Patent ID: 8075510
Filing Date: 2011-12-13
Classification: A61B,A61M

Abstract:
1. A system for removing an undesirable material from within a vessel, the system comprising: a first cannula having a pathway extending therethrough, an expandable distal end, and an opposing proximal end, the first cannula designed for maneuvering within a vessel to a site of interest, such that when expanded a size difference between the distal end and the pathway provides a ratio sufficient to provide a vortex flow to be generated through the distal end, so that the undesirable material can be captured substantially en bloc through the distal end and removed along the first cannula away from the site; a pump, in fluid communication with the proximal end of the first cannula, to provide a sufficient suction force for generating a vortex flow through the expanded distal end to permit removing the undesirable material en bloc from the site of interest; and a second cannula in fluid communication with the pump while being in fluid communication with the proximal end of the first cannula, and being designed to have its distal end situated in spaced relation to the distal end of the first cannula, such that fluid removed from the site of interest by the first cannula can be directed along the second cannula and reinfused through the distal end of the second cannula.