusion / aspiration lumens larger without the need to increase the diameter of the catheter . Because of the different material properties of the proximal and distal portions of the catheter, the proximal portion may be more rigid with respect to pushability, while the distal portion is more flexible, thus seeking a serpentine vasculature, A stirrer can be accommodated within the catheter. |