Rapid exchange dilatation catheter

摘要

A dilatation catheter comprising a flexible tubular member with two non-communicating inner lumens. The catheter body (1) further comprises a third inner lumen (8) non-communicating with the first lumen (5) in the region of the balloon portion (2), said third lumen being opened at one end to the outside of the body via a port (9) while its other end is sealingly connected to said second lumen. The third lumen is shaped so that the distal portion of the guidewire remains within said body while leaving the second lumen clear to enable the at least temporary insertion of an other guidewire into said body. The catheter may thus be exchanged rapidly while holding the guidewire in position during stenosis treatment, and the guidewire may be replaced without moving the catheter.