Balloon catheter for venting residual air proximally

Abstract

To provide a balloon guide catheter system.SOLUTION: A balloon guide catheter system includes a balloon guide catheter having a catheter shaft that includes: (i) a main lumen; (ii) an inflation lumen; and (iii) an exhaust lumen. The terminating distal end of the inflation lumen and the terminating distal end of the exhaust lumen are in localized fluid communication with one another underneath the balloon while in a non-inflated state. A balloon is disposed about a distal region of an outer surface of the catheter shaft. The exhaust lumen is configured to purge the residual air in a proximal direction and out of a proximal region of the balloon guide catheter.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1A

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] (CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS) This application claims the benefit of the following: U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 845,683, filed May 9, 2019; U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 845,699, filed May 9, 2019; U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 845,711, filed May 9, 2019; and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 845,747, filed May 9, 2019, each of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety herein.

[0002] FIELD OF THEINVENTION The present invention relates to intravascular medical systems, and more particularly to an improved balloon catheter that vents residual air proximally. [Background technology]

[0003] Balloon catheters are widely used in connection with various intravascular medical procedures or treatments. Typically, a fluid or liquid under pressure is injected into the inflation lumen of the catheter to inflate the balloon. Before being introduced into the body, the balloon catheter is prepared by a physician or interventionist following a precise multi-step process to properly purge residual air from the inflation lumen and the balloon. Specifically, purging air from the inflation lumen prevents air emboli from entering the vasculature in the event of a balloon leak or rupture. Furthermore, residual air is also purged from the balloon itself to ensure inflation of the balloon using a desired volume of inflation medium that may otherwise be inaccurate due to the compressed unknown volume of residual air within the balloon.

[0004] One common technique for purging residual air from a balloon catheter prior to introduction into the body is by applying a vacuum or negative pressure to the proximal end of the inflation lumen using a syringe or vacuum to draw as much air as possible as proximally through the inflation lumen. The syringe vacuum is then closed, via a valve (e.g., a three-way luer valve), and the inflation lumen is opened under vacuum to allow the inflation medium to be dispensed through the valve and into the balloon. During the injection of the inflation medium, the balloon is preferably held vertically at a downward tilt to encourage the air to evacuate and to allow any residual air in the catheter to rise through the inflation medium toward the inflation port. The inflation medium and some air bubbles are withdrawn from the catheter, and additional inflation medium is injected again. It is not uncommon that these steps must be repeated multiple times to adequately purge the catheter of residual air, requiring a significant amount of preparation time. With each repetition, these steps must be followed precisely.

[0005] In angiography balloon catheter systems, the device is configured so that residual air from the inflation lumen and balloon is vented through a distal vent rather than a proximal vent.

[0006] Because the preparatory steps are numerous and time consuming, physicians and interventionists may be inhibited from using the device entirely. A physician or interventionist using the device may unintentionally skip after proper preparatory steps or may inappropriately skip after introducing the balloon catheter into the body posing potential health risks to the patient. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] It is therefore desirable to design an improved balloon catheter and a method of using such an improved balloon catheter to vent residual air in a proximal direction while minimizing the steps associated therewith, thereby facilitating use of the device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] One aspect of the present invention relates to an improved balloon catheter that vents residual air proximally.

[0009] Another aspect of the invention is directed to a balloon guide catheter system including a balloon guide catheter having a catheter shaft with a proximal end and an opposite distal end, the catheter shaft including (i) a main lumen defined axially through the catheter shaft, (ii) an inflation lumen extending axially along the catheter shaft, the inflation lumen having a proximal end and an opposite terminal distal end, and (iii) an exhaust lumen extending axially along the catheter shaft, the inflation lumen having a proximal end and an opposite terminal distal end. The terminal distal end of the inflation lumen and the terminal distal end of the exhaust lumen are in localized fluid communication with each other under the balloon while in a non-inflated state. Additionally, the balloon guide catheter further includes a balloon disposed about a distal region of an outer surface of the catheter shaft, the exhaust lumen configured to purge residual air proximally and out of the proximal region of the balloon guide catheter.

