| abstract |
The present invention provides means for keeping the lumens and the distal orifices of catheters and like articles free of undesirable granulation tissues, granulomas, and the like. The catheter of the invention overcomes the problem of catheter occlusion by providing an immediately available source of an anti-neoplastic agent that minimizes or prevents formation of granulation tissue or granulomas at the tip and/or in the lumen of the catheter, thereby maintaining catheter patency. The catheter comprises a body with an exterior surface and a distal end, wherein at least the distal end comprises an anti-neoplastic agent to prevent or minimize catheter occlusion when the distal end of the catheter is in contact with a bodily tissue and/or fluid. In one embodiment, the anti-neoplastic agent is applied to the catheter as a coating. In another embodiment, the anti-neoplastic agent is an integral part of the catheter material. |