Catheter with autoinflating, autoregulating balloon

摘要

An autoinflating catheter 14 and balloon 46 assembly having an autoregulating structure to prevent overinflation of the balloon as a result of variable fluid flow rates through the catheter lumen 26. A tight-fitting elastomeric balloon 46 is provided on the distal end of the catheter body, and the assembly is constructed so that at least a portion of the fluid flow through the lumen is directed to the balloon to inflate it. As the balloon is inflated, more and more of the fluid flow through the catheter is discharged from the catheter, preventing overinflation of the balloon.