[0010] Yet another aspect of the invention is directed to a method for using the balloon guide catheter described in the preceding paragraph. The method includes dispensing an inflation medium into the inflation lumen through an inflation port of a hub connected to the proximal end of the catheter shaft. The inflation medium is advanced distally through the inflation lumen pushed by the dispensed inflation medium, venting residual air proximally through the vent lumen and out of the terminating distal end of the inflation lumen. The residual air is exhausted through a membrane, allowing only the residual air to pass through the membrane and out of the proximal region of the balloon guide catheter. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0011] These and other features of the present invention will become more readily apparent from the following detailed description and drawings which illustrate the invention and in which like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout the several views. [Figure 1A] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a balloon catheter according to the present invention. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1B is an enlarged view of dashed square area 1B of the balloon portion of the balloon catheter of FIG. 1A depicting the mesh surface profile beneath the balloon that facilitates fluid communication between the inflation lumen and the exhaust lumen. [Figure 2A] 1B is an alternative hub portion configuration (dashed square area II) of the balloon catheter of FIG. 1A having a one-way valve attached to the exhaust port of the hub. [Figure 2B] 1B is yet another alternative hub section configuration (dashed square area II) of the balloon catheter of FIG. 1A having a purged lung that serves as an exhaust port for the hub. [Figure 3A] 1C depicts radial cross-sectional views of different exemplary configurations of the exhaust lumen and the inflation lumen in the balloon catheter of the present invention taken along line III-III in FIG. 1B. [Figure 3B] 1C depicts radial cross-sectional views of different exemplary configurations of the exhaust lumen and the inflation lumen in the balloon catheter of the present invention taken along line III-III in FIG. 1B. [Figure 3C] 1C depicts radial cross-sectional views of different exemplary configurations of the exhaust lumen and the inflation lumen in the balloon catheter of the present invention taken along line III-III in FIG. 1B. [Figure 3D] 1C depicts radial cross-sectional views of different exemplary configurations of the exhaust lumen and the inflation lumen in the balloon catheter of the present invention taken along line III-III in FIG. 1B. [Figure 4A] FIG. 1 is a partial axial cross-sectional view of the distal end of a catheter of the present invention having a balloon in a taut, deflated state against the outer surface of the catheter shaft, with the terminating distal ends of the respective inflation and exhaust lumens coinciding within a single D-shaped localized fluid communication channel defined in the outer wall of the catheter shaft. [Figure 4B] FIG. 4B is a top view of the catheter of FIG. 4A. [Figure 4C] FIG. 4C is a radial cross-sectional view through the local fluid communication channel of FIG. 4A taken along line IV(C)-IV(C). [Figure 4D] FIG. 11 is an alternative exemplary radial cross-sectional view through a local fluid communication channel illustrating a different arrangement of the terminating distal ends of the respective inflation and exhaust lumens coinciding within a single local fluid communication channel defined within the outer wall of the catheter shaft. [Figure 4E] FIG. 11 is an alternative exemplary radial cross-sectional view through a local fluid communication channel illustrating a different arrangement of the terminating distal ends of the respective inflation and exhaust lumens coinciding within a single local fluid communication channel defined within the outer wall of the catheter shaft. [Figure 4F] FIG. 11 is an alternative exemplary radial cross-sectional view through a local fluid communication channel illustrating a different arrangement of the terminating distal ends of the respective inflation and exhaust lumens coinciding within a single local fluid communication channel defined within the outer wall of the catheter shaft. [Figure 4G] FIG. 1 is a top view of the distal end of a catheter of the present invention with the balloon in a deflated (uninflated) state, where the terminating distal ends of the respective inflation and exhaust lumens coincide within a single localized fluid communication channel defined within the outer wall of the catheter shaft and a surface profile disposed about a portion of the outer surface of the catheter shaft. [Figure 4H] FIG. 1 is a top view of the distal end of a catheter of the present invention with the balloon in a deflated (uninflated) state, with the terminal distal ends of the respective inflation and exhaust lumens staggered relative to one another such that the terminal distal end of the inflation lumen coincides with a first local fluid communication channel, while the terminal distal end of the exhaust lumen coincides with a second local fluid communication channel axially spaced from the first local fluid communication channel. [Figure 4I] FIG. 1 is a partial top view of an axial section of a catheter shaft without a balloon, in which the local fluid communication channels are perforations (e.g., elliptical, circular, etc.) and the inflation lumen extends partially axially into the perforations. [Figure 4J] FIG. 1 is a partial top view of an axial section of a catheter shaft without a balloon, where the local fluid communication channels are perforations (e.g., elliptical, circular, etc.) and the inflation lumen terminates at the interface with the perforations. [Figure 4K] FIG. 4I is a radial cross-sectional view through the local fluid communication channels of FIG. 4I taken along line IV(K)-IV(K), showing the inflation lumen coinciding within a single local fluid communication channel defined within the outer wall of the catheter shaft. [Figure 4L] FIG. 1 is a partial top view of an axial section of a catheter shaft without a balloon, in which the local fluid communication channels are perforations (e.g., elliptical, circular, etc.) and the respective ends of the inflation lumen and exhaust lumen terminate at an interface with the perforations. [Diagram 5] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a balloon catheter of the present invention advanced to a target site within a body vessel. [Figure 6A] FIG. 1 is a partial axial cross-sectional view of the distal end of an exemplary configuration of a balloon catheter of the present invention in a deflated (uninflated) state, in which the inflation lumen is arranged concentrically and the exhaust lumen is arranged eccentrically relative to that of the main / guidewire lumen. [Figure 6B] FIG. 6B is a radial cross-sectional view of the balloon catheter of FIG. 6A taken along line VI(B)-VI(B). [Figure 6C] 6B is a partial axial cross-sectional view of the distal end of the balloon catheter of FIG. 6A while the balloon is in an inflated state. [Figure 6D] FIG. 6B is a top view of a portion of the balloon catheter of FIG. 6A with the balloon removed, depicting the arrangement of inlet and outlet ports within the catheter shaft. [Figure 7A] FIG. 1 is a partial axial cross-sectional view of the distal end of another exemplary configuration of a balloon catheter of the present invention, in which the balloon is in a deflated (uninflated) state, the inflation lumen is arranged concentrically and the exhaust lumen is arranged eccentrically relative to that of the main / guidewire lumen. [Figure 7B] FIG. 7B is a radial cross-sectional view of the balloon catheter of FIG. 7A taken along line VIIB-VIIB. [Figure 7C] 7B is a partial axial cross-sectional view of the distal end of the balloon catheter of FIG. 7A while the balloon is in an inflated state. [Figure 8A] FIG. 2 is a partial axial cross-sectional view of the distal end of yet another exemplary configuration of a balloon catheter of the present invention, in which the balloon is in a deflated (uninflated) state, the inflation lumen is arranged concentrically and the exhaust lumen is arranged eccentrically relative to that of the main / guidewire lumen, and the exhaust lumen is disposed within the inflation lumen and extends axially through a portion of the inflation lumen. [Figure 8B] FIG. 8B is a radial cross-sectional view of the balloon catheter of FIG. 8A taken along line VIII(B)-VIII(B). [Figure 8C] 8B is a partial axial cross-sectional view of the distal end of the balloon catheter of FIG. 8A while the balloon is in an inflated state. [Figure 9A] FIG. 1 is a partial axial cross-sectional view of the distal end of another exemplary configuration of a balloon catheter of the present invention, in which the balloon is in a deflated (uninflated) state, the inflation lumen is arranged concentrically, and two exhaust lumens are arranged eccentrically relative to that of the main / guide lumen, with the exhaust lumen intersecting with the one radially inward of the exhaust lumen. [Figure 9B] FIG. 9B is a radial cross-sectional view of the balloon catheter of FIG. 9A taken along line IX(B)-IX(B). [Figure 9C] 9B is a partial axial cross-sectional view of the distal end of the balloon catheter of FIG. 9A while the balloon is in an inflated state. [Figure 10A] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of the balloon guide catheter of the present invention that does not have a balloon. [Figure 10B] 10B is a radial cross-sectional view of the balloon guide catheter of FIG. 10A taken along line X(B)-X(B). [Figure 11A] FIG. 10B is an axial cross-sectional view of the hub of FIG. 10A when the valve is positioned in an open state during purging of residual air from the catheter and during inflation of the balloon. [Figure 11B]FIG. 10B is an axial cross-sectional view of the hub of FIG. 10A when the valve is positioned in a closed state during balloon deflation. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0012] The terms "distal" or "proximal" are used in the following description with reference to a location or direction relative to the treating or interventionalist. "Distal" or "distally" is a location or direction away from the physician or interventionalist. "Proximal" or "proximal" or "proximal" is a location or direction closer to the physician or interventionalist. The terms "occlusion", "clot", or "closure" are used interchangeably.

