Heat transfer catheters and methods of making and using same
View Patent ↗Heat transfer catheter apparatus and methods of making and using same are disclosed wherein a fluid connection is provided between the distal portions of two adjacent, thin-walled, high strength fluid lumens to define a closed loop fluid circulation system capable of controlled delivery of thermal energy to or withdrawal of thermal energy from remote internal body locations.
1. A heat transfer catheter apparatus, comprising:
(a) a substantially elongate shaft;
(b) at least one first lumen internal to said substantially elongate shaft, said at least one internal lumen configured:
(i) to circulate a working fluid;
(ii) to inflate under pressure of said working fluid; and
(iii) to collapse under vacuum; and
(c) a second lumen external and adjacent to said substantially elongate shaft, said second lumen having a spiral shape.
2. The catheter apparatus of claim 1 ;
(a) further comprising a working heat transfer fluid supply; wherein
(b) said working heat transfer fluid is saline.
3. The catheter apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising a wire disposed within said first lumen.
4. The catheter apparatus of claim 1 ;
(a) further comprising a working heat transfer fluid supply; wherein
(b) said working heat transfer fluid supply circulates said working heat transfer fluid.
5. The catheter apparatus of claim 4 , wherein said working heat transfer fluid supply is adapted to be operated to produce a pressurized working heat transfer fluid at a temperature above or below normal body temperatures.
6. The catheter apparatus of claim 1 ;
(a) further comprising a working heat transfer fluid supply; wherein
(b) the working fluid is an aqueous solution.
7. The catheter apparatus of claim 1 , wherein said substantially elongate shaft is substantially straight.
8. The catheter apparatus of claim 1 , wherein said second lumen helically encircles said substantially elongate shaft.
9. The catheter apparatus of claim 8 , wherein:
(a) said substantially elongate shaft is cylindrical and
(b) said helical shape of said second lumen is tapered when said first lumen is inflated.
10. The catheter apparatus of claim 1 , wherein said substantially elongate shaft is cylindrical and has an overall length-to-diameter ratio of 25:1 or greater.