| 摘要 |
Catheters and their uses for vascular access to a patient, especially during dialysis procedures, are described. The catheter contains a continuous, multi-geometric flow path profile along the axis of the catheter. Thus, the shape and material forming the fluid pathway of the catheter can change anywhere along the axis of the catheter. With multi lumen catheters, this profile transforms from a substantially D-shaped cross section in the lumen of the catheter shaft to a substantially circular-shaped cross section in the extension leg. The materials used in the catheter can also transform from an opaque material used in the catheter shaft to a clear or transparent material that is used in the extension leg. The transition between these shapes and materials can be seamless, eliminating the need for a mechanical joint that is needed because the catheter shaft and catheter extension leg(s) are comprised of a single component. Other embodiments are described.
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