[0013] The balloon catheter of the present invention has multiple lumens disposed on the outer wall of the catheter radially outwardly of the main lumen through which the guidewire is received. Specifically, there is at least one inflation lumen and at least one exhaust / vent lumen, each extending axially within the outer wall of the catheter from the hub to the balloon. The distal ends of each of the inflation lumen and the exhaust / vent lumen are in localized fluid communication with each other. The diameter dimension of the main lumen of the device is sufficient to function as a conduit for the guidewire(s) (e.g., 0.014 inch, 0.018 inch, 0.035 inch, and 0.038 inch guidewires) as well as auxiliary devices such as microcatheters, mechanical thrombectomy devices, diagnostic catheters, and intermediate / aspiration catheters during procedures, for example. Preferably, the main lumen has a diameter of approximately 0.088 inches.

[0014] Regardless of the particular configuration, the balloon catheter of the present invention purges, evacuates, or vents residual air proximally from the balloon catheter.

[0015] Referring to the perspective view of the balloon catheter 100 of the present invention depicted in FIG. 1A, the catheter has a proximal end 105 and an opposite distal end 110. A hub 130 is secured adjacent to the proximal end 105 of the balloon catheter 100. In a first configuration shown in FIG. 1A, the hub 130 includes a primary / guidewire port 140 for receiving therein a guidewire 90 or an auxiliary device. A separate inflation medium port 135 is also provided in the hub 130 for receiving therein an inflation medium (e.g., preferably a 50% control saline solution) introduced into the balloon catheter 100 from a syringe or other dispensing mechanism (syringe 536 is shown in FIG. 5). In the configuration shown in FIG. 1A, the hub 130 does not have an exhaust or vent port. Rather, residual air is vented or exhausted through an aperture defined in the outer surface of the exhaust lumen adjacent to the proximal end of the catheter shaft, but distal to the hub 130. While in the deflated (uninflated) state, the balloon 115 fits tightly around the catheter shaft to prevent the presence of residual air between the deflated balloon and the catheter shaft. The distal ends of both the inflation lumen 125 and the exhaust lumen 120 are coincident below the balloon 115 and are disposed close to one another such that the relatively low volume of residual air in the inflation lumen is effectively communicated to the exhaust lumen. The ongoing inflation medium follows the path of least resistance flowing into the balloon region rather than proceeding backwards through the exhaust lumen.

[0016] Disposed axially or longitudinally through balloon catheter 100 beginning at proximal end 105 are at least three separate, distinct and independent lumens: main / guidewire lumen 123, exhaust lumen 120, and inflation lumen 125. Exhaust lumen 120 and inflation lumen 125 are disposed radially outward relative to main / guidewire lumen 123. In addition, main / guidewire lumen 123 extends from proximal end 105 to the opposite distal end 110, while the respective terminal distal ends of exhaust lumen 120 and inflation lumen 125 terminate below (coincident with) balloon 115, as is clearly visible from the enlarged partial view of the distal end of the catheter in FIG.

[0017] Preferably, a microporous membrane or filter 121 is adjacent the terminal distal end of the exhaust lumen 120. The pores of the microporous membrane are sized to only allow the passage of gas (e.g., residual air) therethrough, and liquid (inflation medium) dispensed through the inflation lumen is prevented from permeating through the microporous membrane, allowing the pressure in the inflation lumen to grow and inflate the balloon when the volume within the balloon fills with the inflation medium. Preferably, the microporous membrane is a specific grade (based on porosity and thickness) of sintered polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), e.g., expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE), which allows the passage of air molecules therethrough but acts as a barrier to more cohesive molecules such as water and contrast agents. Such a microporous membrane may also prevent air blockage of the exhaust lumen and improper operation of the catheter.

[0018] 2A is an alternative configuration of a hub 130' that includes an exhaust port 137 (through which residual air purged proximally exits the balloon catheter 100), as well as the previously mentioned inflation port 135 and main / guidewire port 140. Different auxiliary devices can be connected to the exhaust port 137. In one exemplary embodiment depicted in FIG. 2A, a one-way valve 145 can be connected to the exhaust port 137 to control the evacuation of residual air from the balloon catheter. An alternative configuration is shown in FIG. 2B, in which the exhaust port 137 is replaced by an inflatable lung, reservoir, or sac 150 to store therein residual air purged proximally from the balloon catheter.

[0019] In operation of the balloon catheter of the present invention, an inflation medium (preferably a 50% control saline solution) is introduced into the catheter using a syringe or other dispensing device attached to the inflation port of the hub. The inflation medium travels through the inflation lumen into the deflated balloon. A microporous membrane located at the interface between the balloon and the exhaust lumen has holes sized to prohibit the passage of the inflation medium therethrough, allowing only residual air to pass from the balloon to the exhaust lumen. When the balloon fills with the inflation medium, the balloon expands. Consistent with the inflation of the balloon, the pressure inside the balloon increases, automatically exhausting or venting the residual air in the balloon proximally through the exhaust lumen. In the hub, the residual air expelled from the balloon catheter can be controlled using a sealable one-way exhaust valve, and / or the purged residual air can be stored in an inflatable or expandable purge lung, thereby removing the residual air from the system and storing it outside the body in the hub (by taking advantage of its compressibility).

