Methods and devices for reducing the mineral content of vascular calcified lesions

Abstract

Methods and devices are provided for at least reducing the mineral content of a vascular calcified lesion, i.e. a calcified lesion present on the vascular tissue of a host. In the subject methods, the local environment of the lesion is maintained at a subphysiologic pH for a period of time sufficient for the mineral content of the lesion to be reduced, e.g. by flushing the lesion with a fluid capable of locally increasing the proton concentration in the region of the lesion. Also provided are systems and kits for practicing the subject methods. The subject methods and devices find particular use in the treatment of vascular diseases associated with the presence of calcified lesions on vascular tissue.

Description

[0001] This application is a continuation of Ser. No. 10 / 091,133, filed Mar. 4, 2002 which is a continuation of Ser. No. 09 / 353,127, filed Jul. 14, 1999 which is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 09 / 195,291, filed Nov. 18, 1998; which application is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 09 / 118,193 filed on Jul. 15, 1998; the disclosures of which are herein incorporated by reference.

[0002] 1. Technical Field

[0003] The field of this invention is vascular disease, particularly vascular diseases characterized by the presence of calcified lesions, e.g. atherosclerosis, and the like.

[0004] 2. Background of the Invention

[0005] The formation of plaques or lesions, (atherosclerotic plaques or lesions) on cardiovascular tissue, such as the inner surface of blood vessels, aortic valves, etc., is a major component of cardiovascular disease. Many atherosclerotic plaques and lesions are characterized by the presence of mineral deposits, i.e. they are calcified. Calcified les...

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