Single access flow-reversal catheter devices and methods
Embodiments herein include devices and methods directed toward creating reverse flow within a vessel and thereby providing protection against embolic debris. Embodiments comprise a catheter and a plurality of occluders that are expandable and adjustable within a lumen to create low-pressure areas that reroute blood flow and embolic debris therein.
1. A method for providing embolic protection comprising the steps of providing a single access catheter device comprising:
a catheter having a proximal and distal region with a lumen therethrough;
a first occluder located within the distal region of the catheter;
a second occluder located proximal to the first occluder;
a return port located proximal to the second occluder; and
a conduit connecting the distal the end of catheter to the return port;
locating the first occluder in a vessel proximate to a treatment site;
locating the second occluder in an aorta downstream of a renal artery;
expanding the first occluder and the second occluder whereby blood flows through the conduit from a distal end of the catheter to the return port.
2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the conduit comprises the lumen of the catheter and the interstitial space between an introducer sheath and the catheter.
3. The method of claim 1 , further comprising the step of filtering the blood flowing through the conduit to remove at least a portion of embolic debris therein.
4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the vessel is a cerebral vessel.
5. The method of claim 1 , further comprising the step of expanding a third occluder distal to the first occluder to occlude a branch vessel.
6. The method of claim 5 , wherein the branch vessel is the external carotid artery.
7. The method of claim 1 , further comprising the step of delivering a medical device through the lumen to the treatment site.
8. The method of claim 7 , wherein the medical device comprises a stent.