[0020] As non-limiting examples, numerous configurations of one or more exhaust lumens and one or more inflation lumens, each disposed radially outward from the main lumen in the balloon catheter 100, are shown and described. Additional configurations are possible and within the intended scope of the present invention, among which the residual air is vented through the exhaust lumens in a proximal direction rather than distal direction from the catheter. Several exemplary designs of exhaust lumens and inflation lumens in a balloon catheter, and their arrangement relative to each other, are shown in Figures 3A-3D. In Figure 3A, the inflation lumen 125A has a curved segment radial cross section with a radius of curvature sharing a common center (coaxial, concentric) with the main / guidewire lumen 123A. Although two exhaust lumens 120A with circular radial cross sections are shown as radially displaced from each other as possible within the inflation lumen 125A, any number of one or more exhaust lumens may be provided as desired, and any position or spacing of the exhaust lumen(s) 120A within the inflation lumen 125A may be provided. FIG. 3B is an alternative configuration, in which each of the exhaust lumen 120B and the inflation lumen 125B has a curved segment radial cross section with a radius of curvature that shares a common center (coaxial, concentric) with the main / guidewire lumen 123B. Yet another configuration is depicted in FIG. 3C. Similar to FIG. 3A, the inflation lumen 125C of FIG. 3C has a curved segment radial cross section with a radius of curvature that shares a common center (coaxial, concentric) with the main / guidewire lumen 123C. However, in this particular design, the single exhaust lumen 120C is separate, distinct, and independent from the inflation lumen 125C (not disposed within the inflation lumen as in FIG. 3A). Meanwhile, yet another possible configuration is shown in FIG. 3D. Similar to those in Figure 3B, each of the exhaust lumen 120D and inflation lumen 125D in Figure 3D has a curved segment radial cross section with a radius of curvature sharing a common center (coaxial, concentric) with the main / guidewire lumen 123A. Figure 3D differs from Figure 3B in that the exhaust lumen 120D and inflation lumen 125D, respectively, are disposed approximately 180 degrees radially separated from each other (mirror images of each other).In another embodiment, the curved inflation and exhaust lumens may be "D" shaped or have a smaller / larger radius or curvature than that of the main / guidewire lumen. These are only non-limiting illustrative examples of different arrangements of the main, exhaust, and inflation lumens within the catheter.

[0021] FIG. 4A is an exemplary partial axial cross-sectional view of the distal ends of the exhaust lumen 420 and the inflation lumen 425 coincident with the balloon 415, which is shown in a deflated (uninflated) state. A local fluid communication channel, depression, or recess 475 is defined in the outer wall of the catheter shaft at a location anywhere in the axial direction coincident with the balloon (e.g., proximal region of the balloon, mid region of the balloon, distal region of the balloon) as long as the channel is below / under (coincident with) the balloon 415. As clearly visible from the top view of FIG. 4B, the local fluid communication channel 475 may be D-shaped, however, other geometric shapes (e.g., circular, elliptical, etc.) are contemplated. Fluid communication between the terminal distal ends of the respective inflation lumens 425 and the exhaust / vent lumen 420 occurs within this local fluid communication channel 475. In FIG. 4B, the terminal distal ends of the respective exhaust and inflation lumens extend partially into the local fluid communication channel 475. Alternatively, the terminating distal ends of the respective exhaust and inflation lumens may coincide with the outer periphery or boundary surface of the local communication channel 475. FIG. 4C is a radial cross-sectional view through the local fluid communication channel 475 along line IV(C)-IV(C) of FIG. 4A, depicting the juxtaposed arrangement of the terminating distal ends of the respective inflation and exhaust lumens 425 and 420. While in the deflated (uninflated) state, the balloon 415 is taut around the outer surface of the catheter shaft, as shown in FIG. 4A. As a result, following the path of least resistance, residual air advanced through the inflation lumen 425 by the pressurized insufflation medium is expelled proximally from the catheter through the exhaust lumen 420 without inflating the balloon 415.

[0022] Alternative arrangements or configurations of the terminating distal ends of the respective exhaust and inflation lumens within the local fluid communication channel 475, radially outward from the main / guidewire lumen 423, are depicted in different radial cross-sectional views in Figures 4D-4F. Focusing on each separately, in Figure 4D, the inflation lumen 425 and the exhaust lumen 420 are side-by-side in physical contact with each other and are equal in both inner and outer diameters. Figure 4E also shows a side-by-side arrangement with two lumens in physical contact with each other within the local fluid communication channel 475, however, the lumens differ in both inner and outer diameters. Specifically, the outer diameter of the inflation lumen 425 is smaller than the outer diameter of the exhaust lumen 420, but the inner diameter of the inflation lumen 425 is larger than the inner diameter of the exhaust lumen 420. Preferably, the inner diameter of the inflation lumen is larger than the inner diameter of the exhaust lumen, since the exhaust lumen only functions to exhaust residual air. 4F, the inflation lumen 425 and the exhaust lumen 420 are arranged side-by-side and in physical contact with one another within the local fluid communication channel 475. The outer diameters of the inflation and exhaust lumens are equal in diameter, but the inner diameter of the inflation lumen 425 is larger than the inner diameter of the exhaust lumen 420. Any combination or permutation of these arrangements of the exhaust and inflation lumens within the channels, as well as the size of the inner and outer diameters of each lumen, are within the scope of the present invention.

