Proton generating catheters and methods for their use in enhancing fluid flow through a vascular site occupied by a calcified vascular occulation
US6719747B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 4, 2003 |
| Grant date | Apr 13, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 4, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B2017/22082
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Catheter devices and methods are provided for enhancing fluid flow through a vascular site occupied by a calcified lesion. The catheter devices of the subject invention at least include, at their distal end, a proton generating means, and in many embodiments also include a flushing means. In using the subject devices, the distal end of the catheter is placed proximal to the vascular occlusion and protons are generated, e.g., via proton generation from water, in a manner sufficient to reduce the pH of the vascular site in the region proximal to the occlusion. The subphysiologic pH is maintained for a period of time sufficient for fluid flow through the vascular site to be enhanced. Also provided are kits comprising the subject catheter devices for use in the subject methods.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.