Patent ID: 7048729
Filing Date: 2006-05-23
Classification: A61M

Abstract:
1. A catheter for removing fluid from a body cavity, comprising: a catheter body having a wall defining a lumen therein and having at least one hole defined in the catheter body in a location that is within a body cavity when implanted, and which in combination with a shape of the catheter body prevents loculation, migration and blockage of a fluid flow through the lumen when the fluid flow is induced from a distal end to a proximal end thereof, the catheter body having a tissue-puncture resistant shape; and a port having on one surface a septum capable of multiple needle accesses; wherein the distal end of the catheter body has an expanded, blunt shape including a cage structure enclosing the at least one hole; wherein the cage is collapsible when advanced by a pusher rod; and wherein the cage structure is composed essentially of a plastic material.