[0023] FIG. 4G is a top view of a partial distal section of yet another configuration of a balloon catheter of the present invention having a single local fluid communication channel defined in the shaft, with the distal ends of the respective exhaust and inflation lumens coinciding in the single local fluid communication channel. Disposed around a portion of the circumference of the catheter shaft is a surface profile 480 coinciding with the local fluid communication channel 475 to facilitate fluid flow from the inflation lumen 425 to the exhaust lumen 420. Preferably, the surface profile 480 is a mesh made of a polymer, metal, and / or other material wrapped around the outer surface of the catheter shaft. The balloon extends axially to completely cover or surround the surface profile 480. The radial cross-sectional profile through the single local fluid communication channel 475 would be similar to that shown in FIG. 4C, although different arrangements such as those shown in FIGS. 4D-4F are possible, as desired.

[0024] FIG. 4H is a top view of yet another configuration in which the terminating distal end of the inflation lumen 425 is coincident with a first localized fluid communication channel 475' while the terminating distal end of the exhaust lumen 420 is coincident with a second localized fluid communication channel 475" that is axially displaced away from the first localized fluid communication channel 475'. In this arrangement, the surface profile 480 is coincident with both the first and second localized fluid communication channels 475', 475". Again, the surface profile 480 facilitates fluid communication between the inflation lumen and the exhaust lumen, which is particularly applicable in this arrangement where the first and second localized fluid communication channels 475', 475" are axially displaced from one another along the catheter shaft.

[0025] The top view of the catheter shaft section (without the balloon) shown in Figures 4I and 4J shows the first local fluid communication channel as a perforation (e.g., oval, circular, etc.) defined in the outer surface of the catheter shaft. The terminal distal end of the inflation lumen 425 extends partially into the perforation 475 in Figure 4I, whereas in Figure 4J, the terminal distal end of the inflation lumen 425 is aligned with the boundary surface of the perforation 475, i.e., the terminal distal end of the inflation lumen does not extend into the perforation. A radial cross-sectional view through the first local fluid communication channel 475 of Figure 4I along line IV(K)-IV(K) is shown in Figure 4K. The location of the inflation lumen 425 in the first local fluid communication channel 475 in Figure 4K is on the left side, however, its location can be selected anywhere within the first local fluid communication channel 475 (e.g., halfway within the channel, to the right within the channel, etc.) as desired. As previously mentioned, the terminating distal ends of each inflation lumen and exhaust lumen may be aligned (coincident) with the boundary surface of a single perforation defined in the outer surface of the catheter shaft that functions as a single localized fluid communication channel, as shown in FIG. 4L.

[0026] Figure 5 shows a balloon catheter 500 of the present invention with the balloon 515 in an inflated state at a target site within an artery 550. A syringe 536 or other injection device is connected to the inflation port 535 of Figure 5 for introducing an inflation medium (e.g., a 50 / 50 control / saline solution) into the inflation lumen. A one-way or manual valve 545 is connected to the exhaust port 537 for controlling the purging of residual air from the catheter. A main / guidewire port or opening 540 is also provided in the hub 530 for receiving a guidewire 90 therein.

[0027] 6A is a partial axial cross-sectional view of the distal end of another exemplary configuration of a balloon catheter 600 according to the present invention, with the balloon 615 in a deflated (uninflated) state. The inflation lumen 625 and the exhaust lumen 620 are two separate channels or passages that extend axially side-by-side within the catheter shaft or body, respectively. The inflation lumen 625 is defined on the outer surface anywhere along the catheter shaft and terminates in at least one inlet port, opening, or channel 630 (two shown in FIG. 6A) that is in fluid communication with the balloon 615 through which the inflation medium passes. Meanwhile, residual air is exhausted through an outlet port, opening, or channel 635 into the exhaust lumen 620 defined within the catheter shaft. A reinforcing member, preferably a metal wire, preferably 0.001" to 0.003" stainless steel wire such as SS304 grade (made into a coil, braid, or both), may be provided along a portion of the catheter shaft between the main lumen 623 and the inflation lumen 625 to increase stiffness in the distal region of the catheter to aid during vascular navigation. The reinforcing member is preferably embedded in a soft, flexible polymeric material to prevent ovalization, prolapse, and kinking of the catheter lumen.

[0028] In FIG. 6A, the reinforcing member is a braid 640 disposed around the proximal region of the catheter shaft, then distally disposed by a coil 640' disposed along the distal region of the catheter shaft. Alternatively, either the braid or the coil alone may function as the reinforcing member. To minimize friction when the auxiliary device is inserted through the main lumen, an inner liner, preferably made of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), may be provided. Additionally, to minimize axial twisting of the catheter during advancement through the vasculature, a reinforcing inner sheath or sleeve 645 may be provided between the main lumen 623 radially inside the reinforcing member and the inflation lumen 625. Preferably, the inlet opening 630 is disposed axially distal to that of the outlet opening 635. As shown in the radial cross section of FIG. 6B, the inflation lumen 625 is disposed concentrically (coaxially) while the exhaust lumen 620 is disposed eccentrically with respect to the main lumen 623. 6C depicts the catheter 600 with the balloon 615 in an inflated state, with the inlet opening 630 and the outlet opening 635, respectively, in fluid communication with the balloon 615. A top view of the catheter shaft without the balloon (FIG. 6D) shows the arrangement of the inlet opening 630 and the outlet opening 635. Again, any number of one or more inlet ports and one or more outlet ports can be varied as desired, along with the arrangement of those ports along the catheter shaft.

[0029] 7A is a partial longitudinal cross-sectional view of the distal end of yet another exemplary configuration of a balloon catheter 700 according to the present invention. Again, the inflation lumen 725 is disposed radially outward of the main lumen 723 between the concentric shafts (see FIG. 7B). The exhaust lumen 720 is created by joining, welding, attaching, or mounting a thin polymer jacket 716 around the outer surface of the catheter shaft, creating a passageway or space therebetween that functions as the exhaust lumen 720. The inflation medium travels through the inflation lumen 725 from the inlet opening 730 into the balloon 715. Residual air travels along the outer surface of the catheter shaft and enters the outlet opening 735 through the exhaust lumen 720 created by the polymer jacket 716 attached to the outer surface of the catheter shaft. The axial distance D between the inlet port 730 and the outlet port 735 is preferably minimized to aid in communication of the discharged residual air between the inflation lumen and the exhaust lumen. The relatively large exhaust lumen created by the relatively thin polymer jacket attached to the outer surface of the outer shaft offers the advantages of reduced preparation time and excellent deflation time when the exhaust lumen is opened. As with the previous configurations, reinforcing structures, such as the braid 740, coil 740' and / or inner sheath 745, may be used to provide increased stiffness to the catheter.

