Patent ID: 6440158
Filing Date: 2002-08-27
Classification: A61B,A61F,A61M

Abstract:
Method for effecting a controlled transfer of heat along a selected catheter portion positioned at a remote internal body location comprising the steps of (a) inserting into a body passageway so as to reach said body location a discrete heat-transfer portion of a catheter apparatus, said heat-transfer portion comprising an inlet fluid lumen, an outlet fluid lumen adjacent said inlet fluid lumen, said inlet and outlet lumens sharing a common wall portion that terminates before the distal end of said heat-transfer portion and a fluid connection whereby substantially all fluid passes from said inlet lumen to said outlet lumen, further wherein said heat-transfer portion has a varying cross-sectional diameter along its length to cause turbulent flow for purposes of increased heat transfer at this portion of the catheter; and (b) establishing continuous fluid flow through said inlet and outlet lumens with a fluid at a temperature different from that of the subject body.