CATHETERS WITH INTEGRATED LUMEN AND METHODS OF THEIR MANUFACTURE AND USE

摘要

A catheter with at least one integrated lumen and methods of its manufacture and use are provided. A method of manufacture includes: (1) covering a primary mandrel with a first layer, (2) disposiing a second layer on the first layer,wherein the second layer has at least one removable secondary mandrel substantially embedded therein, (3) fusing the first layer to the second layer, (4) removing the secondary mandrel from the second layer to form a secondary lumen, and (5) removing the primary mandrel from the first layer to form a primary lumen. The method may further include forming an inflatable balloon at the surface of the second layer where the secondary lumen forms an opening. Also, auxiliary apparatus, such as snare instruments and bundles of optical fibers, may be inserted through the secondary lumen before or during use of the catheter.