[0030] FIG. 8A is a partial axial cross-sectional view of the distal end of yet another exemplary configuration of a balloon catheter 800 according to the present invention. This design is similar to that of FIG. 6A in that the inflation lumen 825 is arranged concentrically with respect to the main lumen 823. However, the axially extending exhaust lumen 820 is an independent, isolated lumen located entirely within the inflation lumen 825 between the inner and outer shafts of the catheter body, as shown in FIG. 8B. Again, the inlet opening 830 is in fluid communication with the balloon 815, while the outlet opening 835 is defined in the outer shaft and provides direct communication between the balloon 815 and the exhaust lumen 820. The enlarged inner diameter is an advantage of this balloon catheter design, which can accommodate a wide range of auxiliary devices having larger outer diameters. As with all the different configurations, a reinforcing structure, such as a braid 840, a coil 840', and / or an inner sheath 845, may be used to provide the catheter with increased stiffness.

[0031] Yet another exemplary configuration of a balloon catheter 900 according to the invention is represented by a partial axial cross-sectional view of the distal end of the catheter in FIG. 9A. The inflation lumen 925 is arranged concentrically with respect to the main lumen 923, while each of the two exhaust lumens 920 is arranged eccentrically with respect to the main lumen 923. In the previous embodiments (FIGS. 6A, 6B, 7A, and 7B), the inflation lumen was arranged between the inner and outer shafts comprising the catheter body. In the design of FIG. 9A, the exhaust lumen 920 is arranged in the inner catheter shaft radially between the main lumen 923 and the inflation lumen 925. As is evident from the longitudinal cross-sectional view of FIG. 9B, the exhaust lumen 920 crosses (intersects without fluid communication with) the inflation lumen 925. FIG. 9B is a radial cross-sectional view of the catheter along line IX(B)-IX(B), clearly showing the two exhaust lumens 920 arranged in the inner shaft and radially inside the inflation lumen 925. FIG. 9C depicts the catheter of FIG. 9A while in an inflated state.

[0032] In each of the different exemplary configurations shown in Figures 6B, 7B, 8B, and 9B, the inflation lumen is concentric (coaxial) while the exhaust lumen is eccentric relative to the main / guidewire lumen.

[0033] FIG. 10A is a perspective view of yet another configuration of the balloon guide catheter of the present invention having dual lumens (one inflation lumen 1025 and one exhaust lumen 1020) defined in the outer wall of the catheter shaft apart from the main lumen 1023. The distal ends of each of the inflation and exhaust lumens 1025 and 1023 coincide with a local fluid communication channel, recess, or depression 1075. The local fluid communication channel 1075 is where the terminal distal ends of each of the inflation and exhaust lumens are in fluid communication with each other. The balloon, not shown in FIG. 10A, is taut or fitted around the outer surface of the distal region of the catheter shaft covering the local fluid communication channel 1075. A parallel axial arrangement of radially sectioned inflation lumens 1025 and exhaust lumens 1020 disposed radially outward from the main lumen 1023 and within the outer wall of the outer shaft is shown in FIG. 10B. Different arrangements of the inflation lumen(s) and exhaust lumen(s) are possible, such as, but not limited to, those depicted in Figures 3A-3D. A proximal hub 1030 is connected to the proximal end of the balloon guide catheter. The hub 1030 includes a main / guidewire port 1040, an inflation port 1035, and an exhaust / vent port 1045. A valve 1095 is disposed in the exhaust port 1045.

[0034] FIG. 11A is a cross-sectional axial view of the hub 1030 of FIG. 10A with the three-way valve 1095 oriented or positioned for inflation of the balloon with inflation media (e.g., a 50 / 50 control / saline solution) injected into the inflation port 1040 (via a syringe 536 similar to that shown in FIG. 5). The inflation media injected into the inflation port 1040 enters the inflation opening 1026 in the outer wall of the catheter shaft and fills the inflation lumen 1025. Once the inflation media reaches the local fluid communication channel, it enters and travels proximally through the exhaust lumen 1020 and out the vent opening 1027 into the hub 1030. As the inflation media is dispensed under pressure from the syringe and travels out of the inflation lumen through the catheter residual air, the balloon is vented, purged, or evacuated proximally from the catheter. The valve 1095 located distal to the exhaust port 1045 is oriented or positioned in FIG. 11A in an open state, thereby allowing the flow of residual air through the valve, which then exits the exhaust port 1045 via the micro-porous membrane or filter 1021. The holes or openings in the micro-porous membrane or filter 1021 are sized to allow the residual air to pass therethrough, while prohibiting or preventing the inflation medium from passing therethrough. Once the residual air has been completely purged from the catheter, any additional flow of inflation medium or an increase in pressure applied by the syringe will inflate the balloon. The flow rate of the inflation medium is maintained such that complete venting of the residual air occurs without sufficient pressure being built up or generated within the catheter to initiate balloon inflation.

[0035] The local fluid communication channel 1075 under the balloon is designed to allow both lumens (exhaust lumen 1020 and inflation lumen 1025) to allow residual air and inflation medium to flow from the terminal distal end of the inflation lumen into the terminal distal end of the exhaust lumen.

[0036] Deflation of the balloon is accomplished by applying a vacuum (e.g., a syringe) to the inflation port 1040 which creates a negative pressure within the catheter. When it is time to deflate the balloon, the valve 1095 is oriented to close off flow to the exhaust port 1045. Upon application of a vacuum or suction (e.g., a syringe) attached to the inflation port 1040 which creates a negative pressure within the catheter, inflation media exhausted from the exhaust lumen is redirected into the bridge fluid communication channel 1090 and combines with the inflation media vented through the inflation lumen and out the inflation port 1040. This unique hub configuration, and in particular the orientation or positioning of the valve during deflation to close the exhaust port 1045 upon application of a vacuum to the inflation port, provides for simultaneous removal of inflation media through both the inflation and exhaust lumens, thereby optimizing deflation of the balloon.

