Aspiration catheter systems and methods of use

Abstract

Abstract An aspiration catheter system for facilitation of intraluminal medical procedures within the cerebral vasculature, including embolectomy. The system includes a catheter having a lumen and a distal end with an opening in the lumen, and a catheter advancement element which is positionable within the lumen. The catheter advancement element includes a tubular portion, a tapered tip portion distal to the tubular portion, and a radiopaque marker band identifying a proximal end of the tapered tip portion. When assembled, the radiopaque marker band is substantially aligned with the distal end of the catheter. The radiopaque marker band locally increases the stiffness of the catheter advancement element, providing a gradual transition in bending force along the distal portion of the catheter advancement element. The catheter system as configured provides a transition in the flexibility along its distal region, and facilitates advancement through tortuous anatomy. Abstract

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