Devices and methods for forming a fistula

摘要

Described here are devices, systems and methods for forming a fistula between two blood vessels. Generally, the systems may comprise a first catheter which may comprise a fistula-forming element. The fistula-forming element may comprise one or more electrodes, mechanical cutting elements, laser sources, or combinations thereof, and may be used to assist in fistula formation. In some instances, a system may comprise a second catheter, which may comprise a fistula-forming element. One or more of the catheters may comprise one or more markers, magnetic alignment elements, and/or one shape-changing elements.

主权项

1. A method for forming a fistula using a first catheter and a second catheter, wherein the first catheter comprises a catheter body and a shaped lead wire, wherein the lead wire is spring biased toward an extended position in which a distal portion of the lead wire is spaced apart from the catheter body, and the first catheter is configured to hold the lead wire in a compressed configuration within the catheter body and is sized for advancement within a first vessel, and wherein the second catheter comprises a pocket comprising an insulating material for receiving the distal portion of the lead wire and is sized for advancement within a second vessel, comprising:
forming a fistula using the first and second catheters.