[0037] Preferably, the configuration of the hub 1030 is optimized by minimizing its overall axial length to minimize manufacturing costs and to minimize unusable lengths of the hub through which other catheters pass. It is also contemplated to replace the three-way manual valve 1095 with a spring-loaded or ball valve that is automatically actuated upon the introduction of suction or vacuum applied to the inflation port 1040.

[0038] Evacuation of residual air from the balloon catheter of the present invention is less complicated and takes less time to accomplish than conventional devices. In accordance with the present invention, air is automatically purged proximally from the balloon catheter. Specifically, priming of the balloon catheter of the present invention begins with the passage of inflation medium through the inflation lumen that coincides with the residual air being purged, evacuated, or vented proximally from the system via the exhaust lumen, shortening priming time. Furthermore, because the residual air is vented proximally, safety concerns associated with purging air after the catheter is introduced into the body are eliminated.

[0039] The closed loop proximal venting system of the present invention has several advantages. Residual air may occur due to the proximal preparation of the device being vented by the interventionist while the device is in the patient. Another advantage of the closed loop proximal design of the present invention is that the inflation medium automatically evacuates residual air / gas out of the exhaust lumen through the microporous membrane, while preventing the inflation medium from passing through the microporous membrane, thereby inflating and expanding the balloon. Thus, the present invention eliminates the need for a valve or other mechanical device to inflate the balloon after residual air has been purged.

[0040] Although the basic novel features of the present invention as applied to the preferred embodiments thereof have been shown, described, and pointed out, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various omissions, substitutions, and changes in the form and details of the illustrated systems / devices, and in their operation, may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. For example, all combinations of components and / or steps that perform substantially the same functions in substantially the same manner to achieve the same results are expressly intended to be encompassed within the scope of the present invention. Also, the substitution of components from one embodiment described above to another embodiment is fully intended and anticipated. It should also be understood that the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale and are merely conceptual. The present invention is therefore limited only by the scope of the appended claims.

[0041] All issued patents, pending patent applications, publications, articles, books, or other references cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0042] [Embodiment] (1) A balloon guide catheter system, comprising: A balloon guide catheter, a catheter shaft having a proximal end and an opposite distal end, the catheter shaft including: (i) a main lumen defined axially through the catheter shaft; (ii) an inflation lumen extending axially along the catheter shaft, the inflation lumen having a proximal end and an opposite terminal distal end; and (iii) an exhaust lumen extending axially along the catheter shaft and having a proximal end and an opposite terminal distal end, wherein the terminal distal end of the inflation lumen and the terminal distal end of the exhaust lumen are in localized fluid communication with each other beneath the balloon while in an uninflated state; a balloon disposed about a distal region of an outer surface of the catheter shaft; The balloon guide catheter system, wherein the exhaust lumen is configured to purge residual air in a proximal direction and out of a proximal region of the balloon guide catheter. (2) The balloon guide catheter system of embodiment 1, wherein the catheter shaft has an outer surface having a first local fluid communication channel defined therein that is located beneath the balloon, and the terminal distal ends of each of the inflation lumen and exhaust lumen are locally fluidly connected to each other via the first local fluid communication channel. (3) The balloon guide catheter system of embodiment 2, wherein the catheter shaft has a second local fluid communication channel defined in the outer surface, the first and second local fluid communication channels are separated from each other, the terminal distal end of the inflation lumen coincides with the first local fluid communication channel, and the terminal distal end of the exhaust lumen coincides with the second local fluid communication channel. (4) The balloon guide catheter system of embodiment 1, wherein the inflation lumen and the exhaust lumen are radially separated from each other by a predetermined distance. (5) The balloon guide catheter system of embodiment 1, wherein the exhaust lumen is disposed within the inflation lumen.

[0043] (6) The balloon guide catheter system of embodiment 3, wherein an area of ​​the outer surface of the catheter shaft coinciding with the first and second local fluid communication channels has a surface profile to promote fluid flow between the inflation lumen and the exhaust lumen. (7) The balloon guide catheter system of embodiment 6, wherein the balloon completely encapsulates the area of ​​the outer surface of the catheter shaft having the surface profile. (8) The balloon guide catheter system of embodiment 7, wherein the surface profile is an embossed mesh attached to the outer surface of the catheter shaft. (9) The balloon guide catheter system of embodiment 1, wherein the exhaust lumen is disposed eccentrically relative to the main lumen. (10) The balloon guide catheter system of embodiment 9, wherein the exhaust lumen is disposed radially inward of the inflation lumen, radially outward of the inflation lumen, or within the inflation lumen.

[0044] (11) The balloon guide catheter system of claim 10, further comprising a polymer jacket having an outer periphery, the outer periphery of the polymer jacket being attached to an outer surface of the catheter shaft, defining a volume between the polymer jacket and the outer surface of the catheter body, and the terminal distal end of the exhaust lumen being in fluid communication with the volume. (12) The balloon guide catheter system of claim 10, wherein the exhaust lumen extends beyond the inflation lumen. (13) A catheter further comprising a hub connected to the proximal end of the catheter shaft, the hub comprising: an inflation port in fluid communication with the inflation lumen; an exhaust port in fluid communication with the exhaust lumen; a bridge fluid communication channel connecting the inflation port and the exhaust port; a membrane disposed within the exhaust port, the membrane having an opening defined therein sized to permit the passage of only air therethrough; 2. The balloon guide catheter system of claim 1, further comprising: a valve disposed within the exhaust port distal to the membrane, the valve being transitionable between (i) an open state in which air can pass through the membrane and out of the exhaust port, and (ii) a closed state in which inflation medium from the exhaust lumen is redirected through the bridge fluid communication channel and into the inflation lumen. (14) A method for using a balloon guide catheter system including a balloon guide catheter having a catheter shaft having a proximal end and an opposite distal end, the catheter shaft including: (i) a main lumen defined axially through the catheter shaft; (ii) an inflation lumen extending axially along the catheter shaft, the inflation lumen having a proximal end, an opposite terminal distal end, and disposed radially outward and concentric with the main lumen; and (iii) an exhaust lumen extending axially along the catheter shaft, the inflation lumen having a proximal end and an opposite terminal distal end, the exhaust lumen being in fluid communication with one another beneath the balloon while in an uninflated state; the balloon guide catheter further includes a balloon disposed about a distal region of an outer surface of the catheter shaft, the exhaust lumen being configured to purge residual air in a proximal direction and out of a proximal region of the balloon guide catheter, the method comprising: dispensing an inflation medium into the inflation lumen through an inflation port of a hub connected to the proximal end of the catheter shaft; advancing the residual air displaced by the dispensed inflation media distally through the inflation lumen; venting the residual air exiting the terminal distal end of the inflation lumen proximally through the vent lumen; and evacuating the residual air through a membrane that allows only the residual air to pass through and out of a proximal region of the balloon guide catheter. (15) The exhausting step comprises: the residual air exiting the terminal distal end of the inflation lumen is received in a local fluid communication channel covered by the balloon, which is held taut against the outer surface of the catheter shaft while in an uninflated state, the terminal distal ends of each of the inflation and exhaust lumens being in fluid communication in the local fluid communication channel; and receiving the exhaled residual air into the terminal distal end of the exhaust lumen.

[0045] 16. The method of claim 14, wherein the venting step includes positioning the valve in an open state to pass the residual air through the valve and out of the hub via an exhaust port. (17) The method of claim 16, further comprising the step of inflating the balloon to an inflated state by continuous distribution of the inflation medium into the inflation lumen after the residual air has been completely purged from the balloon guide catheter. (18) positioning the valve in a closed state to close the exhaust port of the hub; and applying a vacuum to the inlet port of the hub; The method of embodiment 16, wherein the distributed inflation medium is discharged proximally through the inflation lumen and the exhaust lumen simultaneously, and the inflation medium discharged through the exhaust lumen is redirected by the valve in the closed state to move through a bridge fluid communication channel connecting the exhaust lumen to the inflation lumen and out of the inflation port of the hub.

Claims

1. 1. A balloon guide catheter system comprising: A balloon guide catheter, a catheter shaft having a proximal end and an opposite distal end, the catheter shaft including: (i) a main lumen defined axially through the catheter shaft; (ii) an inflation lumen extending axially along the catheter shaft, the inflation lumen having a proximal end and an opposite terminal distal end; and (iii) an exhaust lumen extending axially along the catheter shaft, the inflation lumen having a proximal end and an opposite terminal distal end; a balloon disposed about a distal region of an outer surface of the catheter shaft; the outer surface of the catheter shaft has a first localized fluid communication channel defined therein that is located beneath the balloon, the first localized fluid communication channel being a depression or recess formed in the outer surface, and through the first localized fluid communication channel the terminal distal end of the inflation lumen and the terminal distal end of the exhaust lumen are in localized fluid communication with each other beneath the balloon while the balloon is in an uninflated state; The balloon guide catheter system, wherein the exhaust lumen is configured to purge residual air in a proximal direction and out of a proximal region of the balloon guide catheter.

2. The balloon guide catheter system of claim 1 , wherein the inflation lumen and the exhaust lumen are radially separated from each other by a predetermined distance.

3. The balloon guide catheter system of claim 1 , wherein the exhaust lumen is disposed within the inflation lumen.

4. The balloon guide catheter system of claim 1 , wherein the exhaust lumen is disposed eccentrically relative to the main lumen.

5. The balloon guide catheter system of claim 4 , wherein the exhaust lumen is disposed radially inward of the inflation lumen, radially outward of the inflation lumen, or within the inflation lumen.

6. 6. The balloon guide catheter system of claim 5, further comprising a polymer jacket having an outer periphery, the outer periphery of the polymer jacket being attached to the outer surface of the catheter shaft and defining a volume between the polymer jacket and the outer surface of the catheter shaft, the terminating distal end of the exhaust lumen being in fluid communication with the volume.

7. The balloon guide catheter system of claim 5 , wherein the exhaust lumen extends beyond the inflation lumen.

8. a hub connected to the proximal end of the catheter shaft, the hub comprising: an inflation port in fluid communication with the inflation lumen; an exhaust port in fluid communication with the exhaust lumen; a bridge fluid communication channel connecting the inflation port and the exhaust port; a membrane disposed within the exhaust port, the membrane having an opening defined therein sized to permit the passage of only air therethrough; 2. The balloon guide catheter system of claim 1, further comprising: a valve disposed within the exhaust port distal to the membrane, the valve being transitional between (i) an open state in which air is permitted to pass through the membrane and out of the exhaust port, and (ii) a closed state in which inflation media from the exhaust lumen is redirected through the bridge fluid communication channel and into the inflation lumen.

9. The balloon guide catheter system of claim 1 , wherein a distal end of the first local fluid communication channel is spaced proximally from the distal end of the catheter shaft.

10. The balloon guide catheter system of claim 1 , wherein the balloon fits snugly around the outer surface of the catheter shaft while in the uninflated state.

11. 2. The balloon guide catheter system of claim 1, wherein the terminating distal end of the inflation lumen and the terminating distal end of the exhaust lumen are positioned between the proximal and distal ends of the first local fluid communication channel.

12. The balloon guide catheter system of claim 1 , wherein the inflation lumen and the exhaust lumen are each a separate tubular structure from the catheter shaft.

13. The balloon guide catheter system of claim 1 , wherein the residual air and inflation medium flows out of the terminal distal end of the inflation lumen and into the terminal distal end of the exhaust lumen.

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